Sights & Activities:

Hot Springs was a sacred place for Native American tribes, who came to Manataka Mountain (Place of Peace), to heal in the magic waters of the Valley of the Vapors. No weapons or fighting were allowed until Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto arrived in 1541 in search of the Fountain of Youth. President Andrew Jackson made Hot Springs the first Federal Reservation in 1832, a forerunner to America's national park system. Rain that falls on Hot Springs Mountain emerges 4,000 years later in the form of over 40 pure springs, naturally heated to 143ºF. More area info...

The Baths: Start your visit to Hot Springs National Park at the Fordyce Bathhouse, now a visitor center and museum. Although Bathhouse Row is a National Historic Landmark District, only the Buckstaff is still in operation. We had a great time at the baths at the Arlington, where the sensation of being transported back to the 1920s was as relaxing as the soak-scrub-steam routine itself. Take the waters in the afternoon, and follow it with liquid of another kind in the Arlington's atmospheric Lobby Bar. Drinking is legal here these days, unlike Hot Springs' heyday in the 1920s, an era notorious for gambling, speakeasies, and mobsters. In fact, Al Capone always stayed in Room 442 at the Arlington. If you'd rather take the waters in a co-ed environment, visit the affordable Hot Springs Health Club.

Historic District: The bathhouses fell from favor in the 1950s, the gambling casinos closed in the 1960s, and the town fell on hard times. Recent revitalization efforts include the downtown arts district, with a variety of Central Avenue galleries. Special events are always on the calendar, from monthly Gallery Walks, to art shows, to wine-tasting extravaganzas, to family festivals, to classical music concerts, to a documentary film series. Admission is either free or modestly priced.

Area activities: Five lakes plus miles of surrounding parkland provide great hiking, fishing, canoeing, boating and golfing. Orient yourself with a visit to Hot Springs Mountain Tower, with a 70-mile view in all directions, then chose a hike from the 26-mile network of trails. For a first-rate area introduction, contact Outdoor Adventure Tours, whether you want a two-hour tour or a day-long adventure. Additional area attractions range from thoroughbred racing to theme parks; more info...

Inns: Many Hot Springs mansions have been restored as bed and breakfast inns. Spring Street House is just steps from hiking trails on Hot Springs Mountain as well as the Hot Springs Health Club. Highlights include its charming young owners, August and Cheri Ericson, and its beautiful antique furnishings. The 1890 Williams House is located in a handsomely restored residential neighborhood, a pleasant walk to downtown and Bathhouse Row. The inn combines the historic charm of its original woodwork and architectural detailing with in-room whirlpool tubs and other romantic amenities. Stitt House offers the warmth of a homestay B&B, plus the elegance of a 6,000-square-foot historic mansion. Long-time owners Linda and Horst Fischer combine their in-depth knowledge of Hot Springs with European hospitality. Highlights include Linda's outstanding breakfasts, and the inviting swimming pool and hot tub. Decorated with family heirlooms and collectibles, the Gables Inn offers affordable getaways. Lillian's Room has a king-size brass bed, with a décor of angels and doves, while the Sunshine Room has a heart-shaped whirlpool tub.

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