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15 Free Things to do in Hot Springs AR

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Hot Springs National Park is the smallest National Park in the country. That said it is one not to be missed! There are so much to do in the area but make sure to check out these 15 free things to do in Hot Springs AR.

15 free things to do in Hot Springs AR.

15 Free Things to do in Hot Springs AR

Fordyce Bathhouse Museum Hot Springs National Park
Fordyce Bathhouse Museum, Hot Springs National Park

Fordyce Bathhouse Museum – This is the main visitor center for the bathhouse row part of the National Park. You can get your Junior Ranger Badges here and take a free tour and learn the history of this bathhouse and many of the others.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to The National Park Service Junior Ranger Program

Visit Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center

Take a Drive on the Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway – This is also known as Central Ave and was Arkansas' first state-designated scenic byway.

Bathhouse Row Hot Springs National Park
Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park

Walk Down Bathhouse Row – Visit all the historic Bathhouses. Some are still in use, some are turned to museums and all are worth a visit!

Hike Through the National Park Forest – There are so many great hikes through the forest, don't miss them.

Related: Johnny Cash Boyhood Home in the Historic Dyess Colony

Browse Downtown Hot Springs Art Galleries – This makes a great afternoon activity. You can grab lunch downtown then wander through the galleries.

Hot Springs Mountain Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs Mountain, Hot Springs National Park

Take A Scenic Drive Up Hot Springs Mountain – With views like the one above the drive around the mountain is worth a detour, maybe even more than once during your visit.

Related: 21 Can't-Miss Free Things to Do in Memphis TN – (Including Graceland!)

Baseball Trail – This is one of the most recommended hiking trails in the area. If you do any kind of hiking make sure to check it out.

 

Anthony Chapel – The pictures of this chapel just don't do it justice! The walls are made mostly of glass and there is so much natural light. This chapel is in the woods and you almost feel like you are sitting outdoors because the architecture works with the trees around it. It's just breathtaking.

Hot Springs National Park Water Fountains
Hot Springs National Park Water Fountains

Fill Your Water Jugs –  There are so many spots around town to fill up water jugs. I suggest trying the water at least once!

Historic Hotels – There are so many historic hotels from the town's heyday that I suggest checking a few out. Walk in the lobby and take in the amazing architecture.

Related: 32 of the Best Places for Free Camping in the Southeast USA

Historic Downtown Farmer's Market – I love walking around local farmer's markets. You can talk to vendors about things only locals can tell you. Hideaway things to do, the best places to eat and more. Many times you can even sample local food.

Picnic Locations Hot Springs National Park
Picnic Locations, Hot Springs National Park

Have a Picnic – There are so many great places in the area to have a picnic, enjoy the scenery, and people watch. Check out locations such as on the Grand Promenade, Hot Springs Mountain, West Mountain, or at Gulpha Gorge.

Grand Promenade – This is such a scenic route! An easy walk you will see creeks and waterfalls and even historic buildings.

Lake Catherine State Park – Easy hikes and home yo some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area.

Did I miss any free things to do in Hot Springs AR? Let me know in the comments below!

 

Hor Springs Ar

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