Long before Hot Springs, Arkansas became a national park and a popular vacation destination for the outdoorsman, its thermal water flow was higly prized by native American tribes for its healing properties. Located in the Southeast corner of the state, in Garland County, Hot Springs is primarily known as a spa retreat. The 47 springs for which the town is named flow from the ground at 147 degrees Fahrenheit from the western slope of Hot Springs Mountain nestled beside the urban center.
The city, which was settled by Fathers Marquette and Joliet in the name of France back in 1673, is now the 10th most populous town in the state of Arkansas. After the Louisana Purchase of 1803 and subsequent 1818 treaty with the Quapaw Indians brought the wondrous springs under the banner of the United States, the lands became America's first federal reservation in 1832. After the town was decimated and looted following the Civil War, it was rebuilt into a vacation mecca.
It wasn't until 1875 when the town was linked through a rail system that tourism in the town really took off. The town was destroyed and rebuilt a second time after the great fire of 1913 razed sixty blocks. When the town was rebuilt again, its renewal was unfortunately plagued by illegal gambling and the Arlington Hotel, the town's luxury resort, was overrun with card sharks.
Eventually, the town became appreciated for its natural beauty instead of as a gambling destination. The breathtaking wilderness that surrounds this charming city is best enjoyed on a nature walk. A stroll through Garvan Woodland botanical gardens provides a calming diversion from everyday stresses. The historic Bathhouse Row within the confines of the National Park holds historic interest as a nicely maintained symbol of Hot Springs past as a town known for leisure and vice at the turn of the century. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in natural hot mineral springs and indulge in modern full-service spa treatments. In all there are eight bathhouses, the most impressive of which is the Fordyce. Tourists can relive the history of the town through this converted museum.
In addition to Bathhouse Row, there are several ways that the scenic beauty of Hot Springs can be enjoyed. It is imperative for the equestrian aficionado to visit Oaklawn Park; a thoroughbred racing facility. Horse racing enthusiasts can get a firsthand look at how champion thoroughbreds are groomed for stardom for the horse races of the Triple Crown: the Kentucky Derby, The Preakness and The Belmont Stakes.
Magic Springs and Crystal Falls theme parks also provide an exciting excursion. The recreational complexes features an exhilirating array of roller coasters and water rides. A rafting style ride called "Plummet Summit" takes thrill-seekers into a pool and drops them fifty feet into a drenching crash of water. The classic wooden roller coaster- The Arkansas Twister-lets visitors catch fleeting glimpses of the surrounding Ouchita mountain foothills while sending them on a fifty mile per hour whirlwind ride. The newest 2006-constructed "X Coaster" is perhaps the most death-defying, sending daredevils 150 feet into the air before dropping them down a corkscrew turn at 70 miles per hour.
For art-lovers looking for indoor entertainment, Hot Springs features antiquities and galleries that have given it the reputation as one America's best art centers. The city also features a thriving center for visual and performing arts with the Hot Springs Music Festival and the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, held annually at the charming Malco Theater. Both have been recognized as among the best music and film festivals in the nation.
Hot Springs has a wealth of amenities that have made it one of the most attractive spa destinations around. It serves as a welcoming reatreat for those caught up in the stresses of modern life. The healing springs are sure to restore and revitalize any Arkansas newcomer!
This guide to happenings in Hot Springs was brought to you by Jonathan Owens.