Garland County - The Hot Springs Experience

Hot Springs National Park

In 1803, the United States acquired this region from France as part of the Louisiana Purchase. The very next year, President Thomas Jefferson dispatched an expedition to explore the newly acquired springs. The expedition's enthusiastic report to Jefferson was widely publicized and stirred immediate interest in the "Valley of the Vapors." In the years that followed, a steady stream of visitors came here to soak in the healing waters.

Almost 200 years later they're still coming. The only difference is, today it's a lot easier to get here and there's a whole lot more to do! Of course the spring waters are still one of the main attractions. Today, as in 1921 when Hot Springs officially became a national park, health-seekers can bath in the soothing thermal waters and enjoy a relaxing massage.

A City of the Arts

From modern sculpture to classic oil paintings, the arts thrive in our downtown Historic District. Twice a year, in the spring and fall, Hot Springs pays homage to its rich arts heritage with Celebration of the Arts Festival.

Depending upon the time of the year, you'll want to attend one of Hot Springs' many festivals. The best arts and crafts from around the country come to town for the Hot Springs Arts and Crafts Fair. And don't miss fun-filled events such as Hot Springs' Oktoberfest, Taste of Downtown, Music Festival and Jazz Festival.

Hot Springs offers America's only exclusive documentary film festival featuring Academy Award-winning documentary films and lectures by the country's leading filmmakers. If your idea of a typical museum exhibit is a dusty suit of armor, you're in for a pleasant surprise in Hot Springs. Our typical museum features hands-on scientific fun and intriguing life-like wax figures - exhibits the whole family can enjoy. Once you discover the Spa City's arts, crafts, and museums, you'll realize it's a vacation secret too good to keep to yourself.

Historic Hot Springs

Hot Springs is truly a one-of-a-kind family vacation. From historic Bathhouse Row to a national park within the city, you'll find attractions in Hot Springs that you simply won't find anywhere else. Soak up the world-famous thermal waters, then soak up our historic European-style spa atmosphere that includes downtown streets lined with unique art galleries, fine restaurants, antique shops, and entertainment venues.

Visit the natural hot springs, see the Arkansas Walk of Fame, enjoy the view from atop the Hot Springs Mountain Tower or take an exhilarating trolley ride. It's all downtown within walking distance of many hotels and resorts. Hot Springs is proud to have been the boyhood hometown of President Bill Clinton. The city is credited by Mr. Clinton as being responsible for the early educational experiences that led him to a career in public service, first as Arkansas Attorney General, then Governor of Arkansas, and now, President of the United States.

Take yourself back in time by visiting several of President Clinton's early hangouts, including his boyhood home, Park Place Baptist Church, McClard's Bar-B-Que, The Malco Theater, and the junior and senior high schools.

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