Steaming thermal waters, historic bathhouses, and forested mountain scenery give this resort town a timeless charm. Long associated with relaxation and wellness, it still feels like a classic getaway tucked away in the mountains.
Surrounded by the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs is best known for its naturally heated springs and the elegant bathhouses that rose to prominence in the early twentieth century. Much of the town’s historic architecture still reflects that era today.
Beyond the famous springs, visitors can explore nearby lakes, forests, and hiking trails, while museums, restaurants, shops, and family attractions add to the city’s appeal year-round.
Hot Springs National Park
If you are after the unique combination of hiking and historic bathhouses, then Hot Springs National Park is certainly the place to go. As well as encompassing both Bathhouse Row and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, its lush woods are home to local fauna and flora. Hiking trails, camping areas and a couple of hot springs are also scattered about.
Mostly mountainous, it was initially established in 1832 and remarkably both one of the smallest and most accessible national parks in the country. After having seen its atmospheric old bathhouses and several hot springs, it is well worth continuing up into the Ouachita Mountains to explore the magnificent scenery.
Ouachita National Forest
Home to stunning landscapes, scenery and nature, Ouachita National Forest sprawls across a huge part of the west of the state. Outdoor lovers can hike, bike and horseback ride in the woodlands and gorgeous mountain ranges. You can also fish and kayak in the rivers and lakes or camp overnight at one of its cozy campsites.
As vast swathes of pristine wilderness are literally on the city’s doorstep, both locals and tourists in Hot Springs love exploring the great outdoors. Some head for the national forest’s rugged and rolling mountains and drive about their winding roads. Others, instead, raft along the Ouachita River’s rapids or sunbathe, swim and sail at the large lake of the same name.
Grand Promenade
Peaceful and picturesque to wander along, Grand Promenade winds its way behind Bathhouse Row. Magnificent mountains rise behind both it and the historic buildings down below. As it passes sizzling hot springs and some fine viewpoints, the paved pathway is a treat to explore with benches, flowerbeds and informative plaques lining its route.
Work on the promenade began in the 1930s. Stretching a half-mile in length, the hillside trail takes you from one end of the iconic row to the other. Well-maintained and accessible to all, its design was inspired by the Prado pedestrian walkway in Havana, Cuba. As you stroll along you can snap photos of all the amazing architecture of Central Avenue, and the fantastic nature, mountains and hot springs all around.
Lake Catherine State Park
Sure to delight nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike, the beautiful Lake Catherine State Park lies just twenty minutes drive southeast of the center. As well as relaxing along the scenic shores of its large lake, the park has plenty of pretty pools, waterfalls and nature trails to discover in its verdant woods.
Scattered about are numerous campsites and cabins with some wood and stone structures built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. You can rent a boat at its marina, sunbathe or swim at the lake’s pristine beaches. You can also hike or horseback ride along its leafy trails and visit some of its wonderful waterfalls.
Lake Ouachita
Protected as a state park, the enormous Lake Ouachita was formed in 1952 by the damming of the meandering river of the same name. While countless trails and campgrounds line its shores, the lake’s reflective waters offer all kinds of awesome outdoor activities. Swimming, kayaking and sailing are particularly popular.
As the reservoir’s almost endless waters dominate the area directly west of Hot Springs, locals and tourists alike come here to relax, unwind and enjoy recreational activities. In addition to hiking and cycling, you can picnic and camp while taking in its fabulous views. Fishing and even scuba diving are on offer. On top of all this, the park also has guided hikes, kayak tours and sightseeing cruises for visitors to enjoy.
Bathhouse Row
Home to atmospheric old buildings, attractive architecture and enticing hot springs, Bathhouse Row has been synonymous with the city for well over a century. Situated alongside Central Avenue are a string of eight historic bathhouses with majestic mountains rising steeply all around them.
Aside from simply enjoying the eclectic array of architectural styles, you can also head inside the Buckstaff to soak in the soothing springs until your heart’s content. The only other bathhouse open to the public is the Fordyce, which now acts as a visitor center. It really is a must-visit for its opulent interior and interactive exhibits on the history and heritage of Bathhouse Row.
Anthony Chapel
Perched on a hillside overlooking Lake Hamilton is one of Hot Springs’ most unique attractions: the exquisite Anthony Chapel. Made out of a mix of native wood, metal and glass, the serene sanctuary lies amidst the gorgeous Garvan Woodland Gardens. Its floor-to-ceiling windows and soaring columns really make you feel like you’re outside amongst the pines.
Erected in 2006, it stands 57-feet tall. An intricate system of cross-beams and colossal wooden columns hold up its vaulted glass ceiling, and the massive windows reveal the sky and trees above. Thanks to its delightful design and the natural beauty all around it, the charming chapel really is unforgettable.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
While the ethereal Anthony Chapel is undoubtedly its standout sight, the Garvan Woodland Gardens has plenty of other scenic parts for you to explore. Due to its proximity to the city center, locals and tourists come here to immerse themselves in nature. The peninsula’s woods and waterfalls lie surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Hamilton.
Owned and operated by the University of Arkansas, its idyllic gardens contain all kinds of colorful plants, flowers, trees and shrubs. Streams and trails meander their way here and there. Aside from strolling along the lakeshore and taking in its sublime views, you can check out its lovely little model train garden and an outdoor amphitheater. Pavilions, playgrounds and a nature reserve are also dotted about.