Things to do

Things to Do near Lake Ouachita

Lake Ouachita offers wonderful recreational activities including boating, fishing and watersports, and there is a lot more to see and do in the area. Hot Springs, Arkansas is closeby. The city is known as the former home of President Bill Clinton and offers unique attractions that have drawn visitors since the 1800’s.

Nestled deep in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs city center was named the first federal reserve in the United States. When you visit, you will see historic gardens and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, learn about the Indian legends surrounding the hot springs for which the city was named, and find out about the connection to Major League Baseball and gangsters.

Hot Springs Historic District

This district features beautifully restored buildings from around 1900. Included are the historic Arlington Hotel, frequented by Al Capone, and famous Bathhouse Row with eight buildings, a visitor’s center, a museum, a spa and the longest running bathhouse in the city. The historic district now houses restaurants, art galleries, cafes and shops.

Hot Springs National Park predates Yellowstone by forty years. Hot Springs National Park was set aside as a protected area in 1832 by Congress. Massages and thermal baths are offered at the Buckstaff Bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, and visitors can learn about the history of the area through exhibits and a film at the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center.

134 Convention Boulevard

Hot Springs, AR 71901

501-321-2277

Garvan Woodland Gardens

These gorgeous botanical gardens are part of the University of Arkansas. Bring along your camera and take in breathtaking sights including wildflower overlooks, woodland walks, a waterfall, and a canopy bridge.

Enjoy architectural marvels like the Bridge of the Full Moon, a highlight of the Garden of the Pine Wind. The 11-foot semicircular design is reminiscent of ancient stone bridges found in China. The Evans Children’s Adventure Garden provides 1.5 acres of interactive rock gardens for exploration by the younger set. You may want to check the schedule and time your visit with a special event.

550 Arkridge Road

Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913

501-262-9625

Winery of Hot Springs

This winery offers wines native to Arkansas. Enjoy wine tastings and a tour of the historic wine museum. You will have the opportunity to purchase Arkansas wine by the bottle or by the case. The winery is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10 am to 8 pm Monday through Thursday, and from 10 am to 10 pm Friday and Saturday. Off season the winery is open from 10 am to 6 pm Monday through Thursday, and 10 am to 8 pm Friday and Saturday.

1503 Central Avenue

Hot Springs, Arkansas

501-623-9463