From historic Bathhouse Row to the exhilarating live racing at Oaklawn, and the serene beauty of Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs blends history, relaxation, and adventure with a variety of attractions. Check out our list of the top 10 attractions not to miss when visiting Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas to help plan your trip!
1. Experience Hot Springs National Park
Strolling along historic Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers a unique journey back in time, showcasing eight beautifully preserved bathhouses that once drew visitors seeking the healing powers of the thermal springs.
Don't leave Hot Springs without filling a jug at one of the city's thermal spring fountains, allowing you to drink and take home a taste of the famed, mineral-rich Hot Springs water. It's a unique and free souvenir and a direct connection to the natural wonder that put Hot Springs on the map.
After admiring Bathhouse Row, immerse yourself in the revitalizing thermal waters of Hot Springs, Arkansas, just as people have for centuries. You can experience a traditional thermal bath at the historic Buckstaff Bathhouse, or opt for a more modern spa experience at the Quapaw Baths & Spa, both offering a relaxing soak in the naturally heated, mineral-rich spring water.
2. Win Big at Oaklawn Hot Springs
Experience the excitement of live horse racing during race season at Oaklawn Hot Springs, a premier destination in Hot Springs!
Beyond the thrilling races, unwind and rejuvenate at the luxurious, Forbes 4-star rated Astral Spa. Book a room at Oaklawn's resort with excellent views of the historic race track. Spend a night in the Oaklawn casino, catch a live concert in the Oaklawn Event Center, or hang out at Mainline Sports Bar to watch a game.
Oaklawn also offers an exquiste culinary scene with a variety of restaurants to choose from, including The Bugler and OAK room & bar.
3. Visit Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs' 210-acre botanical gardens, is a must visit year round!
Garvan Woodland Gardens offers a canopy of pines, home to a variety of flora and fauna along 4 ½ miles of wooded shoreline. Each March over 150,000 Dutch tulips paint the garden grounds for a stunning spring display. In the winter the gardens transform into a winter wonderland with over 7 million holiday lights.
Year-round visitors can enjoy one of the top Asian gardens at Garvan; the Garden of the Pine Wind. In addition to bright blooms, Garvan features marvelous architecture including glass Anthony Chapel, and the 4-story treehouse in the Children's Garden.
4. Get Hands-On at Mid-America Science Museum
Ignite your curiosity at the Mid-America Science Museum with over 100 hands-on exhibits that make science fun and accessible for all ages! From marveling at the world's most powerful conical Tesla coil to exploring the outdoor DinoTrek Trail with life-sized dinosaurs, this museum encourages active learning and discovery.
Blast off to outer-space in the Digital Dome Theatre, one of the premier planetariums in Arkansas! Step into an immersive space experience with real-time sky simulation, full 360-degree dome projection, and breathtaking visuals of planets, galaxies, asteroids, comets, black holes, and more.
Catch a new exhibit in the Hall of Wonder, welcoming traveling multiple exhibits each year!
5. Find Thrills at Magic Springs Theme & Water Park
For a day packed with excitement, head to Magic Springs Theme & Water Park, where you can find thrills on exhilarating roller coasters and cool off on a variety of water slides at Crystal Falls.
It's the perfect spot for a full day of family fun, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to refreshing water slides! End the day with their Summer Concert Series at the Timberwood Ampitheatre.
Traveling in the fall? Don't miss Magic Screams, when the park transforms into a Halloween haven each weekend with night-time thrill rides, haunted houses, and a trick or treat trail.
6. Explore Lakes Hamilton, Ouachita, and Catherine
Hot Springs is uniquely surrounded by three beautiful lakes—Lake Hamilton, Lake Ouachita, and Lake Catherine—offering endless opportunities for water-based fun.
Whether you're seeking a lively boating scene on Lake Hamilton, the pristine, clear waters for scuba diving and quiet coves on Lake Ouachita, or the serene charm and fishing opportunities of Lake Catherine, these lakes provide the perfect backdrop for swimming, fishing, paddling, and enjoying nature.
7. Get a History Lesson at the Gangster Museum and Hot Springs Baseball Trail
The Gangster Museum of America takes visitors through over 100 years of history, when Hot Springs was Las Vegas before Vegas existed!
From the infamous gangster who once frequented Hot Springs, to the history of Hot Springs as the Birthplace of Major League Baseball Spring Training, this hour long guided tour is a must for history buffs or those just looking to learn more about Hot Springs.
Want even more history? Tour the Hot Springs Baseball Trail, a self-guided tour with 33 markers scattered throughout the city. Each stop highlights legendary players like Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, and Hank Aaron, and significant locations that cemented Hot Springs as the "Birthplace of Major League Spring Training."
8. Explore 32+ Miles of Trails at the Northwoods
For outdoor enthusiasts, exploring the Northwoods Trails offers a fantastic opportunity to mountain bike, trail run, or hike over 32 miles of trails catering to all skill levels.
The Northwoods system includes Green, Blue, and Black single track, multi-track, flow trails, jump lines, and the Lucky 13 expert section. The Cedar Glades trailhead includes a bike skills park.
Visit in October to experience Gudrun Mountain Bike Festival at the Northwoods, or in May for the Mullet Run & Beaver Bash!
9. Catch Breathtaking Views at the Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Towering 216-feet above the Ouachita Mountains, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower offers a perspective of Hot Springs National Park that is nothing short of breathtaking. Start your journey to the tower with a drive up Hot Springs Mountain, or take a hike through the National Park from the Grand Promenade to the Peak Trail - around 1.5 miles out and back.
Once at the tower, ride the elevator or take the stairs up to the first floor to dive into a bit of local history at the tower’s museum. Once you’ve soaked in the facts, head up to the open-air observation deck to experience the iconic, 360-degree panoramic view for yourself.
10. Explore 2 Dozen Murals on the Hot Springs Mural Tour
Around every corner of Hot Springs you'll find bright, beautiful murals that bring our city to life.
The Hot Springs Mural Tour features each of these works of art, whether they celebrate local history, community, or just the whimsy of art, these pieces in and around downtown Hot Springs transform the area into an outdoor art museum.
Walk through downtown Hot Springs or take a drive to see them all! Stop at your favorites along the tour for an incredible photo-op to remember your trip by.
Plan your visit to experience the top attractions in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas today!