14 Romantic Things To Do In Hot Springs For Couples
Known for its natural hot springs, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a charming and relaxing destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. With its historic bathhouses, scenic mountain setting, and an array of couples-friendly activities, Hot Springs offers many memorable ways for duos to connect and rekindle their bond.
This comprehensive guide covers the top romantic things to do in Hot Springs, from nostalgic attractions and outdoor adventures to intimate dining and rejuvenating spa treatments. We'll explore both historic and modern sites, organizing them based on location and theme. You'll also find recommendations for romantic restaurants and accommodations strictly within Hot Springs to complete your idyllic couples' vacation.
So, let's get started!
1. Bathhouse Row
Important Information
- Address: 239 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Historic District).
- Opening Hours: Public exterior and park area accessible 24/7. Individual bathhouse hours vary (e.g., Buckstaff is operational; Fordyce is the visitor center).
- Parking: Limited free street parking. Paid public parking lots and garages nearby (e.g., the Exchange Street Parking Deck).
- Accessibility: The historic brick sidewalks can be uneven. The Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center is fully accessible, offering an elevator and accessible restrooms.
- Fees: No fee to walk the historic row. Fees apply for spa services at operational bathhouses like the Buckstaff or Quapaw.
Bathhouse Row is an iconic stretch in Hot Springs National Park featuring eight beautifully preserved bathhouses built between the early 1890s and 1923. These historic buildings—constructed in architectural styles ranging from Renaissance Revival to Spanish Colonial—face a broad promenade lined with magnolia trees and fountains, offering a memorable urban stroll through spa-era elegance.
Each structure reflects the golden age of American spa culture. The Fordyce Bathhouse today serves as the national park's visitor center, restored with its original interiors and detailing intact. The Buckstaff Bathhouse has operated continuously since 1912, offering traditional thermal baths and massages in an atmosphere rooted in authenticity. Meanwhile, Quapaw Baths & Spa blends history with modern rejuvenation, housing thermal pools beneath a tiled dome and offering treatments from hydrotherapy to facials.
2. Hot Springs National Park
Important Information
- Address: 101 Reserve St, Hot Springs, AR 71901 (Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center).
- Opening Hours: The park grounds are open 24/7. The Fordyce Visitor Center is typically open daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Parking: Available at the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, Gulpha Gorge Campground, and various trailheads. Downtown, use public lots.
- Accessibility: The Fordyce is accessible. Some trails are paved and accessible (e.g., portions of the Grand Promenade), while most mountain trails are rugged.
- Fees: No entrance fee for the national park. Fees apply for specific activities: camping, guided tours, and the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
Hot Springs National Park stands as a unique blend of natural wonder and urban accessibility, preserving 47 thermal springs that have drawn visitors for centuries. Established in 1832, it’s the oldest protected area in the U.S. park system—predating even Yellowstone. The park covers more than 5,000 acres of forested mountains, steeped in geology and health history.
Bathhouse Row anchors its cultural core, where restored buildings like Fordyce and active spas like Quapaw and Buckstaff reflect the city's spa heritage. But beyond the baths, the park offers miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and panoramic overlooks that invite exploration. Oak and hickory woodlands, bubbling springs, and historic architecture make it a national treasure tucked right into downtown Hot Springs.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Carina Jahn
I visited the park a few weeks ago and had a wonderful time. I only stayed a few hours, but I enjoyed walking around the town and on some of the trails. I liked that it is a dog friendly park as well. Some of the stores in town were also dog friendly. The scenery was beautiful and I hope to visit again in the future.
3. Gulpha Gorge Campground
Important Information
- Address: 305 Gorge Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: The campground is open year-round. Check-in/out times for sites are enforced.
- Parking: One vehicle included per campsite; parking is on the site or in designated spots.
- Accessibility: The campground offers accessible campsites (with paved pads) and an accessible restroom/shower facility.
- Fees: Camping fee required per night. Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov or are first-come, first-served.
Gulpha Gorge Campground lies just east of downtown Hot Springs within the national park, offering quiet forested sites amid wooded slopes. The campground features approximately 43 sites, all equipped with full hookups including 30- and 50-amp electrical service, water, sewer, picnic tables, grills, fire rings, and paved parking—though no showers are available on-site. Sites require advance reservation via Recreation.gov and typically cost $34 per night.
Campers here are steps away from the Gulpha Gorge Trail, a scenic path that climbs into the Ouachita foothills and links up with longer routes like the Hot Springs Mountain and Goat Rock trails—ideal for hikers seeking elevated views or natural escape within walking distance of their campsite. The atmosphere remains peaceful year-round—early awnings of sunlight, shared campfire stories, and the soft rustle of leaves.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Connor Thompson
My group of 4 stayed for a weekend in mid-November and it was the most perfect weather, perfect fall foliage weekend we could have wished for. The campground was clean, full of people enjoying themselves. We didn't hike the trail, but I will next time. Only thing to keep a lookout for, is that this isn't a gated campground like a state park would be. I saw a few passerbys using the facilities. Also, there aren't showers on the grounds.
4. Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center & Museum
Important Information
- Address: 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Parking: Use downtown public parking (Exchange Street deck is closest).
- Accessibility: Fully accessible via elevator to all three floors. Accessible restrooms available.
- Fees: Free admission. This is the official visitor center for Hot Springs National Park.
The Fordyce Bathhouse opened in 1915 as the grandest and most luxurious of Bathhouse Row's eight thermal spa houses. Designed in Renaissance Revival style by architects Mann and Stern for Samuel Fordyce’s family, the lavish facility cost over $212,000—both a health retreat and architectural showpiece. Covering nearly 28,000 square feet across three floors, the building features marble lobbies, stained glass windows, ornate bath halls, and the original Fordyce Spring in the basement.
Closed in 1962 amid declining spa popularity, it was restored and reopened in 1989 as the visitor center and museum for Hot Springs National Park. Today, visitors can tour the historic rooms, explore exhibits illustrating the era's spa culture, and watch an orientation film about the geology and history behind the thermal springs.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Hector Ruiz
If you're visiting from out of town, this is one of those places to check out. It offers some history and gives you an insight of how bathhouses ran. Admission was free as my family took a self guided tour.
After finishing the tour we even got a nice presentation from park ranger James Byrd. He gave us information about the types of local birds and ended up by giving my kid an activity to work on. There weren't other people who attended his presentation (which was a bit sad), but my family took the opportunity to learn one on one.
Overall it's something to check off when you're visiting the area.
5. Boating on Lake Ouachita
Important Information
- Address: Primary marina: Lake Ouachita State Park Marina, 5451 Mountain Harbor Rd, Mountain Pine, AR 71956.
- Opening Hours: Marinas are typically open daily from sunrise to sunset, with seasonal hours.
- Parking: Ample free parking at marina and state park day-use areas.
- Accessibility: Accessibility varies by marina. Lake Ouachita State Park offers accessible fishing piers and boat docks.
- Fees: No fee for public water access. Fees apply for boat rentals, guided tours, slip rentals, and state park entry ($5 per vehicle for Lake Ouachita State Park).
Lake Ouachita, Arkansas’s largest lake, spans over 40,000 acres with crystal-clear waters bordered by the Ouachita National Forest. Known for its purity and protected shoreline, the lake draws outdoor lovers year-round. Boaters can navigate nearly 700 miles of winding shorelines and more than 200 islands—many open for overnight camping.
The lake’s marinas rent everything from kayaks and paddleboards to ski boats and houseboats, making it easy to explore, relax, or fish. The Geo-Float Trail, marked by buoys, turns a casual ride into a floating geology lesson, while sunset cruises from Lake Ouachita State Park offer peaceful immersion in the landscape. Whether for sport or serenity, the lake is a haven for water-bound adventure.
6. Garvan Woodland Gardens
Important Information
- Address: 550 Arkridge Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913.
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (extended hours for seasonal light displays like "Holiday Lights"). Last admission one hour before close.
- Parking: Large, free, paved parking lot on-site.
- Accessibility: The gardens are very accessible, with paved primary paths, accessible tram tours, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Some woodland trails are more natural.
- Fees: Admission fee required for adults, seniors, and children. Discounts for online purchases. Separate, higher pricing for special event periods.
Garvan Woodland Gardens, a 210-acre botanical gem owned by the University of Arkansas, stretches along approximately 4.5 miles of shoreline beside Lake Hamilton in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains . Created over decades by philanthropist Verna Cook Garvan, the garden blends artful design with native landscape: rocky inclines, streams, wildflowers, and hundreds of varieties of shrubs and azaleas set a tone of contemplative beauty.
Highlights include the serene Anthony Chapel—an open-air pavilion of redwood, glass, and steel—alongside whimsical features like a treehouse, Japanese-inspired garden segments, and the Garvan Pavilion, both designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings.
Open daily during fair weather hours with standard admission, the garden includes accessible walking trails, occasional golf cart tours, and seasonal programming like floral festivals and art installations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Debbie Mullins
This is not your average botanical garden. You're walking through a forest filled with a variety of different trees and shrubs that are blooming and changing color through every season. There are many creeks, waterfalls, bridges, and rock fomations that are all different. It sits on a peninsula , and you get views of Lake Hamilton in some areas. There's plenty for the children with a model train area. A fairy garden. A Sculpture garden with huge rock formations that create tunnels and caves and a waterfall that you can walk behind. They have a tulip festival in the spring, with thousands of tulips in every color. Their Christmas lights festival is absolutely stunning. So many unique settings in beautiful lights Things I've not seen anywhere else. I would guess it's at least a 2 mile walk. For Christmas, 2025 adult admission is $22. When purchased online and $30 at the door. If you live nearby, a one year membership for 2 people is only $75.
7. Mid‑America Science Museum
Important Information
- Address: 500 Mid America Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71913.
- Opening Hours: Typically Wednesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
- Parking: Free, large paved parking lot.
- Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, including exhibits and restrooms.
- Fees: General admission fee required. Discounts for seniors, children, and military. Annual memberships available.
Located on a wooded campus just outside downtown Hot Springs, the Mid‑America Science Museum is Arkansas’s premier hands-on science destination and a Smithsonian affiliate. With over 100 interactive exhibits, it blends mechanical marvels, kinetic art, and educational fun in a setting built for exploration and curiosity.
One of its standout features is the Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk—a 32-foot elevated walkway packed with exhibits and outdoor learning space. Indoors, visitors marvel at the powerful conical Tesla coil capable of generating 1.5 million volts, along with Rowland Emett kinetic sculptures originally seen in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Other galleries—like DinoTrek and the oak-lined energy exhibits—appeal to all ages through dynamic, tactile displays.
Following a major renovation in 2015, the museum added dozens of new exhibits and updated classics to ensure the experience feels fresh and engaging.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Hector Ruiz
Great place to take the family and enjoy the day. There's plenty to see and learn inside and outside the main building. My favorite thing to see was the famous Tesla coil. The digital dome theater was also fun. If you come in early enough during the week you can go through the exhibits without too many people. If you're from out of town I would recommend a visit here with the family.
8. Gangster Museum of America
Important Information
- Address: 510 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with extended hours in peak season).
- Parking: Use downtown public parking (street or nearby lots/garages).
- Accessibility: The museum is located on one level and is wheelchair accessible.
- Fees: Admission fee required. Discounts for seniors, military, and children.
Touring the Gangster Museum of America in Hot Springs is like stepping into a film noir cityscape—from its unassuming storefront to richly themed galleries. Located on Central Avenue, it brings to life Hot Springs’ era as a Prohibition-era playground for infamous mobsters such as Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, and Owney Madden. Your guide leads you through seven immersive galleries—including the Capone Gallery and Casino Gallery—paired with video narratives, historical photos, and curated artifacts that flesh out the city’s gambling, bootlegging, and spa-era intrigues.
As you move from room to room, many stories unfold—from how Luciano brushed off New York detectives while walking Bathhouse Row to Madden’s legendary betting switchboard and Hot Springs' clandestine gambling circuit. At the end, a gift shop offers themed books, apparel, and headwear for mementos. This museum doesn’t glamorize its subject but captures the gritty human drama and historical quirks that made Hot Springs a notorious stop in America's criminal underworld.
In addition to the bathhouse and gangster history, guides share amusing tales of famous past visitors. Hear how Babe Ruth loved visiting Hot Springs baseball training camps so much he'd sneak away from Yankee training to play here. Learn how world-famous pianist Liberace first performed in the city. You'll gain insight into Hot Springs' glamorous past as a hideaway for celebrities, musicians, politicians, and athletes.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Shana Fields
I learned so much about both baseball and gangster activities in the history of Hot Springs. I enjoyed it so much I got a couple books about it here and went back to my room and read them. Such interesting history!
The museum itself relies heavily on videos to tell the story. You go from room to room and watch a video then go to the next. Each room tells a different part of the story. They were interesting and filled with local people. There was memorabilia in the rooms as well. But not like most typical museums. I feel like it is more about the stories.
9. Oaklawn Hot Springs (Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort)
Important Information
- Address: 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: The casino is open 24/7. Racing season typically runs from December to early May.
- Parking: Free, massive self-parking garage and valet parking available.
- Accessibility: The entire resort is ADA-compliant, with accessible parking, entrances, gaming areas, and restrooms.
- Fees: No admission fee to enter the casino or grounds. Fees apply for betting, dining, hotel stays, and spa services.
Oaklawn in Hot Springs is far more than a racetrack—it’s a seamless blend of sport, hospitality, and heritage. Home to one of America’s premier thoroughbred tracks since 1904, Oaklawn hosts events like the Arkansas Derby and “Racing Festival of the South” each spring. The property also houses a luxury resort hotel, spa, and a smoke-free casino, all walking distance from the National Park and Bathhouse Row.
Evenings here extend beyond the finish line to include fine dining in The OAK Room & bar, casual meals at the Track Kitchen, or cocktails at The Bugler, all under one roof. The Astral Spa completes the experience with treatments like infrared saunas, needle showers, and a Himalayan salt wall echoing the opulence of Bathhouse Row.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Felicia English
My husband and I had never been to a casino before but we hope that they are all as wonderful as Oaklawn! The dealers were very understanding about our lack of knowledge and helped us to have the best experience by explaining the rules.
We played quite a bit of blackjack and had an excellent time! The service was attentive without being overbearing. We will certainly be back the next time we are in Hot Springs!
10. Lake Catherine State Park
Important Information
- Address: 1200 Catherine Park Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913.
- Opening Hours: Park grounds: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Day-use areas: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
- Parking: Free parking in designated day-use areas.
- Accessibility: Offers accessible fishing piers, picnic sites, a campground, and visitor center. Some trails are paved/accessible (like the Falls Branch Trail bridge).
- Fees: $5 per vehicle for day-use entry. Additional fees for camping, cabin rentals, and guided boat tours.
Lake Catherine State Park is a scenic haven just eight miles southeast of Hot Springs, Arkansas, set along a 1,940-acre mountain lake backed by the Ouachita foothills. Established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the park still displays charming rustic cabins, historic stone-and-wood structures—including two built by German POWs—and trails that echo an era of thoughtful design.
Outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to do here. Miles of forested trails lead to scenic viewpoints and a hidden waterfall just a short hike from the Falls Branch trailhead. The park’s marina offers summer rentals of boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and party barges, while anglers cast lines for bass, catfish, crappie, and more.
Accommodations include lakeside cabins with private docks, Class A campsites, primitive tent sites, and even a Rent‑A‑Yurt—all set amid serene woodlands or waterfront views. Park staff lead guided hikes, horseback rides, and interpretive programs in warmer months.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Christy Foster
Gorgeous lake and super nice campground! We were lucky enough to get Site 58, right on the water and it may very well be the best site in the campground. Each site has a nice long level paved pad, a picnic table on a paved pad, a stationary lantern hook, a graveled tent pad, water, sewer, electric and a fire ring you can cook on and a Charcoal grill. Each section (A, B and C) have their own restrooms with two clean showers and two bathroom stalls for each sex. There are several hiking trails directly from the campground and you can fish for trout snd Bluegill from your camp site. It's only a 20 minute drive to Hot Springs National Park. We're staying two nights and we're already wishing we would have booked more, as it's already filled with no availability for longer.
11. Quapaw Baths & Spa
Important Information
- Address: 413 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 (On Bathhouse Row).
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily. Spa hours often 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM; public pool hours may vary. Reservations strongly recommended.
- Parking: Use downtown public parking (street or nearby lots/garages).
- Accessibility: The modern facility is fully wheelchair accessible.
- Fees: No general admission fee. Pay-per-service model for private baths, thermal pools, and spa treatments (massages, facials, etc.).
Quapaw Baths & Spa offers a serene retreat on Bathhouse Row within Hot Springs National Park, combining historic architecture and modern relaxation. Built in 1922 in Spanish Colonial Revival style and recently restored, Quapaw features four generous thermal spring pools and private soaking rooms. Its mosaic-tiled dome and elegant interior evoke the city’s spa-era legacy while providing wellness-focused services like massages, facials, and body polishes for full rejuvenation.
The spa experience is complemented by a café serving healthy smoothies, Elixir tonics, wraps, and fair-trade coffee. A boutique showcases organic body-care products and local art. Reviews praise the facility’s cleanliness, friendly staff, and calming ambiance—perfect after a day of sightseeing or hiking in the national park.
Open daily (closed Tuesdays), Quapaw sits squarely at the convergence of history and healing, inviting visitors to soak, slow down, and refresh amidst architectural grace and thermal waters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Kelsey Peters
Great experience! Rachel, the massage therapist was very knowledgeable and provided great treatment. The public bath set up is awesome! Very clean, helpful staff, and rules in place to keep things running smoothly. Men and women's locker rooms available for public pools. 4 different temperature pools for public use. Showers with privacy in locker rooms for before and after using baths. Dryers available for use. Café on site along with a spa. Beautiful spot on the downtown main street. Huge Magnolias.
12. Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo
Important Information
- Address: 847 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (seasonal variations; often closes for winter).
- Parking: Free, unpaved parking lot.
- Accessibility: The main paths are paved, but the terrain is somewhat hilly. The facility is generally accessible with assistance.
- Fees: Admission fee required. Separate fee for a cup of food to feed animals.
The Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, established in 1902 on Whittington Avenue, combines animal encounters with a slice of Hot Springs lore. Housing roughly 200 alligators, it also features cougars, turtles, bobcats, lemurs, and a petting zoo with goats, emus, deer, pigs, and even baby alligators you can hold—alongside a preserved “merman” in the small museum exhibit.
A daily alligator feeding show at noon (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday) delivers both thrills and education. Staff explain reptile biology, safety protocols, and local history—making it accessible and engaging for kids and curious adults alike. This quirky institution also holds baseball legend: on March 17, 1918, Babe Ruth famously hit a home run that landed inside the farm—shaping his profile as a hitter.
Part zoo, part time capsule, and part living roadside oddity, the Alligator Farm offers a memorable dose of nature, nostalgia, and regional uniqueness.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Hector Ruiz
This is a great place to visit and take the family if you're coming in from out of town. It was fun to see and pet different animals like goats, rabbits, tortoises, and alligators.
The alligator handler was extremely attentive and gave us information about the younger gators. If you're planning on feeding certain animals there's a fee, but it wasn't too expensive and you get a really nice memory out of it.
We also got to see a few other animals like lemurs, peacocks, a wolf, etc. The location was small, but it was nice. The crowd size was small enough, and the souvenir shop had plenty of things to take home.
13. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum
Important Information
- Address: 250 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Parking: Use downtown public parking (street or nearby lots/garages).
- Accessibility: The museum is housed in a historic building with multiple floors. It is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs; there is no elevator.
- Fees: Admission fee required.
Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum, open since 1971 in downtown Hot Springs, stands as Arkansas’s only wax museum. Situated in the historic Southern Club building, the 14,000-square-foot Romanesque-style venue features over 100 life-size wax figures arranged in thematic galleries, along with scenes that blend celebrity, legend, and era-specific history including gambling artifacts.
Its seven themed areas—ranging from fairy tales to “World of Horrors”—offer a mix of nostalgia, whimsy, and occasional campy thrills. Visitors note its vintage charm and quirky vibe, with stories of an escape tunnel once used during raids and scenes depicting both Hollywood icons and local pastimes.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Rachel Pinkerton
We went in here on a Saturday afternoon. Admission was very reasonable, I think $30 for two adults. We were the only people inside, which I liked. It was dark and creepy and chilly, which I liked. Some of the scenes were unhinged, which I really liked. In short, this was my favorite attraction in Hot Springs. If you are strange and unusual like I myself am, you will like this place too. Be sure not to miss Arkansas’s first escalator (no longer in working condition) and a vinyl copy of an Ann-Margret album that is on display because she was romantically involved with some dude who worked there
14. DeSoto Golf Course
Important Information
- Address: 3000 Airport Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913.
- Opening Hours: Pro Shop typically opens at dawn. Tee times can be booked in advance.
- Parking: Free parking lot at the clubhouse.
- Accessibility: The clubhouse is accessible. The course itself is a traditional golf layout; ADA-compliant golf carts may be available upon request.
- Fees: Greens fees required, with rates varying by day, time, and residency (resident discounts). Cart rental is an additional fee.
DeSoto Golf Course in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, opened in 1972 as the community’s inaugural course—and remains a cornerstone of the Village’s nine-course golf destination. Designed by Ault, Clark & Associates, DeSoto is a traditional 18‑hole layout boasting a par of 72 and measuring approximately 6,733 yards from the championship tees. The course guides players through rolling fairways and wooded terrain with three memorable finishing holes—a par‑5 at 16, a par‑4 at 17, and another par‑5 at 18 offering both challenge and reward.
Fairways are maintained with 419 Bermuda grass, and plush Champion Ultra‑Dwarf Bermuda greens ensure a forgiving but firm putting surface. Beyond the course, amenities include a clubhouse with the DeSoto Club restaurant, a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop for equipment and instruction.
Welcoming to families and players of all skill levels, DeSoto blends approachable design with quality conditions and serves as a fitting starting point for any golfing excursion in the Village.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Milton Hope
Then just another memorable experience at Hot Springs village, this time playing DeSoto golf course. Wonderful facility, friendly staff and well organized. We put new screws and nuts in here got paired up with three locals and it was a great way to meet some other friendly golfers at new the course to show me around. A lot of rain the previous week made some areas still a little mushy with mud some of the grass have been tore away from the ground. Greens ran true and smooth fairways were in great condition. Decent-sized practice putting green and driving range. Well stocked pro shop and the snack bar/restaurant had a good hot dog. DeSoto golf course is right on the same level as all the other courses inside Hot Springs village. I've played six of the eight golf courses. What is a private course that I didn't play one is a executive course that I didn't play. But the six that I have played have been nothing but top notch facilities. If you get a chance to play any of the six courses that are regulation in length at Hot Springs village I highly highly recommend that you do it will be a wonderful time.
Interactive Map
Where to Eat in Hot Springs
| # | Restaurant | Address | Contact Info | Business Hours | Signature Dish / Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Superior Bathhouse Brewery | 329 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 624-2337 | Daily: 11 AM–10 PM | Craft beer brewed with thermal spring water & casual pub food |
| 2 | Ohio Club | 405 W Grand Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 623-3269 | Mon–Sat: 11 AM–12 AM; Sun: 12 PM–12 AM | Historic bar serving American comfort fare in Arkansas’s oldest bar |
| 3 | 501 Prime | 215 E Grand Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 623-0202 | Daily: 4 PM–9 PM | Upscale steak and seafood with extensive bourbon bar |
| 4 | Steinhaus Keller | 731 Central Ave Suite 100, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 318-7048 | Wed–Mon: 11 AM–10 PM; Closed Tue | German Bavarian cuisine in a unique grotto-style biergarten |
| 5 | The OAK Room & Bar | 277 Oaklawn St, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 984-0953 | Tue–Sun: varies—call ahead | Contemporary Southern fine dining with curated wine list |
| 6 | Eden at Hotel Hale | 329 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 624-4000 | Daily: 6 AM–9 PM | Elegant American cuisine in a restored 1892 bathhouse setting |
| 7 | SQZBX Brewery & Pizza Joint | 120 Ouachita Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 624-7374 | Wed–Sun: 11 AM–9 PM; Closed Mon–Tue | Handcrafted pizzas & brew; musician-owned community vibe |
| 8 | McClard’s Bar-B-Q | 35 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 | (501) 624-5911 | Daily: 10 AM–7 PM | Old-school BBQ, famous ribs and pork with regional sauce |
Hot Springs Vs Neighbouring Cities
| Criterion | Hot Springs | Eureka Springs | Bentonville | Little Rock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Romantic Ambiance | Historic bathhouses, mountain setting, spa retreats | Victorian charm, winding streets, treehouse stays | Modern artsy vibe with upscale galleries & design hotels | Elegant riverfront, preserved Quapaw Quarter district |
| Signature Experience | Thermal spa soaks at Bathhouse Row | Victorian guesthouses and scenic ‘Little Switzerland’ atmosphere | Crystal Bridges Museum + boutique art hotels | Riverboat cruises, historic district strolling |
| Outdoor & Scenic | Ouachita Mountain views, hiking trails, scenic drives | Ozark mountain hikes, nearby wildlife refuge | Biking trails, parks, Aspen-like lakeside escapes nearby | Pulaski State Park, riverwalks, nearby lakes |
| Culinary Scene | Eclectic—from fine dining to bathhouse brewery eats | Quaint cafés, bistros in a historic strollable downtown | Upscale restaurants, farm-to-table with art-inspired settings | Southern elegance, urban dining with historic flair |
| Accommodation Style | Historic inns, treehouse/glamping retreats | Charming Victorian B&Bs, treehouses, secluded cottages | Trendy boutique hotels, artistic design havens | Luxury historic hotels like the Capital or Empress B&B |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round; especially romantic in winter or Valentine’s | Spring–Fall for lush Ozarks and festivals | Spring & Fall for outdoor and art touring | Spring/Summer—ideal for river activities & heritage walks |
How to Get to Hot Springs
By Car
Hot Springs is located in central Arkansas, about an hour southwest of Little Rock. It’s well connected by highways.
- From Little Rock, AR: ~55 miles, ~1 hour via I-30 W and US-70 W.
- From Dallas, TX: ~300 miles, ~4.5 hours via I-30 E.
- From Memphis, TN: ~185 miles, ~3 hours via I-40 W and US-70 W.
- From Oklahoma City, OK: ~340 miles, ~5 hours via I-40 E.
Parking is widely available at hotels, bathhouses, and city lots near downtown Hot Springs.
By Air
- Clinton National Airport (LIT), Little Rock: ~55 miles (1 hour). Major hub with domestic and limited international flights.
- Memphis International Airport (MEM): ~3 hours away, another option for broader connections.
- Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): ~4.5 hours if driving directly.
Car rentals and shuttle services are available from LIT to Hot Springs.
By Train
Hot Springs does not have direct Amtrak service.
- Closest Amtrak stations: Little Rock (Union Station).
- From there, travelers can rent a car, take a taxi, or arrange shuttle service for the one-hour drive to Hot Springs.
By Bus
- Greyhound and Jefferson Lines provide service to Little Rock.
- From Little Rock, local shuttles, taxis, or rental cars can complete the trip.
- Some small regional bus services also connect directly into Hot Springs.
Local Transportation
- Car rentals are recommended if you plan to explore beyond downtown.
- Trolleys and shuttles operate seasonally in the central area (bathhouse row, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, etc.).
- Taxis and ride-shares (Uber, Lyft) are available but more limited than in major cities.
Conclusion
With its stunning natural scenery, rich history, rejuvenating thermal waters, and an array of couples-friendly activities, Hot Springs provides the recipe for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
From nostalgic glimpses into Hot Springs' storied past in its bathhouses, gangster tours, and old-world hotels, to active outdoor couples experiences like hiking, boating, and horseback riding in the Ouachita mountains - Hot Springs has it all. The city's unique history and culture shine through in attractions like the artistic Culture Trail and Historic Trolley Tours.
Let Hot Springs ignite a spark between you and your significant other. Make time to enjoy leisurely soaks and dinners built for two in between your discoveries. Return home feeling refreshed, renewed, and reconnected after days spent focusing on each other in this charming, romantic getaway spot.
Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Hot Springs vacation rentals for you.
FAQ
1. Is Hot Springs, Arkansas worth visiting for a weekend getaway?
Absolutely—Hot Springs is one of Arkansas’s most unique weekend escapes. Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, it’s the only city inside a U.S. national park, offering a rare blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and wellness tourism. People often rave about the bathhouse row experience—especially soaking in the thermal waters at Quapaw Baths or Buckstaff Bathhouse. But there’s more than just spa vibes. You’ve got scenic trails in Hot Springs National Park, quirky shops downtown, and live horse racing at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and families. In two days, you can hike, soak, eat well, and still feel relaxed. Just avoid peak summer weekends—they get crowded fast.
2. What’s the best time of year to visit Hot Springs, Arkansas?
Spring (March to May) and fall (late September through November) are the best times to visit. In spring, you’ll find blooming dogwoods and mild hiking temps, while fall gives you colorful foliage and fewer crowds. Summer can be brutally humid, with highs in the 90s—and because it’s school break season, it’s usually packed with families. Winter is quieter, but still beautiful, especially if you’re here for spa time or a cozy retreat. Bonus: Bathhouse Row is warm and welcoming even in January. If you’re planning a trip, try mid-week in spring or early November for ideal conditions and better hotel rates.
3. Which hot springs are actually open to the public for soaking?
This one gets asked a lot because many people assume the natural springs in the park are for swimming—they’re not. The hot springs in Hot Springs National Park are protected and too hot to bathe in directly, and none of the outdoor springs are open for public soaking. If you want the full thermal bath experience, head to Quapaw Baths & Spa (more modern, with pools) or Buckstaff Bathhouse (old-school and very historic). Both tap directly into the natural springs. Quapaw is better for group relaxation, while Buckstaff offers a traditional bathhouse circuit with a private soak, loofah scrub, and massage. Expect 100–104°F mineral-rich water piped straight from the source—no chlorine, no gimmicks.
4. Is Hot Springs family-friendly or better for couples/adults?
Hot Springs actually strikes a nice balance. Kids love spots like the Mid-America Science Museum, Magic Springs Theme & Water Park, and hiking trails like the easy Hot Springs Mountain Tower Trail. Meanwhile, adults can relax in spa baths, tour the historic Gangster Museum of America, or gamble and enjoy cocktails at Oaklawn. That said, Bathhouse Row is mostly geared toward adults, and some spas have age limits (usually 14+ or 18+). Families typically stay near Lake Hamilton, which has cabin rentals, boating, and space for kids to roam. Couples often opt for downtown boutique hotels like The Waters or Hotel Hale for a more romantic, walkable vibe.
5. How touristy is Hot Springs—and does it still feel authentic?
It’s touristy, but not in a bad way. Reddit threads generally reflect a love-hate relationship: people appreciate the history and charm, but note that certain areas (like Bathhouse Row or Central Ave) can feel overly polished. That said, the authenticity is still very much alive. Locals frequent the trails, the Superior Bathhouse Brewery (the only brewery in a national park!), and hidden gems like Kollective Coffee+Tea or the Hot Springs Farmers & Artisans Market. If you want a more laid-back, less commercial vibe, explore beyond downtown. Hike West Mountain, catch sunset at Balanced Rock, or head to Garvan Woodland Gardens for a quiet, curated nature walk.
6. Do you need a car to get around Hot Springs, or is it walkable?
Downtown Hot Springs is surprisingly walkable—if you’re staying in or near Central Avenue, you can easily reach Bathhouse Row, shops, trails, restaurants, and the visitor center on foot. However, To really enjoy the region, a car is helpful, especially if you plan to explore Lake Ouachita, Garvan Woodland Gardens, or head into the Ouachita Mountains for hiking or kayaking. Public transportation is very limited, and rideshare availability (like Uber) can be hit or miss. If you're flying into Little Rock, rent a car—Hot Springs is about an hour away, and having your own wheels opens up the full experience beyond the bathhouses.
