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Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District: A Gilded Age Treasure

Experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age in Hot Springs' Central Avenue Historical District. Explore bathhouses, hotels, and a rich history of healing.

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Stroll down Central Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and step back into the Gilded Age. This National Historic Landmark District boasts stunning architecture, bathhouses, and a rich history of healing and relaxation.

A brief summary to Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

  • Hot Springs, Arkansas, 71901, US

Local tips

  • Visit the Fordyce Bathhouse, now a museum, to see the opulent bathing facilities and learn about the history of hydrotherapy.
  • Take a stroll along Bathhouse Row and admire the diverse architectural styles of the bathhouses.
  • Check out the Arlington Hotel, a historic landmark, for a glimpse into the city's glamorous past.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hot Springs Convention Center, head north on Malvern Avenue, then turn right onto Central Avenue. The historic district begins a few blocks down, easily walkable in under 10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Hot Springs Trolley provides service to the Central Avenue Historical District. Check the trolley schedule for routes and times. A single ride fare is around $1. The main trolley stop is located near the visitor center, a short walk from the district.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from most locations in central Hot Springs to the Central Avenue Historical District will cost approximately $8-$12, depending on the distance and demand.

Unlock the Best of Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

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Discover more about Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District

The Hot Springs Central Avenue Historical District is a captivating journey into America's past. This National Historic Landmark District showcases a remarkable collection of early 20th-century architecture, primarily focused on the grand bathhouses that once drew visitors from around the globe seeking the therapeutic waters of Hot Springs. Central Avenue's story is intertwined with the rise of Hot Springs as a premier spa destination. The bathhouses, like the Fordyce and Quapaw, are architectural masterpieces, reflecting a blend of styles from Beaux-Arts to Spanish Colonial Revival. These opulent structures offered a range of bathing and therapeutic treatments, attracting wealthy patrons and those seeking relief from various ailments. Beyond the bathhouses, Central Avenue features hotels, shops, and entertainment venues that catered to the thriving tourist industry. The Arlington Hotel, with its imposing facade and luxurious interiors, stands as a testament to the city's glamorous past. Today, visitors can explore the district's museums, art galleries, and restaurants, immersing themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era. The district's preservation efforts have ensured that its historic character remains intact. Walking along Central Avenue is like stepping onto a movie set, where the buildings whisper tales of healing, indulgence, and the enduring allure of Hot Springs.

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