Hot Springs National Park Arkansas: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Hot Springs National Park Arkansas is unlike any other in the U.S. National Park system. Often referred to as “The American Spa,” it’s the only park where historic bathhouses, natural thermal springs, and forested trails coexist in a charming small-town setting. Whether you’re looking for wellness, history, or adventure, this unique destination delivers a relaxing and enriching experience.
Overview
Hot Springs National Park is centered around 47 natural hot springs that have been drawing visitors for centuries. While you can’t soak in the springs directly outdoors (they’re protected), the park features preserved historic bathhouses where you can enjoy the thermal waters in style. The surrounding Ouachita Mountains also offer scenic hiking trails, lush forest views, and panoramic overlooks of the town and valley.
- Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Established: 1921 (but protected since 1832 – oldest federal reserve in the U.S.)
- Unique Feature: Only U.S. national park that integrates into an active downtown
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How to Get There
By Car:
- From Little Rock, AR: ~1 hour (55 miles via I-30 W and US-70 W)
- From Memphis, TN: ~3 hours
- From Dallas, TX: ~4.5 hours
- By Plane: Fly into Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, rent a car, and drive to Hot Springs.
- By Bus: Greyhound and other regional bus services stop in Hot Springs.
Best Times to Visit
The park is open year-round, but each season offers something different:
- Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
- Fall (September–November): Crisp air and stunning fall foliage.
- Winter (December–February): Quieter crowds, ideal for bathhouse visits.
- Summer (June–August): Lush greenery, but hot and humid—best for early morning hikes and indoor spa time.
Best overall time: Mid-fall to early spring for comfortable weather and fewer visitors.
10 Best Things to Do
For starters, visitor recommendations are ideal to check out before coming here and the best page for that is this TripAdvisor page on Hot Springs National Park. But on top of that:
- Bathhouse Row – Tour the historic bathhouses or enjoy a soak at the Buckstaff or Quapaw.
- Fordyce Bathhouse Museum – A restored facility showcasing the golden era of therapeutic bathing.
- Grand Promenade – A paved scenic walkway with views of downtown and the springs.
- Goat Rock Overlook – A great spot to take in mountain views and sunsets.
- Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Get a bird’s eye view of the entire region.
- Visit Display Springs – See the natural thermal springs up close (look but don’t touch!).
- Superior Bathhouse Brewery – America’s only brewery using thermal spring water.
- Hike the Sunset Trail – The park’s longest trail offering solitude and forest immersion.
- Explore the Tufa Terrace Trail – A quick scenic walk near the springs.
- Stroll Central Avenue – Enjoy local shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
Beginner:
- Grand Promenade – 0.5 mi paved trail above Bathhouse Row.
- Tufa Terrace Trail – 0.4 mi easy trail past scenic springs.
Intermediate:
- Goat Rock Trail – 1.1 mi trail with views of North Mountain.
- Hot Springs Mountain Trail – 1.7 mi loop with elevation gain and woodland views.
Advanced:
- Sunset Trail (Full Loop) – 10 mi scenic backcountry trail through remote forest and ridges.
Packing List
You can get the majority of these items on my Amazon gear store:
- Comfortable walking shoes (some trails have uneven terrain)
- Reusable water bottle
- Light daypack
- Bathing suit (for Quapaw Baths)
- Towel and toiletries (if using public baths)
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Camera or smartphone for scenic views
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Snacks or a picnic lunch for trail breaks
- National Park Passport or America The Beautiful Pass
Where to Stay
Inside the Park:
- Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa – Historic hotel adjacent to Bathhouse Row
- National Park Campground – Gulpha Gorge Campground (first-come, first-served)
Nearby in Hot Springs: Closest hotels to Hot Springs National Park
Things to Know Before You Go
- No outdoor soaking in the natural springs is allowed, they are protected resources.
- Only two bathhouses (Buckstaff & Quapaw) still offer thermal bathing.
- Gulpha Gorge Campground does not take reservations, arrive early for a spot.
- Free admission to the park and its trails, but bathhouse services and the tower have fees.
- Downtown parking is limited; use public garages when possible.
- Visitor Center is inside the Fordyce Bathhouse and is a great first stop for orientation and maps.
Related
Final Thoughts
Hot Springs National Park offers an experience like no other. It blends the relaxation of historic spa culture with outdoor adventure in a walkable and inviting town. Whether you’re soaking in a thermal bath, hiking to panoramic overlooks, or learning about its unique history, your visit here is sure to be one to remember.
