Cities and Towns in Orange County, Indiana
Founded on Feb 1, 1816, Orange County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Orange County was formed from Gibson, Knox and Washington. The city of Paoli is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Orange County has a population of 19,830 and area of 398 square miles (1,031 km²).
List of all cities in Orange County, IN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Abbey Dell, IN | 47469 | 812 |
Braxton, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Bromer, IN | 47452 | 812 |
Chambersburg, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Cuzco, IN | 47432 | 812 |
French Lick, IN | 47432 | 812 |
Hillham, IN | 47432 | 812 |
Lost River, IN | 47432 | 812 |
Northeast, IN | 47452 | 812 |
Northwest, IN | 47469 | 812 |
Norton, IN | 47432 | 812 |
Orangeville, IN | 47452 | 812 |
Orleans, IN | 47452 | 812 |
Paoli, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Prospect, IN | 47469 | 812 |
Pumpkin Center, IN | 47452 | 812 |
Roland, IN | 47469 | 812 |
Stampers Creek, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Syria, IN | 47452 | 812 |
West Baden Springs, IN | 47469 | 812 |
Wildwood Lake, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Youngs Creek, IN | 47454 | 812 |
Major Cities and Towns in Orange County, Indiana
Paoli, Indiana
Overview and History
Paoli is the county seat and largest town in Orange County, located in the southern part of Indiana. The town was established in 1816, the same year Indiana became a state, and it was named after Pasquale Paoli, a Corsican leader. Paoli’s central location within the county helped it become the hub of government and commerce. In its early years, Paoli thrived as a center for agriculture and local trade. The town’s historical district features several 19th-century buildings, adding to its charm. Paoli is also known for Paoli Peaks, a popular winter ski resort that attracts visitors from across the region. Its rich history and proximity to natural attractions make Paoli an important center for tourism in Orange County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paoli is served by the Paoli Community School Corporation, with Paoli Junior-Senior High School being the town’s main educational institution. Significant landmarks in the town include the Orange County Courthouse, built in 1850 and one of the oldest courthouses still in use in Indiana. Paoli Peaks Ski Resort is a major attraction, offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter months. The town is also home to the Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest, a national natural landmark that preserves a remnant of Indiana’s original hardwood forest.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 3.76 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,677 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 47454
- Latitude: 38.5567° N
- Longitude: 86.4747° W
French Lick, Indiana
Overview and History
French Lick, located in the western part of Orange County, is a historic resort town famous for its mineral springs. Founded in 1857, the town’s name derives from the area’s natural salt licks and the French traders who once settled nearby. French Lick gained fame in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a health resort, attracting visitors from around the world to its mineral springs and luxury hotels. The French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel became iconic landmarks, known for their opulence and historic significance. Today, French Lick is a popular tourist destination, offering a blend of history, luxury, and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
French Lick is served by the Springs Valley Community School Corporation, with Springs Valley Junior-Senior High School located nearby. The town’s most famous landmarks include the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel, both National Historic Landmarks. The French Lick Resort Casino is another major attraction, offering gaming, golf, and fine dining. Visitors can also explore the French Lick Scenic Railway, which offers scenic train rides through the picturesque Hoosier National Forest. The town is also the birthplace of NBA legend Larry Bird, whose legacy is celebrated by locals.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.77 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,807 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 47432
- Latitude: 38.5484° N
- Longitude: 86.6197° W
West Baden Springs, Indiana
Overview and History
West Baden Springs is a small town adjacent to French Lick, known for the historic West Baden Springs Hotel. The town was established in the mid-19th century and gained international fame when the West Baden Springs Hotel opened in 1902, featuring a massive free-span dome that was considered an architectural marvel. The hotel was nicknamed the “Eighth Wonder of the World” for its stunning design and luxurious amenities. Like French Lick, West Baden Springs developed as a health resort destination, drawing visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its mineral springs. After years of decline, the hotel was restored and reopened in the 2000s, reigniting the town’s tourism industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Baden Springs shares schools with French Lick, as both towns are served by the Springs Valley Community School Corporation. The West Baden Springs Hotel remains the town’s most famous landmark, now part of the larger French Lick Resort complex. The hotel’s iconic dome and grand architecture continue to attract visitors, along with its luxury spa, fine dining, and golf courses. Other attractions include the West Baden Museum, which showcases the town’s history as a spa destination. The town is also located near the Hoosier National Forest, offering hiking and outdoor recreation.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: Approximately 574 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 47469
- Latitude: 38.5667° N
- Longitude: 86.6111° W
Orleans, Indiana
Overview and History
Orleans is a small town located in the northern part of Orange County, known for its rich agricultural heritage and historic charm. Founded in 1815, the town was named after the Battle of New Orleans, a significant victory in the War of 1812. Orleans developed as an agricultural community, with farming and local trade being the main drivers of its economy. The town’s historic downtown, with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflects its long-standing role as a local hub for commerce. Orleans is also known for its annual Dogwood Festival, a springtime celebration that draws visitors from across the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Orleans is part of the Orleans Community Schools, with Orleans Junior-Senior High School serving the educational needs of the community. Major landmarks in the town include the Orleans Historic District, where many of the town’s original buildings still stand, and the town square, which serves as a focal point for community events. The annual Dogwood Festival, held every spring, celebrates the town’s history and community spirit with parades, crafts, and entertainment. Orleans also has several parks, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.56 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,065 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 47452
- Latitude: 38.6614° N
- Longitude: 86.4528° W
Marengo, Indiana (partly in Orange County)
Overview and History
Marengo, although primarily located in neighboring Crawford County, has a portion of its area extending into Orange County. This small town was founded in the mid-19th century and developed as a rural community with a strong agricultural base. Marengo’s history is tied to the surrounding limestone industry, with nearby limestone quarries playing a significant role in the region’s economy. The town’s location near natural attractions like Marengo Cave, one of Indiana’s most famous show caves, has made it a modest tourist destination. Marengo offers a blend of rural charm and natural beauty, with nearby forests and caves providing outdoor activities for locals and visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marengo is part of the Crawford County Community School Corporation, with most students attending schools in Crawford County. The town’s main landmark is Marengo Cave, a National Natural Landmark that offers guided tours and draws visitors from across the Midwest. The cave’s intricate formations and underground rivers make it a popular spot for adventure tourism. In addition, nearby Hoosier National Forest offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreational opportunities. Marengo also features several historic buildings and homes that reflect its rural heritage.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: Approximately 828 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 47140
- Latitude: 38.3745° N
- Longitude: 86.3439° W