I am a native, I live 40 miles away. And I am going to give an honest representation Of Hot Springs. At one time, it was America's Vegas, before Vegas existed. Now it struggles to survive. It has a lot of history. Of the Grand hotels, only the Arlington remains. People walk by the bath houses, but they are not terribly interested. What Hot Springs has going for it is 3 lakes and a hell of a lot of nature. Within an hours drive, you can dig for diamonds or quartz crystals, you can see bears. It aint Branson, and that is probably a good thing.
@@363.2McMasters Oaklawn, Oaklawn, Oaklawn. That is what drives Hot Springs now. Down by the lake, not the Historic District. I would certainly not take a walk down central at 2am, no way.
@@paulweston2267 gambling has driven Hot Springs long b4 the track was built. I'm just telling you my experience and what I know about it, saying you were going to describe it better but didn't have, the little information you had, in order. I've met Walton's, Rothschild's, Rockefellers, and others I did not recognize... All here to invest, we shut down a restaurant (Deluca's) to feed them and their families. If ever in Hot Springs, go to Deluca's pizza or you haven't experienced Hot Springs properly. Hot Springs isn't struggling for money... Ever heard of Hot Springs Village... The biggest gated retirement community where there's tens of thousands of million dollar homes. It's definitely not just the track. Shows how little you know about Hot Springs, probably just one of the many that spend all their time in the track gambling.
@@363.2McMasters I do not gamble, it is a losing game. Deluca's is fantastic people tell me, never been there myself. On my bucket list. So what are you gonna do about Park ave.? That is where the rot is.
@@363.2McMasters You have an incredible advantage, you have a main drag that is in fact a national park, kept up by the NPS. But all that is down there is coffee houses, boutiques, Maxwell Blade and titty bars.
I'm from El Dorado, Arkansas and I love Hot Springs and it's one of the most tourist town that anyone come visit their as well. I live 2 1/2 hours from Hot Springs. And Arkansas is a great state to visit as well.
@@woltersworld Hello, I saw that you have traveled to Costa Rica. I want to move there. Do u think is a good country? I mean, quality of life, health, education, safety. I've heard about that country and many people say is a prosperous country to live? I'm from Argentina, and my country is getting worse :( Best wishes :)
The water tastes good and is loaded with nutrients. It's been a few years since I've been to hot springs, but it makes for a relaxing weekend getaway. Love the bath houses. You come out feeling like a brand new person!
My uncle used to own one of those businesses on Central Ave. in Hot Springs. He told me, years later, about the flash flooding that roared down that avenue in 1990, causing all kinds of damage.
Hot Springs is my hometown! Beautiful trees during the fall. Blacksnake Road with all it's trees is incredible during peak fall season. Downtown (specifically the Arlington) is decorated beautifully during Christmas. Also, the Arlington has carriage rides downtown during winter time! Great lookouts downtown and hiking too. Gulpha Gorge campsite even has a hiking trail to that main downtown area! So much history in such a great town.
Especially if you are into outside stuff like hiking, mtn biking, camping, lake activities, river activities, hunting, fishing, etc. This state has the best to offer in the region compared to adjacent states (except missouri maybe).
You should definitely come back to Hot Springs and take a longer visit. Do some 4K drives. Visit some of the attractions and restaurants and enjoy some of the overlooks and scenery
I’m visiting friends and family this weekend. First time in Hot Springs. I drove from KC (about 8 hours). Just the drive itself was beautiful. We went through downtown yesterday. It was packed. But I loved the view from near the top by the tower! I saw a Baptist church right across the street from the the horse racing track. Lol. Got a chuckle from the proximity of that church next to the race track. At first I struggled trying to pronounce Oachita. But a good trick is think Wichita but with an AW sound. Kansas has a lot of town names out-of-staters struggle with. Seems like Arkansas has Kansas beat in that regard. A heads up for people going through Fort Smith on I-540: the Arkansas River Bridge is under construction/repair. Down to one lane in both directions with no shoulders. Abit unnerving. Just take your time and you’ll be fine.
I have several friends that live in hot springs and have visited many times. Garvan Woodland Gardens is a must see anytime of the year! So beautiful! Lots of great hiking trails plus the beautiful Anthony Chapel, glass chapel, is stunning.
Glad you finally made your way to Arkansas. Lots of outdoor things to do. I know you are here in the fall but there are lakes close by, Oaklawn horse track and lots of other things to do. Been watching your videos for years. They really helped us when we visited Europe in 2019. Thanks for what you guys do.
Thank you. I appreciate it. The "shocks" of arkansas will probably be out end of January and eats of Arkansas will be on jocelyns channel in a week or so
We always look forward to the the first Friday of the each month because it is ‘ Gallery Walk’ . One can tour the art galleries and have a nice glass of wine.
Its the FIRST NATIONAL PARK in the USA too. [just a fyi] Look into using the ducks for an amphibious tour of the city and lake Hamilton, and/or check "The Belle of Hot Springs", a river paddle boat that offers nightly dinners (w/ live music ?) Right now Oaklawn has Horse Racing, but gotta do reservations to get in (b/c covid), there is a number to call. search online for it, AND the new Casino Complex is being completed there as well. idk how much longer b4 its completed.
I live an hour and a half west of Hot Springs in a town called Mena. We have two great tourist attractions here: Talimena Scenic Drive, a beautiful highway that runs along the mountaintops for several miles from Mena to Talihina, Oklahoma. If you don't stop it'll take about an hour and a half or so but trust me, you will stop. If you stop at every pullout it might take two and a half to three hours. The other great place here is on the drive, Queen Wilhelmina State Park also on top of the mountain with a really nice lodge, RV and tent camping, a miniature train you and the kids can ride on that goes around the park and a little miniature golf course among other interesting things. What really makes it great, though, is the location. One of the best times to come is in late August when the annual Rod Run happens (under normal non-2020 conditions; it was called off this year) when people bring their hot rods from all over the region as far as Texas and Louisiana and park them at the park.
Thank you for the great review of my hometown. There is a lot to do in Hot Springs in addition to downtown. Thank you for covering that as well to some extent, most people don’t. If you’re here try out the mountain top trail on West Mountain. All of the trails were beautiful but make sure you also visit Gulpha Gorge, which is part of the NP. And don’t forget to visit Lake Catherine State Park. Also checking out Lake Ouachita State Park and make sure you stop at Burl’s country store to get snacks or lunch. There are many good restaurants that are away from downtown and aren’t as touristy. I would highly recommend La Hacienda for Mexican food. There are clean bathrooms available at Gulpha Gorge, on bathhouse Row and in the Arlington if you’re downtown or out and about. I would also highly recommend a walk at Entergy Park & the playground for the children. There are so many free things to do in Hot Springs if you know where to go. After the pandemic subsided I would recommend checking out the free bath house tour in the main building. It’s amazing.
🌺🌺mahalo... my husband & I are planning on visiting in June then going to Little Rock, then making our way to New Orleans via Mississippi.From there leaving out of Austin back home to Honolulu. If you have any advice for us we would appreciate it. We just decided tonight to go to Hot Springs because it's a national park & we were told Arkansas is beautiful. Have a nice Sunday. Ali🌺🌺🌺
@@ali-Q-808 Well it depends what you like to do but I’m an outdoorsy person so I’ll share that. I would suggest walking The West Mountain Loop, Lake Catherine Hiking Trail to water fall, North Mountain drive and hike. Visit Gulpha Gorge. Bring some glass bottles and fill up your water at the fountain by the Arlington as you enter North mountain.North mountain and West Mountain are in downtown. Walk along Whittington park downtown. Visit Entergy Park for a view of the lake. Of course you want to walk downtown and there may be something going on that time of year, we have a lot of festivals. I personally am vegan so I don’t eat a ton of restaurants around here but Kollective coffee shop is really good, we love La Hacienda for authentic Mexican Food. Taco Mama usually has music on the weekends and has a pretty lively scene. There are quite a few breweries in town as well that are supposed to be good and I hear Superior brewery is a lot of fun. If you would like to do even more outdoorsy you could drive out about 30 minutes to Lake Ouachita. Visit for Burls smokehouse off Highway 270, then go to Brady Mountain Marina. You could go could rent a boat and check out all of the hotel islands. It’s very busy on the weekends. I would suggest doing that during the week. Drive out over the three bridges on 7 South. There are several restaurants on the lake I’d look at ratings and check out one for evening sunset. Also the Quapaw bathhouse is awesome. The Arlington take a look at the lobby and get on the elevator to floor 9 to check out the pool deck. Have fun on your trip!
@@CourtneyRobinson 💖💖 to you. I want to go even more now because of your welcoming response💖💖 Will look up everything you said. If you think of more don't hesitate to share please. We welcome any advise being we are from Hawaii and this is only our second road trip. We will be leaving east Texas then heading up to Hot Springs... so even recommendations on route to take is again appreciated. I want to go see the chapel in Eureka Springs then just quick Little Rock. We wanna stick to small towns instead of cities (still want to see the capital). Then head down to New Orleans via Mississippi. Leaving out of Austin Texas back to Honolulu. Again special hugs to you for such a warm response. 🌺🌺ali
@@ali-Q-808 Oxford is nice. Some parts of the Delta are not very pretty & are not a good representation of Arkansas. They do have their own rich cultural history but they look very different than Central, west and NW Arkansas. I booked a trip for three days up to Eureka Springs myself yesterday. The Basin Park Hotel and the Wanderoo are supposed to be good. Eureka is very safe. When staying in Hot Springs I do not recommend you stay downtown in certain areas. You can simply google “crime maps” and see the better areas. Lake Hamilton properties will be safe and some downtown but not all. The area of Quapaw and Prospect are fairly safe but some of the areas that people have Airbnb‘s are not. We do have an Airbnb on our farm but right now our son is living here. Just make sure to read all of the comments and reviews well before you book one. Staying at some of the main stream hotels will be safe. And Hot Springs is pretty safe. Most of the problems people have is when they’re doing things they shouldn’t be doing. I believe the Holiday Inn & Hampton Inn are very safe. If you want an outdoor pool on the lake I would look at the hotels on the lake like the StayBridge or Lookout Point B&B. You will want to take the tour downtown at the Bath House, off the top of my head it is the Fordyce. The history is rich and it’s completely free. There’s so much free stuff to do in town that is better than all of the tourist traps, mostly everything I have told you in the previous post do not cost much at all if anything. Please feel free to reach out to me on here or message me and I will send you a phone number when you get here. Safe travels
@@CourtneyRobinson appreciate your time with this. Just last night I was thinking of staying in Eureka Springs instead of Hot Springs. Although now I'm looking in to all you've suggested. I've never used Airb&b... so I will defiantly read reviews. I really appreciate your guidance with this. Why do I keep reading "it's not Branson....." ?? When it comes to reviews.... I assume Branson is pretty? Our trip is to drop daughter off then just get in the car & see America. We really have no plans, we just want to see different places & support our country for about 2 weeks. Again thank you & please let me know how your Eureka Springs trip goes. Enjoy your Monday. Ali
🌺🌺🌺mahalo.. going in June to Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana & Mississippi. Decided tonight going to Hot Springs then to Little Rock. Any recommendations please feel free to let us know. Have a great Sunday. Ali🌺🌺🌺
If you're coming to Little Rock check out Pinnacle Mountain, the River Market, The Bill Clinton Presidential Museum, The Old State House, The Esse Purse Museum, Central High School/Central High Museum, for the best tacos head to Heights Taco and Tamales! Hot Springs is 45 minutes away and Memphis Tennessee is only 2 hours away.
There is also horse racing at Oaklawn Park, home of the Arkansas Derby, and there are three very popular lakes in Hot Springs that are great for fishing, boating and skiing.
You should go to the creator of diamond state park which isn’t too far away. It’s the only park in the world you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find. It’s a short drive from hot springs
Josephine Tussaud 😂 Mark has been to a dozen cities with a Madame Tussauds and has never recommended. What’s next? Hard Rock Cafe? ;) Hot Springs looks like a cool day trip. I’ve been to Little Rock but that’s it for the state.
I used to live in Hot Springs. The best thing that could happen would be to get rid of the race track and to get some manufacturing jobs in there. Gambling ruins a place. I lived there in the 1970s,early 1980s and again in the 1990s. I remember Lambert's book store and Mad cat's book store,Tiny Town. Good places.
That's cool that you were in Arkansas! I would love to meet up with you one day! I'm in Little Rock. I've learned so much from you and your videos! Happy New Year!
I live in Conway, AR that about an hour and half drive from there. This whole area is beautiful. Thank you for doing this video. You should do the drive up AR Hwy 7.
The Cliffhouse Inn on highway 7 has a beautiful view! We make the drive up from Russellville to see the colors each fall and eat breakfast overlooking the "Arkansas Grand Canyon".
Hot Springs also has the Oaklawn horse racing track & casino. Racing season seems to be from mid-January through April, so things may also be busier at that time. Not as much as in the summer, though.
We did hikes in the hills. There is also a cool water spring drinking fountain also. We did the Crater of Diamonds State Park as a day trip. A kid found a big diamond there the next day!
Not going to lie, I was a bit disappointed. I don't think it should bear the name of park. Historic site or Monument would be good. I am not sure what the city/NPS are doing but it looked like a lot of crumbling buildings. Don't get me wrong, I am all for preservation but that sometimes means putting a little paint on some things. The Arlington looks like they haven't bothered to do maintenance in years.
Your in my hood Walter! I go to hotsprings 2 to 3 times a year. If your visiting around Christmas you must check out Garvins magical gardens Christmas lights, they are scaled back in 2020 due to covid but worth the trip.
I haven't been here in YEARS -- probably since middle school aged. Looks like a good road trip idea during the pandemic. I'd like to mention that I saw fire flies in the park at night (not too far from the bath houses). Less tourists during that time also.
Can't wait to see the video in Northwest Arkansas! I love the region! Try out yeyos when you're there. There's also some great restaurants around the Bentonville square.
Man, glad you showed Main Street. Thought for a minute you were recording this alongside some interstate the traffic noise was so loud. Looks like an interesting place if we ever get out that way.
If you are going at the right time of year, and COVID doesn't stop it, Oaklawn race track is fantastic! It's the old timey feel of Hot Springs, in a horse racing venue.
Realizing it's the middle of winter but, any signs of flower gardens, etc in the park or town that would attract butterflies- and so insect photographers?
We were debating on stopping there for a day or two but the road construction there made for a stressful gas stop so we thought let's just get up to hot springs. But next time we will stop
My brother went to school there. It was the Arkansas Career Development Center. (I heard they had changed their name at some point). It shut down last year in 2019. Anyways it was apparently the first general hospital for both the U.S. army and U.S. navy patients.I remember my brother telling me that information. However I did look it up again ( so there's multiple resources online) Also according to my brother some say it is haunted
WHERE "on-line"....be specific...don't HIDE where & say "I don't know". We call it the "rehab"....."my brother ".....CAN answer that as well....RIGHT????You have NOT been here HAVE you..."Novie D'.
@@Robby4291 Reserve St, Hot Springs, AR 71901 is the address. When my brother went there they used for a school for those with special needs/intellectual disabilities.(he has aspergers and so that's how he qualified to go there)I only visited there once but was only on the first floor. Also it was for just few minutes because we just there to pick up my brother (vacation was about to start) As far as the 'haunting' if I remember what my brother told me; for example it rumored that a girl died there because she was in a horrific accident. Only thing is she didn't know she died; whenever she saw her reflection she scream. Supposedly you could hear the screams. **My brother started school there about 2007. I don't remember exactly when because I'm older than him and was living in Kansas. My brother had been living in the Northwest Ar/Northeast Ok area before moving to Hot Springs.)
Laughed at the remark "depending where you're coming from in Dallas-Fort Worth". There's a man that has experienced DFW!
I am a native, I live 40 miles away. And I am going to give an honest representation Of Hot Springs. At one time, it was America's Vegas, before Vegas existed. Now it struggles to survive. It has a lot of history. Of the Grand hotels, only the Arlington remains. People walk by the bath houses, but they are not terribly interested. What Hot Springs has going for it is 3 lakes and a hell of a lot of nature. Within an hours drive, you can dig for diamonds or quartz crystals, you can see bears. It aint Branson, and that is probably a good thing.
@@363.2McMasters You must be the mayor.
@@363.2McMasters Oaklawn, Oaklawn, Oaklawn. That is what drives Hot Springs now. Down by the lake, not the Historic District.
I would certainly not take a walk down central at 2am, no way.
@@paulweston2267 gambling has driven Hot Springs long b4 the track was built. I'm just telling you my experience and what I know about it, saying you were going to describe it better but didn't have, the little information you had, in order. I've met Walton's, Rothschild's, Rockefellers, and others I did not recognize... All here to invest, we shut down a restaurant (Deluca's) to feed them and their families. If ever in Hot Springs, go to Deluca's pizza or you haven't experienced Hot Springs properly. Hot Springs isn't struggling for money... Ever heard of Hot Springs Village... The biggest gated retirement community where there's tens of thousands of million dollar homes. It's definitely not just the track. Shows how little you know about Hot Springs, probably just one of the many that spend all their time in the track gambling.
@@363.2McMasters I do not gamble, it is a losing game. Deluca's is fantastic people tell me, never been there myself. On my bucket list. So what are you gonna do about Park ave.? That is where the rot is.
@@363.2McMasters You have an incredible advantage, you have a main drag that is in fact a national park, kept up by the NPS. But all that is down there is coffee houses, boutiques, Maxwell Blade and titty bars.
I'm from El Dorado, Arkansas and I love Hot Springs and it's one of the most tourist town that anyone come visit their as well. I live 2 1/2 hours from Hot Springs. And Arkansas is a great state to visit as well.
I'm from MAGNOLIA, but I live in Hot Springs these days.
Broooo I'm from Rogers and southern AR look beautiful
We've been to eureka springs, Heber springs for Greer's ferry lake, and we're blown away how beautiful Arkansas is.
Finally, Arkansas. Thanks Mark and Jocelyn
No problem. We have a couple more to come next month. Shocks of Arkansas on here and Eats of Arkansas on Jocelyn's Simply Jocelyn channel
@@woltersworld Hello, I saw that you have traveled to Costa Rica. I want to move there. Do u think is a good country? I mean, quality of life, health, education, safety. I've heard about that country and many people say is a prosperous country to live?
I'm from Argentina, and my country is getting worse :(
Best wishes :)
The water tastes good and is loaded with nutrients. It's been a few years since I've been to hot springs, but it makes for a relaxing weekend getaway. Love the bath houses. You come out feeling like a brand new person!
My uncle used to own one of those businesses on Central Ave. in Hot Springs. He told me, years later, about the flash flooding that roared down that avenue in 1990, causing all kinds of damage.
HS sits in a valley, when you get a good thunderstorm, everything floods.
Yes I was caught in that flood on Central Avenue.
I worked at a retail shop for a couple of years. We would have to put sand bags infront of the doors because the flooding is so bad.
I was born and raised there, my mom had just missed being caught in that by 15 minutes. It was crazy.
Hot Springs is a great tourist town. My grandparents lived there for nearly 30 years, and Ive spent many summer vacations there.
Hot Springs is my hometown! Beautiful trees during the fall. Blacksnake Road with all it's trees is incredible during peak fall season. Downtown (specifically the Arlington) is decorated beautifully during Christmas. Also, the Arlington has carriage rides downtown during winter time! Great lookouts downtown and hiking too. Gulpha Gorge campsite even has a hiking trail to that main downtown area! So much history in such a great town.
We were about 2 weeks late for the leaves :(
Arkansas is VERY underrated
Yet the "hot springs" are extremely over-rated!
Especially if you are into outside stuff like hiking, mtn biking, camping, lake activities, river activities, hunting, fishing, etc. This state has the best to offer in the region compared to adjacent states (except missouri maybe).
@@Gizziiusa Missouri is decent, but why would you want to go to a state called Misery?
@@bootsontheground4913 show me...show me. ;)
We always stay at The Arlington Hotel and walk everywhere up and down bathhouse row..plus we go to mines outside of town to dig for crystals.
You should definitely come back to Hot Springs and take a longer visit. Do some 4K drives. Visit some of the attractions and restaurants and enjoy some of the overlooks and scenery
I’m visiting friends and family this weekend.
First time in Hot Springs. I drove from KC (about 8 hours). Just the drive itself was beautiful.
We went through downtown yesterday. It was packed. But I loved the view from near the top by the tower!
I saw a Baptist church right across the street from the the horse racing track. Lol. Got a chuckle from the proximity of that church next to the race track.
At first I struggled trying to pronounce Oachita. But a good trick is think Wichita but with an AW sound. Kansas has a lot of town names out-of-staters struggle with. Seems like Arkansas has Kansas beat in that regard.
A heads up for people going through Fort Smith on I-540: the Arkansas River Bridge is under construction/repair. Down to one lane in both directions with no shoulders. Abit unnerving. Just take your time and you’ll be fine.
We enjoyed the museum in the Church building also and the drive to the top of the mountain while there . Lots of fun times !!!
The little aquarium is very unique and fun!
I'm from Arkansas and my son and I love hot springs. And Granny kitchen pancakes are so good.
That is beautiful city I have business in that city since 20 years in Hot spring Mall cellphone repair store.
You absolutely should drink the water. My parents have a water cooler and only use Hot Springs water in it. It’s very tasty :)
Hot Springs are near and dear to my heart. The bath houses sound tranquil.
I have several friends that live in hot springs and have visited many times. Garvan Woodland Gardens is a must see anytime of the year! So beautiful! Lots of great hiking trails plus the beautiful Anthony Chapel, glass chapel, is stunning.
Don’t forget the Star Wars museum that’s down town, great for nerds that visit
Best travel Channel ever.
Glad you finally made your way to Arkansas. Lots of outdoor things to do. I know you are here in the fall but there are lakes close by, Oaklawn horse track and lots of other things to do. Been watching your videos for years. They really helped us when we visited Europe in 2019. Thanks for what you guys do.
Thank you. I appreciate it. The "shocks" of arkansas will probably be out end of January and eats of Arkansas will be on jocelyns channel in a week or so
The architecture is spectacular.
Good to see HS! I'm from there...in Cambodia now...
lol, Im from the area too, and I was in Cambodia for several months (Siem Reap). bk in 18'
Hot Springs is my Happy Place. I looooovvvveeee Hot Springs. 💕💕💕💕
Too bad you can't actually soak in some natural hot springs. Like many places out west.
One huge draw of Hot Springs is Oaklawn Race Track! We like to go see the horses run in the springtime. So much fun!
Great added tip. Thanks!
We always look forward to the the first Friday of the each month because it is ‘ Gallery Walk’ . One can tour the art galleries and have a nice glass of wine.
Its the FIRST NATIONAL PARK in the USA too. [just a fyi]
Look into using the ducks for an amphibious tour of the city and lake Hamilton, and/or check "The Belle of Hot Springs", a river paddle boat that offers nightly dinners (w/ live music ?)
Right now Oaklawn has Horse Racing, but gotta do reservations to get in (b/c covid), there is a number to call. search online for it, AND the new Casino Complex is being completed there as well. idk how much longer b4 its completed.
I live an hour and a half west of Hot Springs in a town called Mena. We have two great tourist attractions here: Talimena Scenic Drive, a beautiful highway that runs along the mountaintops for several miles from Mena to Talihina, Oklahoma. If you don't stop it'll take about an hour and a half or so but trust me, you will stop. If you stop at every pullout it might take two and a half to three hours. The other great place here is on the drive, Queen Wilhelmina State Park also on top of the mountain with a really nice lodge, RV and tent camping, a miniature train you and the kids can ride on that goes around the park and a little miniature golf course among other interesting things. What really makes it great, though, is the location. One of the best times to come is in late August when the annual Rod Run happens (under normal non-2020 conditions; it was called off this year) when people bring their hot rods from all over the region as far as Texas and Louisiana and park them at the park.
Mark is the only person in the world who could convince me to go to Arkansas.
If you're going to Hot Springs, hit up a German restaurant called Steinhaus Kellar, it is amazing
Grew up in Ramstein Germany, it’s about the most authentic jaegersnitzel I have had stateside.
Thank you for the great review of my hometown. There is a lot to do in Hot Springs in addition to downtown. Thank you for covering that as well to some extent, most people don’t. If you’re here try out the mountain top trail on West Mountain. All of the trails were beautiful but make sure you also visit Gulpha Gorge, which is part of the NP. And don’t forget to visit Lake Catherine State Park. Also checking out Lake Ouachita State Park and make sure you stop at Burl’s country store to get snacks or lunch. There are many good restaurants that are away from downtown and aren’t as touristy. I would highly recommend La Hacienda for Mexican food. There are clean bathrooms available at Gulpha Gorge, on bathhouse Row and in the Arlington if you’re downtown or out and about. I would also highly recommend a walk at Entergy Park & the playground for the children. There are so many free things to do in Hot Springs if you know where to go. After the pandemic subsided I would recommend checking out the free bath house tour in the main building. It’s amazing.
🌺🌺mahalo... my husband & I are planning on visiting in June then going to Little Rock, then making our way to New Orleans via Mississippi.From there leaving out of Austin back home to Honolulu. If you have any advice for us we would appreciate it. We just decided tonight to go to Hot Springs because it's a national park & we were told Arkansas is beautiful. Have a nice Sunday. Ali🌺🌺🌺
@@ali-Q-808 Well it depends what you like to do but I’m an outdoorsy person so I’ll share that. I would suggest walking The West Mountain Loop, Lake Catherine Hiking Trail to water fall, North Mountain drive and hike. Visit Gulpha Gorge. Bring some glass bottles and fill up your water at the fountain by the Arlington as you enter North mountain.North mountain and West Mountain are in downtown. Walk along Whittington park downtown. Visit Entergy Park for a view of the lake. Of course you want to walk downtown and there may be something going on that time of year, we have a lot of festivals. I personally am vegan so I don’t eat a ton of restaurants around here but Kollective coffee shop is really good, we love La Hacienda for authentic Mexican Food. Taco Mama usually has music on the weekends and has a pretty lively scene. There are quite a few breweries in town as well that are supposed to be good and I hear Superior brewery is a lot of fun. If you would like to do even more outdoorsy you could drive out about 30 minutes to Lake Ouachita. Visit for Burls smokehouse off Highway 270, then go to Brady Mountain Marina. You could go could rent a boat and check out all of the hotel islands. It’s very busy on the weekends. I would suggest doing that during the week. Drive out over the three bridges on 7 South. There are several restaurants on the lake I’d look at ratings and check out one for evening sunset. Also the Quapaw bathhouse is awesome. The Arlington take a look at the lobby and get on the elevator to floor 9 to check out the pool deck.
Have fun on your trip!
@@CourtneyRobinson 💖💖 to you. I want to go even more now because of your welcoming response💖💖 Will look up everything you said. If you think of more don't hesitate to share please. We welcome any advise being we are from Hawaii and this is only our second road trip. We will be leaving east Texas then heading up to Hot Springs... so even recommendations on route to take is again appreciated. I want to go see the chapel in Eureka Springs then just quick Little Rock. We wanna stick to small towns instead of cities (still want to see the capital). Then head down to New Orleans via Mississippi. Leaving out of Austin Texas back to Honolulu.
Again special hugs to you for such a warm response. 🌺🌺ali
@@ali-Q-808 Oxford is nice. Some parts of the Delta are not very pretty & are not a good representation of Arkansas. They do have their own rich cultural history but they look very different than Central, west and NW Arkansas.
I booked a trip for three days up to Eureka Springs myself yesterday. The Basin Park Hotel and the Wanderoo are supposed to be good. Eureka is very safe. When staying in Hot Springs I do not recommend you stay downtown in certain areas. You can simply google “crime maps” and see the better areas. Lake Hamilton properties will be safe and some downtown but not all. The area of Quapaw and Prospect are fairly safe but some of the areas that people have Airbnb‘s are not. We do have an Airbnb on our farm but right now our son is living here. Just make sure to read all of the comments and reviews well before you book one. Staying at some of the main stream hotels will be safe. And Hot Springs is pretty safe. Most of the problems people have is when they’re doing things they shouldn’t be doing. I believe the Holiday Inn & Hampton Inn are very safe. If you want an outdoor pool on the lake I would look at the hotels on the lake like the StayBridge or Lookout Point B&B.
You will want to take the tour downtown at the Bath House, off the top of my head it is the Fordyce. The history is rich and it’s completely free. There’s so much free stuff to do in town that is better than all of the tourist traps, mostly everything I have told you in the previous post do not cost much at all if anything. Please feel free to reach out to me on here or message me and I will send you a phone number when you get here. Safe travels
@@CourtneyRobinson appreciate your time with this. Just last night I was thinking of staying in Eureka Springs instead of Hot Springs. Although now I'm looking in to all you've suggested.
I've never used Airb&b... so I will defiantly read reviews. I really appreciate your guidance with this.
Why do I keep reading "it's not Branson....." ?? When it comes to reviews.... I assume Branson is pretty?
Our trip is to drop daughter off then just get in the car & see America. We really have no plans, we just want to see different places & support our country for about 2 weeks.
Again thank you & please let me know how your Eureka Springs trip goes. Enjoy your Monday. Ali
Also the Ron Coleman Mine has the Best Crystal in the World and is just down the road from Spa town.
🌺🌺🌺mahalo.. going in June to Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana & Mississippi. Decided tonight going to Hot Springs then to Little Rock. Any recommendations please feel free to let us know. Have a great Sunday. Ali🌺🌺🌺
I forgot to comment earlier make sure to check out Garvan Gardens.
If you're coming to Little Rock check out Pinnacle Mountain, the River Market, The Bill Clinton Presidential Museum, The Old State House, The Esse Purse Museum, Central High School/Central High Museum, for the best tacos head to Heights Taco and Tamales! Hot Springs is 45 minutes away and Memphis Tennessee is only 2 hours away.
@@juanita_rocksteady2761 so appreciative for the suggestions. Enjoy your week. Ali
There is also horse racing at Oaklawn Park, home of the Arkansas Derby, and there are three very popular lakes in Hot Springs that are great for fishing, boating and skiing.
I love Arkansas but I've never been there. I'd love to go there sometime. Have you been to Mountain View?
Amazing mountain biking is also there. Professionally built and well maintained by the city. Northwoods Trails.
Thanks for the tip!
Degray Lake also offers some decent trails and races from time to time. not too far from HS. head south on hwy 7
You should go to the creator of diamond state park which isn’t too far away. It’s the only park in the world you can dig for diamonds and keep what you find. It’s a short drive from hot springs
Josephine Tussaud 😂 Mark has been to a dozen cities with a Madame Tussauds and has never recommended. What’s next? Hard Rock Cafe? ;) Hot Springs looks like a cool day trip. I’ve been to Little Rock but that’s it for the state.
The wax museum is AWFUL lol
@@lrc4263 I’m quite sure that’s true and that was my point.
Wow🌞 That is mega attractive place. Thanks for sharing 🙏
northwest arkansas has quite a bit of natural beauty
Amazing, thanks for great powerful share 🙏🌍🌞
Greetings from KRAKÓW
Tom 👁️
#tomguidekrakow 📽️
Thanks Mark - Very informative!
glad we could
I wish I knew you were here. Would have loved to run into you. I live in Hot Springs, AR for now! Been watching your channel for years now!
Oaklawn Horse racing, baby!!!
I’m from Arkansas. Love going to Hot Springs when I can. ☺️
I used to live in Hot Springs. The best thing that could happen would be to get rid of the race track and to get some manufacturing jobs in there. Gambling ruins a place. I lived there in the 1970s,early 1980s and again in the 1990s. I remember Lambert's book store and Mad cat's book store,Tiny Town. Good places.
That's cool that you were in Arkansas! I would love to meet up with you one day! I'm in Little Rock. I've learned so much from you and your videos! Happy New Year!
Thanks Jason. Glad we could pass on some travel wisdom
I live in Conway, AR that about an hour and half drive from there. This whole area is beautiful. Thank you for doing this video. You should do the drive up AR Hwy 7.
OR go SOUTH (on HWY 7) to Hope & Arkadelphia,
The Cliffhouse Inn on highway 7 has a beautiful view! We make the drive up from Russellville to see the colors each fall and eat breakfast overlooking the "Arkansas Grand Canyon".
@@clicker7019 I like eating at Cliffhouse Inn.
I stayed in Hot Springs for 9 years and loved it
Cool I hope U come bc Texarkana Arkansas is mine hometown
1.5 hours west of there has one of the best hikes in the state, the winding stairs section of the eagle rock loop.
Don’t forget the gem / rock shops and the thoroughbred racing track.
Hot Springs is a great family destination for indoor or outdoor fun
I was born there, in the Army Navy hospital.
Hot Springs also has the Oaklawn horse racing track & casino. Racing season seems to be from mid-January through April, so things may also be busier at that time. Not as much as in the summer, though.
There is also Magic Springs & Crystal Falls..while you are there....opening in Mid-May.
I'm one of the bakers for Fat Bottomed Girls Cupcake Shoppe and the Gangster Museum you mentioned is right next to the shop I bake for
That is so cool!! My uncle lives a few miles from there!!
We did hikes in the hills. There is also a cool water spring drinking fountain also. We did the Crater of Diamonds State Park as a day trip. A kid found a big diamond there the next day!
Thats cool
Not going to lie, I was a bit disappointed. I don't think it should bear the name of park. Historic site or Monument would be good. I am not sure what the city/NPS are doing but it looked like a lot of crumbling buildings. Don't get me wrong, I am all for preservation but that sometimes means putting a little paint on some things. The Arlington looks like they haven't bothered to do maintenance in years.
I thought the same thing about the Arlington yesterday. It looked abit rough around the edges.
Come to Murfreesboro to see the diamond mine!!!!
Your in my hood Walter! I go to hotsprings 2 to 3 times a year.
If your visiting around Christmas you must check out Garvins magical gardens Christmas lights, they are scaled back in 2020 due to covid but worth the trip.
While your there go to McClards BBQ..amazing
Yes indeed! But the tamales are the best!.
I haven't been here in YEARS -- probably since middle school aged. Looks like a good road trip idea during the pandemic. I'd like to mention that I saw fire flies in the park at night (not too far from the bath houses). Less tourists during that time also.
Did they use the ozark place to film the end of the film “Arkansas”?
Thanks for the tips
Hot Springs is an hour and a half drive to Mena, where the movie American Made took place
(they didn't film here, unfortunately)
Can't wait to see the video in Northwest Arkansas! I love the region! Try out yeyos when you're there. There's also some great restaurants around the Bentonville square.
Bentonville has a lot of nice places to eat. I have studentsvthat go every year for a kind of workshop and they all come back inpressed
Man, glad you showed Main Street. Thought for a minute you were recording this alongside some interstate the traffic noise was so loud. Looks like an interesting place if we ever get out that way.
Yeah there wasn't much I could do about the sound. I tried to cut out as much as I could
Is the bathhouse open?
by appointment, yes
Yep
Hi.
I’ve never been to Arkansas but it doesn’t look half bad!
the northwest part of the state has really pretty nature
Arkansas is a great place to live. Small population but lots of outdoor stuff. 7 Fortune 1000 companies and the Rockefellers and Waltons.
Hot Springs is cheap, warm and the people are friendly. I live it here
Oh man, Walter, if I had known you were in Arkansas I would have bought you a beer or something!
Also you’re not far from Mt. Ida and can for kids it’s fun to dig for crystals.
If you are going at the right time of year, and COVID doesn't stop it, Oaklawn race track is fantastic! It's the old timey feel of Hot Springs, in a horse racing venue.
Mark, you're only an hour from where I live! Will say it again, I'd love the opportunity to meet you and your family if possible! Enjoy your visit!
Realizing it's the middle of winter but, any signs of flower gardens, etc in the park or town that would attract butterflies- and so insect photographers?
Not along bathouse row.
Garvin Gardens are awesome
Can’t believe that you didn’t mention the Horse races and casino! That’s one of the big draws to the city beyond the Bath houses.
Oh how much I miss traveling just wish it was summer already
This is where I live!
Are the Wolters open to adopting an adult child to travel everywhere with them?
We could trade :)
Beware the duck boats.
What about the Race Track, magic springs.
Shhhhh!!! Don’t tell everyone about our beautiful state.
Come too Texarkana Arkansas
We were debating on stopping there for a day or two but the road construction there made for a stressful gas stop so we thought let's just get up to hot springs. But next time we will stop
@@woltersworld do it sometime in March or April. It’s a dull experience during January and February.
Live here
My brother went to school there. It was the Arkansas Career Development Center. (I heard they had changed their name at some point). It shut down last year in 2019. Anyways it was apparently the first general hospital for both the U.S. army and U.S. navy patients.I remember my brother telling me that information. However I did look it up again ( so there's multiple resources online) Also according to my brother some say it is haunted
WHERE "on-line"....be specific...don't HIDE where & say "I don't know". We call it the "rehab"....."my brother ".....CAN answer that as well....RIGHT????You have NOT been here HAVE you..."Novie D'.
@@Robby4291 Reserve St, Hot Springs, AR 71901 is the address. When my brother went there they used for a school for those with special needs/intellectual disabilities.(he has aspergers and so that's how he qualified to go there)I only visited there once but was only on the first floor. Also it was for just few minutes because we just there to pick up my brother (vacation was about to start)
As far as the 'haunting' if I remember what my brother told me; for example it rumored that a girl died there because she was in a horrific accident. Only thing is she didn't know she died; whenever she saw her reflection she scream. Supposedly you could hear the screams.
**My brother started school there about 2007. I don't remember exactly when because I'm older than him and was living in Kansas. My brother had been living in the Northwest Ar/Northeast Ok area before moving to Hot Springs.)
Stop the gangster crap! Hot Srings is a JAM .. but do your homework!
If you come up to NWA check out the Rolling Pin Cafe! Great for cinnamon rolls and breakfast foods. Its our family owned business. Come check us out!
I live here silly man get your inform from a different person.
my ex wife lived in walking distance of bath house row
Researched it a few years ago. Read where it is a 100,000 population area with the crime rate of a 1M Metro area.
35k people Horse track cool architecture downtown three freshwater lakes. It’s safe.
"Researched "...right ??? "READ "where".....be specific ...B.W..HOW many YEARS ago???ARE ya sure it wasn't Little Rock"???? KNOW-it all.
Next time! Come see me! I'll cook!
Hot Springs Arkansas to DFW cheap flights!
hi russ