Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas Travel Guide

Discover the rejuvenating thermal springs and historic charm of Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. A perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities awaits.

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Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park, located in the heart of Arkansas, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and historic charm. Known for its rejuvenating thermal springs, the park offers visitors a unique opportunity to bask in the healing waters that have been cherished for centuries. The park’s rich history is intertwined with its natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. The park is home to the famous Bathhouse Row, a collection of eight historic bathhouses that reflect the opulence of the early 20th century. Visitors can tour these magnificent structures, some of which have been restored and repurposed into museums, shops, and even a brewery. The park also boasts a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through lush forests, offering stunning vistas and a chance to encounter local wildlife. Whether you’re soaking in the thermal waters or exploring the serene landscapes, Hot Springs National Park promises an unforgettable experience. For those interested in history, the park’s visitor center provides a wealth of information about the area’s past, including its significance to Native American tribes and its development as a health resort. The nearby town of Hot Springs adds to the park’s allure with its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and charming restaurants. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities, Hot Springs National Park is an ideal destination for tourists of all ages.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hot Springs National Park.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds at the bathhouses and hiking trails.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the park has many trails and historic sites to explore.
Don’t forget your water bottle; staying hydrated is important, especially if you plan to hike.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as some activities are best enjoyed in good weather.
Make time to visit the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas.
Explore the local cuisine; the town of Hot Springs offers a variety of dining options, from Southern comfort food to fine dining.

Explore Hot Springs National Park: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Mid-America Science Museum

Explore over 100 interactive exhibits at Arkansas' Mid-America Science Museum. A day of fun and discovery for all ages in Hot Springs!

4.8

Cedar Glades Park

Explore nature and adventure at Cedar Glades Park in Hot Springs: trails, disc golf, climbing, and more for all ages!

4.8

Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center And Museum

Explore the opulent past of Hot Springs' spa culture at the meticulously restored Fordyce Bathhouse, now a museum and visitor center.

4.7

Sunset Trail

Explore the wilder side of Hot Springs National Park on its longest and most rewarding trail, with varied terrain and stunning views.

4.7

Best landmarks in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Goat Rock Trail

Discover the stunning Goat Rock Trail in Hot Springs National Park, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.

4.7

Arkansas Walk of Fame

Discover Arkansas's legacy at the Walk of Fame in Hot Springs, honoring the state's nationally recognized figures and their achievements.

5.0

Hot Springs Historic Marker

Explore the historical significance of the Hot Springs Historic Marker in Arkansas, a must-visit landmark nestled in the stunning Hot Springs National Park.

5.0

Best restaurants in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

VAULT

Experience exquisite American cuisine at Vault in Hot Springs National Park - where flavor meets elegance.

4.6

Phil's Family Restaurant

Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Phil's Family Restaurant in Hot Springs National Park - where comfort food meets family-friendly hospitality.

4.4

Steinhaus Keller

Discover authentic German cuisine at Steinhaus Keller in Hot Springs - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

4.4

McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant

Experience authentic Southern BBQ at McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant in Hot Springs National Park – where every bite tells a story.

4.4

Best bars in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Ohio Club

Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of The Ohio Club, where delicious American cuisine meets live music in Hot Springs National Park.

4.6

Best Cafe & Bar

Experience the best of Hot Springs with delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere at Best Cafe & Bar, where every bite is a delight.

4.6

Splash Wine Bar

Experience the best of Hot Springs at Splash Wine Bar, where exquisite wines meet a vibrant social atmosphere in a charming setting.

4.7

The Bourbon Bar at 501 Prime

Discover exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Bourbon Bar in Hot Springs, the perfect spot for relaxation and nightlife.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Ohio Club

Discover the charm of The Ohio Club, the oldest club in Arkansas, where American cuisine meets live music in a historic setting.

4.6

Hot Springs Central Cabaret & Nightclub

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Hot Springs Central Cabaret & Nightclub, where live music meets vibrant entertainment in a unique setting.

4.7

Vapors Live

Discover the energy of Vapors Live, the premier venue for live music and comedy in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where every night is a celebration of entertainment.

4.7

Taphouse Club

Discover Taphouse Club, your go-to sports bar in Hot Springs National Park for great food, drinks, and entertainment.

4.5

Best shops in Hot Springs National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Rocket Fizz

Experience a whimsical candy wonderland at Rocket Fizz in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where unique sweets and quirky gifts await every visitor.

4.6

BATHHOUSE Soapery & Caldarium

Explore BATHHOUSE Soapery & Caldarium, where luxurious bath products meet unique gifts in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

4.6

Earthbound Trading Co.

Discover unique gifts and fashion at Earthbound Trading Co. in Hot Springs National Park - a haven for souvenirs and local artistry.

4.7

It's About Rocks

Explore It's About Rocks in Hot Springs, AR: Your destination for unique gifts, crystals, and metaphysical supplies that inspire and enchant.

4.6

Explore Hot Springs National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hot Springs National Park, mapped for you.

Hot Springs National Park Essentials

Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas, USA. The nearest major airport is Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, approximately 55 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, use a shuttle service, or take a bus to reach Hot Springs. Alternatively, you can drive directly to the park. It is accessible via US Route 70 and US Route 270.
Once in Hot Springs, the best way to explore the national park is on foot. The city of Hot Springs also has a public transit system called Intracity Transit, which operates buses within the city and can take you to various points of interest. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. For a more scenic experience, consider renting a bicycle.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Hot Springs, including at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily accessible throughout the city and the park. It is a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or areas where card payment may not be accepted.
Hot Springs National Park is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables in your car and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. The downtown area is usually bustling and safe, but avoid poorly lit areas and isolated neighborhoods after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hot Springs has a local police department, fire department, and several medical facilities including the CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs hospital. For minor medical issues, there are numerous pharmacies in town. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can change. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local religious practices if visiting a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi,' and a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the United States.
To experience Hot Springs like a local, visit the Buckstaff Bathhouse for a traditional thermal bath experience. Take a stroll down Bathhouse Row and explore the historic buildings. Don’t miss the Hot Springs Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. The Grand Promenade offers a scenic walk with great views of the park and the city.

When is the best time to visit Hot Springs National Park?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hot Springs National Park

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hot Springs National Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hah-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-tur]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pleez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [hao yahl doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fain. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't reckon
  [ah dohnt rehk-uhn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to check out the menu, if y'all don't mind
  [ahd laik tuh chehk owt thuh men-yoo, if yahl dohnt mynd]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat no meat
  [ah dohnt eet noh meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up, if y'all don't mind
  [ah rehk-uhn ayl set-uhl uh-p, if yahl dohnt mynd]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Call the Sheriff!
  [cahl thuh shur-uff]
- Call a doctor!Call the Doc!
  [cahl thuh dahk]
- I'm lostI'm plum lost
  [ahm pluhm lost]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahm feel-in poor-lee]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [ahm fik-sin tuh bahy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahm jhust brow-sin]
- How much is it?How much fer it?
  [hao much fur it]
- That's too expensiveThat's a mite pricey
  [thats uh myt prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can y'all knock the price down a bit?
  [cahn yahl nahk thuh prahys dahn uh bit]
- What time is it?What time y'all got?
  [whut taim yahl gawt]
- It's one o'clockIt's one on the dot
  [its wuhn on thuh daht]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [haf past (ten)]
- MorningMornin'
  [mawr-nin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-tur-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ee-vnin]
- YesterdayYestiddy
  [yess-tid-ee]
- TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
- TomorrowTomorry
  [tuh-mawr-ee]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [fawr]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...at?
  [wheres thu...at]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whuts thuh add-ee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can y'all point me out on the map?
  [cahn yahl point me owt on thuh map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) fixin' to come?
  [whens thuh nekst (buhs) fik-sin tuh kum]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a tick-uht (tu...)]

History of Hot Springs National Park

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Hot Springs National Park was a gathering place for various Indigenous tribes, including the Caddo, Quapaw, and Osage people. They regarded the hot springs as a sacred site with healing properties. Archaeological evidence indicates that Native Americans used the springs for thousands of years, leaving behind stone tools and other artifacts.
The first European to document the hot springs was the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, who arrived in the area in 1541. His expedition noted the warm waters, but it wasn't until the 17th century that French explorers further chronicled the springs. The French named the area 'Les Eaux Chaudes', meaning 'the hot waters.'
In 1832, President Andrew Jackson signed an act establishing Hot Springs as the first federal reservation, a precursor to the national park system. This act set aside four sections of land to protect the hot springs for public use, making it the oldest protected area in the United States.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hot Springs experienced a boom in popularity as a health resort. Elegant bathhouses were constructed along Bathhouse Row, offering therapeutic treatments and attracting visitors from around the world. Notable bathhouses from this era include the Fordyce Bathhouse, now a museum, and the Buckstaff Bathhouse, still in operation today.
In the early 20th century, Hot Springs became a hotbed of illegal gambling and a vacation spot for notorious gangsters like Al Capone. The town's reputation for vice led to frequent clashes between law enforcement and organized crime, adding a layer of intrigue to its history. Despite the illicit activities, the hot springs continued to draw legitimate tourists seeking relaxation and treatment.
In 1921, Hot Springs Reservation was officially designated as Hot Springs National Park. This change reflected the growing recognition of the area's unique natural and cultural resources. The park continued to evolve, balancing preservation with public access and enjoyment.
In recent decades, efforts have focused on preserving the park's historical structures and natural features. Restoration projects have revitalized many of the iconic bathhouses, while educational programs aim to inform visitors about the park's rich history and ecological significance. Today, Hot Springs National Park remains a beloved destination, blending its storied past with modern amenities.