Tucked into the heart of Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is where timeless beauty meets modern adventure. Known for its historic thermal waters, scenic trails, and laid-back charm, this national park isn’t just a place you visit – it’s a place you experience.
And when you stay with Overnight Digs, you get the best of both worlds: the adventure of the park, and the luxury of returning to a space that feels effortless, comfortable, and all yours.
If you’re ready to explore Hot Springs at your own pace, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your time inside (and around) the park.
Take a Soak in the Thermal Waters
First things first: the hot springs that gave the town its name are still flowing, and they’re as magical as ever.
At the heart of Hot Springs National Park is Bathhouse Row, a lineup of beautifully preserved historic bathhouses where you can experience the healing power of the thermal waters.
Some popular picks:
- Quapaw Baths & Spa: Soak in warm, mineral-rich pools inside a stunningly restored space.
- Buckstaff Bathhouse: The oldest continuously operating bathhouse in the city, offering traditional thermal bathing experiences.
Overnight Digs tip: After a long soak, return to your home away from home for a private evening on the patio or balcony with lake breezes and luxury bedding that make it easy to recharge for another day.
Hit the Scenic Trails
Hot Springs National Park isn’t just about the water. It’s also home to over 26 miles of hiking trails, many of which start just steps from downtown.
Expect rolling hills, sweeping views, and trails that are just challenging enough to leave you feeling refreshed (without needing a full day of recovery).
Some popular trails:
- Hot Springs Mountain Trail: A 2.7-mile loop with forested paths and peaceful scenery
- Goat Rock Trail: Short but stunning, with gorgeous overlooks perfect for catching your breath and snapping a few photos
- Sunset Trail: For more serious adventurers, this longer trail winds through the park’s most remote areas
Overnight Digs tip: Pack a light picnic and your camera, then head back to your private deck or dock for sunset. After a day on the trails, there’s no better reward than a laid-back evening with a view.
Explore Bathhouse Row and Downtown Hot Springs
History meets boutique charm along Bathhouse Row, where you’ll find preserved architecture, local shops, and plenty of spots to stop for a coffee or cocktail.
Wander through the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum to get a glimpse into the golden age of spa culture. Then, you can stroll Central Avenue, where galleries, bakeries, and historic hotels create the perfect afternoon escape.
Don’t miss:
- Superior Bathhouse Brewery: The only brewery in a National Park (and they use the thermal spring water in their brewing)
- Kollective Coffee + Tea: A favorite stop for organic coffee and cozy patio vibes
Overnight Digs tip: staying downtown? Properties like Downtown Duo put you within walking distance of all the action – no parking hassles, no rush…just step out the door and start exploring.
Catch the Views at Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Want to see the entire park (and most of Hot Springs) from above? The Hot Springs Mountain Tower is your answer.
An elevator ride to the top rewards you with panoramic views stretching across the Ouachita Mountains – a sight that’s even more breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
Overnight Digs tip: make it an early morning adventure, then return to your stay for a slow breakfast on the patio. Properties like Firefly and Moonlight Villa offer serene outdoor spaces that make mornings feel luxurious, no matter what’s on the schedule.
Relax at Lake Hamilton
If you want to swap hiking boots for flip-flops, Lake Hamilton is just minutes away from the park and offers boat rentals, paddleboarding, kayaking, and plenty of places to just float and relax.
Spend a day on the water, then head back to your Overnight Digs home. Many of our properties like Stillwater and Northshore Retreat are lakefront, so you can keep the water views going long after the day’s adventures wrap up.
Pro tip: book a boat tour if you’re looking for a more guided experience, or simply grab a rental and find your own quiet cove.
Why Stay With Overnight Digs?
Exploring Hot Springs National Park is about more than just what you do during the day – it’s about how you unwind at night.
At Overnight Digs, our collection of luxury vacation rentals is curated for travelers who want something more than a hotel room or a cookie-cutter condo.
We believe a great stay should be:
- Stylish but comfortable: designer interiors that invite you to truly relax
- Rooted in the destination: lakeside locations, downtown access, outdoor living spaces
- Thoughtfully appointed: kitchens, gathering spaces, and amenities that make it feel easy to settle in
Because your time away should feel effortless, elevated, and entirely yours.
Your Adventure Starts Here with Overnight Digs
Whether you’re soaking in the thermal waters, hiking the mountain trails, or simply watching the sunset from a lakeside dock, Hot Springs National Park offers the perfect balance of nature, history, and hospitality.
And with Overnight Digs, you’ll have a stay that’s designed to match the beauty and energy of the place itself – luxurious when you want it, cozy when you need it, and unforgettable from start to finish.
Ready to plan your getaway? Explore our available homes and find the perfect launching pad for your Hot Springs adventure.