Curator’s statement
This trip was created to inspire those who need a family fun, all in one, long weekend to spend time with family, friends, or just enjoy time alone! Looking to please each and every guest, big and small, from active outdoor escapes to nice relaxing massages, every recommendation is meant to be a dream to remember. This guide is for anyone who wants to get out and explore without having to stress about plans and get the most out of the time they have available. My goal is simple: to help you find and plan trips that are worth your time, energy, money, and most of all, your memories!
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Where to stay in Hot Springs, Arkansas
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Things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas
Bathhouse Row
You can see and tour the eight original bathhouses that were built between 1892–1923. While there, you can also shop in the tons of stores that line the streets.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
This is the only place in the world where you can pay to dig in the dirt and look for diamonds! The largest diamond found was 40.23-carat.
Magic Springs
From thrill rides, family rides, kids rides, and a water park, this place has it all! And did I mention free concerts? Two parks for one price. They have something the entire family will enjoy!
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Beautiful Botanical Gardens owned by the University of Arkansas, located in the Ouachita Mountains. It is the most relaxing five miles you will hike. The trail is gently covered by overhead pines and below the trees… you get to see and hear the gentle waves lapping as they hit the shoreline.
Adventureworks Hot Springs
Like ziplining? Catherine’s Landing offers you ten heart-pounding, 80-foot-high, adventure-seeking rides for all those thrill seekers.
Mid America Science Museum
From lightning bolts to dinosaurs, this hands-on museum offers hundreds of science lessons in one place and one low entry fee. As a family, group of friends, or just something to keep you busy, the best thing to do as you walk around the museum is the scavenger hunt.
Places to eat & drink in Hot Springs, Arkansas
Grateful Heat Pizza Oven & Beer Garage: After a long and exhausting day of walking Bathhouse Row, the Garage is a cool, relaxing, family-friendly hangout that just happens to offer beer and pizza.
Fisherman’s Wharf Steak & Seafood: Enjoy the water? Fisherman’s Wharf is located right on Lake Hamilton! Enjoy a cozy casual time while your taste buds devour some of the best steak and seafood around!
The Pancake Shop: Located in Downtown Hot Springs, they are the best place for early morning pancakes. They make the cutest character-shaped pancakes, too!
SQZBX Brewery & Pizza: Family-friendly cafe that offers pizza and drinks. Their growlers are fantastic.
Oaklawn Casino & Hotel: This hotel has it all, horse racing, casino, spas, dining, and bars. There is something for everyone and you never have to leave.
Need to know
When visiting the Crater of Diamonds...
If you do not want to look like a red lobster, take a UV umbrella as there is no shade. I suggest a portable fan as standing out in the middle of a field in direct sunlight gets you very overheated. And finally, unless you really enjoy the dirt that much, I recommend taking a chair or stool to rest on as there is nowhere to sit. The last piece of advice I want to leave with you is to wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind ruining as it’s usually very muddy.
Travel Advisor
Rebecca Lubbess
Rebecca Lubbess
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hot Springs page.