Things to Do
Get ready to celebrate Independence Day in one of Arkansas’s most fun and festive towns! From fireworks over Lake Hamilton to dragon adventures, water park thrills, and live music all over town — Hot Springs is the perfect place to spend a long summer weekend.
When: Friday, July 4 at dusk (around 9 PM), rain date Saturday, July 5.
Where: The show launches from barges on Lake Hamilton — great views from the east side of Highway 7 near the DoubleTree, lakeside parks, or by boat.
Tip: Bring a blanket, chairs, and a cooler of snacks. Tune your radio to 97.5 FM to enjoy the fireworks synced to patriotic music!
Step into a world of fantasy with The Lost World of Dragons exhibit, running all summer. Kids will love exploring dragon legends, interactive displays, and larger-than-life creatures.
Catch the fun puppet show “I Will Not Eat You” on Thursday and Saturday mornings at 10:30 AM — perfect for families with young explorers!
Cool off at Magic Springs Theme & Water Park with thrill rides, wave pools, slides, and big-name concerts included with park admission.
Holiday Weekend Concert:
Saturday, July 5 at 7 PM: Niko Moon with special guest Austin Snell
Other Summer Shows:
July 12: Chris Lane with opener Copper Flats
July 19: Puddle of Mudd & Everclear
July 26: Skillet
August 9: Phil Vassar & Mark Wills
Bring a blanket for the lawn or upgrade to reserved seating for an up-close concert experience.
If you’re craving more tunes, check out these local favorites:
The Big Chill — A laid-back Hot Springs bar known for hosting local and regional live bands every weekend. Expect rock, country, blues, and plenty of dancing!
The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa — Soak up the historic charm with live piano, jazz, or swing music in the lobby bar. On Friday and Saturday nights, head to the Venetian Dining Room for a classic dance band experience.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort — This vibrant spot is more than gaming. Pop’s Lounge inside Oaklawn keeps the weekend rolling with live music every Friday and Saturday night:
July 4–5: Steve Malec Band
July 11–12: Midnight South
July 18–19: Pamela Hopkins Band
July 25–26: Luna Jamz
Oaklawn’s Event Center also books big touring acts throughout the summer:
Frankie Valli Songbook on August 23
Jamey Johnson on September 11 (sold out)
LOVERBOY on September 12
The Righteous Brothers on September 19
Bret Michaels on September 26
Take a scenic stroll along Bathhouse Row, explore historic bathhouses, and wander the Grand Promenade. For sweeping views of the town and Ouachita Mountains, ride up the Hot Springs Mountain Tower — a must-do for first-time visitors!
Escape to 210 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens along the shoreline of Lake Hamilton. Meander through flower beds, streams, wooded trails, and peaceful lakeside spots — a dream for garden lovers and nature photographers.
What | Tip |
---|---|
Fireworks | Arrive early to snag the best lakeside spot; tune in to 97.5 FM |
Science Museum | Puppet shows fill up — go early for a good seat |
Magic Springs | Lawn seating is first come, first served; reserve if you want up close |
Local Music | Venues like Oaklawn and The Big Chill fill up fast — come early |
Hydrate & Rest | It’s Arkansas in July — bring water, sunscreen, and comfy shoes! |
Whether you’re catching a lakeside fireworks show, riding coasters at Magic Springs, strolling through flower-filled gardens, or dancing the night away at Oaklawn or The Big Chill — Hot Springs is ready to deliver a fun-filled holiday weekend for everyone.
If you’d like help picking the perfect place to stay, local dining spots, or grabbing tickets — just ask! Have a safe and spectacular Fourth of July in the Spa City! 🎉✨
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