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Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

Discover historic bathhouses, unique shops, and natural hot springs in this beautifully preserved district, the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

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Stroll through the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, in the Central Avenue Historical District, a beautifully preserved area showcasing architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Once the city's main commercial hub, it's now filled with shops, restaurants, and bathhouses, reflecting Hot Springs' vibrant history as a premier resort destination.

A brief summary to Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

  • Hot Springs, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience, especially if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths.
  • Explore the shops, art galleries, and restaurants along Central Avenue to experience the local culture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the district's architecture and attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Transportation Plaza on Broadway, walk north towards Central Avenue. Turn left onto Central Avenue and continue for two blocks to enter the Historical District. This is a straightforward, relatively flat walk. Parking at the Transportation Plaza costs $2 per hour for the first two hours, with increased rates for longer durations.

  • Public Transport

    Intracity Transit operates three bus routes that serve the downtown area. All routes begin and end at the Transportation Plaza. From the Plaza, any bus route will drop you off within walking distance of Central Avenue. A single ride costs $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hot Springs. From a location such as the Hot Springs Memorial Airport, a taxi ride to Central Avenue will cost approximately $12-$20, depending on the distance and traffic. Be aware that prices may vary.

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Discover more about Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

The Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District, stretching from 205 Park Avenue to 702 Central Avenue, is a captivating journey through time. This district showcases some of Arkansas's finest historic buildings, constructed between 1886 and 1930, mirroring the city's evolution into a renowned resort destination. Central Avenue has traditionally been the commercial heart of Hot Springs. Facing Bathhouse Row, the avenue's stores, hotels, offices, and restaurants catered to both locals and tourists, driving the city's booming trade. The thoroughfare, originally named Valley Street, has been the hub of commerce since the early settlement around the thermal springs. Between 1892 and 1923, elaborate spa buildings were erected along Bathhouse Row. These magnificent bathhouses, including the Buckstaff, Fordyce, Hale, Lamar, Maurice, Ozark, Quapaw, and Superior, spurred the development of nearby hotels, restaurants, shops, and theaters to support the thriving tourist industry. Today, some bathhouses have been repurposed into restaurants and shops, while others still offer authentic thermal bath experiences. The district also features notable landmarks such as the Arlington Hotel, dating back to 1875, and the neoclassical Thomson Building. The DeSoto Mineral Springs Building, built in 1915, houses the administrative offices and visitor center for the Mountain Valley Spring Water Co., which has bottled spring water in Hot Springs since 1871. Visitors can explore attractions like the Gangster Museum of America, the Ohio Club (Arkansas' oldest bar), and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views. The district hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating art, music, and the city's rich heritage.

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