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Hot Springs
Arkansas
Visit Hot Springs
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, Hot Springs is a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and rejuvenating experiences. This charming city, named for the naturally thermal spring waters found here, has been a beacon of relaxation and healing for centuries. The heart of Hot Springs is the Hot Springs National Park, which is renowned for its 47 thermal springs. This park is not only a national treasure but also the oldest federally protected area in the national park system, designated in 1832, even before Yellowstone.
Visitors to Hot Springs can indulge in a variety of activities that cater to all interests. The historic Bathhouse Row, a collection of eight architecturally stunning bathhouses from the 19th and early 20th centuries, is a must-visit. Two of these, the Buckstaff and the Quapaw, still operate as bathhouses today, offering a taste of the traditional spa treatments that have drawn people from around the world. For a more modern spa experience, several hotels and spas provide thermal baths and spa treatments that incorporate the mineral-rich waters.
Beyond the baths, Hot Springs offers a wealth of outdoor activities. The surrounding mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird-watching. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower, rising 216 feet above the city, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area that are especially breathtaking in the fall when the foliage is a riot of color. For those interested in history and culture, the Gangster Museum of America offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past as a haven for notorious figures like Al Capone during the prohibition era.
Whether you're seeking relaxation in its thermal waters, exploring its natural landscapes, or delving into its intriguing past, Hot Springs promises a memorable getaway that combines the serenity of nature with the richness of history. This city not only relaxes the body but also rejuvenates the soul, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hot Springs Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
31°F
51°F
12
February
37°F
51°F
12
March
43°F
65°F
12
April
51°F
68°F
12
May
56°F
76°F
12
June
68°F
89°F
12
July
72°F
95°F
11
August
68°F
96°F
12
September
63°F
86°F
12
October
51°F
72°F
12
November
43°F
62°F
11
December
34°F
51°F
11
Need to Know Before You Go To Hot Springs
Nickname:
Spa City
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Chicago
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type B
Annual Visitors:
1.5 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
July, June, August
Quietest Travel Months:
December, November, January
Find your Next Adventure in Hot Springs
Explore Hot Springs
Iconic Landmarks
Hot Springs National Park
- Known as "The American Spa," this park surrounds the north end of the city of Hot Springs, featuring ancient thermal springs, mountain views, and historic architecture.
Bathhouse Row
- A National Historic Landmark District in Hot Springs National Park, Bathhouse Row consists of eight architecturally significant bathhouses, most built between 1912 and 192
3.
Fordyce Bathhouse
- Now serving as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park, the Fordyce Bathhouse offers a beautifully restored glimpse into the opulent spa culture of the early 20th century.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
- A 216-foot observation tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs National Park.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
- This 210-acre botanical garden, located on a peninsula on Lake Hamilton, provides a stunning display of native and exotic plants, architectural structures, and themed gardens.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
- Famous for its thoroughbred horse racing, Oaklawn has been operating since 1904 and now also includes a casino and gaming complex.
Cultural Experiences
Hot Springs National Park
Explore the natural hot springs and beautiful landscapes that have been attracting visitors for centuries.
Fordyce Bathhouse
Tour this historic bathhouse museum to learn about the traditional spa treatments and the history of bathing culture in Hot Springs.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Stroll through this 210-acre botanical garden that features stunning floral displays, architectural structures, and scenic views.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Ascend this 216-foot tower for panoramic views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains and the city below.
Gangster Museum of America
Delve into the intriguing history of organized crime in Hot Springs during the early 20th century, featuring exhibits on infamous figures like Al Capone.
Gallery Walk
Participate in this monthly event where local galleries in downtown Hot Springs open their doors for visitors to view and purchase regional art.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking the Trails of Hot Springs National Park
Explore scenic trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and access to historic bathhouses.
Kayaking on Lake Ouachita
Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ouachita, surrounded by the lush Ouachita National Forest.
Mountain Biking on the Womble Trail
Challenge yourself on this epic singletrack that winds through the Ouachita Mountains, offering thrilling rides and stunning vistas.
Fishing in the Ouachita River
Cast your line in the peaceful waters of the Ouachita River, known for its abundant bass and catfish.
Camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground
Set up camp under the stars at this serene campground, where you can enjoy nature walks and evening campfires.
Zip Lining at Adventureworks Hot Springs
Experience the thrill of zip lining through the treetops, offering a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty.
Off the Beaten Path
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
- Located outside Fairbanks, this resort offers a stunning view of the Northern Lights in a serene, natural setting.
Frying Pan Hot Springs, Colorado
- Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, these undeveloped springs require a hike to reach, offering a secluded soak in nature.
Liard River Hot Springs, British Columbia
- Set in a lush boreal forest, these hot springs are part of a provincial park and are known for their rich wildlife and scenic beauty.
Dunton Hot Springs, Colorado
- This ghost town turned luxury resort offers rustic cabins and a variety of hot springs nestled in an alpine valley.
Kerosene Creek, New Zealand
- A hidden gem where hot water cascades into a natural pool, allowing for a warm, relaxing bath in a forest setting.
Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs, Oregon
- Tucked away in the Willamette National Forest, these springs feature several soaking pools in a tranquil, forested environment.
Hot Springs Fun Facts
- Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas, was the first federally protected area in the nation, designated in 1832.
- The city is named for the naturally heated springs that flow out of the Ouachita Mountains, producing nearly a million gallons of water each day.
- Hot Springs has a rich history of being a retreat for notorious gangsters in the 1920s and 1930s, including Al Capone and Lucky Luciano.
- The city was known as the "Valley of the Vapors" by Native American tribes who believed in the healing properties of the thermal waters.
- Hot Springs is home to Bathhouse Row, a collection of eight historic bathhouse buildings and gardens along Central Avenue.
- The Gangster Museum of America, located in Hot Springs, offers a glimpse into the city’s past connections with organized crime.
- Hot Springs has been a popular filming location and was featured in movies like "Sling Blade" and the television show "Designing Women."
- The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo, one of the oldest attractions in Hot Springs, has been operating since 1902.
- Hot Springs hosts an annual World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade, celebrated on the 98-foot-long Bridge Street, which was once listed in Ripley's Believe It or Not as the shortest street in the world.
- Magic Springs Theme and Water Park, located just outside of Hot Springs, combines a full-scale water park and an amusement park with roller coasters and family rides.
Featured Picture Gallery
Experience Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park has 26 Miles of Hiking
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