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The Grand Promenade: A Stroll Through History

Discover history and nature on Hot Springs' Grand Promenade, a scenic walkway with stunning views and access to thermal springs and hiking trails.

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The Grand Promenade is a half-mile brick-paved walkway in Hot Springs National Park, offering scenic views, historical insights, and access to hiking trails. Built in the 1930s, it provides a tranquil experience with benches, interpretive signage, and connections to the park's natural and cultural history.

A brief summary to The Grand Promenade

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the promenade is ideal for walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful views and historic landmarks.
  • Take time to read the interpretive signs to learn about the area's history.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic rest areas along the promenade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center at 369 Central Ave, walk east on Central Ave for about 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Whittington Ave and continue for about 0.2 miles. The entrance to The Grand Promenade will be on your right. The entrance is marked and leads directly into the promenade area.

  • Public Transport

    Take the City of Hot Springs bus to a stop near the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center. From there, walk east on Central Ave for about 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Whittington Ave and continue for about 0.2 miles. The entrance to The Grand Promenade will be on your right. Bus fare is approximately $1.25 for a single ride.

  • Parking

    Parking is available in the vicinity of the Grand Promenade. There is no defined lot for the Grand Promenade. Metered street parking is available nearby. The city of Hot Springs maintains a parking garage at 128 Exchange Street, one block west of the Hot Springs National Park visitor center. Beginning in 2025, the city of Hot Springs has implemented a new paid parking system on major thoroughfares, adjacent side streets, and parking garages. Parking fees vary.

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Discover more about The Grand Promenade

The Grand Promenade, a National Recreation Trail within Hot Springs National Park, is a beautifully designed walkway steeped in history and natural beauty. Constructed in the 1930s and completed in the late 1950s, the Promenade offers a serene escape with stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains and the historic Bathhouse Row. Originally conceived to provide an architectural transition from the bustling city to the natural slopes of Hot Springs Mountain, the Grand Promenade quickly became a vital part of the park's identity. It served as a gathering place for social events and leisurely walks, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in its construction, reflecting the public work relief programs during the Great Depression. Today, the brick-paved path stretches for half a mile, offering an accessible route for visitors of all ages and abilities. Lined with benches, interpretive signs, and access points to various hiking trails, the Promenade invites exploration and relaxation. It also provides a glimpse into the region's thermal springs, which have drawn visitors for centuries. As you stroll along the Grand Promenade, you'll encounter outcroppings of Hot Springs Sandstone, the source of the park's famed thermal springs. The Tufa Terrace Trail, accessible from the Promenade, showcases unique Tufa rock formations created by mineral deposits from the thermal waters. The Promenade also offers access to the Peak Trail, leading to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, and the Oertel Trail, which leads to Gulpha Creek and Gulpha Gorge Campground. The Grand Promenade stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Hot Springs National Park, blending history, nature, and tranquility into an unforgettable experience.

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