Background

Whittington Park Historic Marker: A Testament to Hot Springs' Baseball Legacy

Explore the legacy of baseball legends at the Whittington Park Historic Marker, once the heart of Hot Springs' vibrant baseball scene.

4.3

The Whittington Park Historic Marker commemorates the site of the original Whittington Park, later known as Ban Johnson Field, which served as the epicenter of baseball in Hot Springs from 1894 to 1942. The park hosted spring training for numerous Major League Baseball teams and was graced by legends like Cy Young and Babe Ruth.

A brief summary to Whittington Park Historic Marker

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

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along Whittington Creek in the park to enjoy the shaded walking trails and natural beauty.
  • Visit the nearby Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo for a unique and family-friendly experience.
  • Explore the Whittington Park Historic District to admire the architecture and learn about the area's history.
widget icon

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, continue for about 0.5 miles, then turn right onto Whittington Ave. The marker is about 0.6 miles down on your left at 890 Whittington Ave.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Hot Springs, several city buses run along Central Avenue. Check the Hot Springs Intracity Transit route map for the nearest bus stop and connections to Whittington Avenue. From there, it's a short walk to the marker. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hot Springs. A ride from downtown to the Whittington Park Historic Marker will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.

Unlock the Best of Whittington Park Historic Marker

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Whittington Park Historic Marker

The Whittington Park Historic Marker stands as a tribute to the rich baseball history of Hot Springs, Arkansas. From 1894 to 1942, the original Whittington Park, later renamed Ban Johnson Field, was a bustling hub for the sport, hosting spring training for major league teams and witnessing the play of iconic figures. The park was named for Hiram Abiff Whittington, a prominent early resident of Hot Springs who contributed significantly to the city's development. Located within the Whittington Park Historic District, the marker invites visitors to step back in time and imagine the excitement that once filled this corner of Hot Springs. Baseball legends such as Cy Young, Honus Wagner, and Babe Ruth graced the field, solidifying the park's place in baseball history. Today, the site serves as a parking lot for the Weyerhaeuser Company, but a home plate marker and remnants of cement bleachers offer glimpses into its past. Whittington Park itself has evolved over time. Originally known as Whittington Lake Reserve, the area featured rowing lakes, pavilions, and tennis courts. While those features are gone, the park remains a shaded greenway along Whittington Creek, providing walking trails for visitors to enjoy. The Whittington Park Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, encompasses a residential area with buildings dating back to 1896, reflecting the city's growth as a health resort.

Popular Experiences near Whittington Park Historic Marker

Popular Hotels near Whittington Park Historic Marker

Select Currency