Popular Spots in Hot Springs Arkansas

Of course, one cannot visit Hot Springs City and National Park without trying out their namesake. Hot Springs National Park hosts many bathhouses, located in the aptly named Bathhouse Row, where visitors have eight bathhouses to choose from, including the historic Fordyce Bathhouse which now serves as the park visitor center, where visitors can check out exhibits and tours showcasing the history of the park. Tourists can also try traditional bathing using the Park’s famous thermal water in the Buckstaff Bathhouse, or take a dip in the pools at the Quapaw Baths and Spa. There is also the Bathhouse Row Emporium for buying souvenirs.

For those looking for attractions in the great outdoors, the Hot Springs National Park is home to many hiking trails and picnic groves, as well as scenic views around Hot Springs and North Mountain Drive and West Mountain Drive. If you want to be one with nature, camping is also allowed at the Gulpha Gorge Campground.

Hot Springs City itself also has many attractions including museums, amusement parks, and a multitude of dining places for every type of visitor.

Hot Springs Arkansas Travel Guide: When to Visit

Hot Springs National Park can accommodate visitors all year round. Annual festivals are held in Hot Springs City during summer and autumn, and the farmer’s market runs during the summer and winter months. It is best to check weather conditions before planning a trip, especially when outdoor activities like hiking is in the books.

Hot Springs Arkansas Travel Guide: How to Get There

Visitors can opt to drive to Hot Springs using many different routes, or they can choose to fly to the city through their preferred airlines that land in either the Hot Springs Memorial Field Airport, or the Little Rock National Airport. Visitors can also take a bus using Greyhound or a train to Hot Springs via Amtrak.

Hot Springs Arkansas Travel Guide: Getting Around

A bus system operated by the Intracity Transit is available for commuting within the city. The three fixed routes (blue, red, and green) cover the main parts of the city as well as the National Park. Car rentals are also available from the airport to the city.

Hot Springs Arkansas Travel Guide: Travel Tips

Don’t forget to soak up (literally and figuratively) the history behind the city and the national park by visiting the many facilities in the Bathhouse Row

Do make the most of the scenic and historic sites in Hot Springs by availing of the many different tours offered by the Park

Don’t miss out on the great outdoors by camping at the Gulpha Gorge Campground, or by trying the many hiking/biking trails located inside the Hot Springs National Park.

Do check out the many available dining spots within the city, as well as the Farmer’s Market for the local produce

Don’t forget to check the local festival scene. Make sure to plan ahead or check the city’s event calendar to be able to make the most of the city’s rich art and cultural landscape.

Hot Springs Arkansas Travel Guide: Typical Costs

Price Range for Hotels

Hot Springs has a multitude of accommodation types to choose from, including camping grounds, as mentioned above, RV parks, cabins, and houseboats. Hotels can range from $50 (budget) to $400 (luxury), depending on the availability and seasonal demands.