Best Things To Do in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Ozark Bathhouse in Hot Springs National Park.

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of central Arkansas lies the vibrant town of Hot Springs. Known for its famous healing waters, Hot Springs National Park, and Bathhouse Row, visitors travel from all over the world to plan a romantic weekend. Here, you can soak in luxury spas, gamble, and hike. Or enjoy fun family adventures at the local theme park and museums.

There are many things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and the surrounding mountainous landscape. You’ll be mesmerized and want to come back again and again. We’re sharing the top attractions for ideas to plan a fun vacation, weekend getaway, or road trip stop.

We spent a long weekend in Hot Springs and can’t wait to return.

Exploring Hot Springs National Park

left photo: lady sitting with puppy next to a hot springs, middle photo: guy holding his puppy with a bark ranger certificate at Hot Springs National Park, right photo: lady holding her puppy overlooking the Grand Promenade.
Hot Springs pool / Bark Ranger Program / Grand Promenade.

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Hot Springs is home to one of America’s oldest national parks. Hot Springs National Park, nicknamed “The America Spa,” has a long reputation for relaxation and healing. Soaking is allowed at this urban park in two bathhouses along Bathhouse Row.

Along with soaking and touring the bathhouses, popular activities to do in the park include walking the cobblestone paths, hiking, and camping. There are no hot springs to soak in outdoors, but there are a few hot springs along the trails in town that you can see.

Where To Stay

If you’re looking for luxury hotels, boutique B&Bs, or camping, there are places for each accommodation type. Many beautiful hotels are in town, such as The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa, The Waters Hot Springs, Hotel Hale, The Reserve, and Oaklawn.

Find places to stay in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Expedia.

Where To Soak

Today, visitors can soak in two historically renovated luxury spas: the Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Bathhouse.

Taste the Water

Be sure to “quaff the elixir,” meaning drink the water. Several thermal and cold springs fountains around town allow you to fill your water bottles with the healing waters.

Bathhouse Row

Eight bathhouses, constructed between 1892 and 1923, line Hot Springs National Park’s famous Bathhouse Row. Each is unique, and some are decorated with marble, sculptures, and art.

Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center Fordyce Bathhouse

The Visitor Center for Hot Springs National Park is called the Fordyce Bathhouse. It is now a museum; when you walk inside, you’ll be awed by its elegance.

Park Rangers are on site here if you want to speak to one and get more information.

The Park Is Dog Friendly

Hot Springs National Park is dog-friendly if you are traveling with your pet. Bring your dog to Fordyce Bathhouse, and they can make your furry family member an official national park bark ranger. Ask a ranger for details.

Pets are allowed on the trails (but not in federal buildings).

The Grand Promenade

Behind Bathhouse Row is the Grand Promenade. This beautiful cobblestone trail is about a half mile long (one way), offering views of the town, Central Avenue, and Bathhouse Row. In addition, you can use the trail to access a few of the thermal springs waters you are allowed to touch (but not soak in): The Display Spring and Hot Water Cascade.

Superior Bathhouse Brewery

At the Superior Bathhouse Brewery, located on Bathhouse Row, you can grab a bite to eat along with a beer or root beer made from the natural hot springs. Superior Bathhouse Brewery is the only brewery in any of the U.S. national parks.

We had fun stopping for their famous root beer floats and socializing with our puppy outside while everyone was walking the strip. 

Hiking

If you love hiking, there are 22 different trails totaling roughly 26 miles within the park. Trails are concentrated within the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trail systems and the West Mountain Trails system. There is one more area where adventure lovers can trek the Sunset Trail, which has the longest trail in the park.

More Things To Do in Town

Left photo: inside of the Fordyce Bathhouse; middle photo: natural hot springs water flowing down the canals in downtown Hot Springs, right photo: girl tasting the water at Hot Springs National Park.
Fordyce Bathhouse / Water Flowing in the Canal Downtown / Trying the Water.

Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center

Have you ever purchased a bottle of Mountain Valley Spring Water? It’s the brand in a green glass bottle. You can visit the Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center, which is in a historic building. There is a museum, gift shop, and a place to sample this trendy and tasty water.

Magic Springs Water and Theme Park

The Magic Springs Water and Theme Park is the perfect place to take kids during summer vacation. There is much to do, from thrilling roller coaster rides to an exciting water park. The park is family-friendly and has something fun for all ages. It is open seasonally, so visit its website to plan an epic family trip.

Gangster Museum of America

Not only is Hot Springs known for its natural mineral-rich healing waters and beautiful landscapes, but it is also home to one of the coolest attractions around — The Gangster Museum of America.

Step right into the Prohibition era and explore historical memorabilia related to some of America’s most notorious gangsters, including Al Capone. Whether you’re a fan of gangsters or have an interest in history, you won’t want to miss out on seeing this unique museum.

Alligator Farm

If you’ve ever wanted to feed or hold a baby alligator at the Alligator Farm, visitors can do just that. There is also a petting area for folks interested in an educational and family-friendly activity. This is a unique thing to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

The Maxwell Blade Theatre of Magic

If you like magic, music, and comedy, catch a Maxwell Blade show at the historical Malco Theatre on the corner of Central Avenue and Chapel Street. All ages are welcome, so be ready to be entertained and mesmerized.

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort

Since the early 1900s, thoroughbred horse racing has been a famed attraction in Hot Springs steeped in rich tradition. At Oaklawn, plan a luxurious getaway to watch the renowned horse races, gamble at the casino, catch a concert, and enjoy superb accommodations at the resort and spa. 

Things To Do Outside of Town

left photo: view of Lake Ouachita at sunset; middle photo: guy kayaking with puppy on his lap, right photo: lady kayaking at Lake Ouachita State Park.
Lake Ouachita at sunset / Kayaking at Lake Ouachita.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Visiting the mountain tower is one of the best things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Visitors can ride the elevator to an observation deck 216 feet up. Here, you can see epic views of the Ouachita Mountains, Diamond Lakes, and the town from the top. They say you can see 140 miles into the distance on a clear day! There is a gift shop at the base.

Garvan Woodland Gardens

Tour over 200 acres of gardens in the Ouachita Mountains. Garvan Woodland Gardens is known for its unique architectural structures, whimsical treehouse, and gorgeous botanical gardens. Stop and grab dinner or hot chocolate at the Chipmunk Café.

There is even a light display during the holiday season. The park is open daily from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Anthony Chapel

While touring Garvan Woodlands Gardens, be sure to see Anthony Chapel. It has vaulted glass ceilings, incredible acoustics, and views of the spectacular gardens. This is a popular place for weddings; you’ll want to go inside to see why.

Ouachita National Forest

The Ouachita National Forest is the oldest national forest in the South according to the U.S. Forest Service. With over 1.8 million acres, the forest surrounds Hot Springs, Arkansas, and extends into Oklahoma (check out Beavers Bend State Park).

There are many opportunities for hiking and camping, and the Ouachita National Forest is home to some of the best state parks in Arkansas.

Lake Ouachita State Park

Lake Ouachita, the largest lake in Arkansas, is roughly 30 minutes from downtown Hot Springs. For nature lovers, Lake Ouachita State Park offers camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other water adventures.

It’s a great place to camp if you’re exploring Hot Springs for the day or Hot Springs Village. Also, be sure to visit the historic Three Sisters’ Springs within the park, which are said to be healing waters.

Lake Catherine State Park

Roughly 20 minutes southeast of Hot Springs, Lake Catherine State Park is an excellent place to go hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.

There are rustic cabins visitors can stay at to get away from the hustle and bustle of town and enjoy a quieter getaway outdoors. Hike the Falls Branch Trail to see the famous waterfall at Falls Creek.

Charlton Recreation Area

For another great place to camp, hike, and enjoy the Ouachitas near Hot Springs, visit the Charlton Recreation Area. The campground is open seasonally, making it a great alternative to camp outside town if you’re road-tripping through. What makes this area unique is the perfect swimming hole created by the stone dam and bathhouse built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935.

Adventureworks Hot Springs

Are you craving an adrenaline rush? Then jump on board for a wild and thrilling ride through the forests of the Natural State at Adventureworks, where you can zipline through the tree canopies. The facility is open year-round, so add it to your Hot Springs, Arkansas, bucket list.

Have Fun Visiting Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center Fordyce Bathhouse
Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center Fordyce Bathhouse.

Hot Springs is an exciting destination to explore. We were blown away the first time we visited — we had no idea it would be so busy and luxurious.

From enjoying the national park or ziplining through the canopies in the Ouachita Mountains to soaking in luxury spas and watching the famous horse races at Oaklawn, the area provides an unforgettable experience full of Southern hospitality, history, and charm.

It’s an excellent destination for families planning vacations or couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway in Arkansas or a nature-infused road trip.

Find places to stay in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Expedia.


More Arkansas Adventures:

We take every chance we can get to explore Arkansas. Check out more of our guides to plan your adventures:

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top left photo: Hot Springs National Park Bark Ranger; top right photo: girl and dog sitting near Hot Spring; bottom photo: Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center

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Ashlee Fechino

Ashlee Fechino is an outdoor recreation and travel writer sharing the best-kept secrets that aren’t in your typical guidebook. Her goal is to inspire people to travel with a sense of adventure by sharing hidden gems across the U.S. and beyond. She is married to an expat Argentine, Pablo. They camp in their Aliner often and love wandering the world. Follow their latest adventures on Instagram @thehappinessfxn.

2 Comments

  1. Burt Randall on February 11, 2023 at 3:37 pm

    I wish I could go to Arkansas!



    • Ashlee Fechino on February 15, 2023 at 1:37 pm

      It is a beautiful state. You’d love it.