Hot Springs, Arkansas is nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains and boasts natural hot springs, scenic hiking trails, Hot Springs National Park, an array of historical attractions, and diverse recreational offerings making it the ideal destination for your next family vacation. Whether it’s enjoying the city amenities or exploring nature’s playground – there are plenty of fun family activities in Hot Springs that will keep everyone entertained.
Situated in central Arkansas, Hot Springs is a one-of-a-kind destination. The city gets its name from the hot water that flows out of the nearby mountains and has been used for centuries by people seeking their healing properties. Today, you can visit one of several resorts located within Hot Springs National Park to enjoy a relaxing soak in these thermal waters. But that’s not all!
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Fun Things To Do in Hot Springs with Teens and Older Kids
Thermal hot springs may be a big draw, but there are so many more family things to do in Hot Springs, AR. I recently visited the city with a few friends and skipped the spa experience altogether in lieu of more active outdoor pursuits. We had a great time exploring all the fun things to do. Here’s a list of my favorite family activities in the area you’ll want to add to your itinerary when you visit.
Visit Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park is a unique urban national park that lies within the city limits of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The park was established in 1832 to protect the 47 natural hot springs that were discovered in the area. Many are surprised to learn that it’s the oldest national park in the United States and predates Yellowstone National Park by forty years.
Today, the park covers over 5,000 acres and receives over 1 million visitors each year. The hot springs are still used for therapeutic purposes and can be found throughout the park. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and ranger-led programs.
Did you know that Hot Springs National Park is one of the country’s most accessible parks?
This national park is situated inside the city of Hot Springs. Visitors can access the park from most of the downtown streets, and the main entrance is accessible to people with disabilities.
Take a Tour of the Fordyce Bathhouse
The Fordyce Bathhouse is a historic building constructed in 1915. It was once one of the country’s largest and most opulent bathhouses. It was in operation from 1916 until 1962. Today it is preserved as a living history museum and the home to the Hot Springs National Park’s visitor center.
Note: if you collect National Park stamps inside your National Park Passport, be sure to get one here.
Visitors can take self-guided or guided tours of the facility. I highly recommend the ranger-led tour which explains how bathing in hot springs was viewed as a therapeutic activity in the early 1900s. During the tour, you will have access to all of the historic features, as well as learn about tools that were used to treat patients. I learned that this is unlike any spa experience you’ll see today! The tour is both educational and entertaining.
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Walk the Grand Promenade
The Grand Promenade is a historic walking trail/boardwalk built in 1892 and extends for over 1 mile through the downtown area. It’s located behind Bathhouse Row and stretches from Central Avenue to the Hot Springs Convention Center.
The walkway is lined with Victorian-period buildings and offers stunning views of downtown Hot Springs, as well as the surrounding mountains. The promenade is a great place to people watch and is often filled with families, couples, and runners.
There’s a thermal pool along the promenade called the Hot Water Cascade you don’t want to miss. The pool is the largest visible spring in the park and is located in Arlington Park. The water temperature here is 143˚F degrees on average. It’s too hot to jump in for a dip, but you can check out the natural steam rising off its surface.
Soak in the Springs at Bathhouse Row
The natural thermal springs that gave Hot Springs its name provide a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. Take a dip in the naturally heated springs at Bathhouse Row. There are two public baths and spas in the park; Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Bathhouse and Spa.
Buckstaff Bathhouse: The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been in operation since 1912 and is one of the oldest continuously operating bathhouses in the country. You can get a traditional bathhouse experience here with a 20-minute tub soak, sitz bath, steam cabinet, needle shower (water jets), hot packs, and whirlpool. Massages, facials, and body wraps are also offered. Children are allowed and receive the same treatment as adults.
Quapaw Bathhouse and Spa: The Quapaw has been in operation since 1901 and features a full-service spa with treatments including massage, facials, body wraps, aromatherapy, and reflexology. This bathhouse also offers a wide range of thermal mineral baths including public thermal pools and a steam cave. Children 14 and older are allowed at Quapaw.
My friend Michelle did both of these bathhouses and shares her take on them. You can read that article here.
Visit the Hot Springs National Park Cultural Center
On Saturdays and Sundays during the summer houses, the Cultural Center inside the Ozark Bathhouse is open and free to the public. The center is an art space featuring artwork from the park’s Artist-in-Residence Program and other temporary exhibitions.
Take a Hike
The park includes 26 miles of hiking trails, which vary in length and difficulty level. The North Mountain trails are particularly popular since they are easy to reach via Stephen’s Balustrade (grand staircase) behind the Fordyce Bathhouse, Hot Springs Mountain Drive, and the Gulpha Gorge Campground.
The Sunset Trail is the longest in the park, at 10 miles one way or a 15-17 mile loop. Broken up into three sections, Western Mountain (2.8 miles), Sugarloaf Mountain (2.6 miles), and Stonebridge Road (3.8 miles), this hiking trail takes you through remote areas most people never see.
For more experienced hikers, the Western Mountain Trail is a great option. No matter which trail you choose, I recommend bringing plenty of water with you as well as wearing comfortable shoes or hiking boots.
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Go for a Drive
Several scenic driving routes provide a chance to explore the park, including Hot Springs Mountain Drive, which leads to a 216-foot lookout tower at the peak of Hot Springs Mountain, offering stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains. For breathtaking views, take a drive to Goat Rock Overlook on top of North Mountain. You’ll see the Zigzag Mountains with Indian Mountain (or Silver Mountain) to the right.
Take in the View from Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Hot Springs Mountain Tower is an observation tower located atop Hot Springs Mountain. The tower’s upper observation deck is 216 feet above the ground and is 1256 feet above sea level providing visitors with spectacular views of the surrounding area. To access the tower, you’ll drive up a winding switchback road to the top of the mountain and then take an elevator to the observation deck. Don’t forget your motion-sickness remedies!
Once at the top, you can look out in all directions for miles! On a clear day, you can see as far as Ouachita Mountain Range. There are exhibits providing information about the natural wonders around the area.
General admission for 12 and older is $12. Discounts are available for seniors, first responders, military members, national park annual pass holders, and children.
Fun Outdoor Recreation in Hot Springs
Go on a Hiking or Biking Adventure
The national park, Ouachita National Forest, and Northwoods Trail System offer some of the best trails near me for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. Trails range from flat paved green trails to black/technical mountain bike trails.
The Northwoods Trails System is the perfect place for families with active teens to explore. The trail system was developed in response to the growing popularity of outdoor recreation, and mountain biking in particular. The system offers 31.5 miles of well-maintained trails ideal for both biking and hiking. It has been voted the “Best Trails in Arkansas by Riders” for two years by Arkansas Times and Arkansas Outside.
For those who love to hike, the trail system offers a variety of difficulty levels, from easy-to-moderate hikes that wind through the woods to more challenging moderate hikes that offer stunning views of the park and upper lakes. For those who love to bike, the trail system offers a variety of green, blue, and black routes, from beginners to more challenging mountain bike trails. Technical black bike trails are clearly marked and hikers are not allowed.
The main trailhead is located at 300 Pineland Drive just minutes from downtown. There are no fees to use the trails and the area is open all year round. Gates are open from 6 am to 10 pm daily.
If you are looking for events, the city and Northwoods Trail sponsor and host several annual events like the Gudrun – Northwoods MTB Festival, Attila the Hun MTB Race, and Northwoods Mullet Trail Run.
Explore Garvan Woodland Gardens
The Garvan Woodland Gardens is a hidden gem. This botanical garden located along the banks of Lake Hamilton is maintained by the University of Arkansas. It features a variety of plant life, including roses, azaleas, and camellias, as well as a waterfall, koi pond, and fountain. The gardens are also home to a variety of birds and butterflies. Families can picnic in the gardens or take a leisurely stroll along the paved pathways. Teenagers will enjoy the opportunity to explore the gardens and learn about the different plant species.
If anyone is interested in architecture, the gardens feature several structural elements not to be missed. Anthony Chapel, one of the largest wooden chapels in North America, is hidden away within the gardens. You can also explore the Evans Tree House in the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden as an interactive space set among a canopy of pine trees.
If visiting for the Christmas holiday season, don’t miss the Holiday Lights. General admission is $20 for 13 and older, and $5 for children 4-12.
Go Quartz Crystal Mining at Avant Mining
Another part of the state is famous for its diamond mining, but in Hot Springs, you can explore the world of quartz crystal mining. Just a short drive from the city, Avant Mining offers visitors the opportunity to mine their own quartz crystals.
You can dig on your own or hire a guide to help you along. Once you find your crystals, you can take them home as a souvenir and even make jewelry out of them! When I visited, I went out with a local “Rock Hound”, an amateur rock and mineral collector, who took us to a great spot for quartz crystal finding, and I was able to find so many beautiful specimens of quartz!
The best time to go quartz digging, according to our Rock Hound, is after it rains. That is when the quartz crystals are easier to find. You don’t have to dig deep, just look for rocks that resemble a rusty beer cap. Once you dust off the dirt, crystals are revealed. I’ve been diamond mining and I found quartz mining much more fun and more rewarding too. I never found a diamond, but came home with quite a few crystals.
Go Canoeing or Kayaking
Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine offer scenic views and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. And what better way to explore the lakes than by kayak or canoe? Lake Hamilton is a great spot for silent water sports like kayaking or canoeing. You can rent either in town, or venture out on the lake which offers plenty of paddling opportunities. The lake also offers excellent fishing spots and boat rentals are available from April through October.
Zipline Through the Woods at Adventureworks
Adventureworks is the perfect spot for teens and adults looking to experience a thrill. This aerial adventure park boasts ziplines, obstacle courses, and tree-top platforms connected by cables, bridges, ladders, and rappels. There are multiple levels of difficulty so you can choose your challenge level. Book your zipline tickets on Viator or visit their website.
Take a Boat Tour
Enjoy an exciting tour down Lake Hamilton or beautiful Lake Catherine on one of the many boat tours available. These tours are a great way to learn about the local wildlife, such as the bald eagles and ospreys that call this area home. You can take a narrated tour or just relax on a pontoon boat while admiring the views. Boat rental companies in Hot Springs offer a variety of vessels, from kayaks and canoes to pontoon boats and powerboats.
Spend a Day at Magic Springs Theme and Water Park
With a host of thrilling rides, slides, attractions, and live shows, Magic Springs Water and Theme Park (open in summer) is the perfect destination for families who love some adrenaline-pumping fun!
The waterpark has a variety of slides, pools, and other attractions for all ages. From the thrilling Seven Falls Slide Tower and Boogie Blast to the family-friendly Lazy River, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find plenty of dining options, from fast food to full-service restaurants.
The theme park is home to roller coasters like Diamond Mine Coaster, X-Coaster, and Big Bad John, as well as other family rides and attractions that are perfect for teens and older kids. Magic Springs also hosts a variety of live shows throughout the summer season, including concerts featuring popular musicians and more.
Explore the Historic District of Downtown Hot Springs
The historic district of downtown Hot Springs is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Families can spend an afternoon browsing through the unique offerings, visit the local art galleries and museums, or take a historic walking tour.
Visit the Gangster Museum of America
The Gangster Museum of America is a unique museum located in Hot Springs that tells the story of organized crime in the city from the 1920s to 1940s. Gambling and bootlegging were big businesses in Hot Springs back then and the museum displays many artifacts related to famous gangsters like Al Capone, Dutch Schultz, and Frank Costello.
The museum showcases memorabilia, artifacts, archival material, and photographs related to this period in history. There’s also an antique casino on display, which includes vintage playing cards and a roulette wheel.
A guided tour of the museum takes you through the history of gangsters in the area and provides an interesting look at the city’s past. The museum is open year-round. General admission is $15 for ages 13 and older.
Note: You’ll find the history is interwoven with the culture and attractions of Hot Springs and it can be an exciting (and educational) experience to discover.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery & Distillery
Located on Bathhouse Row is the Superior Bathhouse Brewery & Distillery. It is one of the original bathhouses built at the turn of the early 1900s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Now, it has been transformed into the only microbrewery located within a national park. Adults can sample handcrafted beer and everyone can try their house-made root beer all made with thermal water from the nearby springs. There’s also a restaurant offering casual dining (the food is excellent), an outdoor patio, and special events throughout the year.
If you are lucky enough, you may catch the park’s geologist doing water testing on the site. We did it while we were having lunch and it was fascinating to learn how she does it and that 400,000 gallons a day flow from the mountain each day.
Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
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- Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
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- ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
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- Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
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- LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
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Visit A Thermal Fountain for a Drink
Be sure you bring a water bottle and fill it up from one of the thermal fountains located in Hot Springs. There are several located around the downtown area and each offers mineral-rich water that is safe to drink. You may see people filling up large water jugs at some of the fountains. This is because the water has a unique taste that many people find refreshing and it’s FREE.
Visit the National Park Gift Shop
Inside the Lamar Bathhouse is the official park shop called Bathhouse Emporium. It is filled with all sorts of souvenirs and gifts related to Hot Springs National Park. You can find t-shirts, hats, books, art prints, and much more. Even if you aren’t a shopper, be sure to stop in and take your picture inside a replica bathtub!
Get your Caffeine Fix or Have Lunch at Kollective Coffee + Tea
Visiting a local coffeehouse is one of my travel must-dos! Kollective Coffee + Tea is the perfect spot for a caffeine fix. Their coffee is sourced from Bentonville roaster, Onyx Coffee Lab, which is one of my favorite roasters. They also offer a selection of teas, pastries, sandwiches, and salads made with certified organic or natural ingredients.
Kollective has the longest-running consecutive weekly open mic series in not just the country, but perhaps even the world! Wednesday Night Poetry started on February 1, 1989, and has been held every single week since then for a total of 1725 weeks.
Art & Mural Walk
Downtown Hot Springs is home to a vibrant art scene, with murals adorning the walls of many buildings. The murals depict various aspects of the city’s history, from its early days as a spa town to its more recent transformation into a cultural hub. Visitors can find murals on both sides of Central Avenue, the main thoroughfare through downtown. You can pick up a map at the Hot Springs Visitor Center.
Many of the murals were created by local artists, and they provide a colorful and fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. In addition to the murals, Hot Springs also has a lively gallery scene. The first Friday of each month is the city’s Gallery Walk, when local galleries open their doors to the public and feature special exhibitions of artwork. The city is actually ranked 4th among the 100 Best Art Towns in America.
Other Family Things to Do In Hot Springs
Get Curious at Mid-America Science Museum
The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs is the perfect place to get teens’ curious minds going. With hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, a Tesla coil, and outdoor nature trails, the museum has something for everyone. The Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk is especially popular with teens, as they can walk on a suspended walkway that offers views of the grounds below.
The Oaklawn Foundation Dinotrek is the perfect activity for any family with members who love dinosaurs. This nearly 1-mile nature path features 13 impressive dinosaur statues with audio sounds for an engaging experience. There are plenty of opportunities to take photos along the way.
My favorite part of the museum is the collection of four of Rowland Emett’s kinetic sculptures featured in the 1968 movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Emett was a cartoonist and constructor of whimsical sculptures using common objects in novel ways. Mid-America is one of only two US museums with his sculptures permanently on display.
See a Glass Blowing Demonstration at Riley Art Glass Studio
The Riley brothers are well-known in the area for creating beautiful hand-blown glass artwork. They offer public demonstrations of their craft at the hot shop, where visitors can watch as master artisans make stunning works from molten glass! It’s both entertaining and educational – don’t miss it if you’re ever in town
See a Live Pottery Wheel Demo at Dryden Art Pottery Gallery
A visit to the Dryden Art Pottery Gallery is a must for anyone interested in pottery or art in general. Owner, James Dryden, was named an Arkansas Treasure in 2022 for his work in clay. This gallery houses an impressive collection of his and his son’s pottery, and the staff is always on hand to provide tours and answer any questions.
The real highlight of a visit to the gallery is the live pottery wheel demo. Visitors have the opportunity to watch as skilled artisans create beautiful pieces of pottery right before their eyes. It’s a truly mesmerizing experience, and it’s a great way to learn more about this fascinating art form. Best of all, the demo is completely free, so there’s no excuse not to check it out.
Annual Events in Hot Springs
Hot Springs’ many annual events are great fun for the whole family. You can find them all on the Hot Springs Visitor website, but here are two you won’t find anywhere else.
World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Every March, Hot Springs celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with the world’s shortest parade (98 feet long). Thousands of people gather around Bridge Street to watch a few dozen participants in Irish costumes march up and down the street.
World Championship Running of the Tubs – Each Junel, Hot Springs holds one of the strangest races around: The World Championship Running of the Tubs. Teams dress in costume and race in large metal bathtubs along Bathhouse Row. It’s a family-friendly event that is both entertaining and unique!
No matter what your family likes to do, you’re sure to find something fun and exciting in Hot Springs, Arkansas! With its natural hot springs, unique attractions, and abundance of outdoor activities, Hot Springs is the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation. So why not book your trip today? You won’t regret it!
Trip details: On my most recent visit, I flew into the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock from Oklahoma City. Then I drove into Hot Springs, about a 60-minute drive. I stayed at the Hot Springs Hotel, conveniently located in the downtown area. Downtown Hot Springs is walkable, but a car is recommended to explore the greater area.
Start planning your next trip today with Kayak.
Thank you to Visit Hot Springs for helping to make this trip possible. All opinions expressed are my own.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the amazing spa scene in Hot Springs! From mineral pools, water slides, and massages, you’re sure to find something for everyone – even if you just want to soak up the natural beauty at one of the many hot springs!
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