Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a destination that blends history, nature, and relaxation seamlessly. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique experiences, this city offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, soaking in natural thermal springs, or exploring fascinating historic sites, Hot Springs has it all. From national parks to spas, gardens, and even a racing casino, you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy. Let’s dive into the 15 best things to do in this charming town.
Hot Springs National Park
Address: 369 Central Ave.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Hot Springs National Park holds historical importance as the first U.S. national park designated for its therapeutic thermal springs. It was recognized in 1832, and the town of Hot Springs developed around it, attracting visitors seeking healing waters.
What to Expect: Visitors can experience natural hot springs, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Ouachita Mountains. Relax in thermal baths or explore forested trails for a day of adventure.
Visitor Information: The park is free to enter and is easily accessible from downtown Hot Springs. Open year-round, it offers family-friendly activities and is perfect for nature lovers.
At the heart of the city lies Hot Springs National Park, a sprawling 5,500-acre park offering a perfect blend of nature and history. It’s home to scenic hiking trails, hot springs, and incredible views of the Ouachita Mountains. Visitors can relax by the thermal baths or hike the forested trails for a day of exploration. The park is free to enter, making it one of the most popular spots in Hot Springs, ideal for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center
Address: 369 Central Ave.
| Type | Free, Historic Homes/Mansions, Tours, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Fordyce Bathhouse was once one of the grandest bathhouses in Hot Springs, serving wealthy visitors during the early 20th century. It was restored and became a museum showcasing the city’s spa culture.
What to Expect: Explore the museum’s exhibits on Hot Springs’ rich spa history. Admire the stunning stained-glass ceilings, intricate tilework, and vintage spa equipment.
Visitor Information: The Fordyce Bathhouse is open daily for self-guided tours. Admission is free, and it offers a deeper understanding of the area’s therapeutic baths and healing traditions.
The Fordyce Bathhouse, a beautifully restored historic building, serves as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park. Once a popular bathhouse for wealthy tourists, it is now a fascinating museum showcasing the history of the city’s spa culture. Visitors can admire stunning stained-glass ceilings, intricate tiles, and old-time spa equipment. The self-guided tour offers a deep dive into the history of thermal treatments, making it a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Address: 550 Arkridge Rd.
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Monuments and Memorials |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Created in 1956 by the founder of the Arkansas Garden Club, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a lush 210-acre garden offering a peaceful retreat. The Anthony Chapel is a notable feature, blending architecture with nature.
What to Expect: Enjoy serene walks through themed gardens, such as bonsai, Japanese, and woodland gardens. The unique Anthony Chapel offers a stunning architectural experience.
Visitor Information: The gardens are open year-round and charge a small entry fee. The best time to visit is during spring and fall when the gardens are in full bloom.
If you love nature and serene landscapes, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a must-visit. Located along the shores of Lake Hamilton, this 210-acre garden is filled with impressive features like the Anthony Chapel, which blends glass and wood architecture with the natural surroundings. Visitors can explore peaceful bonsai gardens, a woodland walk, and even the famous Joy Manning Scott Bridge, known for its unique design inspired by ancient Chinese stone bridges. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Lake Catherine State Park
Address: 1200 Catherine Park Rd.
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Lake Catherine State Park is a scenic 2,000-acre park nestled in the Ouachita Mountains. Its history ties back to the creation of the lake, offering recreational opportunities since the 1940s.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating. The Falls Branch Trail leads to a beautiful waterfall, and the park is ideal for a peaceful escape with nature activities.
Visitor Information: The park is open year-round, with cabins and campgrounds available. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, and park rangers often lead educational programs for visitors.
Nestled within the Ouachita Mountains, Lake Catherine State Park offers everything from peaceful nature walks to exciting water activities. The park is home to beautiful trails like the Falls Branch Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall. Visitors can fish at the park’s pier, rent a boat, or enjoy horseback riding in season. Whether you’re hiking, boating, or just enjoying the view, this park is perfect for anyone seeking adventure in a tranquil, scenic setting.
Buckstaff Bathhouse
Address: 509 Central Ave.
| Type | Spas, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Buckstaff Bathhouse, established in 1912, is one of the oldest and most iconic bathhouses in Hot Springs. It offers a traditional thermal bath experience steeped in history.
What to Expect: Experience a classic bathhouse treatment in an elegant, vintage setting. The bathhouse offers various spa services, including massages and facials.
Visitor Information: The Buckstaff Bathhouse is open daily for bath treatments. Visitors can book appointments in advance for a soothing, historic thermal bath experience.
A trip to Hot Springs wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of its historic bathhouses, and the Buckstaff Bathhouse stands as one of the oldest and most iconic. This bathhouse, still operational since 1912, offers a traditional thermal bath experience in the heart of Hot Springs National Park. Along with its old-world charm, visitors can enjoy massages, facials, and other treatments. If you want to indulge in relaxation and soak in the healing waters, Buckstaff is a historic and rejuvenating spot to visit.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Address: 401 Hot Springs Mountain Dr.
| Type | Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: The Hot Springs Mountain Tower, originally built in 1929, offers panoramic views of Hot Springs and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. It’s an iconic landmark for the city.
What to Expect: Visitors can take a scenic drive to the top, then ride the elevator for breathtaking 360-degree views. The tower is great for photography and offers stunning vistas of the city and mountains.
Visitor Information: The tower is open year-round with an entry fee. It is accessible by car and offers a small gift shop and picnic area.
For stunning panoramic views of Hot Springs and beyond, head to Hot Springs Mountain Tower. This observation tower stands 1,256 feet above sea level, providing a bird’s-eye view of the Ouachita Mountains and the town. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive up to the tower, then take an elevator to the observation deck for awe-inspiring 360-degree views. The tower is a great place to capture beautiful photos, making it a top attraction for travelers seeking incredible vistas and a bit of adventure.
Grand Promenade
Address: Hot Springs, AR 71901, United States
| Type | Free, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Grand Promenade was constructed in the early 20th century to provide a scenic path behind Bathhouse Row, allowing visitors to enjoy Hot Springs National Park’s beauty.
What to Expect: This picturesque, half-mile trail provides scenic views, benches for resting, and a beautiful spring. The Hot Water Cascade, flowing over moss-covered rocks, is a highlight.
Visitor Information: The trail is open year-round, free of charge, and is an easy walk for all ages. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and to enjoy the park’s beauty.
For a relaxing stroll through the beauty of Hot Springs National Park, the Grand Promenade is a perfect option. This picturesque half-mile trail runs behind Bathhouse Row and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. As you walk, you’ll come across benches for resting and a stunning lookout point. The Grand Promenade also features the Hot Water Cascade, a spring that flows beautifully over moss-covered rocks, making it a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the park’s natural charm.
Mid-America Science Museum
Address: 500 Mid America Blvd.
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1979, the Mid-America Science Museum serves as an educational hub for visitors, showcasing scientific exhibits related to geology, physics, and nature.
What to Expect: With hands-on exhibits like a massive Tesla coil and interactive science activities, the museum offers an engaging experience for families. Visitors can also enjoy the outdoor exhibits, including dinosaur sculptures.
Visitor Information: The museum is open daily and charges a small admission fee. It’s a fantastic stop for families and science enthusiasts. There’s ample parking and nearby picnic areas.
The Mid-America Science Museum is a great destination for families and curious minds. With exhibits ranging from geology displays to interactive science activities, visitors of all ages can find something intriguing. The museum features hands-on exhibits like a massive Tesla coil and an underground cave maze. Outdoors, you can explore the museum’s 21-acre grounds, which include an elevated skywalk and dinosaur sculptures. It’s a fun and educational stop, perfect for anyone looking to dive into science and nature.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery
Address: 329 Central Ave.
| Type | Wineries/Breweries |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Once a luxurious bathhouse, the Superior Bathhouse has been repurposed as the world’s first brewery to use thermal spring water. Its unique history adds character to the modern brewery.
What to Expect: Sample craft beers made with thermal spring water. Enjoy a variety of beers alongside delicious American food, such as burgers and fries, in a historic setting.
Visitor Information: The brewery is open daily, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy craft beers. Visitors can take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and the history behind the building.
For a unique experience, head to the Superior Bathhouse Brewery, the only brewery in the world that uses thermal spring water to brew its beer. This historic building, once a bathhouse, now offers a fantastic selection of craft beers made right from Hot Springs’ natural resources. After sampling their 18 different beers, enjoy some classic American food, such as burgers and chicken tenders. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a place to relax, Superior Bathhouse Brewery is a must-visit spot in town.
Lake Ouachita State Park
Address: 5451 Mountain Pine Rd
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Swimming/Pools |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Lake Ouachita State Park is located on Arkansas’s largest lake, created in the 1950s. The park offers natural beauty, recreational activities, and a serene setting for outdoor lovers.
What to Expect: Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the large lake. Hiking trails offer stunning views, and the park’s cabins and campsites provide a peaceful retreat.
Visitor Information: The park is open year-round with a small entrance fee. Visitors can rent boats, book cabins, or enjoy day-use activities like picnicking and hiking.
Lake Ouachita State Park is one of Arkansas’s most beautiful outdoor spots, offering plenty of water-based activities. With Arkansas’s largest lake, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating. The park is also known for its hiking trails and stunning views. Rent a boat, explore the beach areas, or relax in one of the park’s cozy cabins. If you’re an outdoor lover, this park offers a perfect mix of activities for both water and nature enthusiasts.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Address: 2705 Central Ave.
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Oaklawn has been an iconic destination since 1904, offering thoroughbred horse racing and a casino. It has a rich history as a leading race track and entertainment venue in Arkansas.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy live horse racing, try their luck at the casino, and dine in luxury restaurants. The resort also hosts live entertainment, making it a vibrant entertainment spot.
Visitor Information: Oaklawn is open year-round. Racing seasons run in the spring, and the casino and restaurants are available daily. The resort offers luxurious accommodations for guests.
If you’re looking for entertainment and excitement, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort has it all. Famous for its thoroughbred races, this resort has been a hotspot in Hot Springs since 1904. When not betting on the horses, guests can try their luck at the casino or enjoy one of the resort’s fantastic restaurants. Recently upgraded with a new luxury hotel and spa, Oaklawn also offers live music and entertainment, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a little thrill.
Adventureworks Hot Springs
Address: 1700 Shady Grove Rd.
| Type | Sports, Recreation |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Adventureworks Hot Springs is a popular zipline park that offers aerial adventures. It connects visitors with nature in a thrilling way while showcasing the area’s beauty from above.
What to Expect: Experience over a mile of ziplining with 12 zip lines and an aerial obstacle course. Adventureworks offers moonlit zip tours for a unique experience under the stars.
Visitor Information: The park is open seasonally, with zipline tours and obstacle courses available. Reservations are recommended, especially for the Moonlight Zip Tour.
For an adrenaline rush, check out Adventureworks Hot Springs, a zipline park located at Catherine’s Landing. This adventure park offers over a mile of thrilling aerial experiences with 12 zip lines and an aerial obstacle course. Whether you’re ziplining through treetops or swinging from bridges, Adventureworks provides a unique way to enjoy the natural beauty of Hot Springs from above. For an unforgettable experience, book the Moonlight Zip Tour and zipline through the forest under the glow of the full moon.
Magic Springs Theme and Water Park
Address: 1701 E Grand Ave.
| Type | Amusement Parks, Swimming/Pools |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Magic Springs Theme and Water Park has been entertaining families since 1978. It is known for its exciting rides and water attractions.
What to Expect: Enjoy roller coasters, water slides, and bumper cars. The water park is perfect for cooling off on hot days, while the theme park offers thrilling rides for all ages.
Visitor Information: Magic Springs is open during the summer and on weekends in the spring and fall. Tickets include both theme park and water park access.
If you’re in the mood for fun and excitement, head to Magic Springs Theme and Water Park. This family-friendly attraction offers a variety of rides, from roller coasters to bumper cars, and of course, a water park to cool off on hot summer days. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the rides or a relaxing time by the pool, Magic Springs is a perfect destination for visitors of all ages. It’s a fantastic way to spend a fun-filled day in Hot Springs.
The Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo
Address: 847 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, AR
| Type | Zoo |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: Established in 1902, the Arkansas Alligator Farm is a family-friendly zoo home to various species, including alligators. It’s a fun place to learn about wildlife and conservation.
What to Expect: See alligator feedings, interact with animals in the petting zoo, and explore the farm’s scenic location with a beautiful view of Hot Springs.
Visitor Information: The farm is open daily with a small entrance fee. It’s an ideal stop for families with children or animal lovers.
For animal lovers, the Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo is a great stop. This small, family-friendly zoo is home to many different species, including alligators, goats, and exotic birds. Visitors can watch alligator feedings and even pet some of the friendly animals. The farm’s location, nestled on a hill with a view of Hot Springs, makes it a fun and scenic spot to visit. It’s a perfect place for families with kids or anyone looking to enjoy an afternoon with animals.
The Wine Cellar at The Woodlands Resort
Address: Woodlands, TX, US
| Type | Resort, wine |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Wine Cellar offers an intimate experience, with a collection of fine wines in an elegant, rustic setting. The resort’s focus on wine and quality relaxation makes it a perfect spot.
What to Expect: Enjoy wine tastings, learn about different wine varieties, and pair your selections with delicious food in a cozy, serene atmosphere.
Visitor Information: The Wine Cellar is open to visitors year-round, and reservations are recommended for wine-tasting events. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet evening.
For a sophisticated and relaxing experience, visit The Wine Cellar at The Woodlands Resort. This hidden gem offers a selection of the finest wines in a cozy, elegant atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to unwind, this venue provides a perfect setting for enjoying quality wines. The Wine Cellar also hosts regular wine-tasting events, where visitors can learn about different varieties and pairings. If you’re seeking a peaceful and intimate experience, this is the place to be.