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Hot Springs is a small city in the Ouachita Mountains of central Arkansas, built around thermal springs that flow from the side of a ridge at temperatures well above body heat. The federal government set the springs aside in 1832, long before the national park system existed, and they are now protected as Hot Springs National Park. In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries the town was a fashionable spa resort, drawing health seekers, baseball teams and a colorful underworld.
Bathhouse Row, a line of elegant early twentieth-century bathhouses along Central Avenue, is the centerpiece. The Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the park's visitor center and preserves its original tubs, stained glass and treatment rooms. The Buckstaff Bathhouse still offers traditional baths much as they were given generations ago, while the Quapaw Baths and Spa provides thermal pools in a more modern setting. Behind the row, the Grand Promenade, a brick walkway on the hillside, passes open springs and gardens, and several of the other bathhouses now hold shops, a brewery and lodging.
A short drive or hike leads to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for views over the Ouachitas, and the park's network of hiking trails includes Gulpha Gorge. Garvan Woodland Gardens is especially attractive in spring. Lake Ouachita and Lake Hamilton add boating and swimming for longer stays.
WiserMap travel guideHot Springs Arkansas Bathhouse Row Thermal Baths and TrailsExplore Hot Springs, Arkansas: Bathhouse Row, thermal baths, the Grand Promenade, mountain trails, Garvan Woodland Gardens, lakes, food and when to go.Read the guide
Restored 1915 bathhouse on Bathhouse Row that serves as Hot Springs National Park's visitor center and museum. Its rooms show the elegant tubs, stained glass ceilings, a gym and treatment equipment of the bathing era. Free ranger talks and a film explain the springs. Start your visit here.
The only bathhouse on Bathhouse Row that has operated without a break since 1912, offering a traditional bathing experience with a whirlpool tub, hot packs, a sitz bath and a needle shower, followed by an optional massage. Walk-ins are taken on a first-come basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
Bathhouse with a Spanish Colonial style dome on Bathhouse Row, now a modern spa with large public thermal pools of different temperatures and private baths and treatments. It is a relaxed way to try the hot spring water. Bring a swimsuit for the public pools, and reserve private treatments ahead.
Historic thoroughbred racetrack on Central Avenue with a casino and hotel. The live racing season runs from winter into spring and ends with the Arkansas Derby, a key race on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Grandstand entry is cheap, and the famous corned beef sandwiches are a local tradition.
Brick walkway behind Bathhouse Row on the slope of Hot Springs Mountain, with views over the bathhouses and access to the open thermal springs, the display springs and jug fountains where visitors can fill bottles with the hot water for free. It is an easy walk. Bring a jug to fill at the fountains.
Botanical garden of the University of Arkansas on a wooded peninsula in Lake Hamilton, with azaleas, a Japanese garden, a children's adventure garden and the striking Anthony Chapel of wood and glass. Tulips bloom in early spring, and a holiday lights show runs in winter. Buy tickets ahead for lights.
Row of eight historic bathhouses along Central Avenue, now used as a brewery, shops, a cultural center and lodging. Across the street, the old downtown has restaurants, galleries and the Arlington Hotel. The Superior Bathhouse Brewery brews with thermal water. Walk the whole row and explore side streets.
Observation tower on Hot Springs Mountain, rising 216 feet with an open-air deck and an enclosed level, giving views over the Ouachita Mountains and the town. It is reached by a winding scenic drive or by trails from Bathhouse Row. A small exhibit covers local history. It is best in autumn color.
About 26 miles of trails cross Hot Springs Mountain and North Mountain right above downtown, through oak and pine forest with rock outcrops and old springs. The Peak Trail climbs to the mountain tower, and the Sunset Trail is the longest route. Trailheads start right behind Bathhouse Row.
Park campground and trailhead on the east side of Hot Springs Mountain, set along Gulpha Creek in a wooded valley. The Gulpha Gorge Trail climbs to the Goat Rock overlook with views across the Ouachitas. It is quieter than downtown. Campsites have hookups and are first come, first served on some sites.
Two lakes near Hot Springs. Lake Hamilton borders the city with lakeside restaurants and boat rentals, while Lake Ouachita to the west is Arkansas's largest lake, with clear water, islands and campgrounds in the Ouachita National Forest. Rent a pontoon or kayak for a summer day on the water.
Hands-on science museum set in the woods west of Hot Springs, with interactive exhibits on physics, light and nature, a large Tesla coil show, a science skywalk through the treetops and a dinosaur trail outside. It is a fine stop for families on a rainy day. Check the show times when you arrive.
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