How to get to Hot Springs

Hot Springs is a unique resort city in the state of Arkansas, famous for its healing thermal springs and the picturesque national park surrounding the historic centre. A trip to Hot Springs is worth it for a relaxing holiday, combining spa treatments in historic bathhouses with walks along forest trails. You can reach this popular tourist destination in various ways: via nearby airports, by car along scenic routes, or by using ground public transport.

Since there is no major passenger airport within the city itself, it is most convenient for travellers to fly into nearby transport hubs. The optimal option is the airport in the city of Little Rock (LIT), located just 75 km from the resort: it receives many scheduled flights and provides quick connections to the region.

Alternatively, you can consider a flight to El Dorado (ELD) or Texarkana (TXK), which are approximately 150 km from the destination. These airports are less busy but can also be convenient arrival points for those planning further travel across the state.

Direct rail service to the resort is unavailable, as there is no active passenger station in the city of Hot Springs. Tourists who prefer the charm of train travel are advised to plan their route via the nearest major stations.

The closest convenient point for arrival by train is in the city of Little Rock, 75 km away. You can also travel to stations in Texarkana or El Dorado; however, from there, an additional transfer by car or bus will be required to cover the remaining 150 km of the journey.

Currently, direct information regarding regular intercity bus services directly to the resort is limited. Travellers are advised to focus on major neighbouring cities, such as Little Rock, which have a developed network of bus connections with other regions of the country.

A trip by bus can be a budget-friendly option for travel, though it is worth checking the schedule with national carriers in advance. Usually, bus routes pass through picturesque areas of the state, allowing you to enjoy views of the American countryside before arriving in Hot Springs.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient ways to reach the hot springs. The fastest route runs from the city of Little Rock: the distance is about 88 km, which will take less than an hour of comfortable driving.

For those driving from the south or southwest, a convenient starting point is Texarkana; the road is 179 km long and takes about 1.9 hours. The route from El Dorado is also popular: covering 184 km takes approximately 2.2 hours, while enjoying high-quality roads and scenery.

Preparing for a trip to Hot Springs does not require special effort, but knowing a few nuances will make your holiday as comfortable as possible. The city is focused on a relaxed pace of life, so it is worth tuning in to a calm pastime.

1. Clothing and Items: Be sure to bring swimwear for visiting the thermal bathhouses. Comfortable shoes are required for walking in the national park, and while the climate here is mild, it is changeable — a windbreaker will not be superfluous.
2. Transport: The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot. To visit the surroundings and remote lakes, it is most convenient to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carrying some cash for tips and small souvenirs is always useful.
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe for tourists, but please observe standard safety precautions. Water from specially marked public fountains is safe to drink — it is considered healing.
5. Communication: The main language is English. Staff in tourist zones are welcoming and accustomed to guests, so basic language skills will be sufficient.
6. Local Etiquette: In the USA, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill in restaurants and taxis. Politeness and a smile are the universal key to communicating with locals.
7. What to Avoid: Do not attempt to bathe in hot springs in unauthorized open-air places — the water can be scalding hot (up to +62°C). Please use the equipped bathhouses.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to take a walk along the famous Bathhouse Row — an avenue of historic baths, to feel the atmosphere of the early 20th-century resort.

By following these simple recommendations, you can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of wellness and avoid minor inconveniences during your holiday.