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There’s something special about Hot Springs, Arkansas that sparks love and romance! Whether you are visiting the area for an anniversary, honeymoon, or just looking for a romantic staycation – Hot Springs has a lot of romantic things to do. From hot springs and mountainous views to fine dining and exclusive resorts– any couple can find the perfect setting for quality time together exploring one of America’s most picturesque towns. To help plan your romantic outing we have compiled a list of some of our top romantic things to do in Hot Springs.
There are endless options when it comes to the perfect romantic day in nature. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll, a picturesque hike, sunset views, or a day on the water Hot Springs has it all.
For a beautiful walk through nature and downtown you don’t want to miss Grand Promenade trails. This trail is one of the most popular in Hot Springs and offers beautiful views of downtown. It also has a path leading up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower where you can take in a stunning view of Hot Springs 216 feet in the air.
Just 20 minutes from downtown is Garvan Woodland Gardens. With over 200 acres of botanical gardens, nature trails, and stunning views of Lake Hamilton you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty. This is a great spot to take a long romantic walk or just sit and enjoy the scenery together.
If a more strenuous adventure sounds romantic to you, then head over to one of the hiking trails in Hot Springs National Park or the Ouachita National Forest. Some of our favorites include Goat Rock Trail, West Mountain Trail, and Sunset Trail. Goat Rock Trail is 2.4 moderate hike that offer expansive views of Hot Springs and the Ouachita Mountains. West Mountain Trail and Sunset are both easy hikes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Plus, they offer great views of, you guessed it, the sunset!
Photo Credit: National Park Service
Over in the Ouachita National Forest you can immerse yourself in some truly gorgeous hikes as well. Winding Stairs Trail is a great one located near Lake Ouachita and offers a challenging hike with beautiful waterfalls, rock formations, swimming holes, and plenty of chances to take in the vast forest. This trail is a 2-mile piece of the longer Missouri trail. You might also want to check out the Hunt’s Loop Trail for a moderate 4.4 mile loop hike with stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains. This is a dog-friendly trail, and has a picnic area serving as the trailhead where you can enjoy a pre or post hike meal. Perfect for a full-day date!
There are truly endless options when it comes to trails in the area. As long as you choose one to fit you and your partner’s abilities, then you’re sure to make some great memories together on these romantic hikes.
Want to see some scenery from the comfort of your car? The Hot Springs area also has some beautiful scenic drives. Hot Springs Scenic Byway is a great one that takes you through the Ouachita National Forest and offers stunning views of water, mountains, and wildlife. Another great drive is to take Highway 7 north for about an hour. This will take you along the beautiful Lake Hamilton with breathtaking views. You can also check out both the Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive and West Mountain Scenic Drive for views of Hot Springs, with lookouts you can pull-over and enjoy.
Now let’s head over to the water for a lake date!
The area boasts a number of beautiful lakes where you can rent boats, go swimming, watch the sunset and more. The largest lake in Hot Springs is Lake Hamilton, and it offers access to a number of great activities, as well as simply being a stunningly scenic place for a picnic or stroll. Other great lake options include Lake Ouachita and Lake Catherine. All of these lakes offer trails with vast views as well, and hikes throughout. If you’re interested in renting a boat, kayak or canoe, there are numerous companies at each park who can help you get out on the water.
One thing that Hot Springs is known for, is our…hot springs! There is nothing more romantic than enjoying a spa day together as a couple. If you head over to Bath House Row you’ll find our bathhouses located in Hot Springs National Park. These bathhouses are over 100 years old, and offer a variety of hot spring treatments where you can enjoy the relaxing warmth of the therapeutic waters. Fordyce Bathhouse is the largest and most popular bathhouse in Hot Springs. There is also Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Baths, but any of them on the row can offer you both a wonderfully relaxing day!
Let’s keep the spa day going! How does a massage, in your own cabin, right in the middle of the Ouachita Mountains sound? For guests staying at one of our cabins or treehouses at In The Trees Resort, we have in-room massages available as well as celebration packages that include things like champagne, local treats, and more to help you make the perfect romantic moment without having to leave your room. Plus, all of our cabins and treehouses come with stunning views of the Ouachita National Forest and secluded hot tubs for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay.
And finally– a romantic outing isn’t complete without food! In the city you can enjoy some of our amazing restaurants. From steakhouses to Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone here in Hot Springs. When it comes to fine dining head on over to 501 Prime or the Vault for unique dishes, extensive wine list and full bar. Check out our full guide to dining for more of our favorite eats and drinks in town.
No matter what kind of date you’re looking for, Hot Springs has it all! Whether your style is an easy stroll, picturesque hike, sunset views or something on the water we hope this list helps you plan the perfect day. Don’t forget to make memories along the way; take pictures, start traditions, and write down your favorite moments so that you can look back on them fondly for years to come. We hope you enjoy all of these romantic things to do in Hot Springs, and may all your dates be filled with fun and romance!
Photo Credit: Samantha Wilson
In the Trees – Treehouse Resort
121 Blowout Mountain Rd.
Hot Springs, AR 71913
501-430-4199
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