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Fordyce Bathhouse: A Glimpse into Bathhouse Row's Golden Age

Step back in time at the Fordyce Bathhouse, Hot Springs National Park's visitor center, and experience the golden age of thermal bathing.

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The Fordyce Bathhouse, now the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park, was once the grandest bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. Step back in time to experience the luxurious bathing experience of the early 20th century, complete with opulent interiors and exhibits detailing the history of thermal bathing in Hot Springs.

A brief summary to Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center And Museum

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the bathhouse and its exhibits.
  • Pick up a park map at the visitor center to explore other attractions in Hot Springs National Park.
  • Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the bathhouse's history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Fordyce Bathhouse is located in the heart of Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs. If you are already on Central Avenue, simply walk along the street until you reach 369 Central Ave. The bathhouse is easily identifiable by its grand facade. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Hot Springs has a public trolley service that operates on Central Avenue. Check the trolley schedule for the nearest stop to the Fordyce Bathhouse. From the trolley stop, it's a short walk to 369 Central Ave. A single ride on the trolley costs $1. The Central Avenue Trolley is currently suspended due to construction. Please check the City of Hot Springs website for updates.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901. Parking can be challenging on Central Avenue, especially during peak season. Metered street parking is available, costing $1 per hour, with a two-hour time limit. There are also paid parking lots in the vicinity, with hourly rates typically ranging from $3 to $5. Be prepared to walk a short distance from your parking spot to the bathhouse.

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Discover more about Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center And Museum

The Fordyce Bathhouse stands as a meticulously preserved testament to the heyday of thermal bathing in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Constructed in 1915, it operated as a bathhouse until 1962, offering patrons a luxurious and therapeutic experience centered around the region's famed hot spring waters. Today, it serves as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park, allowing visitors to explore the beautifully restored building and learn about the history of the park and the unique bathing culture that once thrived here. Inside, you'll find exhibits showcasing the various stages of the bathing process, from the hydrotherapy rooms to the gymnasium and even the men's and women's bathing areas. The architecture itself is a sight to behold, with its stained-glass windows, marble interiors, and intricate tile work. The Fordyce offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural significance of bathhouses in the early 20th century, when people flocked to Hot Springs seeking cures for various ailments or simply to indulge in the rejuvenating waters. Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the bathhouse's opulent spaces, imagining the throngs of people who once sought relaxation and healing within its walls. From the grand entrance hall to the serene rooftop garden, every corner of the Fordyce Bathhouse whispers stories of a bygone era. Allow ample time to explore each room and read the informative displays, which provide context and insights into the bathhouse's operations and the lives of those who frequented it.

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