Hot Springs, Arkansas is a beautiful destination for couples to make loving memories. From the natural landscape, and historic bathhouses to fine dining experiences, the place sparks love and romance. It offers an ideal setting for couples to spend quiet, meaningful time with each other.
Arkansas contains a blend of modern and historic sites. So, it provides an interesting experience for couples. There are plenty of restaurants and accommodations that exude romantic vibes, making the place fit for any couple. Keep reading to discover the 10 best places for lovebirds in this gorgeous city.
Most Romantic Getaways Hot Springs Arkansas
1. Hot Springs National Park
Established in 1921, Hot Springs National Park has a stunning natural landscape and historic bathhouses. Couples can explore the park’s hiking trails that give beautiful views of the Ouachita Mountains. Just strolling in the park is a pleasurable activity in itself. You’ll be surrounded by natural beauty.
There’s no fee to enter the park. The park contains various bathhouses. Here you can enjoy thermal mineral water. There are several cozy spots in the park where you can enjoy a picnic, too.
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2. Bathhouse Row
The Bathhouse Row consists of eight bathhouse buildings constructed between 1892 and 1923. Exploring them is an exciting journey. The Lamar Bathhouse has marbled bathtubs of varying lengths. The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been operating since 1912. In the Ozark Bathhouse, you’ll find sculpted mythical creatures holding urns of water.
The Quapaw Bathhouse has a tiled dome with an American Indian motif and offers spa services. The Maurice Bathhouse has a stone fireplace and offers an expansive view. There are more bathhouses in the row, each with its unique characteristics which you’ll love exploring.
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3. Lake Ouachita State Park
Lake Ouachita is Arkansa’s largest lake. It offers 40,000 acres of clear and clean water. The lake rests in the lap of the picturesque Ouachita National Forest. In this lake, you can do a variety of recreational activities, such as scuba diving, swimming, boating, kayaking, skiing, and more. There are plenty of fishing opportunities, too.
Lake Ouachita State Park has 93 campsites. Some of them are right on the water. Eight cabins are fully equipped with kitchens and overlook the lake. Four cabins are on the playground and include a sleeping room, picnic table, screened porch, lantern hangar, and outdoor grill. A visit to Lake Ouachita State Park and staying in one of its accommodations is sure to be an exciting experience.
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Read Also: Romantic Getaways In Arkansas
4. Gangster Museum of America
Do you want to be transported back to the 20’s, 30’s, and 40’s? At the time Hot Springs was a place frequented by visitors because of extreme pleasures like bootlegging and gambling. The museum perfectly showcases how the criminals existed side by side with the normal population of Hot Springs.
The seven galleries in the museum offer an audiovisual experience of this period. Take a guided history tour to walk in the footsteps of Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, and other legendary mobsters. You can play in the museum’s casino while hearing a historian narrating fascinating and informative stories about this bygone era.
5. Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland Gardens are open throughout the year except in January. The place has various attractions that can be enjoyed year-round. Events, such as Holiday Lights and Tulip Extravaganza take place throughout the year. A beautiful spot in the gardens is the Perry Wildflower Overlook. It gives you a great view of the Lake Hamilton.
The Milsap Canopy Bridge gives you a view of the Singing Springs Gorge as you walk beneath the shade of a canopy of trees. The Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House, surrounded by oak and pine trees gives a view of the natural landscape. There’s also a Fairy Village where new features are always being added, making it a delightful place to be. Garvan Woodland Gardens is a must-visit for every couple.
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6. Ohio Club
The Ohio Club is one of the oldest bars in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The place is a perfect blend of historic charm with modern activity. Couples can indulge in entertainment and enjoy fine dining. The interior of Ohio Club is a testament to its past and features vintage décor.
The club is known for its American menu. The long list of offerings fulfills the preferences of almost everyone. The star attraction is the live music that fills the air, showcasing local talent. The club’s electric atmosphere is truly welcoming and one visit turns into two, three, and more. If you are coming from another state, the Ohio Club will introduce you to the authentic Hot Springs culture. Time will fly as you enjoy live jazz over a plate of delicious food.
7. GulphaGorge Campground
Gulpha Gorge Campground, nestled on the Gulpha Creek is a tree-lined retreat. It features 44 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. The campground has trail access to the Bathhouse Row and the Hot Springs Mountain. It is adjacent to the Gulpha Gorge Creek. The creek is ideal for playing, sitting, and wading.
Couples can sit and relax on the campground under the canopy of the tall trees. If you feel adventurous, hike up to the Bathhouse Row, enjoying the views of the mountains from the top. You can also dip your toes into the waters of the creek or simply stretch yourself on the cool grass. Need more relaxation? Head over to the spa at the historic Bathhouse Row.
8. Downtown Hot Springs
If your idea of a romantic getaway involves lots of shopping, taking a stroll through historic downtown Hot Springs will delight you. Central Avenue is named one of the USA’s top streets. There are tons of shops here where you can shop for souvenirs to take back home.
Downtown Hot Springs is known for its antique shops. You can find unique artifacts, pottery, and furniture in shops in Historic District Antiques, Bath House Row Antiques, and Shaw’s Antiques. The prices are affordable so you can shop to your heart’s content. After shopping, visit the Gallery Central and Fine Art Gallery to get a taste of the unique culture and art of Hot Springs. You’ll not even realise the hours flying by as you explore Downtown Hot Springs with your loved one.
9. Horseback Riding at DeGray Lake
Horseback riding is the ultimate romantic excursion any couple can dream of. For a unique riding experience, head to the DeGray Lake Resort State Park. Enjoy the trail ride through the towering pines and DeGray’s scenic shore.
The horseback ride is approximately an hour long. You don’t need any prior experience of riding horses and neither do you have to wear boots and jeans. Just ensure to slip on comfortable shoes and clothes. If you need mounting assistance, steps are available. Then, snuggle up with your partner and let the horse take you through the picturesque landscape.
read also: Weekend Getaways in Arkansas
10. Trolley Tours
A historic trolley tour isn’t just exciting, it also gives you insight into the region’s history and culture. While touring, you can view all the important bathhouse sites and the Bathhouse Row. While going past them, hear the informative trivia about the baths.
Not only that, but the trolley tour will also take you through gangster-era attractions. One of the major attractions is the Ohio Club and the early 1900s Hotel Hale. Admire the stunning architecture and click pictures with your partner to lock in the beautiful memories that you make along the way.
Wrapping up
From bathhouses that reflect the storied past of Hot Springs to chic restaurants and beautiful natural landscapes, Hot Springs has everything that gives couples a time to remember. A getaway to any one or more of the places above is sure to give you a wonderful time. You’ll certainly leave feeling refreshed and more connected to each other.
