Here are my five favorite activities for April in Hot Springs.
1 – Live Horse Racing at Oaklawn Park – Enjoy a day at the races and cheer for your favorite philly. Don’t forget to grab a reuben sandwich for lunch (they are huge so you can share). The last day of live races is April 11th, but their is simulcast racing and skilled gambling all year long.
2 – Gallery Walk is always the first Friday of the Month. It is a lovely time to stroll through the galleries and speak with local artists, enjoy complimentary appetizers and snacks.
3 – Quapaw Bathhouse – It is difficult to come to Hot Springs and not enjoy a soak in the Hot Springs Mineral Water. My favorite batthouse for this purpose is the Quapaw. They have a series of 5 pools and different hot temperatures all filled with the Hot Spring Mineral water. Perfect on a budget at only $15/person.
4 – Hiking – There are so many trails to choose from. I enjoy a stroll on a nice path, such as the one that runs behind bathhouse row (the 8 historic bathhouses built in the early 1900’s during one of the “boom” eras of Hot Springs). When you get to Arlington Park you can either traverse the trails on the mountain (for the athletic sort) or follow the sidewalk around the corner onto Central Avenue and window shop (or better yet, stop in at the shops) on the way back to your car. I also enjoy the paths in Gulpha Gorge National Park, just a 1/2 mile from the inn. These paths will take you across a small waterway on stepping stones and you can have an adventure in the woods. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, there are so many great spots with tables just waiting for you to rest, relax, and enjoy the view.
5 – Garvan Gardens – The landscape is in bloom with tulips a plenty, hostas peeping through the ground and trees just beginning to show off their new leaves. On a nice day there isn’t anything more enjoyable then a peaceful stroll with your sweetheart along the pathways and waterways at this botanical garden.
Faith Kraemer
Owner of Hilltop Manor Bed and Breakfast
Hot Springs, AR
501-625-STAY (7829)
www.HilltopManorHotSprings.com
One of the most popular vacation destinations in the state is just a short drive from Little Rock. Take the day off, pack up the kids and head to Hot Springs. Hot Springs is great for families, couples and singles in the summer, winter and fall. The naturalist will find hours of enjoyment there, as will the historian, the antique shopper and the shopaholic. In other words, Hot Springs has something to offer everyone!