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15 Best Things to Do in Hot Springs Village (Arkansas)

Hot Springs Village sits abreast Garland and Saline Counties in the central part of the state and had nearly 13,000 residents at the time of the last census.

By acreage, it’s the largest gated community in the country. It is also a significant regional retirement destination that’s known for its natural beauty and almost nonexistent crime.

Located near a few metro areas and some of the state’s most scenic natural land, it offers a wide variety of cultural, historical and natural attractions that are worth a look while visiting the area.

Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.

1. Hot Springs National Park

For more than a few reasons, Hot Springs National Park is probably unlike any other national park you’ve visited.

Located on downtown Hot Springs’ bath row, the park’s urban setting and relatively small size make it unique. The best way to learn about the area’s fascinating history is to book a guided tour with a park ranger.

In many ways, it’s like going back in time. The tour will be equal parts history and geology that you’ll probably find interesting and informative.

The tour will leave plenty of time to enjoy the park’s therapeutic waters and other nearby attractions as well.

2. Fordyce Bathhouse and Museum

Back in the day, the Fordyce Bathhouse was one of the town’s swankiest. It’s now a museum and visitor’s center that would be a great place to stop not long after you’ve gotten into town.

The building has been restored to near original condition and includes many of the amenities that it featured in years past, like interesting, antiquated exercise equipment and therapy devices that purportedly relieved symptoms from a long list of ailments.

At its height, it was the exclusive domain of well to do businessmen, shady gangsters, and crooked politicians – though the last two may be one and the same.

3. Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Situated at the pinnacle of Hot Springs Mountain overlooking the town, the tower was built in the early ‘80s. A view from the top will give guests an unobstructed view of the countryside. On a clear day, it’s possible to see more than 100 miles away according to locals.

Reachable by stairs and an elevator, there are observation scopes at the top if your eyes need a bit of help.

If you’re up for a physical challenge, it’s more than 300 steps to the top, but your effort will be rewarded with burned calories and breathtaking vistas.

4. Lake Ouachita

With nearly 50,000 acres of surface area, Lake Ouachita is Arkansas’ largest and is a hotspot for watersports and outdoor enthusiasts from many surrounding states.

It’s one of the southeast’s premier bass fishing lakes and holds professional tournaments nearly every year.

In addition to fishing, waterskiing, swimming, and pleasure boating are favorite activities. There are nearby campgrounds, forest trails, and amenities like boat launches, bathrooms, and playgrounds.

It’s not far from town but can get pretty crowded during peak season when the sun is shining, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the week or in less popular months.

5. Bathhouse Row

Hot Springs’ historic bathhouse row was once a place full of interesting characters with sketchy backgrounds, and though that still may be the case, it’s a lot more family-friendly now than it was back then.

Gone from the streets are the slick gangsters and their dashing gals from days long gone. Though most of the bathhouses along the row date from the early 1900s, their accommodations were considered top-notch by the standards of the day.

There are restaurants, coffee shops and even a microbrewery nearby, so consider a self-guided walking tour to get an overview of the town’s layout and recreation options.

6. Mid-America Science Museum

The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs is one of the region’s most diverse and visited attractions. Its primary goal is to instill in young ones a love for the many wonders of science.

With tons of exhibits, displays and interactive activities designed to keep children interested and engaged, it’s a great place to spend a few hours for adults and children alike.

Located on Mid America Boulevard not far from the springs, it’s a great way to spend a few afternoon hours after a morning soaking in the spring’s therapeutic waters.

Admission is reasonable considering the museum’s scope.

7. Ron Coleman’s Crystal Mine

With its abundance of caves, hot springs and crystals, the landscape and hidden caves around Hot Springs are wonderfully unique. One of the area’s most fun and quirky things to do is hit the crystal mines and see what you can find.

Ron Coleman’s Crystal Mine offers an inexpensive way to get outdoors, breath some fresh air, and see some of the amazing things that lie just beneath the earth’s surface.

Not everyone finds a memorable crystal, but many do, so keep digging as long as your energy holds out.

Keep in mind that digging for crystals is dirty and exhausting work, so plan accordingly and don’t show up on an empty stomach.

8. Garvan Woodland Gardens

Spread over more than 200 acres, Garvan Woodland Gardens on Arkridge Road is owned and managed by the University of Arkansas. In addition to their beautiful grounds and an amazing variety of plants, their primary goals are research and education.

The land for the gardens was graciously donated to the university in the ‘80s. They often host exhibits, guest speakers and educational opportunities throughout the year, so if you stop by on a whim, you’ll never know what you might find.

Keep an eye on their website to see what’s on the calendar for when you’ll be in town.

9. Ouachita National Forest

At just shy of two million acres, Ouachita National Forest covers vast expanses of forested and mountain land between the border of Arkansas and Oklahoma.

With dozens of miles of trails, numerous campsites and a host of other activities available to outdoor lovers, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that it’s one of the area’s most popular outdoor destinations.

Amateur rock hounds are attracted by the huge vein of crystals that runs through the area, and hunters and fisherman are drawn here as well.

The terrain is pretty remote and rugged, so familiarize yourself with the area and pack the things you’ll need before heading out into the wild.

10. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park

During the dog days of summer, the climate around Hot Springs can get blisteringly hot and humid. If you happen to be there with kids during those months, you’ll want to find a cool spot or two.

Magic Springs Theme and Water Park is located off Highway 70 just outside of town, and if you’ll be coming from Little Rock, it’s still less than an hour away.

According to those who ought to know, it’s the only kind of park of its kind in the state, so take advantage of all it has to offer if you’ve got the time.

It’s open seasonally and includes all the slides, pools and fountains you’d expect.

11. Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery

Not many bathhouses have breweries and distilleries on site, but the Superior Bathhouse has both.

It’s unique in that it’s the only brewery and distillery located on the grounds of a national park anywhere in the country. It was the brainchild of a woman from New Jersey who was determined to recreate the fantastic beers she enjoyed on a trip to Europe.

The water in the hot springs bubbles to the surface at nearly 144 degrees; it’s this water that’s used in the brewing and fermentation processes.

They’ve only been open for a few years, but they’re gaining quite a following, so stop by for a soak, a pint, and a cocktail.

12. Grand Promenade

Running about a half mile between bathhouse row and Hot Springs Mountain, the Grand Promenade isn’t really all that grand, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in accessibility and quaintness.

After a leisurely morning or afternoon stroll along the promenade, it’ll be hard not to wonder about the high-rollers who strolled the same path decades ago.

The area was once considered the Las Vegas of its time, well before that desert mecca was even conceived; it hosted an eclectic group of high society folks, who came for the gambling, rabble-rousing and the spring’s warm therapeutic waters.

13. Gangster Museum of America

You might expect to find The Gangster Museum of America in New York, LA, or Chicago, but it’s conveniently located right in downtown Hot Springs.

Guided tours are available, and the museum’s multiple rooms are decked out in different themes. You’ll likely find it fascinating learning about the lives of the guests who used to frequent the area.

From hit men on the lamb to bank robbers and swindlers on the run, the town had a little bit of everything and wasn’t short on flash and swagger.

During the peak season, the museum can get crowded, so consider a visit during the fall or winter if you’d like to have the place to yourself.

14. The Galaxy Connection

If Star Wars, sci-fi and superheroes are your cup of tea, then a stop at Galaxy Connection on Central Avenue in Hot Springs would be a wise choice.

The museum was inspired by all things related to space, and guided tours from the proprietor are a big hit.

For a very reasonable price, you’ll have access to not only the displays and exhibits but lots of fascinating insights from your guide as well.

Much of what you’ll see is related to Star Wars and includes figures, weapons like light-sabers and blasters, and the robes worn by some of the epic’s main characters.

15. Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center & Museum

Admittedly, visiting the world headquarters of a bottled water company doesn’t sound as fun as mixing paint in the basement, but with an open mind and an extra hour or two, you might find that it’s an interesting and educational place.

You’ll learn how water is processed, purified, bottled and shipped, and you’ll probably be surprised to know just how big the market for bottled water is worldwide.

The headquarters are located near a visitor center and other area attractions, so once you’ve had your tour and learned all you’d ever want to know about bottling water, you’ll have the rest of the day to dedicate to other adventures.

15 Best Things to Do in Hot Springs Village (Arkansas):

• Hot Springs National Park
• Fordyce Bathhouse and Museum
• Hot Springs Mountain Tower
• Lake Ouachita
• Bathhouse Row
• Mid-America Science Museum
• Ron Coleman's Crystal Mine
• Garvan Woodland Gardens
• Ouachita National Forest
• Magic Springs Theme and Water Park
• Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery
• Grand Promenade
• Gangster Museum of America
• The Galaxy Connection
• Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center & Museum

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Hot Springs Village Discovery Packages

Choosing one of our Discovery Packages is the best way to experience all we have to offer here in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. We are located in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and situated only a 45-minute drive from our capital city, Little Rock, and a 20-minute drive from Hot Springs National Park. Whether you enjoy golf, lakes, tennis, pickleball or simply nature, Hot Springs Village has a Discovery Package that will fit any lifestyle. Hot Springs Village offers 11 recreational lakes, 9 golf courses, 30 miles of hiking trails, a new outdoor pool, and a first-class fitness center with indoor pool.  

In between enjoying all the amenities that Hot Springs Village offers, visitors will be given a guided tour of the community by a representative of one of our local real estate agencies. This tour will give you a first-hand overview of the lifestyle you’d enjoy as a property owner. 

  All Discovery Packages include:  

• Customized accommodations 
• Access to our Fitness/Wellness Center, including tennis and pickleball courts 
• Option to enjoy a round of golf at one of our championship golf courses 
• Additional real estate tour available with real estate partner agent and/or current resident

Hot Springs Village Discovery Package Options

3-day discovery packages, diamante country club discovery package $449.

 Our 3-Day Discovery Packages include 2 nights of lodging, either on or off-site.  

Hot Springs Village Lodging: Los Lagos  

• With Golf – $349* 
• Without Golf – $299* 

Hot Springs Lodging: – The Waters Hotel 

An optional 3rd night is also available for an additional $130.  

We do not allow pets in Discovery Package lodging.

RV Discovery Packages

Two nights at RV Park 

• With Golf – $169 
• Without Golf – $119 

Option of five additional nights at $27.50 each Access to the Coronado Fitness Center and other amenities for two people.

• On-Site Lodging within Diamante Members Club for 2 nights 
• One round of Golf at Diamante Members Private Club 
• Two meals for two guests at the Clubhouse 
• Amenities at Diamante included in Package 
• Community tour of Diamante and Hot Springs Village with real estate agent

*Price is for two adults and includes all taxes and fees. Additional charge for extra guests and additional nights. Discovery Packages cancelled within 2 weeks of confirmed reservation date are non-refundable.

Big Red Realty

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Arkansas, 71909

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2024 Woodlands Tour Presented by Hot Springs Village POA

Posted by Cheryl | Jan 11, 2024 | Entertainment , HSVPOA News , Village Lifestyle | 0

Noteworthy line-up for the Woodlands 2024 Summer Tour!

Join us for the Woodlands 2024 Summer Season by taking advantage of the opportunity to score five shows featuring national touring acts and productions at Woodlands Auditorium. Season tickets are $139 plus tax for all five shows or only $27.80 each (plus sales tax) if purchasing the packet of five. This is a great deal, with savings of $56 over individual ticket prices! Single-show tickets will be sold for $39 each if any are available after the season sales. Each show has limited seating, and packages will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.

This year’s lineup will not disappoint!

On May 16, you will be treated to A Led Zeppelin Celebration . This performance is a tribute to the iconic rock band formed in 1968, known for their groundbreaking sound blending blues, rock, and folk. Led Zeppelin was a pioneer of hard rock and heavy metal, influencing generations of musicians and famous for tunes like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and “Kashmir.”

June 20 promises to be another evening of legendary brilliance in the Village when the Authentic Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience performance pays tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd, a group that was focused on Southern rock classics of the late ’60s era.

Get set to party hardy on July 18 when the Spazmatics bring their Ultimate 80s Party to Hot Springs Village. The Spazmatics is a cover band known for their energetic performances of 1980s hits, particularly focusing on new wave and pop music from that era. Dressed in stereotypical geek attire, complete with pocket protectors and taped glasses, they bring a fun and nostalgic atmosphere to their shows. Their repertoire includes songs from artists like Duran Duran, Devo, The Cure, and many other iconic ’80s bands. The Spazmatics’ entertaining stage presence and faithful renditions of ’80s classics have garnered them a dedicated fan base, making them a popular choice for those seeking a lively and nostalgic musical experience.

What else but the music of The Who could electrify the Woodlands stage on August 15 ? The Who Invasion tribute band will bring to life the superb talent of the legendary British rock band formed in the 1960s, known for their powerful and innovative music. The Who’s influence on rock music remains profound, solidifying their place as one of the greatest rock bands in history.

The 2024 Woodlands Tour grand finale is on September 19 . Villagers will experience the Artrageous Electrifying Art and Music Circus , an immersive and vibrant artistic experience that combines live painting, music, dance, and audience interaction into a dynamic performance. The show features talented artists creating stunning artworks on stage in real-time, accompanied by a live band performing a mix of music genres. As the art unfolds, the audience is engaged through participatory elements, such as dance, singing, and interactive visuals. Artrageous aims to blend various art forms seamlessly, creating a unique and entertaining spectacle that celebrates creativity and connection.

May 16 – A Led Zeppelin Celebration

June 20 – The Authentic Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience

July 18 – The Spazmatics Ultimate 80s Party

August 15 – The Who Invasion

September 19 – Artrageous Electrifying Art and Music Circus

Click here to purchase your season pass. All shows are on Thursday evenings and start at 7:00 p.m.

Season Sizzle Reel

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A Podcast Starring Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

A 360 Tour Of Noteworthy Destinations Just Outside Hot Springs Village (Part 1 of 2)

Thanks for following my admonition to come here to download or view the PDF with all the links to the great places Dennis tells us about in the next two shows. This is part one of two. 

CLICK HERE FOR THE DOWNLOADABLE PDF

Thanks for listening. Please tell a friend about our new show!

Here are the links to the places mentioned in today’s show. Click that link at the top of the page for a downloadable/printable PDF of this information.

Petit Jean State Park

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/petit-jean-state-park

Elizabeth Mitchell Church Camp (Camp Mitchell)

https://www.campmitchell.org/

Mather Lodge

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/petit-jean-state-park/accommodations/mather-lodge

The Museum Of Automobiles

https://www.arkansas.com/morrilton/attractions-culture/museum-automobiles

Petit Jean State Park Hiking Trails

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/petit-jean-state-park/trails-waterfalls-overlooks

Mount Magazine

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/mount-magazine-state-park

Flatside Wilderness Area

https://wilderness.net/visit-wilderness/?ID=187

Forked Mountain

http://www.exploretheozarksonline.com/activities/parksnature/nationalforests/ouachita/jessieville/flatside/forkedmountain.html

Forked Mountain Trail

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arkansas/forked-mountain-trail

Jessieville Visitor Information and Ranger Station

http://www.ohranger.com/jessieville-visitor-center

Coleman Brother’s crystal mines

https://colemanquartz.com/

https://www.jimcolemancrystals.com/

Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas

https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/arkansas/ouachita-national-forest

Little Blakely Trail

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arkansas/little-blakely-north-loop

A 2-page PDF map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5084314.pdf

Mountain Pine, Arkansas

https://www.arkansas.com/mountain-pine

Lake Hamilton

http://www.lakehamilton.org/

Lake Ouachita

https://lakeouachita.org/

Garvin Woodland Gardens

https://www.garvangardens.org/

Thorncrown Chapel

https://thorncrown.com/

Panther Valley Ranch

https://panthervalleyranch.com/

Hot Springs, Arkansas

https://www.hotsprings.org/

History of Hot Springs, Arkansas

https://www.hotsprings.org/pages/history/

Museums of Hot Springs, Arkansas

https://www.hotsprings.org/pages/museums-attractions/

Historical Radio: KTHS

https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2008/mar/09/remembering-arkansas-hot-springs-kths-was-20080309/

The Arlington Hotel (see it soon if you can)

https://www.arlingtonhotel.com/

The Waters Hotel

https://thewatershs.com/

The Quapaw Baths & Spa

https://www.quapawbaths.com/our-history

Superior Bathhouse

https://www.superiorbathhouse.com/

The Gangster Museum

https://www.tgmoa.com/

Medical Arts Building

https://abandonedar.com/medical-arts-building/

Hot Springs National Park Aquarium

https://www.nationalparkaquarium.org/

Rolando’s Nuevo Latin Restaurant

https://rolandosrestaurant.com/hot-springs-location/

Garland County Historical Society

http://garlandcountyhistoricalsociety.com/

Sunset Trail

https://www.nps.gov/hosp/planyourvisit/sunset-trail.htm

Mountain Valley Water Company

https://www.mountainvalleyspring.com/

Grand Promenade Trail

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7007978/grand-promenade

The Majestic Hotel

https://abandonedar.com/the-majestic-hotel/

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/bizarre-iq-zoo-ar/

Arkansas Alligator Farm

https://alligatorfarmzoo.com/

Clinton Presidential Library & Museum

https://www.clintonlibrary.gov/

The Old Mill

https://www.arkansas.com/north-little-rock/attractions-culture/old-mill-tr-pugh-memorial-park

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/pinnacle-mountain-state-park

Plantation Agriculture Museum

Wye Mountain

https://www.wyemountain.net/

Lake Maumelle

https://www.arkansas.com/articles/visit-lake-maumelle

Lake Sylvia

https://encyclopediaofarkansas.net/media/lake-sylvia-9457/

Lake Winona Trails

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arkansas/lake-winona-loop

Look at Dennis’ live webcam view of Lake Desoto inside Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

https://www.ddvillageprop.com/live-lakeview-camera/

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