Attractions In Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park is a unique destination located in the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas. The park is home to several hot springs that have been used for healing and relaxation for centuries. Here are some of the top attractions in Hot Springs National Park.

1. Bathhouse Row Bathhouse Row is a historic district located in the heart of Hot Springs National Park. It features eight bathhouses that were built in the early 1900s, each with its own unique architecture and history. Visitors can tour several of the bathhouses, including the Fordyce Bathhouse, which has been restored to its original 1920s-era grandeur.
2. Hot Springs The hot springs are the main attraction in the park. The water that flows from the springs is heated by geothermal activity deep underground and contains high levels of minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Visitors can take a guided tour of the springs or visit one of the bathhouses to soak in the mineral-rich water.
3. Hiking Trails Hot Springs National Park offers several hiking trails that showcase the park’s natural beauty. The most popular trail is the Sunset Trail, a 10-mile loop that offers stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains and the city of Hot Springs. The park also offers shorter trails, such as the half-mile Grand Promenade, which offers views of the historic bathhouses.
4. Scenic Drives The park offers several scenic drives that take visitors through the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. One of the most popular drives is the 22-mile Hot Springs Mountain Drive, which winds through the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
5. Historic Downtown Hot Springs The city of Hot Springs is located within the boundaries of the park and offers several historic attractions. Visitors can tour the Gangster Museum of America, which tells the story of the city’s notorious past as a haven for gangsters and bootleggers during Prohibition. They can also visit the Arkansas Walk of Fame, which honors famous Arkansans such as Johnny Cash and Maya Angelou.
6. Lake Ouachita Lake Ouachita is located just outside the park and is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. The lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can rent a boat or kayak and explore the lake’s secluded coves and pristine waters.
7. Garvan Woodland Gardens Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical garden located just outside the park. The gardens feature several themed areas, including a Japanese garden, a wildflower area, and a children’s garden. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the gardens on their own.
8. Camping Hot Springs National Park offers several camping options, including the Gulpha Gorge Campground, which is located in the heart of the park and offers tent and RV camping. The campground features a hiking trail that leads to the hot springs and the historic bathhouses.

Hot Springs National Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historic attractions. Visitors can soak in the healing waters of the hot springs, explore the park’s hiking trails, and tour the historic bathhouses. They can also explore the city of Hot Springs and its many attractions, including the Gangster Museum of America and the Arkansas Walk of Fame. With so much to see and do, Hot Springs National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.