Things to Do Around Hot Springs, Arkansas

Just a mere 0.5 miles from The Gables Inn, Hot Springs National Park covers 5,550 acres of woodlands, trails, rivers and, of course, hot springs. The park is full of outdoor opportunities, where you can picnic, hike, explore Hot Springs geology, or discover the history and culture of this natural wonder. Make your way to Mountain Tower and ride the elevator to the top for stunning panoramic views of Hot Springs and the Ouachita Mountains. With 26 miles of trails winding through lush forests, hikers will appreciate the rugged beauty of their surroundings. For anyone who loves the outdoors, the park is an oasis from the demands of everyday life.

Only 0.5 miles from the inn, a visit to the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum is like stepping into a time machine to glimpse a glamorous era when natural hot baths were the epitome of sophistication and relaxation. When it opened in 1915, it was one of the largest bathhouses in Hot Springs, with three stories of attractions, such as a gymnasium, bathing rooms of course, a bowling alley, and a billiards room. Today, you can step into this architectural marvel and explore ornate halls and rooms where patrons once indulged in luxurious spa treatments and entertainment.

Get ready to experience the thrill of adrenaline-fueled excitement, where thundering hooves meet the siren call of lady luck. The Oaklawn Thoroughbred Horse Racing and Casino is the place for heart-pounding action an it's only 2 miles from us. Place your bets and cheer on your favorite steed at the horse track and revel in the electrifying atmosphere. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Try your hand in the casino at the roulette wheel, gaming tables, or slot machines. And after all of the excitement, take some time to relax at one of several bars or restaurants. So place your bet, roll the dice, and let the games begin.

Enter the enchanting world of Garvan Woodland Gardens, where flowers bloom like they’re auditioning for a botanical beauty pageant. Wander among tranquil pathways and discover hidden pockets of paradise that will make you believe in fairytales again. With every step, you’ll be captivated by the magical symphony of colors, fragrances, and the occasional mischievous squirrel photo-bombing your perfect shot. This beautiful garden is only 8 miles from the Gables Inn.

Each Thursday in June, walk just a few blocks (0.3 miles) from the inn and enjoy the fun as Bridge Street hosts a FREE themed block-party-style event in Hot Springs, Arkansas.   Live music, food, vendors, and a whole lot of fun.  Every March 17th Bridge Street will be a sea of green from the fountains to the beer, peoples hair to the beads thrown from the floats.  Bridge Street LIVE Entertainment District offers FREE concerts March 16th & 17th each year and is home to the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade featuring several Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, leprechauns, floats & more as well as celebrities that serve as Grand Marshal and the Official Parade Starter.

Northwoods Mountain Bike Trails- MTB at its finest. With three IMBA epic trails in the region; The Womble, The Lake Ouachita Vista Trail (LOViT), and The Ouachita National Recreation Trail, in addition to the Northwoods Trails, Hot Springs, Arkansas has been designated as a bronze level ride center by the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA). The Northwoods Trails are open to hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. The trail system is located just 5 minutes from downtown Hot Springs. There are 31 + miles of trails including beginner, intermediate and expert trails.