By Victoria Pike
Whether you’re here vacationing or simply having a staycation over spring break here in Hot Springs, I’ve got some go-to attractions for you.
- Hot Springs Mountain/ Tower – This cheap activity is sure to provide fun for the whole family. Hike or take the scenic drive up the Hot Springs Mountain and stop for a photo-op at one of the lookout points along the way. At the top you will find the 216 ft. steel truss observation tower and gift shop. For only $8 you can take the stairs or the elevator to the top. 9 AM to 6:30 PM every day. www.hotspringstower.com.
- Bathhouse Row – Another must-have activity is visiting the all-time famous bathhouses. You’ve watched the movies and read the stories, experience it for yourselves and take this all-inclusive free stroll through downtown Hot Springs and make your way into each bathhouse to experience the history. The Fordyce Bathhouse now serves as the visitors center and is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. www.nps.gov.
- Picnic at Gulpha Gorge – Enjoy a beautiful day full of nature and scenery as you have lunch by the creek that runs through Gulpha Gorge. The Gorge has picnic tables and restrooms. Open to the public 6 AM to 10 PM. www.nps.org. Either pack a sandwich or stop by my personal favorite local restaurant, Frosty Treat, for your picnic food. Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10:30 AM to 7 PM.
- Lake Catherine State Park – Rolling in at #2 on my list is my personal favorite, Lake Catherine State Park and Hiking Trails. The State Park offers three main hiking trails varying in length, but are all moderately difficult. Falls Branch Trail takes about 1-2 hours to walk, and highlights an astonishing waterfall called Falls Creek Falls. Horseshoe Mountain Trail is 3.5 miles long and takes up to 3.5 hours to complete. On this trail you will get to experience the beauties of Arkansas itself, various tree types, and wildflowers. Dam Mountain Trail takes 2-4 hours and leads you to a lookout point where Lake Catherine and Remmel Dam come together. 10 AM to 5 PM every day. www.arkansasstateparks.com.
- Garvan Woodland Gardens (GWG)- A classic spot for everything nature we know and love, GWG does it again coming in at #1 on my list of Spring Break Attractions. Throughout the month of March, they have Daffodil Days (through 3/15), and the Tulip Extravaganza (through 4/1). Both great events to identify beautiful spring flowers in bloom. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for ages 4-12, and children 0-3 are free. Check out their special events at www.garvangardens.org.
