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Cottages overlooking Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Things to do in  Hot Springs

Soak away your worries

An hour's drive southwest of Little Rock, Hot Springs is a lovely little Arkansas city centered around Hot Springs National Park, the area's main attraction. The park itself consists of historic bathhouses—collectively known as Bathhouse Row—backed by a lovely park that extends into a natural area with woodland trails. There are plenty of things to do in Hot Springs outside of the national park, however, including visiting the sprawling Garvan Woodland Gardens and learning about the city's storied past with a tour of the Gangster Museum of America.

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When to visit

Although Hot Springs is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the spring or fall seasons when the weather is pleasant but neither too hot nor too cold. Spring is particularly pleasant for visiting the Garvan Woodland Gardens, as you stand a good chance of seeing the garden's massive tulip plantings in full bloom. If you’re a fan of parades or whimsical experiences, come in March to witness the so-called “World’s Shortest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.”

Getting around

The center of Hot Springs is small and walkable, and if you stay downtown, you’ll be able to visit Hot Springs National Park on foot. However, if you plan to visit attractions outside the city center, you will need to either rent a car or join a tour that includes transportation. Rideshare services are also widely available in and around the city.

Traveler tips

While several of Hot Springs National Park’s historic pools on Bathhouse Row have been restored to their former glory, the tenants of one of the old buildings—Superior Bathhouse—have taken things in a different direction. The bathhouse is now home to the only brewery inside a US national park, and all the beers are brewed using mineral-rich hot spring water. Stop to try one of the numerous beers on tap—or a full meal—after a day of pampering at the spas.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the top attractions to visit in Hot Springs, Arkansas?
A:

The top attraction in Hot Springs, Arkansas is Hot Springs National Park, which comprises historic bathhouses—some of which are functional—and beautiful gardens and parkland. A few blocks away, the Gangster Museum of America tells the story of the city’s mobster-laced past. Garvan Woodland Gardens is also popular, especially when the weather’s pleasant.

Q:What's the best way to get around Hot Springs without a car?
A:

The best way to get around Hot Springs without a car is by relying on your own two feet. The city center is walkable, so stay downtown if you don’t want to deal with renting a car. For further-afield attractions, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation.

Q:Can visitors tour the historic bathhouses in Hot Springs?
A:

Yes, visitors can tour the historic bathhouses in Hot Springs. A couple function as hot springs retreats, meaning you can soak away your aches and pains or even get a massage, just like in the olden days. You can also tour the National Park Service-managed facilities at Fordyce Bathhouse with a guide or independently.

Q:Are there any hiking trails or nature spots near Hot Springs?
A:

Yes, there are plenty of hiking trails near Hot Springs, many of which are right in Hot Springs National Park. Among the most popular are the Hot Springs and North Mountain trails, accessible right behind Bathhouse Row, and the longer Sunset Trail, great for a long and challenging loop hike.

Q:Are there any special events or festivals happening in Hot Springs?
A:

Yes, there are plenty of annual events and festivals in Hot Springs, including the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, the longest-running documentary film fest in the United States. Music lovers, on the other hand, will have their pick between the Hot Springs JazzFest, Big Steam Blues & Roots Music Festival, and the Valley of the Vapors indie music festival.

Q:What's the history behind Hot Springs National Park?
A:

Hot Springs National Park started as a health resort on account of its thermal springs. In 1832, President Andrew Jackson set aside part of the land for governmental use, which technically makes it the oldest US national park unit. It became an official national park when the National Park Service was established in 1916.

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