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The Grand Promenade: A Stroll Through History

Experience history and nature on Hot Springs' iconic brick-paved Grand Promenade, a scenic walkway offering stunning views and access to park trails.

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The Grand Promenade, a half-mile brick-paved walkway in Hot Springs National Park, offers a scenic and historical stroll. Built in the 1930s and completed in the late 1950s, it connects Reserve Street to Fountain Street, providing access to trails, views of Bathhouse Row, and a glimpse into the park's natural and cultural history.

A brief summary to The Grand Promenade

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Promenade is a half-mile walk.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the area can get hot and humid.
  • Take time to read the interpretive signs along the Promenade to learn about the history and geology of Hot Springs.
  • Explore the trails that branch off from the Promenade for a more immersive experience of Hot Springs National Park.
  • Visit in the spring or fall for moderate temperatures and pleasant walking conditions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grand Promenade is easily accessible by foot from downtown Hot Springs and Bathhouse Row. From Central Avenue, find access points between the bathhouses. Look for stairways or paths leading uphill behind the bathhouses. The Promenade runs parallel to Bathhouse Row, offering multiple entry points along its half-mile length.

  • Public Transport

    Hot Springs Intracity Transit (IT) buses stop near Bathhouse Row. From the Transportation Plaza, take any bus route that services Central Avenue. Get off at a stop near Bathhouse Row and walk towards the bathhouses. Access the Grand Promenade via the stairways or paths located between the buildings. A single ride fare is $1.25 for adults, $0.50 for seniors (62+) and disabled riders (with ID).

  • Parking

    Parking is available in downtown Hot Springs, but it can be limited. Metered street parking is available near Central Avenue. Paid parking lots are also located near the Visitor Center. The Exchange Street Parking Plaza offers free public parking and is a block away from Bathhouse Row. From any parking location, walk towards Bathhouse Row and access the Grand Promenade via the stairways or paths between the bathhouses. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $10-$20 for several hours in a paid lot.

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Discover more about The Grand Promenade

The Grand Promenade is a historic brick walkway that runs parallel to Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park. This National Recreation Trail, stretching about a half-mile, provides a unique perspective on the park's cultural, geological, and natural history. Constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the Promenade was completed in the late 1950s, linking Reserve Street to Fountain Street. As you stroll along the Promenade, you'll be treated to views of the historic bathhouses, the Arlington Lawn, and the forested slopes of Hot Springs Mountain. The path also offers access to several hiking trails, including the Tufa Terrace Trail and the Peak Trail. The former Army and Navy General Hospital, which once used thermal spring water for veteran treatments, stands above the south end of the Promenade. The Grand Promenade provides a tranquil and accessible way to experience Hot Springs National Park. Benches and picnic tables are available along the route, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Interpretive signs offer insights into the area's history and geology. The Promenade's design was inspired by the Prado in Havana, Cuba, intending to create an architectural transition from the city to the natural landscape.

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