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Whittington Park Historic Marker: A Glimpse into Hot Springs' Past

Discover Hot Springs' baseball history and tranquil green spaces at the Whittington Park Historic Marker and surrounding historic district.

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The Whittington Park Historic Marker commemorates the area's rich history, particularly its significance as a baseball epicenter from 1894 to 1942. The park itself, named after early Hot Springs resident Hiram Abiff Whittington, offers a tranquil green space for relaxation and reflection.

A brief summary to Whittington Park Historic Marker

  • 890 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Take a leisurely walk through Whittington Park to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and connect with nature.
  • Explore the surrounding Whittington Park Historic District to admire the diverse architecture and learn about the area's past.
  • Visit the nearby Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo for a unique and fun experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're near the Hot Springs Convention Center, walk southeast on Convention Blvd toward Central Ave. Turn left onto Central Ave and continue for about 0.5 miles. Turn right onto Whittington Ave; the marker is approximately 0.6 miles down on your left at 890 Whittington Ave. This is a pleasant walk through the area. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Hot Springs has a trolley service, but it may not directly serve the Whittington Park Historic Marker. Check the City of Hot Springs website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride fare is typically around $1.00 - $1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Hot Springs, a taxi or ride-share to the Whittington Park Historic Marker will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and distance. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

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Discover more about Whittington Park Historic Marker

The Whittington Park Historic Marker serves as a window into the vibrant past of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park and surrounding historic district, nestled between West Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain, were named for Hiram Abiff Whittington, a respected 19th-century businessman and public servant. Originally, Whittington Park was a bustling amusement area featuring rowing lakes, tennis courts, and carriage drives. However, it is most notably remembered as the site of Whittington Park (later named Ban Johnson Field), a baseball stadium that stood from 1894 to 1942. This ballpark was the heart of baseball in Hot Springs, hosting legendary players such as Cy Young, Honus Wagner, and Babe Ruth. Today, the site is a parking lot, but a home plate marker and remaining bleachers evoke the park's sporting legacy. The surrounding Whittington Park Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features architecture dating back to 1896. The district showcases a mix of building styles, reflecting the city's growth as a health resort destination. While the amusement park attractions are gone, the area remains a pleasant neighborhood with tree-lined greenspace.

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