Ideas for a Week in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs National Park Headquarters Building

Ideas for a Week in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a small town located in the Ouachita Mountains. It’s known for its natural hot springs and many outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as its beautiful botanical gardens. If you’re planning a week-long visit to Hot Springs here are some ideas for things to do:

Garvan Woodland Gardens

Visit the Garvan Woodland Gardens

The Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical garden located on the shores of Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs. It features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a butterfly garden, and a water garden. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and offers many opportunities for photography and relaxation. The Garvan Woodland Gardens were the highlight of the trip.

Take a Boat Tour

Many of the gardens at the Garvan Woodland Gardens can only be accessed by boat, and the park offers guided boat tours of the gardens. These tours are a great way to see the gardens from a different perspective, and provide interesting information about the plants and animals that live there.

Lake Hamilton on the Quachita River at Entergy Park

Entergy Park

Several evening I enjoyed the watching the sunset from Entergy Park. It’s a waterside recreational park offering walking trails, fishing spots, playgrounds & a scenic overlook. It is on Lake Hamilton and the Ouachita River.

Visit the Hot Springs National Park

The Hot Springs National Park is a must-see attraction in Hot Springs. In addition to the hot springs, the park also offers many other activities, such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing. I enjoyed a hike on a wonderful trail that followed the ridge of the mountain overlooking town.

Go Fishing

The Hot Springs area is known for its many rivers and lakes, and is a popular destination for fishing. Some popular spots for fishing include Lake Hamilton, Lake Catherine, and the Ouachita River.

Explore the Downtown Hot Springs Area

Hot Springs has a charming downtown area with many interesting shops, restaurants, and historical attractions. Some highlights include the Hot Springs Bathhouse Row, the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center, and the Hot Springs National Park Museum.

Plenty to Keep You Busy

Overall, Hot Springs has a lot to offer for a week-long visit, and a visit to the Garvan Woodland Gardens is a must-do activity. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, history, or just enjoying the beautiful gardens, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in this charming town.

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