While the outskirts of Hot Springs have many things to offer visitors, most of the attractions can be found right on Central Avenue in Hot Spring's "historic district". In this central area one can find trails leading to a pleasant hike up the mountain, arts events (the documentary film festival being one), shopping, visitor information centers and the bath houses. There is no need to leave the main street if you are just taking a day trip!
The Heated Springs
One attribute of Hot Springs is obvious to anyone who hears the name. Naturally heated "thermal springs" can be found all over the city. While most of these have been covered, there are still a few active springs. Even in 50 degree weather you can feel (and see) the heat that these springs give off.
These springs are a natural wonder but they also produce very good drinking water. As a matter of fact, Mountain Valley Spring, the bottled water company, is located in Hot Springs on 150 Central Avenue. All Mountain Valley Spring water is actually processed Hot Springs water. Hot Springs residents (and visitors) can get Hot Springs water for free. Water spigots can be found on the streets of the city. The water that comes out of these spigots is warm (on a cold day, it's just lukewarm) and directly from the springs. People line up to get it. The water is so popular that one man I spoke to hauled gallon containers from another state to bring some famous Hot Springs water back with him!
Baths, History and Shopping
Everyone's favorite use for Hot Springs water can be found on Bath House Row. There are many historic bathhouse buildings lining the main avenue. Most serve other functions, such as visitor's centers and information buildings, now and no longer used for baths. The only operational bathhouse is Buckstaff. Buckstaff is open year round and offers thermal baths and massage. A full bath package is only around $40. This is the perfect place to take your spouse for a day of pampering (and they offer gift certificates).
After your bath, walk around downtown Hot Springs and shop in the many little shops and boutiques you'll find. You can shop for antiques, toys, apparel and more in unique and historic buildings.
Family Fun & Nature
Hot Springs has many attractions aimed at families. In the warmer months, most familes will want to go to the Magic Springs/Crystal Falls amusement park. However, even in the cooler months there are many things to see that will keep kids occupied. Many of the family oriented attractions are downtown (close to the attractions adults will want to see).
The Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum, The Maxwell Blade Theater of Magic and Pirates Cove Putt Putt are all popular family attractions that are right on central avenue.
Mid America Science Museum is also off from Central Avenue (on Mid-America Blvd.) but a trip worth taking if you have children. Mid-America is one the best "hands-on" museum I've ever been to. Their exhibits are extremely engaging and fun for everyone (even adults).
Families might also enjoy the beauty of the actual park. There are many hiking trails that will take you the top of Hot Springs mountain and many picnic areas along the mountainside. Besides the thermal springs, Hot Springs has acres and acres of forest. A trip to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower (which takes you 180 feet above the mountain) will give you an idea of the grandeur of the park. The mountain tower is just about 5 minutes away from Central Avenue and the brave at heart can hike up to the tower from Central Avenue on one of the many hiking trails.
