Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park
Photo by Evae
Photo by Troy Burrus


Escape into secluded woodland and breathe in the scent of mineral-enriched water that bubbles from the ground in America’s original spa district. 

Stroll through pine forests and see steaming water flowing from rocky sources in Hot Springs National Park. Dip your feet in a stream to feel the liquid’s mystical healing powers or fully immerse yourself at a luxurious bath house. 

Make your way through forest near the city of Hot Springs to discover hiking trails that twist and turn through more than 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) of park land. Hawks and kestrels glide through the clear skies above the mixture of pine, oak and hickory. Set off to find one of the park’s famous springs where 143˚F (62˚C) water seeps into trickling streams. Feel this natural phenomenon for yourself and bring a bottle in order to collect a unique souvenir. 

Before you leave the forest behind, take a trip to the mountain tower, a 10-minute drive northeast of the visitor centre. From this 216-foot-high (65-metre) lookout, gaze for miles across the forest canopy all the way to Lake Ouachita to the west. On your way out, stop at the gift shop on the ground level of the tower. 

After a morning in the wilderness, return to the bustling city and check out the park visitor centre located right in the old Fordyce Bathhouse. Find out more about the region’s intriguing history and look inside an Edwardian-period bathhouse. 

No trip to Hot Springs would be complete without a visit to one of the modern spas. Simply put your feet up and relax in a bath of the area’s famous water, taken straight from the ground. 

Hot Springs National Park was established as a national reservation in 1832. The park surrounds historic Bathhouse Row buildings developed as bathhouses as early as 1912. The park itself is free, but bathing and camping have fees. The woodland paths are open for use year-round. Get information from the visitor centre in the city. 

From hiking rugged terrain to exploring caves to relaxing in natural hot springs, U.S. national parks offer affordable adventure for all types of travellers. Enjoy your trip to the urban and woodland areas of Hot Springs National Park. 

Popular places to visit


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Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa

Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa

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The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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Red Roof Inn Hot Springs

Red Roof Inn Hot Springs

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The Happy Hollow

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Rodeway Inn Hot Springs National Park Area

Rodeway Inn Hot Springs National Park Area

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1890 Williams House Inn

1890 Williams House Inn

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Hot Springs National Park

In Hot Springs National Park, visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and enjoy vibrant live music performances, making for a delightful and immersive experience. The park's unique blend of natural beauty and local culture offers a range of activities that cater to both relaxation and entertainment, ensuring a memorable visit to this charming destination.

Shopping

In Hot Springs National Park, you can shop at Cathy's Quiltin Square, just 3.2km away. The Ohio Club, also 3.2km distant, offers a unique shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, visit Hot Springs Mall, located 6.4km from the park, featuring a range of shops and entertainment.

Recreation

At Quapaw Baths, immerse yourself in soothing thermal waters for a rejuvenating body treatment amidst serene surroundings. Buckstaff Bathhouse offers traditional bathing experiences, enhancing wellness and relaxation. For a fun-filled day, T-Rex Laser Tag provides an adventurous twist with mini-golf, perfect for families seeking excitement.

Adventure

Central Bowling Lanes offers a thrilling bowling experience, located 6.4km from Hot Springs National Park. For a lively atmosphere, visit North Garland County Youth Center, an adventure hub situated 16.1km away. Lastly, enjoy water fun at Arkadelphia Aquatic Park, a family-friendly venue 43.5km from the park.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at T-Rex Fun Spot, an arcade with thrilling adventure vibes, or catch a show at the charming Vienna Theatre, offering a blend of culture and romance. Alternatively, enjoy family fun at Funtrackers Family Park, another exciting arcade adventure zone.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Hot Springs National Park

In Hot Springs National Park, visitors can explore a variety of attractions including the visitor centre, historic sites, and museums, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Outdoor adventurers will find ample opportunities to engage with nature while enjoying the park's scenic beauty. Whether you're looking to delve into local history or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Hot Springs offers a delightful blend of activities to suit every traveller's interests.

  • Bathhouse Row: Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Bathhouse Row, located 3.2km from Hot Springs National Park. This area features beautifully preserved bathhouses that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, offering a unique glimpse into the traditions of relaxation and wellness.
  • Mid-America Science Museum: Just 1.6km away, the Mid-America Science Museum is a family-friendly destination that combines culture and fun. Explore interactive exhibits, including a stunning butterfly garden and hands-on science displays that will engage visitors of all ages.
  • Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center: Situated 3.2km from the park, the Visitor Center serves as a gateway to adventure. With various outdoor activities and informative displays, it’s perfect for families looking to explore the natural beauty and history of Hot Springs National Park.

Best time to go to Hot Springs National Park

The best time to visit Hot Springs National Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Hot Springs National Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Hot Springs National Park falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hot Springs National Park

To save money on your visit to Hot Springs National Park, plan your trip between November and January for the lowest accommodation rates, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays, which tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to find eco-friendly hotels and refine your options based on budget and location. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals. Exploring the park on foot is a cost-effective way to enjoy the area, and taking advantage of the quieter months can enhance your experience while keeping expenses low.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hot Springs National Park are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Hot Springs National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Hot Springs National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and exclusive deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Hot Springs National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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