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Hot Springs National Park: The American Spa

Experience the therapeutic waters and rich history of America's Spa. Hike scenic trails and explore historic bathhouses in Hot Springs National Park.

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Nestled in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, this unique national park protects the city's famous thermal springs. Visitors can explore historic Bathhouse Row, hike scenic trails, and enjoy the naturally heated spring water that has drawn people for centuries.

A brief summary to Hot Springs National Park

Local tips

  • Visit the Fordyce Bathhouse, now the park's visitor center, for a free self-guided tour and to learn about the park's history.
  • Soak in the thermal waters at the Buckstaff or Quapaw Bathhouse for a traditional spa experience.
  • Hike the Grand Promenade and explore the trails on Hot Springs and North Mountains for scenic views.
  • Bring a jug to fill with the naturally hot spring water at one of the free jug fountains.
  • Check the Hot Springs National Park website for alerts, updates, and closure notifications.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hot Springs Visitor Center at 629 Central Ave, walk north along Central Avenue towards Bathhouse Row. The Fordyce Bathhouse, which houses the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center, is located at 369 Central Avenue. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes. This route is along a public sidewalk and is free.

  • Public Transport

    The City of Hot Springs Intracity Transit has bus routes that serve the downtown area. Check the Intracity Transit website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25. From the Transportation Plaza on Broadway, take any bus going north on Central Avenue. Get off near Bathhouse Row. The Fordyce Bathhouse is located at 369 Central Avenue.

  • Driving

    From I-30, take Exit 111 for US 70W/Hot Springs. Turn right onto Spring Street, then right onto Central Avenue. Drive north; the park will be on the right after Reserve Street. Metered street parking is available throughout downtown. Parking costs $0.25 per hour. There is also a free parking deck available. Alternatively, there is limited RV/bus parking at the Hill Wheatley Plaza at 629 Central Ave, one block south of the visitor center.

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Discover more about Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park, located in central Arkansas, is a unique blend of natural hot springs and urban charm. Established as a reservation in 1832 before the concept of national parks existed, it was later designated a national park in 1921. The park protects 47 hot springs that flow from Hot Springs Mountain, offering visitors a chance to experience the therapeutic waters that have made the area known as "The American Spa". For thousands of years, Native Americans visited the area, believing in the healing properties of the springs. In 1541, Hernando de Soto was the first non-Native American to see the springs. Later, the area was claimed by France and Spain before becoming part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. A town grew around the springs, and bathhouses were constructed to accommodate health seekers. Today, visitors can explore Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark District with eight historic bathhouses. The Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the park's visitor center, offering free self-guided tours. Two bathhouses, the Buckstaff and Quapaw, still operate, allowing visitors to experience mineral baths. The park also offers 26 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and overlooks with views of the Ouachita Mountains. Hot Springs National Park is one of the few national parks with no entrance fee. The park is open year-round, with the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Visitors can enjoy the hot springs, explore the historic bathhouses, hike the trails, and experience the beauty of this unique national park.

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