Best known for its thermal hot water sources, the beautiful town of Hot Springs, Arkansas has been the destination of choice for families for many generations. This town literally has something for everyone. There is always something new and exciting to try out. Here are a few of our top picks for family-friendly things to do in Hot Springs.
Fun for the Whole Family
Here’s a list of some of the best family activities you can do while camping in Hot Springs. Whatever your family is into, you’re sure to find an activity that everyone will love!
The Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo
See ya later Alligator…
Visit the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo today for an opportunity to be a kid again. This is a privately owned zoo located on Whittington Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas that was founded in 1902. Hold a baby alligator, feed and pet miniature goats, and see wolves, mountain lions, monkeys, raccoons, and more. There’s something fun for everyone in your family.
You can also feed baby alligators meat on a stick and witness live alligator feeding shows every Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at noon May through mid-October.
Hot Springs National Park
Congress established Hot Springs Reservation on April 20, 1832. The intention was to protect the hot springs flowing from Hot Springs Mountain. Known for its 47 thermal springs, this national park is the nation’s oldest, predating Yellowstone by 40 years. It features more than 30 miles of hiking trails through the glorious Ouachita Mountains, scenic drives, hot water cascade, and picnic areas.
At the summit, an elevation of 1,256 feet above sea level, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower is open for visitors. The tower has three levels with the upper observation deck being open-air. From there, visitors may look out over 140 square miles of the surrounding countryside, including the entire park and a portion of the Ouachita Mountains. The lower observation deck, enclosed and air-conditioned, contains exhibits highlighting park and local history. A gift shop is located at the base of the tower.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Experience the timeless fascination of a journey into the past through the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. Come enjoy this museum with life-size wax replicas of historical and fictional people, plus gambling paraphernalia. Visit our unusual gift shop. Everyone has a front-row ticket. Open seven days a week. This museum is from Josephine Tussaud, Madame Tussaud’s granddaughter. This museum is not affiliated with the other Madame Tussaud museums.
A word of warning to parents – The museum is organized into “Worlds” and some might be scary for kids (like the World of Horrors), which spotlights medieval tortures. Yikes! But there is a special sign and escape route just for kids for exactly this reason. One of my favorite themes was the World of Make Believe which has scenes from fairy tales like Alice in Wonderland and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Mid-America Science Museum
Approximately just a few miles from downtown Hot Springs, the Mid-America Science Museum has been a resource for innovation since its opening in 1979. Serving the community as a unique destination for generations of families for 40 years. It has more than 100 hands-on exhibits — both traveling and permanent exhibits. Many permanent exhibits were built in the early 1980s, such as a “ball machine” that hits billiard balls around an elaborate track.
A special donation from the Oaklawn Foundation in 2013 allowed for the creation of the Oaklawn Foundation Digital Dome. This has state-of-the-art surround sound and a 180-degree screen for viewing the night sky and special programming offered by the museum to educate children and adults about the science and history of space exploration. The Mid-America Science Museum provides an escape for curious minds of all ages.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland Gardens, the botanical garden of the University of Arkansas, is nestled in the picturesque Ouachita Mountains. Numerous attractions are on the grounds including architectural structures like the Anthony Chapel, the Bob and Sunny Evans Treehouse, and botanical landscapes. These offer breathtaking sights and great photo opportunities. Most trails are ADA accessible and pets can come (for an additional fee). No pets allowed during Holiday Lights. Seasonal dining onsite at the Chipmunk Cafe.
It was Mrs. Garvan’s wish that the Gardens be used to educate and serve the people of Arkansas. She wanted the gardens to provide the joy and repose it had offered her. She noted the devastation of the environment that had taken place in her lifetime and wished to preserve a remnant of the twentieth century’s natural grandeur for generations to come.
AdventureWorks Hot Springs Zip Line
For those unfamiliar with “zipping,” the activity involves a rider soaring through the air by a cable. They are suspended above an incline, to which a pulley and harness are attached. According to an Adventureworks guide, the first two segments at Adventureworks “start out as bunny slopes, and then get progressively faster. People are sometimes apprehensive at first because of all the safety gear and the briefings we give them. Guests become very proficient and almost fearless toward the end.” The course is a horseshoe pattern so that guests end up where they are dropped off. The lines run up to 800 feet in length – and the full sequence is nearly a mile long.
The zipline is conveniently located at Catherine’s Landing. Although it is not one of their site amenities, it is well worth the experience! There is also an obstacle course that surrounds a giant oak tree. You must make reservations in advance.
Need a Place to Stay? Relax at Catherine’s Landing in Hot Springs!
Located just five minutes outside of historic Hot Springs, Arkansas. Catherine’s Landing is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Truly, it’s a place where you can get away without really having to disconnect. Steeped in history, this unique property spans 400 pastoral acres and surrounded by one mile of water frontage on beautiful Lake Catherine. With open sky and natural wonders around every bend. Go for a hike on the Big Foot Trail. Watch for wildlife – like armadillos, bunnies, and deer. Explore the clean, clear waters of Lake Catherine. Forget the devices, family members of ALL ages will have FUN! Check current rates and availability here.
For more fun things to do in Hot Springs, please visit catherineslanding.com
About RVC Outdoor Destinations
Looking for a fun adventure? RVC Outdoor Destinations, the leading provider of high-quality outdoor hospitality in the United States, is redefining the traditional camping experience. Visit us at rvcoutdoors.com
