8 Things to Do in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Immersed in a deep series of lovely mountains, Hot Springs is a popular tourism destination and the main access point to the famed Ouachita Hiking Trail . There are many entertaining things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas, including tours, hikes and odd points of interest. Below is basic advice for visiting the area along with major attractions visitors can enjoy.


Affiliate Disclosure: Leftfade Trails contains affiliate links, so using services or products through these links supports the website, at no extra cost to the user. All links are to tested services and products designed to aid travelers on their journeys. Some links specifically connect to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate this website earns from qualifying purchases.


A wide hallway with wicker chairs sits atop tiled floors in the Fordyce Bathhouse
The lobby of Fordyce Bathhouse, opened in 1915 in Hot Spring Arkansas

Advice When Visiting

Ouachita is splendid for hiking and other outdoor activities. The trails that extend around Ouachita National Forest are well marked and easy to find.  However, the hiking is somewhat challenging.  The mountains in his area are full of loose and round stones, so be sure to have stable footwear.

At the time of this writing, entry into Ouachita National Park by car is free. Visitors can find parking at various sites.

In Hot Springs, parking near Bathhouse Row, especially on weekends, is a bit tricky.  It’s better to park further down the street at a restaurant or shop and take the time to walk over and explore the hills, rather than risking the meter running out.  It’s a really beautiful area and shouldn’t be rushed.

The Spring Water found on the free taps in the city is drinkable.  Cold spring water is drinkable, but has been treated.  Hot spring water comes out warm, but it is not treated.  It is still ranked as drinkable.  Locals often stock up on water here and take them home.

Top 8 Things to See in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Bathhouse RowLocated in the historic district of Hot Springs, this walking area hosts many old buildings, access to the famed hot springs of town and various shops and cafés. Parking can be a bit tricky, so it’s sometimes wise to park elsewhere and walk to Bathhouse Row.

Hot Springs Mammoth TowerLocated atop a low hill, this tower overlooks the town, river and woods of Hot Springs. the hiking trails heading up the hillside are beautiful and easy to navigate.

The Grand Promenade – A small trail passing several fountains and historical markers. This main walk goes past a series of quaint shops and is particularly lovely in the autumn when seasons are changing.

Hot Springs National Park This is a large hiking and scenic driving area located directly around the Hot Springs Old Town District. There are numerous trails to enjoy and outdoor recreational activities.

Garvan Woodland Gardens An amazing and gorgeous sculpture and woodland garden space with unique architecture.  Cost of entry is $15 USD per adult.

Ouachita National ForestA free-entry park area with truly impressive woodlands, a famously large and gorgeous lake and excellent hiking trails.  The trails are well-maintained and extend into some of the longest and most famous trekking routes in the United States.

Tiny Town A unique little attraction, Tiny Town is a small model of Americana culture.  It was rescued after damage in a tornado and relocated to Hot Springs.  Entry is $6 USD per adult.

Mid-America Science MuseumA kid-friendly venue, this museum also hosts a powerful conical Tesla coil rippling with electricity.  It’s mesmerizing to watch.

A brick building with green doors and windows sits along Bathhouse Row in  Hot Springs Arkansas
Historical bathhouse of Bathhouse Row

Bathhouse Row

The modern Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs Arkansas consists of several buildings preserved from the 1890’s to the early 1920’s. The buildings and surrounding footpath areas are pleasantly pretty. As a popular tourist attraction, the entire street has cafés, small shops and outdoor spring areas. All eight of the bathhouses on Bathhouse Row are right next to one another. Some are still operational hot spring baths, while others are breweries, hotels museums or gift shops.

Hot Springs Mammoth Tower

In the late 1800’s, a local mill owner constructed a large wooden tower atop Hot Springs Mountain to allow visitors to overlook the countryside. The tower has been replaced a couple of times and currently looks over the surrounding mountains and city. Admission is $12 per adult. It is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

A steam cloud rises off a small thermal pool surrounded my a footpath on a cloudy day. A black trash can and bench are nearby
Hot spring thermal vent along the Grand Promenade, Hot Springs, Arkansas

The Grand Promenade

When considering things to do in Little Rock Arkansas, the Grand Promenade is the most historical, accessibly and relaxing. The National Recreation Trail is a brick path wandering behind Bathhouse Row. It connects to the nearby low mountains just outside the city.

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park is a historic woodland protected area. It exists within part of Hot Springs. Bathhouse Row is part of the protected area, but the majority of the park’s territory winds up into the mountains. Additionally, the park has numerous hiking and biking trails, guided tours and access towards streams created by natural hot springs in the area.

Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs Arkansas displays a series of bright yellow flowers with red marks on the petals surrounding a bed of multi-colored tulips
Garvan Woodland Gardens

Garvan Woodland Gardens

Located just south of the city center, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a combination of architectural designs and botanical structures. Additionally, it has access to the nearby river, numerous hiking trails, the Perry Wildflower Overlook and numerous strange, organically-shaped buildings. Entry is $15 Dollars per adult.

Ouachita National Forest

Venerated as the oldest and largest national forest in the Southern United States, this forest loops around the Ouachita River area. The terrain is decorated with lush forests and low, rolling mountains. However, walking on the trails in the area requires proper footwear, since fist-sized rolling stones are somewhat common on the trails. Entry into the park is free, through overnight stays require a camping fee. There is a population of black bears who call the national forest home, so follow bear safety habits when hiking or camping in the area.

Tiny Town

Tiny Town is a cute feature when visiting Hot Spring Arkansas. The model train set depicts an operational little town, hand-crafted by the departed Frank and Louise Moshinskie. The town is surprisingly expansive with new features being added yearly, including tiny kinetic scultures. The town operates as an homage to the 1950’s with many features referencing the pop culture of the time. Tours of the village are enhanced when overhead lights are turned off and the town blinks to life. The cost of entry for adults is $8 dollars while children can enter for $5.

Mid-America Science Museum

If you have children, the Mid-America Science Museum is one of the best things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas. The museum has over a hundred exhibits, most designed to be interactive and hands-on. The Museum’s most interesting centerpiece is called “Caged Lightning.” It was ranked as the World’s Most Powerful Tesla Coil in 2007.


Read about my firsthand experience visiting Hot Springs Arkansas by clicking here to read my travel blog.