It was established in 1804 and by 1921 the city of Hot Springs had become a resort offering spas, horse racing and gambling. Be sure to pay a visit to Hot Springs National Park, which happens to be the country’s only national park situated within city limits, for a self-guided tour.
Baths and Brews
A visit here wouldn’t be complete without first taking in the architectural delight known as Bathhouse Row and soaking in the waters. The eight current historic bathhouses were constructed in the late 1800s and were so lavish at the time—famous people from Franklin Roosevelt to Al Capone adored them—that they resembled the bathhouses at European spas. Nowadays, only two are currently used for bathing. An absolute must is to go exploring at the Fordyce Bathhouse, which is now the park's visitor center. Ride the original 1926 Otis elevator that still operates between the basement and each of the building's three floors. Twenty-four rooms featuring marble walls, mosaic floors, ceramic fountains, stained-glass skylights and wicker furniture recapture the Fordyce's early elegance. Follow the gorgeous brick-paved Grand Promenade north to the Superior Bathhouse and Brewery (329 Central Ave., Hot Springs) to indulge in honey-sweetened root beer and beer brewed from thermal spring waters.
Above and Beyond
From downtown, you can't miss the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, on top of Hot Springs Mountain. You’ll get to see over 140 miles worth of views. The tower is 216 feet high, making it an ideal place to witness the changing seasons. Arrive in the morning and bring lunch to eat at the shaded picnic area below the tower. In the afternoon, explore the Mid-America Science Museum's Bob Wheeler Skywalk. At more than 40 feet from the ground, it extends beyond the museum into the surrounding forest. For height-wary kids, there's an enclosed tree house pavilion, and for more daring ones there’s a rope-netting play area. Create hypnotic patterns with the mirrored “teleidoscope” or make an electrical circuit by holding hands and make music on the copper-plated musical bench.
Wet, Wild and Wonderful
Dress for a wet outing and head for the Children's Adventure Garden, a magical space at the world-class Garvan Woodland Gardens, located on the campus of the University of Arkansas. Turn the kids loose to scramble over 3,200 tons of boulders scattered across the 1.5-acre woodland clearing or explore the man-made cave. Cross the tree-branch bridge to cool off in the wading pools and then capture your memories in photos taken from the elevated 450-foot walkway, with Lake Hamilton glistening in the distance.
Primarily Purple
Have you ever seen a purple cow? That will change at the 1950s-themed Purple Cow Diner (1490 Higdon Ferry Rd., Hot Springs National Park) where purple cows compete for attention with purple walls, counter stools, booths and ice cream. Hand-dipped vanilla shakes (purple, of course) are a huge hit with the kids, while liqueur-laced versions will indulge your tastes. Burgers—beef, turkey or veggie with all the trimmings—are the most popular on the lunch and dinner menus.
Ready to travel? Find hotels in Hot Springs, AR.