Hot Springs travel Guide

Hot Springs travel guide

National Airports

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a popular tourist destination known for its natural hot springs and historic bathhouses. The city also has its own airport, Memorial Field Airport (HOT), which provides commercial flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) through American Airlines. However, if you’re looking for additional flight options, there are several national airports within driving distance of Hot Springs.

Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT): Located in Little Rock, Arkansas, the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) is approximately an hour’s drive from Hot Springs. The airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct flights to major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. It’s also home to several major airlines, including Delta, American, and Southwest.

Memphis International Airport (MEM): Memphis International Airport (MEM) is located in Memphis, Tennessee, approximately a two and a half hour drive from Hot Springs. The airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct flights to major cities such as Atlanta, Dallas, and Denver. It’s also home to several major airlines, including Delta, American, and United.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): As mentioned earlier, Hot Springs’ Memorial Field Airport offers commercial flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) through American Airlines. However, if you’re looking for additional flight options or more direct routes, DFW offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct flights to major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and London. It’s also home to several major airlines, including American, Delta, and United.

Nashville International Airport (BNA): Located in Nashville, Tennessee, approximately a four-hour drive from Hot Springs, Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, including direct flights to major cities such as Chicago, Atlanta, and Denver. It’s also home to several major airlines, including Southwest, Delta, and American.

Conclusion: While Hot Springs does have its own airport, Memorial Field Airport, with limited commercial flights, there are several national airports within driving distance that offer a wider range of flight options. Whether you’re looking for domestic or international flights, these airports provide easy access to Hot Springs and the surrounding areas. As always, be sure to check flight schedules and availability to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Trains in Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a popular tourist destination known for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic beauty. While there are no passenger trains directly servicing Hot Springs, there are several nearby options for those interested in train travel.

Amtrak: Amtrak is a national passenger rail service that operates throughout the United States. The closest Amtrak station to Hot Springs is in Malvern, Arkansas, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from Hot Springs. The station is served by Amtrak’s Texas Eagle route, which connects Chicago to San Antonio and includes stops in major cities such as St. Louis, Little Rock, and Dallas.

Arkansas & Missouri Railroad: The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad is a freight and tourist railroad that operates in northwest Arkansas. While it does not run directly to Hot Springs, it does offer several excursions and special events throughout the year that depart from Springdale, Arkansas, which is approximately a three-hour drive from Hot Springs. The excursions include scenic rides through the Ozark Mountains, holiday-themed rides, and dinner trains.

Excursion Train Rides: In addition to the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad, there are several other excursion train rides in the surrounding area that offer scenic rides through the countryside. These include the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, and the Missouri & North Arkansas Railroad. While these trains do not run directly to Hot Springs, they offer a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the Arkansas countryside.

Conclusion: While there are no passenger trains directly servicing Hot Springs, there are several nearby options for those interested in train travel. From Amtrak’s Texas Eagle route to excursion train rides through the Ozark Mountains, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the beauty of the Arkansas countryside by rail. Be sure to check schedules and availability in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Buses in Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a popular tourist destination known for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic beauty. While there are no major bus terminals located in Hot Springs, there are several options for those interested in bus travel to and from the area.

Greyhound; Greyhound is a national bus service that operates throughout the United States. The closest Greyhound station to Hot Springs is located in Malvern, Arkansas, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from Hot Springs. From Malvern, Greyhound offers connections to major cities throughout the United States, including Dallas, St. Louis, and Little Rock.

Amtrak Thruway Bus: Amtrak Thruway Bus is a bus service operated by Amtrak that provides connections to and from Amtrak train stations. The closest Amtrak station to Hot Springs is located in Malvern, Arkansas, and Amtrak Thruway Bus provides connections from Malvern to major cities such as Little Rock and Dallas.

Local Bus Services: Local bus services in Hot Springs include the Hot Springs Intracity Transit (HSIT) and the Rural Transit Services. HSIT operates several bus routes within the city limits of Hot Springs, providing transportation to local attractions, shopping centers, and medical facilities. Rural Transit Services provides transportation to rural areas outside of the city limits, including Garland County and surrounding areas.

Conclusion: While there are no major bus terminals located in Hot Springs, there are several options for those interested in bus travel to and from the area. From Greyhound’s national bus service to Amtrak Thruway Bus connections and local bus services provided by HSIT and Rural Transit Services, there are plenty of transportation options available to visitors. Be sure to check schedules and availability in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

How to get to Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a popular tourist destination known for its natural hot springs and historic bathhouses. The city is located in the central part of the state. Here are some common ways to get there:

By Air: If you’re coming from a distant location, you might consider flying into Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, Arkansas. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Hot Springs, which is about an hour’s drive away.

By Car: Hot Springs is easily accessible by car. If you’re driving from nearby cities, such as Little Rock, Memphis, or Dallas, you can take major highways such as Interstate 30 or Interstate 40 to reach Hot Springs.

By Bus: Greyhound offers bus services to Hot Springs, with routes connecting from various cities across the United States. The Hot Springs bus station is located downtown.

By Train: While there is no direct train service to Hot Springs, you can take an Amtrak train to Little Rock, Arkansas, and then proceed to Hot Springs by rental car, bus, or shuttle service.

Once you arrive in Hot Springs, you can explore the city’s attractions, including Hot Springs National Park, Bathhouse Row, Lake Hamilton, and Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Additionally, the downtown area offers shops, restaurants, and galleries to enjoy.

What is the best time to travel to Hot Springs

The best time to travel to hot springs depends on the location and the climate of the area. In general, the ideal time to visit hot springs is during the cooler months when the weather is more comfortable, and there are fewer crowds. However, some hot springs are only accessible during certain times of the year or are best visited during specific seasons.

If the hot springs are located in a tropical or warm climate, it may be best to visit during the cooler, dry season when the temperatures are more comfortable. On the other hand, if the hot springs are in a colder climate, you may want to visit during the warmer months when the weather is more pleasant.

It’s also important to consider the time of day when planning a visit to hot springs. Many people prefer to visit hot springs early in the morning or late in the evening when there are fewer people around and the temperature is cooler.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to hot springs depends on your preferences, the location, and the climate of the area. It’s a good idea to do some research and check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

How to get around Hot Springs

The best way to get around Hot Springs depends on your preference, budget, and the activities you want to do. Here are some options:

Walking – If you’re staying in downtown Hot Springs or near the main attractions, walking can be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around. There are sidewalks and pedestrian areas throughout the city, and you can explore at your own pace.

Biking – If you enjoy biking, you can rent a bike or bring your own to explore the city and the surrounding areas. There are bike rental companies in the city, and many of the trails and parks have bike-friendly paths.

Car – If you prefer to have your own transportation, renting a car can be a good option. There are car rental companies at the airport and in the city, and having a car can give you more flexibility to explore the area outside of downtown.

Trolley – The Hot Springs Trolley is a popular way to get around the city and visit the main attractions. The trolley operates from early morning to late at night and stops at all the major landmarks and destinations.

Taxi or ride-sharing – There are several taxi companies and ride-sharing services available in Hot Springs. This can be a convenient option if you need to get around quickly or don’t want to drive yourself.

Overall, there are many options for getting around Hot Springs. Whether you prefer walking, biking, driving, or using public transportation, you can find a method that suits your needs and budget.

Accommodations in Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a popular tourist destination that offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious spa resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, there’s an accommodation option for everyone in Hot Springs. Here are some of the top accommodations in Hot Springs:

The Waters Hotel: The Waters Hotel is a historic boutique hotel located in downtown Hot Springs. The hotel features stylishly appointed rooms and suites with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. Guests can also enjoy on-site dining at The Avenue restaurant, which offers a farm-to-table menu and craft cocktails.

Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa: The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa is a grand hotel that has been a landmark in Hot Springs for over a century. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, many with views of the Ouachita Mountains or the city skyline. The hotel also offers a full-service spa, thermal baths, and a range of dining options.

Lookout Point Lakeside Inn: The Lookout Point Lakeside Inn is a bed and breakfast located on the shores of Lake Hamilton. The inn features comfortable rooms and suites with private balconies or patios that offer stunning lake views. Guests can enjoy a gourmet breakfast each morning and relax in the inn’s gardens and outdoor hot tub.

The Gables Inn: The Gables Inn is a Victorian-style bed and breakfast located in the heart of downtown Hot Springs. The inn features eight individually decorated rooms and suites with antique furnishings and modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning and relax on the inn’s front porch.

The Lookout Lodge: The Lookout Lodge is a rustic cabin resort located in the Ouachita Mountains. The resort features 12 cabins, each with a unique theme and decor. Guests can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and other outdoor activities, as well as relax in the resort’s hot tub and fire pit.

In conclusion, Hot Springs, Arkansas offers a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a rustic cabin resort, you’re sure to find an option that fits your needs in this picturesque city. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability and make the most of your stay in Hot Springs.