Wondering how to make the most of your visit to Hot Springs National Park? Read on to learn some history of the park, get helpful tips, and a list of top things to see during your visit.
My family and I had a great visit during our trip in October exploring this Arkansas national park. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an amazing day at the park.
Table of Contents
What is so special about Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs National Park isn’t your typical national park! There are some great hiking trails and nature to explore, but the real star of the show is the natural hot springs.
The park is all about preserving these thermal waters so everyone can experience them. You can still fill up a bottle with fresh, free hot spring water from several fountains around town—just like people have been doing for generations!
Is there an entrance fee to Hot Springs National Park?
No! Visiting Hot Springs National Park is completely free.
How much time should I spend at Hot Springs National Park?
If you’re just swinging by for a quick visit, spend a couple of hours checking out the park’s museum and walking along Bathhouse Row. Want to make a day of it? Add in a few hikes or relax at one of the bathhouses. And if hiking is your thing, you could easily spend a few days here exploring the trails!
Hot Springs National Park History
Hot Springs National Park sits right in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas. It all started back in 1832 when President Andrew Jackson set the land aside to protect the hot springs from development—long before national parks were even a thing! By 1877, the government stepped in to take control of the springs after settling land disputes.
A massive fire in 1878 wiped out much of downtown, but that paved the way for the elegant bathhouses built between 1892 and 1923. When Hot Springs officially became a national park in 1921, it was the 18th in the system. For decades, Bathhouse Row was the place to be, but by the 1960s, the popularity of traditional bathing had faded. By 1985, only the Buckstaff Bathhouse was still operating.
Today, Hot Springs National Park is more than just thermal waters. You’ll find a museum, a gift shop, a brewery, and luxurious spas housed in the historic bathhouses, giving visitors plenty of ways to soak up the park’s unique charm.
Can you go into the hot springs in Hot Springs National Park?
While you can no longer soak in the thermal waters outdoors, Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Bathhouse still offer spa services and soaking opportunities.
What can you do in one day at Hot Springs National Park?
Hot Springs National Park has plenty to keep you busy, from exploring the beautiful scenery to checking out its fascinating history. Whether you’re up for a hike or just want to soak in the charm of the historic bathhouses, there’s something here for everyone!
Explore Bathhouse Row
Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. There are eight bathhouses on Bathhouse Row, each with its own unique history and style.
Lamar Bathhouse
The Lamar Bathhouse was originally built in 1923 and has been restored and repurposed for use as a park store and office space. The Lamar Bathhouse is well worth a visit purchase souvenirs, buy a water jug, or grab a cup of coffee made with the hot springs water.
Buckstaff Bathhouse
The Buckstaff Bathhouse is the only bathhouse in Hot Springs National Park that has remained in continuous operation since its opening in 1912. The current building was rebuilt after a fire destroyed the original structure.
The Buckstaff Bathhouse offers bathing packages that include whirlpool mineral baths, vapor cabinets, sitz baths, and more. You can also enjoy a variety of services including massages, facials, and body treatments.
Ozark Bathhouse
The Ozark Bathhouse currently houses the Hot Springs National Park Cultural Center. This gallery features artwork from the park’s Artist-in-Residence program as well as other exhibits. It is only open for special occasions and during the afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays in the summer months.
Quapaw Bathhouse
The Quapaw Bathhouse, with its signature dome, is one of the most authentic attractions at Hot Springs National Park. It was built in the early 1900s. It was later restored in 2008 and turned into a modern spa.
Their modern spa services range from thermal pools and private baths to a steam cave and massages. It is the perfect place to unwind. This isn’t for the entire family since children under the age of 14 are not allowed in the pools.
Fordyce Bathhouse
The Fordyce Bathhouse is one of the top attractions at Hot Springs National Park. It was built in the early 1900s and is the largest bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. It was restored to its original state in 1989 and turned into the park’s visitor center and museum.
Walk through to view the exhibits about the history of the bathing culture in the area and health care in America. It is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily. Admission is free.
If you are traveling with kids, be sure to stop and ask a ranger about the Junior Ranger Program. This will keep the young ones engaged on your visit. It lets them learn through fun activities and earn a Junior Ranger badge.
Maurice Bathhouse
The Maurice Bathhouse was built in 1912 and rivaled any other bathhouse with its elegance. Unlike the other bathhouses, Maurice had a therapeutic pool located in the basement. It is currently closed, but you can still view the building from the outside.
Hale Bathhouse
The Hale Bathhouse, the oldest visible structure on Bathhouse Row, was completed in 1892. It has undergone numerous renovations. It currently operates as the Hale Hotel which features 9 unique rooms and a restaurant.
Superior Bathhouse
The Superior Bathhouse was repurposed into the Superior Bathhouse Brewery and restaurant in 2013. It is the only brewery in a US National Park and the only brewery in the world to use thermal spring water in its beer.
Plan on eating lunch or dinner at this unique restaurant. The brewery offers a variety of craft beer options on tap that you can enjoy with your meal.
Fill Up Your Water Jug
One of the best things about Hot Springs National Park is that you can fill up your water jug with free thermal water. Just walk around and find a spigot. There are seven locations to fill a bottle or jug spread out around Bathhouse Row.
The water is clean and safe to drink. You can buy a souvenir jug (pictured above) at the gift shop located in Lamar Bathhouse.
Walk the Grand Promenade
If you’re looking for a beautiful walk, be sure to check out the Grand Promenade. This bricked path runs behind Bathhouse Row and offers views of the city, bathhouses, and surrounding landscape. The promenade is about half of a mile long.
The path is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with plenty of benches and shady spots to rest along the way. There is even a table where you can play chess. Be sure to stop at one of the many scenic overlooks for some great photo ops.
Take a Hike
The hiking trails in Hot Springs National Park are split between the North Mountain Trails, West Mountain Trails, and Sunset Trail. With varying degrees of difficulty and lengths, you are sure to find one that suits you and your family.
North Mountain Trails
The North Mountain trails offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels. Hot Springs Mountain Trail is a popular hike. It is a mostly flat 1.7-mile trail that takes you around the top of the mountain.
The Goat Rock Trail is a great hike for nature lovers of all levels of experience. The well-marked 1.1-mile trail winds its way through the forest, and hikers can enjoy beautiful views of the river below. The trail is not too difficult, but there are a few steep sections.
West Mountain Trails
Most of the West Mountain trails link together. You can hike just one trail or put more together to extend your hike. Popular West Mountain trails include the 1.2-mile West Mountain Trail and the 1.5-mile Mountain Top Trail.
For a more casual walk, the Whittington Trail is the best option. It is a flat 1.2-mile gravel trail.
Sunset Trail
For a challenging hike, try Sunset Trail. It is a moderately challenging 10-mile-long hike with some steep sections. It offers beautiful views and a chance to explore the more remote parts of the park.
There are three sections to this trail: West Mountain (2.8 miles), Sugarloaf Mountain (2.6 miles), and Stonebridge Road (3.8 miles).
Take a Scenic Drive
There are six scenic drives in the area. West Mountain Scenic Drive leads to three stunning overlooks on Summit Loop.
The Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive takes you up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Stop to enjoy the view, take an elevator ride up to the observation decks, and continue the drive back down.
Note: The Hot Springs Mountain Tower is a bit pricey and has pretty mixed reviews.
Where do you park for Hot Springs National Park?
There is free parking in the Exchange Street Parking Plaza just one street off Central. This parking garage has elevators and is a quick walk to Bathhouse Row. There are plenty of signs to point you in the right direction.
Other Things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas
To turn your Hot Springs trip into a weekend visit, add some of the other popular attractions in town to your itinerary. The Gangster Museum of America, Downtown Murals, Historic Baseball Trail, and Arkansas Walk of Fame are all great options.
Outdoor attractions include the impressive Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs Creek Greenway Trail, and Gulpha Gorge Creek.
Popular kid-friendly attractions include the Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, Tiny Town, Magic Springs Theme & Water Park, and the Mid-America Science Museum.
Campgrounds and Lodging Options in Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a place to stay near the park, there are plenty of options available. You can camp in the park or choose from one of the many hotels in town. No matter what your budget is, you’ll be able to find something that fits your needs.
Gulpha Gorge Campground
Gulpha Gorge Campground is located in the heart of Hot Springs National Park. It is a beautiful campground with trees and a creek running through it. There is also easy access to the nearby hiking trails.
All camping sites have full hook-ups and can accommodate either an RV or tent camping. Each site features electric, water, and sewer connections. A picnic table and a pedestal grill make mealtime enjoyable. Modern bathrooms are available but there are no showers.
Hotel Hale on Bathhouse Row
The Hotel Hale on Bathhouse Row is a beautiful historic hotel with modern amenities. Each of the 9 unique rooms is spacious and includes mineral soaking tubs with thermal spring water piped directly into your room.
The hotel also features a beautiful restaurant, Eden, which allows guests to eat surrounded by a flourishing garden.
Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa
The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Hot Springs National Park. This historic hotel offers guests a variety of amenities, including on-site dining, spa services, and easy access to the park itself.
The Arlington Resort is perfect for visitors who want to experience all that Hot Springs National Park has to offer. The hotel is situated within walking distance of several attractions, including the Bathhouse Row Historic District.
The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa is also home to one of the best spas in Arkansas. The spa features massages, thermal mineral baths, and a full-service salon. Guests can relax after a day of exploring the park with a massage, facial, or other treatment.
Final Thoughts on a Day at Hot Springs National Park
Spending one day at Hot Springs National Park was fantastic. I highly recommend it to anyone. From touring the bathhouses on Bathhouse Row to hiking the trails in the surrounding hills, the park is beautiful and has plenty of things to see and do.
Read Next: Caves to Visit in Arkansas
- For information on other U.S. National Parks, check out these posts.
- Mesa Verde With Kids
- 6 Unique Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Colorado Road Trip With Kids (Black Canyon of the Gunnison)
- 30 Fun Things to Do in St. Louis with Kids (Gateway Arch)
- Mammoth Cave with Kids: A One-Day Itinerary
