Ready to soak up some serious fun in Arkansas? Hot Springs isn’t just about bubbling thermal waters (though trust us, those are pretty spectacular). This charming city serves up a delightful cocktail of natural wonders, historic charm, and quirky attractions that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just someone who enjoys a good laugh at an alligator farm, our guide to things to do in Hot Springs has got you covered. From gangster museums to garden paradises, we’re about to take you on a journey that’s hotter than the springs themselves!
1. Garvan Woodland Gardens: A Botanical Paradise in Hot Springs
Garvan Woodland Gardens is a stunning 210-acre botanical wonderland owned by the University of Arkansas that transforms every season into a living postcard—and trust us, your Instagram feed will thank you for this visit.
This horticultural heaven showcases everything from Japanese gardens with koi ponds to seasonal flower displays that’ll make you forget you’re still in Arkansas. The meticulously maintained trails wind through diverse plant collections, offering peaceful moments among towering trees, vibrant blooms, and tranquil water features. Don’t miss the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden, where kids can explore nature through interactive exhibits.
Perfect for families, couples seeking romance, or anyone needing a nature therapy session, plan to spend 2-3 hours here. Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., admission runs around $15 for adults (credit card or exact cash only—no loose change fumbling!). Located on Arkridge Road, visit during spring for azaleas or fall for spectacular foliage. Pro tip: arrive early morning for cooler temperatures and better photo lighting.
Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just someone who appreciates beauty, Garvan Woodland Gardens offers a serene escape that proves nature is the ultimate stress-buster.
2. Fordyce Bathhouse – A Journey Through Hot Springs’ Healing History
Step into the Fordyce Bathhouse, the crown jewel of Hot Springs National Park, where you can explore America’s most luxurious historic spa without getting your feet wet (unless you want to). This beautifully preserved 1915 bathhouse offers fascinating self-guided tours through opulent rooms that once pampered everyone from gangsters to presidents seeking the healing powers of thermal waters.
Wander through the ornate men’s and women’s bath halls, marvel at the vintage hydrotherapy equipment, and discover how taking a bath became a national obsession. The exhibits reveal the fascinating medical history behind thermal water treatments and showcase the lavish lifestyle of early 20th-century spa culture.
Perfect for history buffs, families with curious kids, and anyone who enjoys air conditioning on a hot Arkansas day. Plan for 45-60 minutes to fully appreciate the experience. Entry is free (your tax dollars at work!), and it’s located right on Bathhouse Row in downtown Hot Springs. Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and get the best photo opportunities in those Instagram-worthy vintage rooms.
The Fordyce Bathhouse proves that sometimes the best way to understand luxury is to see how the other half used to bathe.
3. Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park is America’s oldest national park and the perfect spot to soak your worries away while surrounded by breathtaking Ouachita Mountain scenery. This unique destination combines the therapeutic powers of natural thermal springs with fascinating history and outdoor adventures that’ll make you forget all about your daily stress.
The park’s crown jewels are the historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row, where you can still experience the luxurious spa treatments that once attracted celebrities and presidents. Beyond the baths, explore 26 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, spot local wildlife, and visit the informative visitor center museum to dive deep into the area’s rich spa culture and geological wonders.
Perfect for couples seeking relaxation, families wanting a unique educational experience, and history buffs fascinated by America’s wellness heritage. The park is free to enter, though bathhouse treatments range from $20-100+. Located right in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas, it’s easily accessible and walkable. Pro tip: visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds and book spa treatments in advance, especially during peak season (spring and fall).
Where else can you literally bathe in waters that have been naturally heated by the earth for thousands of years while learning about America’s fascinating spa culture?
4. Anthony Chapel – A Glass Cathedral in the Gardens
Anthony Chapel is a breathtaking glass and wood sanctuary nestled within Garvan Woodland Gardens that will make you believe in love at first sight – whether you’re religious or just appreciate stunning architecture. This soaring 80-foot tall chapel, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, creates an ethereal worship experience surrounded by 210 acres of botanical beauty on Lake Hamilton.
The chapel’s modern design seamlessly blends with nature, offering panoramic views of the surrounding woodlands and seasonal blooms. Beyond Sunday services, it hosts weddings, concerts, and meditation sessions that feel absolutely magical. The adjacent gardens provide perfect pre or post-chapel strolling through themed areas including a Japanese garden and children’s adventure garden.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours (chapel + gardens)
- Perfect for: Couples, photographers, families, garden enthusiasts
- Garden admission: $15 adults, $5 children (chapel access included)
- Pro tip: Visit during spring blooms or fall colors for maximum wow factor, and check their event calendar for special concerts
Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection or simply want to experience one of Arkansas’s most Instagram-worthy architectural gems, Anthony Chapel delivers an unforgettable dose of serenity and beauty.
5. Bathhouse Row: Step Into Hot Springs’ Elegant Past
Bathhouse Row is Hot Springs National Park’s crown jewel, where you can literally soak in history while soaking in naturally heated mineral waters that have been drawing visitors since the 1800s.
This stunning collection of eight historic bathhouses showcases magnificent neoclassical architecture with intricate stained glass windows and marble interiors that’ll make you feel like royalty. The Fordyce Bathhouse now serves as an excellent visitor center and museum (completely free!), while Quapaw Baths & Spa offers modern thermal bathing experiences where you can experience the same therapeutic waters that once attracted gangsters and presidents alike.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Time needed: 2-3 hours (1 hour for museum, 2+ hours if you book a spa treatment)
- Perfect for: History buffs, couples seeking relaxation, families with older kids
- Cost: Museum is free; spa treatments range from $25-100+
- Location: Central Avenue, downtown Hot Springs
- Pro tip: Visit the free museum first to appreciate the history, then book spa treatments for weekday mornings to avoid crowds
It’s rare to find a place where you can simultaneously indulge in luxury, learn fascinating history, and experience the same natural phenomenon that shaped an entire city.
6. Lake Catherine State Park
Lake Catherine State Park is your gateway to Arkansas’s natural beauty, offering the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation just 30 minutes from Hot Springs. This scenic gem delivers everything from tranquil waterfall hikes to pristine lake views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.
The park’s well-maintained trails lead to a serene waterfall that’s perfect for those “I’m one with nature” moments, while the crystal-clear lake beckons with kayaking and fishing opportunities. Choose between cozy cabin stays for the glamping crowd or traditional campgrounds for the hardcore outdoor enthusiasts.
- Ideal visit time: 4-6 hours for hiking and lake activities
- Perfect for: Families, couples, and nature lovers of all ages
- Entry fee: $8 per adult, kids under 6 free
- Location: 1200 Catherine Park Road, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and bring a picnic to enjoy by the waterfall
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to unplug from city life, Lake Catherine State Park proves that sometimes the best therapy comes with hiking boots and a lake view.
7. Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Standing tall at 216 feet above the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Mountain Tower is your ticket to the most spectacular bird’s-eye view of Arkansas’s spa city – and trust us, the elevator ride beats hiking any day! This iconic observatory, which celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2018, transforms visitors into temporary giants surveying the thermal wonderland below.
The tower offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that stretch for miles, making it a photographer’s dream and a romantic’s paradise. On clear days, you can spot the winding Arkansas River, the historic Bathhouse Row, and the rolling green carpet of the Ouachita National Forest spreading endlessly toward the horizon.
- Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who loves stunning views
- Admission: Around $8-12 for adults, discounts for children and seniors
- Location: Hot Springs Mountain Drive, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour (sunset) for magical lighting, and avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds
Whether you’re proposing marriage or just want to feel like king of the mountain, Hot Springs Mountain Tower delivers views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.
8. Grand Promenade: A Perfect Stroll Through Hot Springs History
The Grand Promenade is Hot Springs’ crown jewel – a beautifully maintained brick walkway that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, education, and natural beauty all rolled into one delightful experience.
This scenic half-mile pathway winds through Hot Springs National Park, featuring fascinating educational plaques that tell the story of America’s first national park and the area’s therapeutic waters. You’ll enjoy serene views of the natural hot springs while discovering hidden benches tucked into tranquil spots – perfect for contemplating life or just catching your breath after that morning coffee kicked in.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes for a leisurely stroll
- Perfect for: Families, couples, seniors, and anyone who enjoys easy walks with big payoffs
- Cost: Absolutely free (your wallet will thank you)
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds
The Grand Promenade proves that sometimes the best things in life really are free – and within walking distance of your hotel.
9. Mid-America Science Museum
The Mid-America Science Museum is Hot Springs’ ultimate playground where science meets fun, making it the perfect spot to turn curious kids into junior Einstein wannabes while keeping parents entertained too. This interactive wonderland features hands-on exhibits that let visitors conduct experiments, explore a mysterious dark cave maze that’ll test your navigation skills, and catch mesmerizing Digital Dome Shows that transport you to the cosmos without leaving Arkansas.
The outdoor dinosaur discovery trail adds an extra prehistoric punch to your visit, where little paleontologists can dig into ancient history. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here to fully experience everything without rushing through the exhibits.
- Best for: Families with children ages 3-12, science enthusiasts, rainy day activities
- Admission: Around $12-15 for adults, $8-10 for children
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more hands-on time with exhibits
- Location: 500 Mid America Blvd, Hot Springs
It’s the rare attraction that successfully disguises learning as pure entertainment, making science so engaging that kids will beg to come back.
10. Lake Ouachita: Nature’s Perfect Playground
Lake Ouachita is Arkansas’s largest lake and cleanest body of water, making it the ultimate escape for anyone craving crystal-clear waters and pristine wilderness just 30 minutes from Hot Springs. This 40,000-acre gem offers everything from eagle-watching tours to cozy houseboat rentals, proving that Mother Nature really knows how to show off.
The lake’s main attractions include scenic camping at Lake Ouachita State Park, relaxing on sandy beaches, and exploring over 200 miles of shoreline dotted with secluded coves. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bald eagles during winter months, while water lovers can dive into some of the clearest lake water in the country – visibility often reaches 20 feet!
- Best time to visit: 2-3 hours for day trips, full weekend for camping
- Perfect for: Families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a digital detox
- Cost: Day use free, camping $22-35/night, houseboat rentals $200-400/night
- Location: 5451 Mountain Pine Road, Mountain Pine, AR
- Pro tip: Visit weekdays to avoid crowds, bring underwater camera for the clearest shots
With water so clean you can literally see your toes wiggling at the bottom, Lake Ouachita proves that sometimes the best therapy comes with a side of spectacular scenery.
11. Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort – Where Racing Meets Gaming
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is Hot Springs’ premier destination where the thunder of hooves meets the excitement of casino gaming, offering visitors a unique blend of thrilling horse racing and modern entertainment under one roof.
Experience the heart-pounding action of live thoroughbred racing from December through May, including prestigious events that draw racing enthusiasts from across the country. When you need a break from the track, step into the expansive casino featuring over 1,200 slot machines, classic table games, and a refreshing smoke-free gaming environment that keeps the air clean and comfortable.
- Ideal visit time: 2-4 hours (full day during racing season)
- Perfect for: Couples, groups of friends, and adults seeking entertainment
- Racing admission: $3-5 general admission, premium seating extra
- Location: 2705 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit during racing season for the full experience, and try the famous corned beef sandwich – it’s a track tradition!
Whether you’re backing a long shot or trying your luck at the slots, Oaklawn delivers that perfect mix of old-school racing charm and modern gaming sophistication that you simply won’t find anywhere else in Arkansas.
12. Gangster Museum of America
Step into the shadowy world of America’s most notorious criminals at the Gangster Museum of America, where crime does pay – at least in entertainment value! This fascinating museum brings the prohibition era to life with authentic artifacts, weapons, and stories that’ll make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a real-life crime thriller.
Explore exhibits featuring legendary figures like Al Capone, Bonnie and Clyde, and other infamous outlaws who shaped American history. The museum showcases genuine gangster memorabilia, including bulletproof vests, vintage firearms, and personal belongings that tell the gripping tales of organized crime’s golden age.
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours for a thorough exploration
- Perfect For: History buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and adults seeking unique experiences
- Admission: Around $12-15 for adults
- Location: 117 S Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities with exhibits
Whether you’re channeling your inner detective or simply curious about America’s criminal past, this museum offers an unforgettable journey through the darker chapters of history that you won’t find anywhere else in Hot Springs.
13. Ouachita National Forest
Escape the city chaos and dive into Arkansas’s best-kept secret – Ouachita National Forest, a sprawling 1.7-million-acre wilderness playground that’ll make you forget why you ever loved concrete jungles. This mountainous wonderland stretches across western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma, offering everything from crystal-clear lakes to rugged peaks that’ll challenge your hiking boots.
Whether you’re into hiking the Ouachita National Recreation Trail, fishing in pristine mountain streams, or simply practicing your “wilderness selfie” game, this forest delivers adventure by the truckload. The scenic drives alone are worth the trip – think winding mountain roads with views that’ll have you pulling over every five minutes (legally, of course).
- Ideal visit duration: 2-3 days for hiking and camping, full day for scenic driving
- Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families with adventurous kids, photographers, and anyone needing a digital detox
- Cost: Free entry (camping fees vary $10-25/night)
- Pro tip: Visit during fall for spectacular colors; avoid summer weekends if you prefer solitude
With over 700 miles of trails and enough natural beauty to fill your Instagram feed for months, Ouachita National Forest proves that sometimes the best therapy comes with hiking boots and bug spray.
14. Funtrackers Family Fun Park
Funtrackers Family Fun Park stands as Hot Springs’ premier family entertainment destination, offering four acres of pure adrenaline and laughter that’ll make you forget all about those relaxing thermal baths for a few hours. This action-packed wonderland features five thrilling activities, headlined by the fastest go-karts in town that’ll have you channeling your inner Speed Racer around hairpin turns.
Beyond the heart-pumping kart races, families can enjoy mini golf, arcade games, batting cages, and bumper boats – enough variety to keep everyone from toddlers to grandparents entertained. The park’s compact layout means you won’t spend half your day walking between attractions, and the well-maintained facilities ensure a smooth experience.
- Duration: 2-3 hours for the full experience
- Perfect for: Families with kids, competitive groups, anyone seeking active fun
- Cost: Individual activities $5-12, combo packages available
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday afternoons to avoid crowds and score shorter wait times
When you need a break from Hot Springs’ zen vibes, Funtrackers delivers the perfect dose of friendly competition and family bonding that’ll create memories lasting long after your vacation ends.
15. Tiny Town – A Miniature Masterpiece
Step into a world where everything is perfectly pocket-sized at Tiny Town, Hot Springs’ most charming miniature village that proves good things really do come in small packages. This meticulously crafted attraction features dozens of scaled-down buildings, complete with working streetlights, tiny trains, and intricate details that will have you squinting with delight – the craftsmanship is incredible.
Wander through miniature Main Street, peek into dollhouse-sized shops, and watch the model railroad chug along its scenic route. Kids will be mesmerized by the tiny fire station and school, while adults will appreciate the historical accuracy and attention to detail in every miniature structure.
- Visit Duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect For: Families with children, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who loves whimsical attractions
- Admission: Around $8-12 for adults, $5-8 for children
- Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour for magical lighting that makes the tiny world glow, and bring a camera with macro lens capabilities
Tiny Town proves that sometimes the smallest adventures leave the biggest impressions on your heart.
16. The Galaxy Connection: A Nostalgic Toy Universe
Step into The Galaxy Connection and prepare for an instant time warp back to your childhood glory days of the 70s, 80s, and 90s – this incredible private collection is a nostalgic goldmine that’ll have adults squealing louder than kids in a candy store.
This superfan’s paradise showcases an impressive array of vintage toys and props including iconic GI Joe figures, He-Man warriors, classic Barbies, Marvel and DC superheroes, plus retro video games that’ll make you want to blow into cartridges again. Every corner reveals another treasure from your childhood, complete with original packaging and rare finds that’ll spark countless “I had that!” moments.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours for the full nostalgic experience
- Perfect for: Families with older kids, nostalgic adults, toy collectors, and anyone who grew up in the golden age of action figures
- Admission: Typically $10-15 per person (call ahead to confirm)
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday afternoons for a more intimate browsing experience and bring your camera for those “remember this?” social media moments
The Galaxy Connection isn’t just a museum – it’s a portal to simpler times when your biggest worry was keeping track of all those tiny accessories.
17. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park
Magic Springs Theme and Water Park is Arkansas’s premier amusement destination that brilliantly combines heart-pounding roller coasters with refreshing water attractions, making it the perfect escape for families seeking both thrills and chills. This dual-purpose park delivers the best of both worlds with its impressive collection of coasters, including the famous Arkansas Twister, alongside a relaxing lazy river where you can float your worries away.
The park’s highlights include multiple roller coasters for adrenaline junkies, a variety of water slides and pools for cooling off, and seasonal attractions like a spine-tingling haunted house. The on-site concert venue also hosts live entertainment, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.
- Ideal visit duration: Full day (6-8 hours)
- Perfect for: Families with children, thrill-seekers, and groups looking for variety
- Ticket prices: Around $35-45 for general admission (check for seasonal discounts)
- Location: 1701 East Grand Avenue, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and bring sunscreen plus a change of clothes for the water park section
Magic Springs proves that you don’t have to choose between white-knuckle thrills and splash-tastic fun – here, you can have your coaster and swim too!
18. Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery
Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery is America’s first brewery housed in a historic bathhouse, making it a must-visit destination where craft beer meets Hot Springs’ legendary thermal culture. Located in the beautifully restored 1916 Superior Bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, this unique establishment combines the healing tradition of thermal waters with modern brewing artistry.
What makes this place extraordinary is their thermal spring water beer – they actually use the famous Hot Springs water in their brewing process, creating distinctive flavors you won’t find anywhere else. The brewery offers guided tours showcasing both the historic bathhouse architecture and modern brewing equipment, plus tastings of their signature thermal water ales and craft spirits.
- Ideal visit time: 1-2 hours for tour and tasting
- Perfect for: Adults, couples, craft beer enthusiasts, history buffs
- Cost: Tours around $15-25, tastings $10-15
- Location: 329 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit weekdays to avoid crowds, and don’t miss their seasonal thermal water specialties
It’s not every day you can sip beer brewed with legendary healing waters while standing in a century-old bathhouse – this is liquid history with a satisfying buzz.
19. Buckstaff Bathhouse: A Century-Old Spa Experience
Step into the Buckstaff Bathhouse and you’ll instantly transport back to 1912, when soaking in mineral-rich thermal waters was the height of luxury wellness – and honestly, it still is! This iconic Hot Springs establishment has been pampering visitors for over a century with authentic spa treatments that your great-grandmother would recognize and absolutely approve of.
The real magic happens when you slip into those legendary thermal baths, where the same natural hot springs that drew Native Americans centuries ago work their restorative magic on your tired muscles. Beyond the signature mineral soaks, treat yourself to old-school indulgences like paraffin wax hand therapy (your hands will thank you) and invigorating loofah scrubs that leave your skin feeling baby-smooth.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for the full experience
- Perfect for: Couples seeking romance, stressed adults needing serious relaxation
- Cost: Bath packages start around $40-60
- Location: 509 Central Avenue, right in historic Bathhouse Row
- Pro tip: Book morning appointments to avoid crowds and enjoy the most peaceful soak
In a world of modern spa chains, Buckstaff offers something genuinely irreplaceable – the authentic charm of America’s original spa destination where relaxation meets living history.
20. Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo
Get ready for a wild adventure at Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, where you can get up close with some of nature’s most fascinating reptiles and adorable farm animals all in one place. This unique attraction combines the thrill of seeing massive alligators with the gentle joy of petting friendly goats, sheep, and other barnyard buddies.
The highlight here is definitely the alligator feeding shows, where you’ll watch these prehistoric creatures snap up their meals with incredible power. Beyond the gators, kids will love the hands-on petting zoo experience, while adults can appreciate the educational aspect of learning about reptile conservation.
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect for: Families with children, animal lovers, and thrill-seekers
- Admission: Around $8-12 for adults, kids under 3 free
- Location: 847 Whittington Avenue, Hot Springs, AR
- Pro tip: Visit during feeding times (usually mid-morning and afternoon) for the most action, and bring hand sanitizer after petting the animals!
It’s not every day you can pet a goat and watch an alligator chomp down lunch in the same afternoon – making this quirky combo a genuinely memorable Hot Springs experience.
21. Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center & Museum
Quench your curiosity at the Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center & Museum, where you can discover the fascinating story behind America’s premium spring water right in the heart of Hot Springs National Park. This unique attraction combines corporate history with natural wonder, offering visitors an educational peek into how pristine Arkansas spring water has been bottled and cherished for over a century.
Inside, you’ll explore interactive exhibits showcasing the company’s rich heritage, learn about the natural filtration process that creates this legendary water, and even sample the crisp, refreshing product straight from the source. The museum features vintage bottles, historical artifacts, and engaging displays that bring the Mountain Valley story to life.
- Visit Duration: 45-60 minutes
- Perfect For: Families, history buffs, and anyone curious about local industry
- Admission: Free
- Location: Historic Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park
- Pro Tip: Visit during weekday mornings for a more personalized experience and don’t forget to grab some complimentary water samples
It’s not every day you get to visit a working spring water facility with such deep Arkansas roots – making this a refreshingly authentic Hot Springs experience.
And there you have it – 21 incredible ways to fall head over heels for Hot Springs, Arkansas! From soaking in centuries-old bathhouses to screaming your way through theme parks, this city proves that the best adventures come in small packages. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family vacation that’ll create memories for years to come, these things to do in Hot Springs offer something for every type of traveler. So pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some comfortable walking shoes), because Hot Springs is ready to show you why it’s been Arkansas’s crown jewel for over a century. Trust us – once you experience this magical blend of relaxation and excitement, you’ll be planning your return trip before you’ve even left!