This popular spa town in the heart of Arkansas is one of the state’s larger cities and a former hideaway for Al Capone and Bill Clinton (he grew up here). Nestled in a lush valley amid the Diamond Lakes Region of the scenic Ouachita Mountains, it also attracts plenty of visitors with its abundance of outdoor fun to be found in its backyard.
Hot Springs offers plenty of skillfully restored national landmarks in its historic downtown district which boasts beautiful Victorian era architecture. Central avenue is the historic hub where history buffs can find one early 20th century building after another, such as hotels and traditional coffee houses.
Night owls will find enough venues to keep them busy until late. Take a romantic Hot Springs dinner cruise on the lake before hitting a musical stage show suitable for the whole family or live entertainment in the many clubs and hotel lounges. New Age shopping fans can indulge in the rock shops offering spiritual geological samples extracted from the local soil.
Highlights
Magic Springs Theme Park and Crystal Falls Water Park: offer wholesome family fun for water fans and land rats alike with seven water slides and exhilarating roller coasters.
National Park Aquarium: features more sedate thrills with saltwater species in their natural habitats, reptiles and a 90-pound snapping turtle.
Garvan Woodland Gardens: is home to vibrant architectural wonders and grand botanical landscapes, including a kid’s adventure garden.
Arkansas Walk of Fame: pays tribute to great Arkansans who contributed to society, including General Douglas MacArthur, baseball great Brooks Robinson and Bill Clinton.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower: is perched atop Hot Springs Mountain, 1,256 feet above sea level, and offers spectacular views of 140 miles of stunning Arkansas countryside.
Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo: houses 300 alligators and a petting zoo with pygmy goats, llamas, deer and ostriches.
Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum: this quirky attraction offers the chance to see dome disturbing wax works.