The city of Hot Springs brings people together. Nicknamed “The Spa City” today, the area was called “The Valley of the Vapors” by Native American tribes that first inhabited the Ouachita Mountains. It was considered a common ground where everyone could relax in thermal mineral water. The city’s hot springs and mountains were officially named the Hot Springs Reservation in 1832, making it the oldest park in the National Park System. The city would again become neutral ground in the 1930s when it became a popular vacation destination for mobsters like Al Capone and Frank Costello. Its streets were rife with gambling, bootlegging and other vices, but not violence. A federal crackdown in the 1960s eliminated the city’s gangster ties.
Today, Hot Springs has nearly 38,000 residents, up slightly from around 35,000 residents in 2010. Many more people visit its 47 natural hot springs each year, with 2021 seeing a record 2.16 million visitors enter Hot Springs National Park. The Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is the city’s biggest employer, followed by CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs, the only level II trauma center in Southwest Arkansas. Walmart Inc., National Park Medical Center and the City of Hot Springs are other large employers. “The amount of amenities for the town, and the personal, community feeling of Hot Springs, combined with the cost of living is hard to find,” says Benjamin Kilgore, a Realtor and executive broker with Lake Hamilton Realty.
Hot Springs features 26 miles of trails in the National Park.
Hot Springs is known as the "Spa City," for both its natural springs and downtown resort-like atmosphere.
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Waterfront condos and Colonial Revival homes
The median price of a Hot Springs home is around $230,000, well below the United States average. Houses spend an average of 52 days on the market. Downtown Hot Springs is filled with historic Victorian and Colonial Revival homes, while waterfront condos and ranch-style houses are prominent in the Lake Hamilton neighborhood. These homes tend to be more expensive and can be optimal for investors looking to operate short-term rentals.
Hot Springs homes often feature Victorian inspired architecture.
Hot Springs' residential streets are shaded by old growth trees.
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Bathhouse Row lets visitors relax away the day
The nearly 5,000-acre Hot Springs National Park offers hiking and camping among its many activities. The park’s Bathhouse Row, on Central Avenue, comprises eight bathhouses from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Hale Bathhouse, the oldest on the street, has a sauna nestled inside a thermal cave. The city has three area lakes for kayaking, fishing and scuba diving, including the 40,000-acre Lake Ouachita, the state’s largest lake.
The Ozark on Bathhouse Row displays the area's notable Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture.
The Maurice Bathhouse is one of the historic buildings on Bathhouse Row and is slated for future restoration.
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Water slides and a reminder of the city's past
Outside of its spas, things remain wet in Hot Springs. Magic Springs Theme and Water Park has rollercoasters, water slides and an outdoor concert amphitheater, which holds more than 10 performances each summer. The park is usually open from May through early November. The annual Stueart Pennington's World Championship Running of the Tubs sees teams race custom, wheeled bathtubs through city streets. Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort has Thoroughbred horse racing and hosts the Arkansas Derby, one of the biggest prep races before the Kentucky Derby. The resort also has slots, table games and sports betting.
Some tourists visit Lake Hamilton via Duck Tours.
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is located in Hot Springs.
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Lakeside School District gets a high Niche grade
Students are served by five school districts. Lakeside School District is the highest rated by Niche, holding an A grade. The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts, a public school that requires an application, has an A-plus individual grade.
Arkansas School For Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts is an exclusive school for bright minds.
Lakeside High School is a part of the Lakeside School District that serves Hot Springs families.
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Intracity Transit buses get people around town
U.S. Route 270 runs through the southern part of the city. Hot Springs is around 55 miles from Little Rock, the state capital. Intracity Transit buses take riders down the city’s major streets. Hot Springs Memorial Field is a commercial airport with a few domestic flights. More flights are available at Little Rock’s Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport. CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs is a 280-bed hospital.
Classic cuisine and retail boutiques
Many city restaurants serve twists on barbecue and classic American cuisine. Pizza parlors are also popular. Downtown Hot Springs has retail boutiques and other distinct shops. Uptown Hot Springs is a shopping mall with name-brand stores. The Hot Springs Farmers & Artisan Market is open year-round on Saturdays.
Downtown Hot Springs features vingage stores, handmade goods, unique restaurants, and more.
Downtown Hot Springs is a living piece of American history tucked into the Ouachita Mountains.
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Long, humid summers are the norm
Data from the Hot Springs Police Department says the city’s property crime rates have fallen in recent years while its violent crime rates have remained steady. The city’s violent crime and property crime rates are above the state and national averages, according to FBI crime data. The city experiences four seasons, with long, humid summers and shorter winters. Tornadoes are possible, particularly in the spring.
Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Aaron Bloodworth
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Bethany Brasfield,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Hot Springs, AR sell after 79 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Hot Springs, AR over the last 12 months is $303,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Prime Lake Hamilton Living in the Heart of Hot Springs Offered for the first time in over 50 years, 165 Pretti Point is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated Lake Hamilton lakefront home with open main-lake views in one of the most central locations on the lake. Located just off Highway 7 and Central Avenue, less than 4 miles from Oaklawn Racing Casino & Resort, this property offers
Welcome to Little Chicago, a highly sought after neighborhood with many friendly faces! 101 Crocus Street rests on the corner of Crocus and Poinsettia and hosts a 2 bed, 1.5 bath home that has been updated with a new AC unit (2025), new insulation (2025), and a new roof (2023). It also features an unfinished basement, that can been used as a workshop or storage space, with an additional
Tyler MosbyCentury 21 Parker & Scroggins Hot Springs
Wake up in this beautifully maintained 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home that blends comfort, style, and smart living. Mornings begin in a sunlit kitchen featuring double ovens, a gas cooktop, and a smart refrigerator, designed to keep life running smoothly. Evenings are made for relaxing by the fireplace or hosting movie nights in the oversized upstairs flex room. The primary suite is a true retreat,
Discover a home that truly fits your lifestyle in this 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2,088 sq. ft. retreat nestled in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods. The bright, open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area is perfect for entertaining or relaxing at home. The spacious kitchen features abundant cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and generous counter space — ideal for everyday living or hosting
Experience the warmth and elegance of this beautifully restored Victorian-style estate, nestled in the heart of downtown Hot Springs. This one-of-a-kind home boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and modern amenities. The main house features 5 spacious bedrooms, with 3 located downstairs and 2 upstairs. There are 3 full bathrooms, expansive storage areas, and plenty of room for a large
Lakefront Living in a Private Cove | Lake Hamilton Welcome to 117 Waverly Street, offering elevated lakefront living on Lake Hamilton in a quiet cove with a rare park-like setting. Situated on over half an acre with approximately 83 feet of shoreline and an existing swim dock, this property blends privacy, views, and a central Lake Hamilton location. Enjoy expansive water views from the
Ready to make your mark on a property? Here is a blank slate home waiting on the right person to finish it up. New wiring, plumbing and HVAC. Home is ready for insulation, floors and walls on this 3/1 floorpan. You can turn this into a cozy home for yourself and family OR it is priced to make a great rental property for the investors looking to expand their portfolio.
Escape to your own private retreat with this charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home set on 7.11 serene, wooded acres. Offering 1,305 square feet of comfortable living space, this property blends peaceful seclusion with practical amenities. Enjoy year-round confidence with a Generac whole-home generator, and take advantage of the brand-new 60' x 40' shop—complete with 220-amp service and rough-in
Here is your opportunity to purchase TWO homes selling as a package. Approx 2420 TOTAL sq feet (per assessor 1620 sq ft in the main improved home PLUS the newer second house with approx 800 ADDITIONAL sq feet) With 3 bedroom, 2 full baths ,the main house offers a large open & inviting gathering space with vaulted ceiling & decorator nooks for showcasing your personal treasures. Just steps away,
Feeling lucky? You should. This 4-bed, 2-bath home is so close to Oaklawn Race Track and Casino you could win big, grab a drink, and make it home before the house even knows it lost. It’s fully furnished, short-term rental licensed, and completely turn-key—ready to start earning before race season hits. Set up to sleep 10+ guests, it’s perfect for race fans, group getaways, or anyone who believes
Gorgeous corner lot with easy access to amenities. Fiber internet available in this area for easy work from home advantage. Enjoy the community amenities of deeded lake access to Lake Catherine via neighborhood boat ramps, community pool, tennis/pickleball and basketball courts, picinic pavilion with fire pit, disc golf course, playground and park. Clubhouse has banquet room, bar & grill, etc.
Rare opportunity to own Lakefront Property 30 feet from waters edge at a low, low price that is affordable!. Highly sought after Ground floor. Very beautiful and peaceful place on Lake Hamilton. Cozy 1 Bed 1 Bath Condo has been completely remodeled. New Paint, New Fixtures and New Luxury Vinyl Flooring. Refrigerator remains. Fantastic Lake Views from inside or Back Porch. New beautiful Boardwalk
What a great opportunity to purchase two homes selling as a package. The main house has 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths and an amazingly large main living area. Its open and inviting gathering space has vaulted ceiling and decorator nooks. And you get an additional sweet 1 bedroom, 1 bath guest cottage next door with generous amount of living space. Great set up for those needing additional living
Gorgeous ground level 2 bedroom condo with NEW FLOORING and a COVERED DOCK on the MAIN CHANNEL! Enjoy the grassy area just off the patio steps away from the covered dock, swim platform and pool. Turn key condo is selling fully furnished. This is an active nightly rental. Quick access to Oaklawn and downtown Hot Springs makes this the ideal location for year round bookings! see for video tour
Jean Clare Dickerson
Century 21 Parker & Scroggins Realty - Hot Springs
Discover our stunning condo resort, just minutes from the beautiful Lake Hamilton! But that’s not all! Our prime location puts you just moments away from exciting entertainment options, including: *Oaklawn Racing and Casino: Try your luck at the races or enjoy a night of gaming. *Magic Springs: Perfect for family fun, this amusement park offers thrilling rides and water attractions. *Historic
Entire building remodeled in 2024. Kitchen is a kitchenette. These apartments include utilities and have the option to be rented fully furnished at a higher rate. the building sits halfway between downtown and Oaklawn.
Luxury living at the perfect location! Located near Lake Hamilton and the Hot Springs Mall. Equal Housing Opportunity. Contact Times: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday closed.
This cozy house features a lovely fireplace, perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings. The fenced-in yard provides privacy and a safe space for outdoor activities. With its super cute appeal, this home is sure to steal your heart. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home sweet home. No pets.
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT! LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!!! Higdon Ferry Apartments is located **directly** across the street from the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, at 605 Higdon Ferry Rd. in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Also nearby St. Vincent Hospital and multiple shopping centers. UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Spring '24 with 5 star reviews flooding in. Newly renovated, modern 1 to 2 bedroom units designed for
Welcome home to this well-located 3-bedroom, 1-bath residence in Hot Springs offering approximately 1,088 square feet of comfortable living space. Built in 2008, this home features a practical and functional layout with central heating and air, durable flooring throughout, and a bright, easy-to-maintain interior. Situated on a manageable lot in the 71901 area, this property offers convenient
Welcome to Indiandale Apartments. We are leasing and want to be your new home!We are located off Malvern Hwy 270 and conveniently located close to National Park Medical Center. We are within only 5 minutes of the heart of downtown and Lake Hamilton. Make Indiandale Apartments your new home.
Welcome to 150 Sun St, a newly renovated gem nestled in the heart of Hot Springs, AR. This charming home boasts three spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom, offering ample space for comfortable living. The kitchen comes equipped with a refrigerator, ready to cater to all your culinary needs. The property also features a carport, providing convenient, covered parking. With its prime location and
Welcome to Grand Point Bay Apartments, on the banks of Lake Hamilton. Enjoy the beautiful lake view surrounded by lavish landscaping. Electric Fireplaces in every unit. Let Grand Point Bay Apartments be your new home.
Welcome to an exceptional community of well-appointed apartment homes - wonderfully situated off Highway 7 South in the heart of Hot Springs, yet only minutes away from Historical Downtown Hot Springs, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, area lakes, and myriad shopping or dining options! Our community offers thoughtfully designed living spaces with a wide variety of features and amenities, all situated
Looking for a house to rent in the Hot Springs area well look no more because I have the one for you. This charming 4 Bedroom 2 Bath home is centrally located to everything Hot Springs has to offer. Features include original hardwood floors, dishwashers, new paint, and light fixtures. This home also offers a partially finished basement that can be used for additional storage. Also has a large
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