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Ozark Bathhouse: A Window to Hot Springs' Past

Explore the Ozark Bathhouse: A historic landmark in Hot Springs National Park, now a cultural center showcasing art and the city's thermal bathing heritage.

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The Ozark Bathhouse, completed in 1922, stands as a testament to Hot Springs' rich history as a premier health and wellness destination. Designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, this historic structure once catered to a middle economic class seeking the rejuvenating thermal waters of the area. Today, it serves as a cultural center, hosting art exhibitions and park events.

A brief summary to Ozark Bathhouse

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours of the Ozark Bathhouse Cultural Center, as they are limited to Friday through Sunday afternoons.
  • Explore the rest of Bathhouse Row to see the diverse architectural styles and learn about the history of each bathhouse.
  • Visit the Fordyce Bathhouse, now the park's visitor center, for a glimpse into the opulent bathing experience of the past.
  • Take a stroll along the Grand Promenade, a paved walkway behind Bathhouse Row, for scenic views of the city and surrounding hills.
  • Consider visiting Mystic Ozark, a new interactive experience opening in May 2025, to learn about the geothermal waters of Hot Springs National Park.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ozark Bathhouse is located at 491 Central Ave, in the heart of Hot Springs' historic downtown. If you're already on Central Avenue, simply walk along Bathhouse Row to find it. From the Fordyce Bathhouse (the National Park Visitor Center), it's a short, approximately 5-minute walk. Enjoy the sights and architecture along the way.

  • Public Transport

    Intracity Transit (IT) operates bus routes throughout Hot Springs. Check the IT schedule for the most up-to-date routes and times. Take any bus that stops near Central Avenue and Bathhouse Row. From the bus stop, walk towards 491 Central Ave. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hot Springs. Request a ride to 491 Central Ave. Expect to pay around $12 for a 5-mile trip. Note that prices may vary.

  • Parking

    If driving, navigate to Hot Springs National Park and then to Central Avenue. Limited street parking is available along Central Avenue. There are also paid parking garages nearby, including one on Exchange Street, one block west of Central Avenue. Metered parking is also available. Expect to pay around $10 for all day parking.

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Discover more about Ozark Bathhouse

The Ozark Bathhouse, located on Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park, offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past as a renowned spa destination. Completed in 1922, it was designed by architects Mann and Stern in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The bathhouse catered to visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the area's thermal waters, providing a more accessible option for those who found the larger bathhouses too expensive. The Ozark Bathhouse replaced an earlier Victorian structure that was susceptible to fire and decay. The building's design incorporates unique features such as plaster-cast window boxes and cartouches depicting the Tree of Health or the Tree of Life. While not as opulent as some of its counterparts, the Ozark Bathhouse offered 27 tubs and could accommodate a significant number of bathers. The bathhouse closed in 1977, marking the end of its era as a traditional bathing facility. However, it has since been repurposed as the Ozark Bathhouse Cultural Center, hosting art exhibitions, park events, and community programs. In March 2025, a lease agreement was signed to develop an interactive experience within the bathhouse, called Mystic Ozark, highlighting the geothermal waters of Hot Springs National Park through themed environments. Visitors can explore the building's architecture and learn about its history, as well as the broader story of Hot Springs' thermal bathing culture.

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