What to do in Hot Springs Arkansas while house and pet sitting

Hot Springs Arkansas is as famous for its natural thermal spring waters and Ouachita Mountain scenery as it is for its hotels and bustling atmosphere. The busy resort town has a weird and wonderful array of things to experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

So, if you’re scrolling for your next pet sit and considering The Valley of the Vapors (as the Native Americans call it) as your next sit, but you’re wondering what are some things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas then we have you covered. Read on to discover our top tips for visiting the Hot Springs attractions: 

Hot Springs Arkansas attractions

From luscious gardens to the Hot Springs on historic Bathhouse Row, there’s an endless amount of things to do in Hot Springs. Here’s our top three attractions: 

1. Garvan Woodland Gardens: Located approximately six miles from Hot Springs National Park, the Garvan Woodland Gardens offers breathtaking architectural structures and incredible botanical landscapes to explore. The main garden trail is just under two miles in length so it’s perfect for spending a few hours and taking in some beautiful scenery. 

2. Buckstaff Bathhouse: The Buckstaff Bathhouse is one of eight bathhouses that were built over natural hot springs in Bathhouse Row. Today it’s only one of two that remain open, offering a traditional bathing experience. You can expect the full works including thermal mineral water, top notch hydrotherapy treatments, all with professional staff and top facilities. 

3. Grand Promenade: Love a good hike? This short trail is located directly behind BathHouse Row, and offers stunning views of the historic downtown Hot Springs, the Arlington Lawn, the hot springs cascade, quartz veins in the sandstone and Tufa cliffs. Your pup can go along too, but must be kept on a leash. 

Free things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas 

Looking for things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas on a budget? We’ll do you one better and share these totally free activities to enjoy:

1. Hot Springs National Park: History buff and love nature too? Hot Springs National Park combines the two with its rich cultural past and striking natural beauty. From the ancient thermal springs, mountain views, incredible geology, forested hikes, and many creeks, the Hot Springs National Park is a unique and beautiful destination you won’t want to miss.

2. Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center: This iconic 1910 bathhouse was lovingly restored to act as a visitor center for Hot Springs National Park and museum for the thermal bathing industry. As well as the beautiful stained glass and marble building itself, the center offers exhibitions and films about the baths as well as self-guided tours. 

3. Lake Ouachita State Park: Arkansas's largest lake, Lake Ouachita has over 40,000 acres of beautifully clear water surrounded by the stunning Ouachita National Forest. The huge reservoir is popular for skiing, scuba diving and recreational boating. There are also plenty of resorts, marinas, parks, hiking trails and more located around the lake for you to discover.

Fun things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas 

Wondering what to do in Hot Springs Arkansas that’s fun? From awe-inspiring State parks to fascinating museums, there’s no shortage of exciting activities. 

1. Lake Catherine State Park: Peaceful Lake Catherine State Park is one of five lakes in the Ouachita Mountain region. Lake Catherine has a launch ramp, pavilion, plenty of picnic sites, playground and a picturesque trail that leads to a glorious waterfall. The park also has a full-service marina for snacks and drinks if you get a little hungry in between exploring. 

2. Mid-America Science Museum: Situated less than a mile from Hot Springs National Park, the Mid-America Science Museum is surrounded by natural beauty. The museum presents science shows as well as more than 100 hands-on exhibits, many of which extend into the surrounding woods. 

3. Hot Springs Mountain Tower: Hop into the tower elevator 216 feet to the observation deck where you’ll enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Mountain and Diamond Lakes area. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop on the base level after your visit! 

What to do in Hot Springs Arkansas with pets

There’s only one thing better than a great day out, and that’s being able to do it with your pup! Read on to discover our top favorite things to do in Hot Springs with your doggo. 

1. Hot Springs Bark Park: Visit Hot Springs Bark Park to let your pup socialise with other local fur pals. The facility has two acres of park for pups to enjoy as well as separate spaces for large and small dogs, water stations and benches (for the humans). There’s asphalt walking paths too if you want to extend your time at the park. 

2. Gangster Museum of America: Travel back in time with your pup to a gangsters paradise when mineral water, gambling and bootlegging brought international visitors to Hot Springs. The Gangster Museum of America is a pet-friendly educational center with seven galleries worth of history. Take a guided tour and learn all about the salacious history of this little valley town.

3. Grateful Head Pizza Oven: Sometimes all you need is a great pizza and the Grateful Head Pizza Oven won’t disappoint. The trendy pizzeria has a great selection of pizzas and delicious drinks. Dogs are welcome at the outside tables while you enjoy your slice. 

Best restaurants in Hot Springs Arkansas: Food and drink

After all that exploring, it’s time for refreshments. Here’s what we consider some of the best restaurants in Hot Springs:

1. Steinhaus Keller: Transport yourself to Germany at Steinhaus Keller. Located in historic downtown, the restaurant has an old-world feel with its exposed rock and barreled ceilings. Enjoy traditional German food from pretzels, schnitzel and German potato salad to name just a few. Fur babies are welcome to participate too with a dedicated Barking Biergarten Bites menu that’s 100% pup friendly. 

2. Bubba’s Catfish & Seafood: A laid-back little nook, Bubba’s Catfish & Seafood offers Southern seafood bites to eat in or take out. Enjoy great catfish, boiled jumbo shrimp, hushpuppies and crabcakes. 

3. The Pancake Shop: You can’t beat a good diner and The Pancake Shop delivers in every way. From buckwheat to buttermilk, there’s a wide variety of different pancakes to devour, not to mention all the usual breakfast fare including eggs, meat and cereals!

House and pet sitting in Hot Springs Arkansas

There you have it, our full travel guide to Hot Springs Arkansas! Now you have plenty of ideas of what to do in Hot Springs Arkansas while you’re sitting your next pet. All you have to do now is find them. Simply head over here and connect with loving pet owners and their four-legged pals.