Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a hidden gem that’s been drawing visitors for decades. Home to the smallest and oldest National Park in the U.S., this charming city offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. As travel enthusiasts always on the lookout for unique destinations, we were thrilled to discover the magic of Hot Springs during our recent weekend getaway.
In this post, we’ll take you through our favorite experiences in Hot Springs, from soaking in the healing thermal waters to hiking scenic trails and indulging in local cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing escape, Hot Springs has something for everyone. So, grab your towel and let’s dive into the steamy world of Hot Springs, Arkansas!
Where to Stay in Hot Springs Arkansas
When it comes to accommodations in Hot Springs, we’ve got two top picks that’ll suit different tastes and budgets:
- Embassy Suites: Our go-to choice for comfortable and affordable lodging. Located within walking distance of Central Avenue (the main street through town), Embassy Suites offers spacious rooms and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. Plus, who doesn’t love a complimentary breakfast to fuel up for a day of exploration?
- The Waters Hotel: For those looking to splurge a bit and immerse themselves in Hot Springs’ history, The Waters Hotel by Hilton is our top recommendation. This beautifully restored historic building offers a luxurious stay right in the heart of downtown. The blend of modern amenities with vintage charm makes for an unforgettable experience.
Culinary Adventures in Hot Springs Arkansas
Hot Springs may be small, but its food scene packs a flavorful punch. Here are some of our favorite spots to grab a bite:
- Superior Bathhouse Brewery: This unique spot holds a special place in our hearts (and taste buds). As the first brewery to use thermal spring water in their beers, Superior Bathhouse offers a truly one-of-a-kind drinking experience. While the food is basic pub fare, the real star here is the beer. Don’t miss out on their “beer bath” – a tasting of all 18 beers on tap. We loved it so much we left with three growlers!
- The Ohio Club: Step back in time at Arkansas’ oldest bar. Once a hangout for gangsters and baseball players, The Ohio Club now serves up delicious gastropub-style food and live music. It’s the perfect spot to soak in some local history while enjoying a great meal.
- Grateful Head Pizza Oven and Beer Garden: With its outdoor seating offering views of Hot Springs, this popular pizza joint is a must-visit. Located in the former Exchange building, Grateful Head serves up delicious pizzas that are well worth the short wait.
- Fisherman’s Wharf Steak & Seafood: For a delightful dining experience with a view, head to Fisherman’s Wharf. Perched on Lake Hamilton, this local favorite offers a perfect blend of surf and turf. We couldn’t resist trying their famous crab cakes and perfectly grilled steaks. Pro tip: Try to snag a table on the deck for breathtaking sunset views over the water.
- The Colonial Pancake and Waffle House: This quaint, family-owned spot has been serving up delicious morning fare since 1962. We couldn’t resist trying their famous Colonial Waffle – a crispy, golden masterpiece that’s big enough to share (though you might not want to!). The homey atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel like a local, even if it’s your first visit. Pro tip: Get there early on weekends to beat the crowd!
- Fat Bottomed Girls Cupcake Shop: This charming bakery, with its playful Queen-inspired name, serves up some of the most delectable cupcakes we’ve ever tasted. The flavors rotate daily, but if you’re lucky enough to catch the “Strawberry Fields Forever” or the “Salted Caramel Pretzel”, don’t hesitate – just indulge!
Soaking in History: The Bathhouse Experience
No trip to Hot Springs is complete without experiencing the thermal waters that gave the city its name. On our most recent visit, we decided to try out the traditional bathhouse experience. Here’s what we learned:
- Book in advance: If you want a full spa experience, make reservations ahead of time. We didn’t plan ahead, so we opted for a drop-in visit at the Buckstaff Bathhouse.
- Be prepared to wait: Drop-in visits involve putting your name on a list with no guaranteed wait time. We recommend bringing a book or magazine since they will not text or call your cell but instead announce when it is your turn. Meaning you must stay nearby, they do have some great rocking chairs up front which are fantastic if the weather is good.
- Bring your own flip-flops: While they offer sandals for purchase, it’s more economical to bring your own. If you book a package massage they do include sandals and a robe, at least when we visited the spa.
- Enjoy the process: The experience starts with a shower, followed by rotating through four pools of different temperatures. It’s a unique and relaxing way to experience Hot Springs’ famous waters.
Hiking Hot Springs
For those who like to earn their relaxation, Hot Springs offers some great hiking options:
- Hot Springs Mountain Trail: This short but steep hike takes about 30 minutes for an average hiker and rewards you with stunning views of the city. At the top, you’ll find a charming gazebo perfect for a quick rest or photo op.
- Peak Trail: The beginning of Peak Trail is paved then turns to gravel. Peak Trail leads to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
- Hot Springs Mountain Tower: For an even more impressive view, head to the observation tower. There are two levels – one showcasing the area’s history, and an open-air level offering 360-degree views of the surroundings. While there might be a wait (and a fee), the panoramic vistas are well worth it.
Pro tip: Combine your hike with a visit to Superior Bathhouse Brewery. There’s nothing quite like a cold, locally-brewed beer after a rewarding hike!
Final Thoughts
Hot Springs, Arkansas, may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to weekend getaways. From its rich history and healing waters to its scenic hikes and tasty brews, this charming city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re soaking in a century-old bathhouse, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, or sampling thermal spring water beer, Hot Springs provides a unique experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a testament to the hidden gems we love to discover and share here at Escape Our Ordinary.
So, the next time you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s off the beaten path, consider Hot Springs, Arkansas. Trust us, this steamy little city will leave you refreshed, relaxed, and ready to plan your next visit!
Have you been to Hot Springs? What was your favorite experience? Let us know in the comments below!
Bonus: Arkansas Hiking
If you are in town and want a more challenging place to hike check our guide on hiking the Goat Bluff Hike north of Hot Springs!
