Welcome to the Hot Springs National Park Tour
“The town where nature checks you into the spa.”
That’s the magic of Hot Springs, Arkansas. A place where steaming thermal waters rise from the earth and history soaks through every stone.
Long before Gilded Age millionaires came to unwind here, Native American tribes treated these springs as sacred healing grounds. Later, gamblers, gangsters, and presidents would all stroll Bathhouse Row, drawn by its reputation for health, wealth, and a touch of mischief.
Today, Hot Springs National Park is the only park where trails lead through both forest and Downtown Areas. You’ll find mountain views, steaming fountains, and tiled bathhouses standing like time capsules from the 1920s.
With this self-guided driving and walking audio tour, you’ll explore both sides of the park—its wild beauty and its historic charm. On foot, you’ll stroll past iconic stops like Buckstaff Bathhouse, the Arlington Hotel, and Hotel Hale, learning how hydrotherapy, spring training, and bootlegging all converged here. Then hop in the car and wind up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for sweeping views and cool breezes. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of exploration, geology, and the park’s surprising presidential past.
Highlights include the Grand Promenade, Gulpha Gorge, North Mountain Drive, and the peaceful Sunset Trail, perfect for ending the day on a quiet note.
Disclaimer: No velvet robes or cucumber water provided, just good stories and great views.
Note: For all road closure updates and more, please visit the National Park Service website.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 200+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Map Of Hot Springs National Park
Where To Start?
We Recommend Starting From – Hot Springs Visitor Center
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are not yet supported. We are working with Apple for a resolution.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Hot Springs National Park is famous for its natural hot springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic beauty. Visitors can experience thermal baths, hiking trails, and learn about the area’s history in the park’s museum.
Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas, near the city of Hot Springs.
Yes, the hot springs are safe to visit, but the water temperature can reach over 140°F (60°C), so visitors should not enter the springs directly. Instead, many visitors enjoy the historic bathhouses that have been carefully regulated to provide safe thermal bathing experiences.
Yes, there are several bathhouses in the park where you can enjoy a soak in the thermal waters. The Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Baths & Spa are popular places where visitors can enjoy these services.
The best time to visit is during spring and fall when the weather is mild, making it ideal for both soaking and exploring the trails. The summer can get quite warm, but it is also a popular time to visit.
It’s highly recommended to make a reservation for the bathhouses, especially during peak seasons, as they can get busy. Click here to check directly with the bathhouses for specific booking information.
There is no entrance fee to access the park, though fees may apply for specific services, like bathing at the bathhouses. For more information, visit here.
Yes, the park offers several scenic hiking trails, including the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and the Gulpha Gorge Trail. These trails provide views of the surrounding mountains and the thermal springs.
Pets are allowed in certain areas of the park but must be on a leash. However, pets are not allowed in the bathhouses or on most trails, so be sure to plan accordingly.
While the park offers some seasonal ranger-led tours, our Hot Springs National Park Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour allows you to explore at your own pace. You’ll still enjoy fascinating stories and history through GPS-based audio, without needing to follow a group or stick to a fixed time.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
