A Hot Springs Agenda Fit for Any Occasion
Engaging itineraries no matter why you’re here— choose one or combine activities from each for a memorable visit. Whatever your mood or your mission, don’t miss these Hot Springs staples
IF YOU’RE TOO SUNBURNED TO MOVE
When lake-loving visitors forget to re-apply their sunscreen during a day on one of Hot Springs’ three lakes, there’s always a healing body treatment awaiting them at a Spa City mainstay. In particular, the Mud Wrap at Thai Me Spa, located at 5001 Central Ave., is a soothing reprieve from the sun. During this treatment, the body is covered with warm Dead Sea mud to detoxify and tone the body (50 minutes, $85). Of course, there are many fine spas for you to seek retreat and be restored— see Experience Spa City's Healing Powers to explore them all.
BONUS TIP! Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. And what better way than with Mountain Valley Spring Water, which has been bottled at the company’s downtown Hot Springs headquarters for 145 years.
IF YOU LEFT YOUR BATHING SUIT AT HOME
Don’t panic. Hot Springs Mall has a wide selection of stores—66, to be exact—where forgetful visitors will have no trouble finding a swimsuit on the fly. Dillard’s, JC Penny, Victoria Secret and American Eagle are just a few of the stops you should make on your mall run. Nearby That’s So You Boutique, 1335 Airport Road, has a great selection of maxi dresses and cover-ups if you're looking to round out your lake wardrobe.
IF YOU’RE FEELING LUCKY
Place your bets on the ponies at Oaklawn Racing & Gaming. Live racing season runs from January into April, culminating with the $1 million Arkansas Derby. Before you go, learn the betting lingo and discover The Life of a Jockey at Oaklawn Park. More of a card player or penny slots aficionado? Oaklawn also has a casino with card games like blackjack and poker, a high limit area and more than 1,000 electronic gaming machines. Open 363 days a year. Learn more at A Full House of Excitement at at Oaklawn Racing & Gaming.
IF YOU NEED TO MAKE A GRAND GESTURE
Hot Springs is one of the most romantic cities in Arkansas. It could be the lake sunsets, the mountain views or the exhilaration of being in such a historically significant place. Whatever the reason, the city is a popular spot to get engaged (and to get married). If you’re looking to say “I love you” in a big way or ask a very important question, visit Lauray’s Jewelers downtown. Lauray’s is a third-generation, family owned jewelry store (established in 1886) that has served presidents, governors, celebrities and couples from all across the country. See Destination I Do.
IF YOU HAVE KIDS TO ENTERTAIN
You’re in luck. Hot Springs is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the region. In fact, the worry while you’re here will not be how to entertain your kids, but how to choose between all the great activities. We’ll cut to the chase. These attractions are surefire ways to make the kiddos happy (and you'll have fun too!): Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, Magic Springs Water & Theme Park, Mid-America Science Museum and the Maxwell Blade Theatre of Magic. Explore and learn more with Adventures for Everyone in Hot Springs.
PEACE AND QUIET, AND GOOD FOOD
The Spa City is home to a plethora of B&Bs. The 1890 Williams House, Hamilton House Estate Bed & Breakfast Inn and Lookout Point Lakeside Inn are three in particular where you’ll be treated to the best in rest, relaxation, food and accommodations. Your stress will simply melt away. As for activities that add to the serenity, take a ride to the top of Hot Springs Mountain Tower and stroll the grounds of Garvan Woodland Gardens — there’s nothing more tranquil than breathtaking views of the Spa City. And for dinner, don’t miss the expressive cuisine and atmosphere at Central Park Fusion. Find Hot Springs Lodging Makes It Easy To Find a Room with a View to explore cozy accommodations.
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE
First, see The History of Hot Springs to learn about the area’s incredible past at places like Bathhouse Row, the Historic Baseball Trail and the Gangster Museum of America.
To experience the rich history for yourself, be sure to book an Anita Lynn Historic Tour, as well as a room at one of Arkansas' most legendary hotels, The Arlington. Al Capone used to stay there, not to mention that it's in an ideal location if you prefer to stay close to the city’s historic district. Arkansas’ oldest and most historic bar, The Ohio Club, is ideal for a late-night drink set to live music. And Tillman’s offers world-class antiques shopping.
QUALITY TIME WITH "THE GUYS"
Planning a boy's weekend or bachelor party? Not only is boating on one of three lakes a great way to spend your time, but there’s also abundant golf in nearby Hot Springs Village, gambling at Oaklawn and fantastic bars and clubs for nightlife—some local favorites among gents include the Copper Penny Pub, The Inside Track Grill & Sports Lounge, the historic Ohio Club and Rolando’s Speakeasy. Superior Bathhouse Brewery (pictured) is acclaimed for its craft beer; the guys will love it. And no Hot Springs trip is complete without award-winning Stubby’s Bar-B-Que (the sauce is famous!). Choose from more local bars and clubs at Explore Hot Springs After Dark.
SOME MUCH NEEDED ALONE TIME
Snag a room at The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, a luxurious hotel in the heart of it all. Book the “Couples Retreat” package from Crystal Spa at The Hotel Hot Springs for the ultimate romantic spa experience. Come mealtime, there are plenty of places to wine and dine, like Rolando’s Nuevo Latino Restaurante or The Lodge Restaurant at Mountain Harbor Resort. Dining Options Abound in Hot Springs lists more fine dining options.
