Fun blooms year-round at Hot Springs’ top attraction—discover your best way to experience this must-see preserve.

IF YOU LOVE LONG WALKS...

The 210-acre garden beckons visitors to grab a trail map and go. The primary trail winds its way from the welcome center to the Floating Cloud Bridge to the Fern Glade. Take the non-primary trail to Eagle Point, where more than 120 species of birds, including bald eagles, have been spotted.

Bring the stroller but be prepared to abandon it as soon as your kids set eyes on the amazing treehouse in the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden. It’s an easy climb to the top, even for toddlers, and the adjacent cave and waterfall are a blast. Children can meet the resident peacock, explore the Sugg Model Train Garden or take part in a scavenger hunt to score a prize.

Dogs are welcome (on leashes) to accompany visitors on their walks. Dog fee is $5; one dog per visitor.

IF YOU APPRECIATE ARCHITECTURE…

One of the highlights of the gardens is the architecture, inspired by renowned architect and Arkansas native E. Fay Jones, who believed architecture should reflect and fit within the natural beauty surrounding it. Jones’ influence is seen in the garden’s famous Anthony Chapel, which boasts floor-to-ceiling glass walls and skylights affording views of the changing seasons in the garden.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Bob & Sunny Evans Treehouse was designed by Fayetteville-based architects Modus Studios to bring children back into the woods.

IF YOU LOVE FLOWERS...

Make a trip during the Tulip Extravaganza or Daffodil Days in spring. The colorful Dutch tulips are a sight to behold and a photo-op paradise. Fall Flower Days in October celebrates a rainbow of 8,000 chrysanthemums in bloom.

The Garden of the Pine Wind is a 4-acre, rock and stream garden offering a quiet place for meditation. Approximately 300 varieties of Asian ornamental plants can be viewed here.

The Bonsai Garden is a showplace for the ancient art of growing miniaturized trees and bushes.

Dero Sanford
Anthony Chapel is a popular wedding venue, attracting couples from near and far.

MERRY & BRIGHT!

Holiday Lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens illuminates the area’s winter beauty with 5 million Christmas lights during much of November and all of December. This holiday event is so popular, it lures visitors from across the state and region each year.

For more information about the gardens, visit GarvanGardens.org.

Editor’s note: COVID-19 safety protocols vary at Hot Springs attractions and change frequently; call to be sure of hours and safety guidelines as you plan your trip.