Downtown Hot Springs

Hot Springs City has made a name for itself by showcasing a splendid amalgamation of arts, history, thermal waters, and a magnificent national park, all beautifully nestled within its vibrant Downtown area. What was once a collection of dormant historical buildings has been thoughtfully revitalized by visionary artists and entrepreneurs, transformed into enticing retail spaces and cozy residential lofts. This rejuvenation has sparked a wave of new businesses, breathing fresh life into the heart of the city. With its perpetual buzz of activity and infectious energy, Downtown Hot Springs attracts visitors from near and far, creating a lively atmosphere that thrives every day of the week.

As one would expect, the downtown area of Hot Springs is adorned with an array of breathtaking historical "Southern-style" homes. These architectural marvels, dating back to the 1800s and early 1900s, showcase the impeccable craftsmanship synonymous with that era. Nestled within the revered "Historic District" on Quapaw Avenue and Prospect Avenue, these exquisite residences are embraced by towering trees of the same age, evoking a sense of timeless beauty. This prime location offers easy access to a wealth of attractions, including unique shopping destinations, art galleries, bathhouses, and other beloved tourist hotspots. For nature enthusiasts, history aficionados, art lovers, and food connoisseurs, this enchanting downtown area presents an idyllic haven.

It is worth noting that this part of the city falls within the esteemed Hot Springs School District, ensuring excellent educational opportunities for residents.

If you yearn to reside amidst architectural gems and immerse yourself in the captivating history of Downtown Hot Springs, do not hesitate to contact us, or explore the listings of homes for sale in this captivating neighborhood. Together, we can embark on a journey to find your perfect abode that seamlessly blends architectural splendor with the allure of the city's rich heritage.

 

Did you know that Hot Springs, Arkansas, holds a special place in history? It has welcomed notable figures like Hernando de Soto, Babe Ruth, Al Capone, and Harry Truman, all of whom indulged in the therapeutic thermal baths that the city is renowned for. For over 10,000 years, these waters have captivated people with their natural allure. Rainwater seeps into the earth, absorbing minerals as it percolates deep underground. When it resurfaces, it reaches a scorching 143 degrees Fahrenheit, enriched with over 20 mineral deposits.

In 1541, Hernando de Soto, the famed Spanish explorer who discovered the Mississippi River, became the first European to set foot in the "Valley of the Vapors," as the Native Americans called it. De Soto and his fellow conquistadors spent weeks reveling in the soothing waters. Prior to de Soto's arrival, the springs served as a "neutral ground" where different tribes, including the Caddo, peacefully gathered to enjoy the bounties of nature. These natural springs also enticed the first white settlers who arrived in 1807. John Percival saw the potential and began renting rooms to visitors intrigued by the water's healing properties. In 1832, Ludovicus Belding followed suit, renting rooms to those seeking respite in the "healing waters."

In that same year, President Andrew Jackson designated Hot Springs as the first Federal Reservation in the area, aiming to preserve its natural resources. In essence, Hot Springs became America's first national park, even though Yellowstone National Park holds the official title as the nation's first. The thermal waters that give Hot Springs its name emerge from the southwestern slope of Hot Springs Mountain, gushing forth nearly a million gallons of 143-degree water daily. Today, this pure water is used for thermal bathing, massage, and even consumed from free public springs in the downtown area.

The early bathhouses were modest, constructed from canvas and wood. They were later replaced by more fragile wooden buildings that succumbed to rot or fire. By the early 1900s, Bathhouse Row showcased magnificent structures adorned with marble, brass, and stained glass. These bathhouses housed state-of-the-art mechanotherapy machines, gymnasiums, and beauty shops, catering to those seeking rejuvenation in both body and spirit. Hot Springs soon earned the moniker "the National Spa," with slogans like "Uncle Sam Bathes the World" and "the Nation's Health Sanitarium" promoting the city. In 1921, the Hot Springs Reservation became the 18th national park, following its growing popularity as a vacation and health remedy destination.

During World War II, the Army/Navy Hospital near the south end of Bathhouse Row contributed to the area's continued activity. Hot Springs also attracted numerous renowned figures of the time, including Babe Ruth, Andrew Carnegie, F.W. Woolworth, and even Al Capone and his mob. Capone occupied an entire floor at the Arlington Hotel, with Room 442 becoming a lasting testament to his presence. Hot Springs served as a neutral ground for gangsters from Chicago and New York, who sought solace in the baths and indulged in the excitement of horse racing.

However, as medical technology evolved and leisure preferences changed, water therapies experienced a decline in the 1950s. People started to favor road trips in their cars, and the era of week-long stays at specific destinations dwindled. Consequently, the bathhouses began to close one by one. In the 1980s, a restoration effort spearheaded by the citizens of Hot Springs and the National Parks Service breathed new life into the historic houses. Today, all the bathhouses stand open, allowing visitors to relive the grandeur of Bathhouse Row.

Hot Springs also had its share of illicit activities, with illegal casino gambling flourishing during the '40s, '50s, and '60s. It wasn't until 1967, when Governor Winthrop Rockefeller shut down the casinos, that the era came to an end. Some popular nightspots continued for a few more years, featuring renowned entertainers, albeit without the gambling.

Today, Hot Springs thrives as a vibrant city, boasting the sparkling Summit Arena, which was inaugurated with a Tony Bennett concert. The city's tourism industry flourishes, while retirement, manufacturing, medical services, and retail trade contribute significantly to the local economy. Throughout history, the city of Hot Springs and Garland County, its county seat, have offered a wealth of attractions that have enticed people to this idyllic spot for centuries.