Hot Springs Arkansas is a great destination for anyone wanting an easy and beautiful escape. This quaint town is nestled in the hills of Arkansas surrounded by breathtakingly clear lakes and luscious trees. From hiking to spas, Hot Springs offers a little something for everyone. Check out this quick weekend guide to Hot Springs below!
A Weekend Guide to Hot Springs
Arkansas is known as the “Natural State” and it certainly lives up to the name. My favorite thing about the town of Hot Springs is that it’s situated right in the middle of the Hot Springs National Park itself. This means that when you stay relatively close to Bathhouse Row, you can simply walk from your hotel to a hike, to the spa, and then to grab a bite to eat. No car needed!
What to do:
Hike Hot Springs National Park – The main event of visiting the charming town of Hot Springs is relishing its scenery and hiking the trails of Hot Springs National Park. A good portion of the trails are located behind Bathhouse Row. We found them to be beginner to intermediate level hikes. Convenient enough if you wanted only a 1-2 mile hike.
Spa time on Bathhouse Row – Do yourself a favor and book a massage. You can’t go wrong with any of the spas you choose on Bathhouse Row. I have visited Quapaw Baths twice now and have loved both experiences. You can also opt for just a swimming pass to enjoy the natural mineral baths.
Visit the Garvan Woodlands Gardens – The Garvan Woodlands Gardens were rated number one on all trip advising sites so we had to try it. We were blown away by how beautiful the gardens were; the admission fee is worth every penny. The 210-acre botanical garden is located around the beautiful Lake Hamilton. Plan to spend around 2-3 hours walking the trails here.
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Where to eat:
Grateful Head Pizza – A MUST if you love pizza. This authentic brick oven style pizza is inspired by the band The Grateful Dead. Not only does their menu emulate a stoner’s paradise, but their ambiance is great too!
Steinhaus Keller – If you are a German food fanatic then Steinhaus Keller is your go-to option. Their Sauerbraten is *chef’s kiss* amazing.
The Argentinian Coffee & Wine Bar – My two favorite drinks all served in one place. This bar has great service and live music, perfect for an after-hike pick me up.
The Pancake Shop – Breakfast lover central. Located right on Bathhouse Row for easy access. Although they were closed when we visited due to COVID, I will definitely be trying The Pancake Shop next time I visit.
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Final words…
I hope this quick weekend guide to Hot Springs serves you well. This trip is great for anyone who needs to pause their fast-paced life to relax and enjoy nature. If you have never been to Hot Springs I highly recommend making the trip out there one day.
