Ozark Bathhouse: A Window to Hot Springs' Past

The Ozark Bathhouse, located on Central Avenue in Hot Springs National Park, stands as a testament to the city's rich history as a spa destination. Constructed in 1922, it was designed by Mann and Stern of Little Rock in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The bathhouse was intended to serve a middle economic class, offering a more accessible option than some of the fancier establishments on Bathhouse Row.The Ozark Bathhouse replaced an earlier Victorian structure that was prone to rot and fire, like many of the primitive bathhouses before it. The building's design features low towers and unique plaster-cast window boxes. A renovation in 1942 brought the wings forward and enclosed the front porch, though the porch enclosure was later removed to restore the building's original appearance. The cartouches on the building depict the Tree of Health or the Tree of Life.The bathhouse closed in 1977, but it has since been repurposed as the Ozark Bathhouse Cultural Center. It now hosts art exhibitions, park events, and community programs. The Ozark Bathhouse provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the architectural style of the early 20th century and learn about the history of Hot Springs as a spa city.In March 2025, Mid-America Science Museum signed a lease agreement to develop an interactive experience in the Ozark Bathhouse. Tentatively scheduled to open on May 17th, 2025, Mystic Ozark will highlight the geothermal waters of Hot Springs National Park through four themed environments featuring a water element, projection mapping, and historical exhibits.