Whether it’s the beauty of the neighboring national park, the lure of bathing in the thermal hot springs water or seeing where a former U.S. president grew up, the city has plenty to do and see for travelers of all tastes and interests.
Visit Hot Springs National Park
One of the main reasons most visitors come here is to visit the national park that wraps itself around most of the city. Situated in the Ouachita Mountains area of the Ozark Range, Hot Springs National Park is home to thermal healing waters, challenging hiking trails and amazing views.
Admission to the park is free, which is the perfect price for any travel budget. Splurge and take a trip to the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower ($7/person) for unparalleled views of the park.
Take a Tour Down Bathhouse Row
In the early 1900s, Hot Springs was a bustling resort town with several bathhouses where vacationers could enjoy the healing powers of the hot springs.
Today, these buildings, along what is now Central Avenue, have been restored and preserved as a slice of American history. Take a self-guided tour down the street and feel transported back in time.
There are two places in Hot Springs that one can still legally partake of bathing in the thermal waters. For the more traditional experience, try Buckstaff Bathhouse (509 Central Ave; 501-623-2308), where for $24, one can experience an early 1900s-style tub soak in the waters of the hot springs. Nearby Quapaw Baths & Spa (413 Central Ave; 501-609-9822) offers both a modern communal pool bath experience ($15) and a traditional tub version ($30), as well.
A Childhood Presidential Hometown
Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, grew up in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He moved to the city with his mother when he was a second grader in 1953. He attended St. John’s Catholic School and Hot Springs High School, before leaving for college and embarking on a political career that took him to the Whitehouse. While in Hot Springs, take a driving tour of the locations that helped shape a future president.
Go Antiquing in Hot Springs
The city of Hot Springs is a popular mecca for antique hunters in the mid-southern states. With over twenty dealers, flea markets and other marketplaces, one can spend a whole day searching for hidden treasures. Just remember it’s free to look; it only costs to buy.
Fun for Families
Mid-America Science Museum (500 Mid America Blvd; 501-767-3461) is Arkansas’ largest hands-on science center and the state’s first Smithsonian affiliate. It’s also home to over 100 hands-on exhibits and the world’s most powerful Tesla Coil (according to Guinness World Records). Enjoy hours of fun here for only $8 a person.
Kids of all ages love to visit Magic Springs theme park and its sister park Crystal Springs waterpark. The $45 per day ticket price can be a bit of an ouch to the budget, though. Get more value for the buck by buying a season pass for $50 (only $5 more!) and get unlimited visits to all of the rollercoasters and waterslides throughout the entire length of a vacation in Hot Springs.
With so many low cost and free things to do, Hot Springs, Arkansas, makes a perfect destination for a budget family getaway, especially for those living in the mid-southern states.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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