Over the past few years I’ve started to hold a lot more appreciation for my home state. I grew up in the historic town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, just a few miles from downtown. This city, located in the gentle rolling hills of the Ouachita Mountains, is known for its natural thermal waters and for being the playground of many gangsters during the 1930s. Honestly, I didn’t appreciate this charming town and all it had to offer until after I had moved away. I’ve had many people planning to take a weekend trip to my old stomping grounds ask me for suggestions on where to eat and what to do. So, I decided to throw an (incomplete) list of things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
There’s so much more to explore of this beautiful town, and I aim to add more content to the blog as time allows, but for now, here are some must-sees and worthwhile stops if you’re planning a little time in the Spa City! Below are some of my favorite spots, dining options, and things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Stroll Downtown Hot Springs
Alright, I admittedly thought this strip of old buildings was totally over rated when I was a kid, but believe me, it’s beautiful and worth walking the entire thing.
*Local tip: If you go on a slow day it might be easy enough to find parallel parking along the main strip, but the time allotted is two hours or less. Park at the Exchange Street Parking Garage just off the main drag and drive all the way up to the top for free parking all day long.
Take a Bath
Admire Bathhouse Row or visit one that’s still in operation (the Quapaw or Buckstaff) to enjoy the mineral waters for yourself. Because the springs that lie below and on the mountain behind the bathhouses are what the city was named after, I highly recommend this unique experience. Arrive at your leisure to pay for day use of the public pools, or schedule an appointment for a private bath (hot tub-like) experience.
Grab a Beer
Visit the Superior Bathhouse Brewery at the end of Bathhouse Row to enjoy craft beer from the world’s first brewery to use the mineral water as it’s main ingredient and the nation’s first brewery within a National Park.
Walk the Grand Promenade
This is totally where I took some of my prom pictures and occasionally played tag in high school because my friends and I had nothing better to do, but let me just tell you this a beautiful place to spend an afternoon especially in the spring or fall. This lovely brick path skirts the base of Hot Springs mountain and offers trails that break away to lead you up the hill towards the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. You’ll notice many capped-off hot springs, one trickling fall, and likely some steam raising from a few spots on the grass where the thermal water flows beneath.
Visit the Arlington Hotel
This hotel is famous and iconic for it’s placement where the road takes a “V” (Central Avenue continues to the left and the right takes you up Hot Springs Mountain). This hotel holds onto its charm and retains its history so it’s the perfect spot to stop in for a drink on a beautiful day and then recline outside on it’s wrap-around porch.
Drive Up West Mountain
Cruise all the way to the top and enjoy the view of the city.
*Local tip: Bring a picnic or grab some ice cream from Kilwin’s downtown to enjoy while taking in the view.
Hike/Run the Sunset Trail
This loop starts at the top of West Mountain and varies in length depending on the spur trails you decide to take. It’s at least 13.1 so it’s at the least a half-day activity (unless you’re running), but it’s beautiful in the spring and fall.
Whittington Park
To me this park emulates the setting of a fairytale and is worth a casual stroll before or after heading up West Mountain.
Ever been to the Spa City? Ever considered it? Let us know what was your favorite part or if you’d like to take a trip here in the comments below!