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Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs, Arkansas: A Journey Through Time and Relaxation
09.21.24
Tucked away in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas is Hot Springs National Park, home to one of the most unique historical landmarks in the United States: Bathhouse Row. This collection of eight grand bathhouses, built between 1892 and 1923, is a testament to a bygone era of luxury, healing, and relaxation. A visit to Bathhouse Row offers not just a trip back in time but also a chance to experience the therapeutic hot springs that have attracted visitors for centuries.
A Historical Gem
Bathhouse Row sits at the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and was once the pinnacle of spa culture in the U.S. By the early 20th century, it had become a destination for those seeking the health benefits of the natural hot springs that bubble up from deep within the earth. Native American tribes had long recognized the restorative powers of these thermal waters, and by the 1800s, European settlers had built wooden bathhouses to capitalize on the springs’ growing reputation.
The bathhouses you see today, with their elegant Spanish, Italian, and neoclassical architecture, were built during Hot Springs’ golden era, when it was considered the nation’s most luxurious health retreat. People from all walks of life, including famous personalities like Babe Ruth and Al Capone, flocked to the springs to “take the waters.” Bathhouse Row has since become a National Historic Landmark and part of Hot Springs National Park, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Exploring Bathhouse Row
Today, a visit to Bathhouse Row offers a mix of historical exploration and modern wellness. Out of the eight bathhouses, two remain active as spas, while the others have been repurposed into museums, galleries, and even a brewery.
The Buckstaff Bathhouse is the only continuously operating bathhouse on Bathhouse Row since 1912. For over a century, it has provided traditional thermal baths and spa services, allowing visitors to experience the waters much like they did in the past. From mineral baths to steam cabinets, the Buckstaff’s services provide a nostalgic yet rejuvenating way to enjoy the hot springs.
Next door, The Quapaw Bathhouse offers a more modern spa experience, complete with thermal pools, private baths, and a wide array of wellness treatments. The Quapaw’s open-air pools, filled with the mineral-rich hot spring water, offer a serene atmosphere where you can soak and unwind while surrounded by the building’s stunning architecture.
For those more interested in the historical aspect, The Fordyce Bathhouse is now a museum operated by the National Park Service. It showcases the luxurious facilities of the past, including the original stained-glass windows, marble partitions, and even the hydrotherapy equipment used in the early 20th century. A self-guided tour of the Fordyce is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the history and grandeur of the Row.
Other Bathhouses on the Row have been creatively repurposed as well. The Superior Bathhouse is now home to a brewery, using the natural hot spring water to craft unique beers. Strolling along Bathhouse Row allows visitors to appreciate the diversity of uses for these historic buildings while taking in the beauty of Hot Springs National Park.
The Springs Themselves
Although you can’t bathe in the natural springs themselves due to their high temperatures, there are drinking fountains around Bathhouse Row where you can sample the water. Known for its purity, the spring water is believed to offer numerous health benefits. You can fill a bottle at the fountains and take a bit of Hot Springs’ magic home with you.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing spa day, a historical adventure, or a mix of both, Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers a unique experience. Its blend of history, architecture, and the healing power of nature makes it a destination that is as restorative for the mind as it is for the body. A visit to Bathhouse Row is not just a trip—it’s a journey into the past, with modern-day pleasures to enjoy along the way.
Big things are headed to Arapaho Cove!
05.22.24
21' x 21' elevated screen deck direct off of the living area (Left: In Progress; Right: Completed).BOOK YOUR STAY!