It is not former U.S. President, Bill Clinton's teenage stomping grounds, or Wal-Mart's nearby headquarters that attract tourists to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Long before Bill was ever born, people from all over the world were drawn to Hot Springs because of its 147 degree healing waters flowing from the mountains. The luxurious marble bath houses, built in the late 1800's, were claimed to cure the aches and pains of Babe Ruth, Al Capone and Lucky Luciano. In fact, the mobsters visited so frequently that Hot Springs is home to The Gangster Museum of America. Bill, however, has not been forgotten by the community. He and Hilary can be seen life-size at the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum in historic downtown.
Others come for the outdoor activities and magnificent scenery. Hot Springs offers several challenging PGA golf courses that wind through the valleys and streams of the Ouachita Mountains. For hikers and leisurely strollers, Hot Springs is host to the smallest and oldest national park in the U.S. Visitors can walk to the top of Hot Springs Mountain, or view from the base, 700,000 gallons of precious, thermal H2O flowing daily from the waterfalls. Lakes in and around the area provide other water source entertainment. The Bass, Trout and Crappie fishing charter boats consistently find picture perfect catches that will bring a smile even to the most conservative Republican. Should hook, hike, or par be too conventional, there are very few places that can offer crystal and quartz mining as an outdoor excursion. Over ten mining camps can be found in and around Hot Springs. How apropos, since crystals are also known for their healing powers!
Even if fishing, golfing, hiking or mining is of no importance, every tourist remains in awe of The Duck. This contraption, built in World War II, converts from a land to a water transporter. There is no man, woman or child visiting Hot Springs, Arkansas that does not wish to waddle over for a guided on-wheel tour of historic downtown. Then, while remaining seated, customers watch the vehicle turn into a motor-powered boat that slowly floats in Lake Hamilton for a historical and wildlife view only visible by water.
Hot Springs' variations for tourist entertainment and activities are equivalent to their lodging accommodations. There are four-star spa and golf resorts to cabin and condominium rentals that overlook the calming lake waters or mountains. Waking to the sounds of chirping birds and jumping fish is rarely possible in today's environment. Yet, making temporary residence on a secluded country lane in Hot Springs is only a telephone call away.
After visiting Hot Springs, Arkansas there will be no further explanation as to why the area attracts family reunion planners, fisherman, golfers, hikers, historians, honeymooners, naturalists, miners and the inquisitive.
This guide to Hot Springs, Arkansas was brought to you by Yvonne Moore.