5 Must Do Experiences in Hot Springs National Park
People have been traveling for over a hundred years to Hot Springs, Arkansas to take advantage of the thermal spring waters that are believed to have healing properties. Hot Springs is a perfect destination for nature lovers, foodies, history buffs, and luxury seekers. These five experiences will cover all of those areas!
1. Tour Fordyce Bath House Museum
Now serving as the National Park's visitor center, the Fordyce Bath House is an incredible step back in time as you tour the various rooms and floors of the bath house to gain insight into what took place during early 1900s when travelers would come from all over the country for the sole purpose of bathing in the thermal spring waters. This bath house is luxurious and is a history buff's paradise.
2. Experience a Traditional Bath Service
In the early 1900s, public Bath Houses began to emerge along what is now known as Bath House Row where men and women could partake in bathing rituals for both health and relaxing purposes.
Only two of the bath houses on bath house row still have the thermal waters pumped in for use in spa purposes. While these bathing services are no longer common practice, Buckstaff Bath House still offers visitors a chance to experience what it would have been like to partake in a traditional bath ritual that has been in practice in the park since 1912!
This experience was unlike any spa service I have ever had. Touring the Fordyce Bath House beforehand will give you an idea of what to expect during your service. Indulge your senses, and let the stress melt away!
3. Stroll the Grand Promenade & Relax on the Arlington Lawn
The Grand Promenade is a cobblestone walkway right behind the bath houses on Bath House Row. From end to end, enjoy an easy half mile walk that overlooks the city and passes right above Cascade Springs.
Start at the entrance on Reserve St. and fill your water bottle with the thermal spring waters from Hot Springs Fountain to sip on during your stroll. Remember, these waters are believed to have healing properties so take advantage as much as possible during your stay!
There are game tables located near the Reserve St. entrance for an opportunity to play chess or checkers under a canopy of trees.
Along the path, you will come across educational boards posted explaining different things you will see on your walk. In addition, several of the hiking trails in Hot Springs National Park spur off of the Grand Promenade providing a great opportunity to hit the trails without having to drive to a trail head.
Head down the steps near Cascade Springs to see the springs from below, touch the water, and then relax on the lawn.
The Arlington Lawn is a great spot to people watch, fly a kite, relax by Cascade Falls, and soak up a little vitamin D.
4. Hike to Mountain View Tower
The Peak Trail is one of the hiking trails that spurs from the Grand Promenade and leads hikers up to the top of Hot Springs Mountain.
This is a well marked, moderately steep trail. Follow the white blazes posted to the trees to ensure you are always on the right trail, which is just under a mile.
At the top, you will come to the Mountain View Tower which gives incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The observation tower is operated by the National Park Service, and annual national parks pass holders will receive a small discount on the entry fee as well as on merchandise purchased in the gift shop.
There are two floors to enjoy when you go up the tower. The second floor is a small museum, and the third floor is an outdoor observation deck. If the weather isn't conducive to stepping out on the third floor viewing deck, the second floor has windows all the way around which allow you to still enjoy the grand views of everything below.
5. Superior Bath House Brewery
Enjoy your time out on the patio which overlooks both the Arlington Lawn and the hustle and bustle of Bath House Row.
While there are many more experiences in and around Hot Springs, these 5 are perfect for the first time visitor and give you a great overview of the uniqueness of this National Park.
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