Anyone can go to a spa, but when was the last time you soaked in natural hot waters provided from mother nature? For centuries, Native Americans and early European explorers found themselves gravitating to the natural hot springs in Hot Springs, Arkansas to bathe in the healing waters. The historic Hot Springs, just 55 miles from Little Rock, is a prime weekend getaway destination for Texas families, friends, couples or single travelers. With something to offer everyone; nature lovers will find themselves embodied in beautiful green gardens and parks while historians will be taken aback by the vast amounts of history that encompasses the city and those who just enjoys a good meal or great shopping, all appreciate everything that Hot Springs has to offer.

Although you may find hot springs throughout the country and around the world, none compares to those found in Hot Springs, AK. What’s the story of Hot Springs? Hot Springs, Arkansas takes its name from the world-famous thermal waters that flow into the historic downtown district of the city. About a million gallons of the 143°F water flows daily from 47 hot springs. Today, the naturally pure water is used for thermal bathing and massage, and is also consumed as drinking water from free public springs in the downtown area.

The City of Hot Springs is the only American city nestled within a national park. Which, as you can imagine protects the city like none other, essentially making it an ideal destination for those who wander for the outdoors. Hot Springs National Park was established in 1921; however, it was first set aside as the nation’s first National Reservation in 1832, due to the need for federal protection of the hot springs. Soon a bustling town grew up around the hot springs to provide services for health seekers. The resultant bathing industry led to Hot Springs becoming known as the "American Spa."

To experience the real deal, we encourage you to enjoy a mineral bath at Quapaw Baths. This bathhouse was built in 1922 and was used for spa treatments for more than 60 years. In 1984 the Quapaw bathhouse was no longer in use and remained that way for more than 20 years. That changed in 2007 when the National Park reopened the bathhouse, expanded the amount of pools, and officially renamed it the Quapaw Baths in July 2008. Quapaw Baths & Spa is the perfect place to immerse in Hot Springs’ acclaimed thermal waters and indulge in luxurious spa services.

If you are searching for a place to stay, do not look any further than Bathouse Row. Find yourself in the middle of the National Park and on the main strip surrounded by many shops, recreational events, and of course – Hot Springs! For lodging recommendation, book your stay at the beautiful Waters Hotel. Nestled in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, The Waters is the perfect accommodation for your exploration of everything this beautiful area offers. Each of the 62 rooms are unique and true to the building’s history. The hotel features a full-service roof top bar which provides sweeping views panning over the historic downtown Hot Springs. This unique rooftop experience offers indoor and outdoor seating, as well as an observation deck.

Ask any local in Hot Springs and they will tell you the best way to start your morning is breakfast at The Pancake Shop. Family owned and operated since 1940, there is no denying that the history of The Pancake Shop is intertwined with Hot Springs itself. Once inside, get ready for a unique dining experience. Putting the “tra” in traditional, the menu hasn’t changed much in the last 70 years (as the original menu hangs on the wall when you walk in). Your orange juice will be freshly squeezed the morning you arrive and pancakes are made from scratch, served with butter and warm maple syrup. With homemade sausage and eggs cooked to perfection, your breakfast will be prepared to order – no fast food here.

With the day off to a good start, make your next stop a scenic tour of Garvan Woodland Gardens. Truly magical, this is the place for anyone who enjoys nature at its finest. Nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains of Southwest Arkansas, this 210-acre garden was built upon the vision of Verna C. Garvan, who donated the property to the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture in 1985. From the dynamic architectural structures of renowned architect Fay Jones to the lakeside botanical landscape, escape in the distinctive style of materials native to the Natural State which were deliberately and thoughtfully applied. A few highlights include: Garden of The Pine Wind (ranked fifth best Japanese Garden in North America), Flowering Border, Warren’s Woodland Walk, Evans Children’s Adventure Garden and a vast number of Architectural Treasures (including the Anthony Chapel & The Evans Treehouse).

Because you can do just about any and everything in Hot Springs, make sure you bring your wallet for a good time at the casino. Visit Oaklawn Racing & Gaming to place your high bids on either a craps table or a stallion. Home of the $1 million Arkansas Derby, Oaklawn has been one of the premiere thoroughbred racetracks in the country since 1904 and today it is Arkansas’ #1 tourist destination. The state-of-the-art casino includes live craps, live blackjack, popular slot games, live music, and the award-winning Skills Bar & Grill.

True to its name, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is renowned for its thermal springs, Hot Springs National Park, and its hiking trails and bathing facilities just to name a few. If there is a place you would like to experience a get-a-way that’s historic, entertaining, not super expensive and just out right a good time, this is the place for you. Whether it’s a road trip or flying in, Hot Springs, Arkansas should be your next stop. For more information visit www.nps.gov and www.hotsprings.org .