BY MISTY MILIOTO
Situated in the lush Ouachita Mountains and named for its naturally occurring thermal spring waters, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known as America’s first resort town. The hot springs, which flow out of the ground at an average temperature of 143°F, have long been believed to have healing properties. Native Americans called this area “the Valley of the Vapors,” and it was said to have been a neutral territory where all tribes could enjoy the springs in peace.
Later, the “vapors” were so sought after by the American public that President Andrew Jackson designated Hot Springs as the first federal reservation in 1832. Today it is preserved as Hot Springs National Park, which is home to 47 mineral hot springs and plenty of hiking trails.
Lining one edge of the park, along Central Avenue, are eight Victorian-style bathhouses (Buckstaff Bathhouse still offers traditional bathhouse treatments) built between 1892 and 1923. This area is now known as Bathhouse Row, and it’s a distinguishing characteristic that makes this city so charming and beautiful. Learn more about the area at the beautifully restored Fordyce Bathhouse, which now serves as a visitor center, or visit www.hotsprings.org.
WHERE TO STAY STARLIGHT HAVEN
Boasting distinctive accommodations nestled in nature, Starlight Haven is home to an array of treehouses, cabins, safari-tents, and geodesic domes— all outfitted with modern-day luxuries and resort- style amenities. The most unique option is a geodesic dome, a solid structure topped with a canvas-like material that has a built-in skylight and large windows overlooking nature. For example, the Couples Deluxe Dome — complete with a private bathroom and kitchenette — also features a second-story loft and a private deck with a hot tub, gas grill, and lounge furniture. Starlight Haven is committed to the environment, offering organic and natural bathroom essentials and a book in each accommodation outlining sustainability tips for your stay. 148 Jubilee Trail, (501) 359-5884, www.visitstarlight.com
WHAT TO DO THE GANGSTER MUSEUM OF AMERICA
From the late 1800s through the mid 1900s — and especially in the 1930s — Hot Springs was a hotspot for organized crime. As such, the city was a popular draw for gangsters like Al Capone, Frank Costello, Bugs Moran, Lucky Luciano, and Owen “Owney” Madden. While this illegal activity came to an end in the 1960s, the history lives on at The Gangster Museum of America. Learn more about the city’s notorious past through the museum’s Madden and Capone exhibitions; classic relics, including weapons and casino games; and an informational documentary. 510 Central Ave., (501) 318-1717, www.tgmoa.com
GARVAN WOODLAND GARDENS
Located on the banks of Lake Hamilton (one of five major lakes in the Hot Springs area), Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical and woodland garden that was started by and gifted to the University of Arkansas by local industrialist and philanthropist Verna Cook Garvan. In addition to floral landscapes and a Japanese garden, it features streams and waterfalls, various flower and rock gardens, and incredible architectural structures. Be sure to check out the Garvan Pavilion (an open-air venue designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings), the Anthony Chapel (a striking wood and glass structure designed by Maurice Jennings and David McKee), and the Evans Tree House (designed by Modus Studio). 550 Arkridge Road, (800) 366- 4664, www.garvangardens.org
LAKE OUACHITA
The greater Hot Springs area offers three lake options for outdoor recreation — Lake Hamilton, Lake Catherine, and Lake Ouachita (the largest in Arkansas). All three lakes, created by dams along the Ouachita River, offer a range of activities, including fishing, kayaking, boating, and more. Check out Ouachita Kayak Tours to explore one of more
than 200 islands and nearly 700 miles of shoreline. Buckville Boat Ramp; GPS coordinates: 34.61019, -93.34818
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK THE OHIO CLUB
The oldest bar in Arkansas, The Ohio Club was built in 1905 and was frequented by gangsters, baseball players, and jazz performers during the city’s heyday. Today, it is still a great spot for live entertainment (Thursday through Monday), top-notch service, and a menu filled with appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and desserts. 336 Central Ave.,
(501) 627-0702, www.theohioclub.com
SUPERIOR BATHHOUSE BREWERY
The only brewery located within a National Park, and the only brewery making beer with thermal spring water, Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery also serves as a craft beer tasting room, full-service restaurant, and event venue. Go all out and order the Beer Bath — a flight of all 18 beers on tap in 4-ounce tasters — to accompany one of the many sandwiches, burgers, or nachos on the menu. 329 Central Ave., (501) 624-2337, www.superiorbathhouse.com
DELUCA’S PIZZERIA
One of the best meals in town can be found at Deluca’s Pizzeria, where owner Anthony Valinoti offers New York-style brick-oven-fired pizza, pasta, and the award-winning Deluca’s Steak Burger. Be sure to start with the Zach-n-Cheese, made with imported rigatoni pasta and a house-made cheese sauce, then topped with bacon. 833 Central Ave., (501) 609- 9002, www.originaldelucas.com
