Your Plan
5 Days in Spa City
Beyond the Itinerary
Things to See & Do
Historic thermal bathhouse on Bathhouse Row with public pools, private baths, and full spa services. The couples aromatherapy package is a standout — private bath, massage, foot scrub, and facial.
A 216-foot observation tower at the top of the National Park offering breathtaking 360° views of the Ouachita Mountains. Hike the Peak Trail up or drive. National Park Pass saves on admission.
Amphibious duck boat tours through downtown Hot Springs and onto Lake Hamilton. Native guides share local history and gangster lore. Pet-friendly, and sunset tours are especially scenic.
Guided room-to-room tours reveal Hot Springs' wild past as America's gangster resort town. Al Capone, Bugsy Siegel, and more. Live-costumed guides make it theatrical and engaging for all ages.
210 acres of botanical wonderland on Lake Hamilton — waterfalls, bridges, peacocks, a fairy garden, model train, and the spectacular glass Anthony Chapel. One of Arkansas' most beautiful spots.
Full theme park + water park combo. Roller coasters, a lazy river, splash pads for younger kids, and a summer/fall concert series. Arrive at opening for the shortest lines.
Easy-to-moderate 1-mile trail to a scenic rock overlook in Hot Springs National Park. Connects to other trails for longer hikes. Colorful mossy boulders, lizards, and great fall foliage in late September.
See 300+ alligators and pet farm animals at this quirky Hot Springs staple. Feeding time is a highlight. Budget-friendly and family-friendly — great for a 1-hour detour.
Hands-on interactive exhibits including Arkansas's only Tesla coil, a cave maze, a dinosaur trail, and a digital dome show. Great for a couple hours, especially if it rains.
Live thoroughbred horse racing and a full casino right in Hot Springs. Even outside race season the casino is open year-round. A big part of the city's history and a lively evening option.
Treetop zip lines and a 16-obstacle aerial challenge course through the lush Ouachita forest surrounding Hot Springs. Open year-round with signature canopy zip tours and combo packages.
The oldest bar in Arkansas and once a gangster hangout. Now a beloved live music venue with a full bar and historic atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed evening on Central Ave after dinner.
Restaurants & Cafés
Where to Eat in Hot Springs
Breakfast
Dinner
Insider Advice
Trip Tips & Essentials
Best free parking near Bathhouse Row is the garage at 128 Exchange St. Central Ave itself is metered. The National Park lots near the Fordyce Visitor Center are free for park visitors.
An America the Beautiful Pass ($80/year) gets you free entry to Hot Springs National Park and discounts at the Mountain Tower. Worth it if you visit any other national parks this year.
Quapaw Baths is the most popular thermal experience — book spa services 1–2 weeks ahead online. For public soaking pools, arrive right at 10am opening to get in without a long wait.
Highs in the low 80s°F, lows around 60°F. Pack: sunscreen for the water park, a light jacket for evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for Bathhouse Row and trails.
The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa (historic, on Central Ave), Lake Hamilton resort area (lakefront calm), or boutique options downtown. Book ahead — Hot Springs fills up on fall weekends.
Hot Springs is a car-friendly city. Downtown and Bathhouse Row are walkable, but most other attractions (Magic Springs, Garvan Gardens, Fisherman's Wharf) require a 5–15 min drive.
The late-afternoon tour (around 4–5pm) on Lake Hamilton catches golden hour light on the water. Captain Goose is a fan favorite guide — ask for him when booking at (501) 321-2911.
A few spots like the Fordyce Visitor Center gift shop and some trail-area vendors prefer cash or exact change. The Garvan Woodland Gardens also specifies card or exact cash only.
Mountain Tower at sunset, Bathhouse Row at golden hour, Anthony Chapel interior at Garvan Gardens, and the Lake Hamilton splash-down on the duck tour. Bring a waterproof bag to the water park.
National Park Duck Tours is pet-friendly (dogs can ride up front free). Hot Springs National Park trails welcome leashed dogs. Most indoor attractions and restaurants are not pet-friendly.