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History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum

Explore Hot Springs' notorious gambling history with vintage slots, gaming tables, and mobster tales at this unique and captivating museum.

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Step back in time at the History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum, where the thrilling and tumultuous past of Hot Springs' gambling scene comes to life. Explore a vast collection of original slot machines, gaming tables, and memorabilia from the city's notorious gambling venues, offering a glimpse into an era when Hot Springs was known as "Las Vegas before Las Vegas."

A brief summary to History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum

  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Take your time to read the exhibit descriptions to fully appreciate the historical context.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to try out the restored vintage slot machines with the museum-provided tokens.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum is located on Central Avenue, north of downtown Hot Springs. From Central Avenue in the downtown area, head north. The museum is located at 3339 Central Ave C. Parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    The Hot Springs Trolley provides service along Central Avenue. Check the trolley schedule for the nearest stop to the museum. From the trolley stop, it is a short walk to the museum. A single ride fare is $1.

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Discover more about History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum

The History of Hot Springs Gambling Museum, established in 2016, preserves and showcases the captivating history of gambling in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which thrived from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. Hot Springs was once known as the "Las Vegas before Las Vegas," attracting millions of visitors, including notorious gangsters like Al Capone, drawn to the city's illegal, yet wide-open, gambling scene. The museum features an impressive collection of gambling memorabilia from iconic Hot Springs venues such as the Vapors, the Southern Club, and Oaklawn Park. Visitors can explore exhibits displaying original slot machines—some dating back 70 to 80 years—gaming tables, dice, cards, and gambling-related documents. A highlight is the collection of restored vintage slot machines, some of which visitors can even try out with tokens provided by the museum. The museum also delves into the social implications of gambling, illustrating its influence on local life, entertainment, and even politics. Exhibits showcase items from the 1967 FBI raid on Spa City Amusement Co., a company that built and serviced slot machines during Hot Springs' gambling heyday. The museum offers a unique glimpse into a significant aspect of the city's heritage, highlighting the colorful past of Hot Springs and its notorious gambling legacy.

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