2 Best Sights in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Soak up Hot Springs’ rich history on a free, self-guided tour of the largest and most opulent bathhouse on Bathhouse Row. The Fordyce, which operated from 1915 to 1962, is now the park's visitor center and museum, where you can pick up trail maps, speak with helpful park employees, and get an insightful glimpse into the Golden Age of bathing. Extensively restored, the Fordyce features marble throughout, beautiful stained-glass ceilings, period rooms, and hydrotherapy equipment dating from the early 20th century. A 15-minute video in the first-floor theater covers area history; a shorter video shown on the second floor details the traditional bathing regimen.

Overlooking some 140 square miles, this 216-foot tall, elevator-accessible tower at the summit of its namesake mountain provides sweeping views of the park and the Ouachita Mountains. The tower is open daily and has an open-air observation deck; an enclosed, lower-level deck with exhibits on area history; and a ground-level gift shop.