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Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

Discover Hot Springs' vibrant past and present in the Central Avenue Historical District, a treasure trove of culture, history, and relaxation.

4.5

Stroll down Central Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and step back in time. This historical district, with its beautifully preserved architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was the economic heart of a booming spa town. Today, it blends history with modern shops, restaurants, and galleries.

A brief summary to Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

  • Hot Springs, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience, especially if you want to enjoy the thermal baths.
  • Explore local art galleries, as many feature works by regional artists and unique handcrafted items.
  • Wear comfortable shoes; the best way to experience the district is by walking and taking in the architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Central Avenue Historic District is easily walkable. If you are already in the downtown area, simply head towards Central Avenue and Bathhouse Row. The district stretches along Central Avenue between Prospect and Park Streets. Enjoy the sights and sounds as you stroll along the avenue, taking in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Public Transport

    Hot Springs Intracity Transit provides bus service throughout the city. Check their website for routes and schedules to reach Central Avenue. From the Transportation Plaza on Broadway, it's a short walk to Bathhouse Row and the Central Avenue Historic District. Bus fares vary, so check the local transit website for current pricing.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hot Springs. A short taxi ride from the Greyhound station or other points in Hot Springs to the Central Avenue Historic District will cost approximately $5 - $7.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Central Avenue in Hot Springs. Be aware that parking in the downtown area can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are various parking options, including priority parking ($2 per hour for the first two hours), secondary parking ($1 per hour with no time limit), and free open parking. The most expensive parking will be $2 per hour with a four-hour time limit. There is a free parking garage on Exchange Street and Bath, just off Central Ave.

Unlock the Best of Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

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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, showcases some of Arkansas's finest historic buildings, constructed primarily between 1886 and 1930. This area was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 25, 1985, and it reflects Hot Springs' growth as a premier resort destination. Historically, Central Avenue has been the city's main commercial district. Fronting Bathhouse Row, the avenue's stores, hotels, offices, and restaurants catered to both locals and tourists drawn to the thermal waters. The street's name was changed from Valley Street to Central Avenue in the late 1870s, solidifying its role as the city's commercial center. Between 1892 and 1923, elaborate spa buildings, including the Buckstaff, Fordyce, Hale, Lamar, Maurice, Ozark, Quapaw, and Superior bathhouses, were erected along Central Avenue's Bathhouse Row. These bathhouses, along with the Grand Promenade, were designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1987. The construction boom also led to the development of nearby hotels, restaurants, shops, and theaters to serve the growing tourist trade. Today, visitors can explore this vibrant district, soaking in the history and enjoying the blend of old and new. Landmarks like the Arlington Hotel and the DeSoto Mineral Springs Building stand as testaments to the city's rich past. The district also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating art, music, and Hot Springs' heritage.

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