Deep in the heart of Arkansas, hugged by scenic mountains, winding waterways, and charming small towns, lies a historic city that is too often overlooked against the usual mainstays of the South.
Being the most notable destination in Arkansas, Little Rock is one of those cities big in size with a small town feel.
However, there’s far more to Arkansas than the pretty riverfront skyline and fresh home-cookin’. Beyond the city life lies some truly astounding nature, living up to the ‘Natural State’ motto.
There’s one city that particularly thrives in the fall months, boasting the oldest National Park in the country and some off-the-wall ways to relax, making Hot Springs a truly unique getaway.
Not Your Average Water Destination
If you’ve never been to Hot Springs, you can probably imagine how its name came about.
Yes, Hot Springs’ hot springs are a big hit, drawing in tourists to soak in the nearly 150-degree waters.
While a heatwave rages through multiple states, and even Death Valley has seen record-breaking temperatures, there’s no better way to enjoy off-the-charts thermometers than nature’s jacuzzi.
Many travelers are still in search of sun and sand even in the fall, but visiting Hot Springs is a different kind of experience, and it is drawing rave reviews!
Hot Springs is located in Arkansas’ lush Ouachita Mountains, where there’s more to do than you might suspect in a city of less than 40,000 residents.
From scenic trails and thermal springs for outdoor enthusiasts, historic bathhouses for the ultimate relaxing spa day, and an underrated food scene, Hot Springs is more than meets the eye in Little Rock’s big shadow.
Move Over Yellowstone! This Is America’s Oldest National Park
Yellowstone may be the first designated U.S. National Park, but Hot Springs National Park has been around far longer.
Initially established as federally protected land, Yellowstone may have beaten Hot Springs to the punch of official ‘designation ‘National Park’ status, but Hot Springs has had a seat at the table for nearly 2 centuries and was recently hyped up by National Geographic.
As September has arrived in the blink of an eye, expect the same with the area’s rush of fall colors.
A burst of vibrant reds and rustic oranges tend to arrive mid-October, hitting their stride well before Thanksgiving.
But as gorgeous as this park may be to explore in search of the perfect sweater weather photo-op, it’s the 47 thermal springs that are the real draw.
As the old adage goes, “there must be something in the water”…well, in this case it’s true.
Hot Springs is very proud of their thermal waters therapeutic properties, creating an entire tourism around it.
While you cannot directly soak in the springs, there are ample ways to experience the region’s pure waters.
Hot Springs’ Historic Bathhouses
Ever been to a bathhouse? I have, and what an experience! My first time was in Istanbul at a traditional Turkish bathhouse.
First, I walked in to the wrong locker room (oops!), then I thought I was going to faint in the sauna, followed by an odd massage from another man where I still to this day have no idea why he had to undress with me, but I digress…
Cultural differences are certailnly real, but no need to worry about any awkwardness here as Hot Springs bathhouses are the cream of the crop and undoubtedly the top attraction.
In fact, there’s a whole district dedicated to them – Bathhouse Row. This is the best place to reap the benefits of Hot Springs, all while pampering yourself on the ultimate fall retreat.
Not your average spa day, you’ll find yourself taking part in a variety of water-related activities dating back to the 1830’s, along with massages, mud wraps, and facials.
Trust the process to soak in the natural minerals of the nearby springs. The most unique is Hotel Hale, the longest standing bathhouse originating in 1892.
Here, you can enjoy the thermal waters without having to step foot outside of your hotel room! Simply relax in your tub as water flows directly from the National Park springs.
Tip: Look for free parking at 128 Exchange St.
Home-Cooked Southern Comfort
Southern hospitality is the real deal. You’ll know it when you come across it, and it’s definitely not in New York City!
Throughout the South, there are some incredible food cities, such as New Orleans, Austin, Memphis, and Charleston, but many fly well under the radar – Hot Springs being one of them.
Don’t sleep on Arkansas’ local delights like fried pies. And yes, it’s totally okay to eat dessert first!
The barbecue scene is out of this world with generational favorites like McClard’s Bar-B-Q Restaurant.
And you know it wouldn’t be Hot Springs without a local beer brewed with their famous thermal waters, which you can try at Superior Bathhouse Brewery.
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