As part of our spring break road trip adventure through the southern U.S., we made a stop that turned out to be both relaxing and surprisingly educational—Hot Springs National Park in Hot Springs, AR. Tucked into the Ouachita Mountains, this park stands out from every other national park we’ve visited. Why? Because it’s located right in the middle of a historic town, blending nature with spa culture and centuries of fascinating history.
For families like ours, with kids eager to explore, stretch their legs, and see something totally different, Hot Springs in AR was the perfect place to break up our drive—and get a taste of the past and present, all flowing from the famous hot spring waters. The water’s high temperature kills most harmful bacteria, ensuring safety for activities like bathing and drinking.
Table of Contents
🌟 Introduction to Hot Springs
Hot Springs, Arkansas is a city brimming with rich history and natural beauty. At the heart of this charming city lies Hot Springs National Park, home to 47 natural hot springs that emerge from the southwestern slope of Hot Springs Mountain. These springs produce over 800,000 gallons of hot water daily, with temperatures ranging from 100°F to 143°F. The hot springs water is renowned for its superior quality and is often praised for its therapeutic benefits.
The unique combination of natural hot springs, historic architecture, and scenic beauty makes Hot Springs a magnet for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s natural hot springs by soaking in one of the many bathhouses, such as Quapaw Baths and Spa or the Buckstaff Bathhouse. These bathhouses offer a variety of body treatments, including full body wraps and customized therapies to enhance relaxation and wellness. The historic downtown area, featuring the famous Bathhouse Row, is a treasure trove of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Hot Springs is also renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hot Springs Music Festival and the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival. The city’s natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities make it an ideal destination for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re here for the healing waters, the historic charm, or the scenic trails, Hot Springs offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
🏛️ A National Park That Feels Like a City Tour
Unlike many parks where you’re deep in the wilderness, Hot Springs National Park includes a vibrant urban district, complete with restaurants, hotels, and vintage bathhouses. The vintage bathhouses offer private baths for a more personal and secluded bathing experience. It was surreal walking through Bathhouse Row, a street lined with preserved early-20th-century buildings that once catered to everyone from wealthy travelers to baseball players and even gangsters.
We toured the Fordyce Bathhouse, which now serves as the park’s visitor center and museum. This immersive step back in time gave our kids a hands-on look at how people used to “take the waters” for health and relaxation. Some bathhouses today have been transformed into cultural venues, reflecting the grandeur of early 20th-century spa culture. The hot spring above ground in the park was just outside, steaming and bubbling away—an instant hit with the kids!
The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been in continuous operation since 1912, emphasizing its longstanding service.
🏙️ Exploring Downtown Hot Springs
Downtown Hot Springs is a charming and historic area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. The city’s main street, Central Avenue, is lined with beautifully restored buildings, many of which date back to the early 20th century. Strolling along the Grand Promenade, visitors can take in the stunning architecture and explore the many boutiques and specialty stores.
The area is also home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of cuisines and dining experiences. From casual eateries to fine dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Downtown Hot Springs is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, with a vibrant atmosphere and a wide range of activities and events. The Quapaw Bathhouse, a historic spa that reopened in 2008, features four thermal pools and a family-friendly atmosphere, adding to the area’s appeal.
The city’s historic bathhouses, such as the Fordyce Bathhouse and the Buckstaff Bathhouse, are also located in the downtown area and offer a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the bathhouses, learn about the history of the hot springs, and experience the natural hot spring water for themselves. The Maurice Bathhouses serve as a geographical landmark, helping visitors navigate the various thermal spring fountains in the area. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, downtown Hot Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the area.
💧 Real Hot Springs, Flowing Everywhere
It’s not just a name—the hot spring waters are very real and very active here. Over 40 hot springs flow naturally from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain, and you can see them above ground in several designated viewing spots. We stopped by the Hot Water Cascade, where steamy water spills over rock terraces into a small pool, and the Display Spring, a quiet area where you can get up close to the natural phenomenon. There are also several thermal spring fountains located throughout the area, perfect for filling jugs, with information about the mineral content available from the Hot Springs National Park Service.
The kids were fascinated that something as simple as water could draw millions of people to this part of Arkansas. We even filled our bottles with the hot spring water at the jug fountains, which visitors highly endorse for its superior quality and taste, where locals line up daily to collect mineral-rich water.
🛁 Soaking in the Springs
One of the most rejuvenating experiences at Hot Springs National Park is soaking in the natural hot springs. These thermal waters, rich in minerals, have been cherished for centuries for their healing properties. Visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing waters at one of the many bathhouses located on Bathhouse Row, such as the Quapaw Baths and Spa and the Buckstaff Bathhouse.
The thermal waters are piped directly into these bathhouses, providing a warm and relaxing soak that ranges from 98°F to 104°F. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of exploring or seeking the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters, soaking in the springs is a must-do experience. The park’s hot springs are open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy this unique activity in any season. It’s a perfect way to connect with the natural beauty and rich history of Hot Springs National Park.
Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial when visiting Hot Springs National Park, especially if you plan to soak in the hot springs or hike the scenic trails. While the park’s thermal waters are rich in minerals, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Fortunately, the park offers numerous cold spring fountains where visitors can fill their water bottles with fresh, cool water.
These cold spring fountains are conveniently located throughout the park, providing easy access to safe drinking water. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining physical health, particularly when engaging in activities like hiking. The park’s trails, such as the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and the Sunset Trail, offer breathtaking views of the Mountains and the surrounding landscape. Remember to drink plenty of water to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Hot Springs National Park.
🏛️ Historic Landmarks
Hot Springs National Park is home to numerous historic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the rich history of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The Fordyce Bathhouse, now serving as the park’s visitor center, is a fully restored bathhouse that provides educational exhibits and self-guided tours. Another notable landmark is the Buckstaff Bathhouse, one of the oldest bathhouses in the park, offering a traditional bathing experience.
These historic bathhouses are located on Bathhouse Row, a scenic promenade that showcases stunning architecture and the park’s historical significance. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the history and importance of these landmarks. Exploring the historic bathhouses is a must for anyone interested in history and architecture, making it a unique and fascinating part of the Hot Springs National Park experience.
🌳 Trails, Towers & Tree-Top Views
Hot Springs isn’t just about the city streets. After exploring Bathhouse Row, we hit the trails that wind behind it. The Grand Promenade is a shaded walkway above the main row and gave us a relaxing nature break with benches and scenic views. The soothing sounds of running water enhance the overall experience, making it even more tranquil.
We then hiked (okay, rode the elevator) to the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, which gave us sweeping panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains, the town, and the dune-like terrain formed by ancient thermal activity. From here, we learned that Whittington Spring flows from the West Mountain, while Happy Hollow Spring originates from the North Mountain. It was a fun way for the kids to visually connect the geography and the history of the area.
🐾 Nature and Wildlife
Surrounded by the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The city is home to Hot Springs National Park, which features over 26 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Hot Springs Mountain Trail and the Sunset Trail. These trails provide stunning views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and black bear. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, take in the breathtaking views, and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Additionally, the Gulpha Gorge campground within the park offers 40 camping sites by Gulpha Creek, making it an ideal spot for visitors to relax and enjoy nature while accessing the park’s various outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by several lakes, including Lake Hamilton and Lake Ouachita, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Hot Springs is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its unique blend of natural beauty, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife. Whether you take a guided tour or explore the area on your own, you’ll be captivated by the stunning views and the natural charm of Hot Springs. With its combination of outdoor recreational opportunities and rich wildlife, Hot Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
🧖♀️ Spa Experiences
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Hot Springs National Park offers a variety of spa experiences. The Quapaw Baths and Spa is a popular destination, offering a range of treatments including massages, facials, and body wraps. The Buckstaff Bathhouse provides a traditional bathing experience, complete with thermal waters and a serene atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy the park’s natural hot springs at one of the many private bathhouses scattered throughout the area. These spa experiences are designed to promote relaxation and wellness, making them a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or exploring. The thermal waters, rich in minerals, are believed to have healing properties, adding to the allure of the spa treatments. Whether you opt for a massage, facial, or a soak in the thermal waters, the spa experiences at Hot Springs National Park are truly unforgettable.
🏨 Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, Hot Springs National Park offers a range of options to suit every preference and budget. The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa is a popular choice, featuring a spa, restaurant, and a prime location in the heart of downtown Hot Springs. This historic hotel is within walking distance of Bathhouse Row and the park’s historic landmarks, making it a convenient and charming place to stay.
Visitors can also choose from a variety of bed and breakfasts, inns, and vacation rentals located throughout the city. The historic hotels in Hot Springs offer a unique experience, with beautifully restored rooms and amenities that reflect the city’s rich history. For those seeking modern comforts, the city’s resorts provide amenities such as pools, fitness centers, and on-site dining. Staying in Hot Springs National Park allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty and historical charm, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.
👣 Walking the Springs—Safely!
Hot Springs National Park lets you touch and experience the hot spring waters above ground in the park, but be careful—they’re HOT. The high temperatures of the water effectively kill most harmful bacteria, ensuring safety for activities like bathing and drinking. The kids were thrilled to hover their hands above the steam or feel the warmth through rock at designated safe spots. Hot water emanates from the hillside, creating a visually stunning cascade that flows into two pools.
Our favorite thing was just slowing down, watching the steam rise, and realizing we were standing on ground that has been used for healing, bathing, and wellness for centuries. It was an awesome blend of science, geology, and culture—and it felt like the perfect family-friendly classroom on the road.
🍽️ Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Hot Springs, AR
After all that walking, learning, and spring-spotting, we were ready for some food! Hot Springs, the hometown of President Bill Clinton, offers a rich historical backdrop that adds to its charm. Here are some of the best family-friendly places to eat near the park that we loved (or had on our list):
- Hale Bathhouse: This historic structure, originally built in 1892, has been transformed into a boutique hotel. As the oldest building on Bathhouse Row, it offers a unique experience with hotel rooms featuring hot spring-fed bathtubs, immersing guests in the area’s renowned spa culture.
🍕 Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden
A laid-back, funky spot with great outdoor seating and delicious hand-tossed pizzas. The Superior Bathhouse, located directly near the historic Maurice Bathhouse in Bathhouse Row, uses hot spring water in its beer production, offering a unique dining experience. Perfect after a day of exploring.
🍔 The Ohio Club
Historic, fun for adults and older kids—once frequented by gangsters and baseball legends! Great burgers and live music. Located just a short drive from Little Rock, Hot Springs offers a unique blend of history and entertainment.
🍦 Fat Bottomed Girl’s Cupcake Shoppe
Right on Central Ave—an instant hit with the kids. Gourmet cupcakes, fun atmosphere, and a perfect post-hike treat. The serene environment, enhanced by the picturesque blue-green algae, adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature.
🥗 Rolando’s Restaurante
A local favorite with Latin flair, located near the south entrance of the Grand Promenade. The patio is shaded and beautiful, and the food is packed with flavor (try the Cuban sandwich!).
🥞 The Pancake Shop
Great for breakfast or brunch—classic diner vibes and hearty portions. A Hot Springs staple! Visitors often stop by to fill their jugs with hot spring water from nearby fountains, making it a convenient spot for both dining and filling jugs.
☕ Kollective Coffee + Tea
A cozy café with great coffee for the grownups and smoothies or snacks for the kids. Nearby, you can also find a luxury hotel that enhances the guest experience with modern amenities like soaking tubs in each room, all while integrating the area’s historic charm and natural thermal waters.
🧺 Why Families Should Visit Hot Springs in AR
Hot Springs National Park is a hidden gem for family road trips—especially during spring break, summer, or a weekend escape. It’s low-stress, high-interest, and full of natural learning opportunities. The therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters contribute to relaxation and overall wellness. Here’s why it worked so well for us:
- Great combo of history + nature + city fun
- Easy walking paths and short trails for kids
- Free and fascinating museum
- No need for intense gear or planning
- Water, steam, and spa vibes = calming and memorable
Additionally, the area is home to several historic places that highlight the architectural and cultural significance of Hot Springs, Arkansas. These preserved historic hotels and districts are recognized for their historical importance and contributions to the city’s heritage, making the visit both educational and enriching.
🗺️ Tips for Visiting Hot Springs National Park with Kids
- 🔥 Don’t touch the spring water directly unless it’s in a safe viewing area—it’s really hot
- 💧 Bring refillable bottles to take some hot spring water home
- 🏛️ Start at the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum—it’s kid-friendly and full of cool artifacts. The Fordyce Bathhouse also serves as the park’s visitor center, providing educational exhibits and self-guided tours.
- 🌳 Hike the Grand Promenade or check out the Hot Springs Mountain Tower
- 🕰️ Visit earlier in the day to beat the crowds and find easy parking
- 🧴 Grab a souvenir from the local shops—bath salts, soaps, or even water jugs!
- 💦 Experience the unique thermal water by visiting specific springs or indulging in spa treatments that utilize this mineral-rich water.
🌟 One of the Most Unique National Parks in the U.S.
Unlike any other park on our road trip, Hot Springs National Park in AR left us with a deeper appreciation for how nature and history intertwine. Known historically as an American Spa, this park has been a renowned wellness destination since the early 1900s, thanks to its bathhouses and natural hot springs. Whether you’re here for the hot spring waters, the trails, the history, or just a unique stop on the way to somewhere else—this park delivers.
We loved getting to explore a park with hot springs above ground, in the middle of a vibrant town, surrounded by natural beauty. It’s a refreshing mix of relaxation and exploration—and it made for one of our favorite spring break stops! For those seeking a more personalized and intimate spa service, the park also offers unique private bathing experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy thermal waters in solitude.
Looking for more from this trip? Check out our stop at Big Bend National Park!
Leave a reply