Attractions and Places To See in Garland County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Garland County are concentrated around the city of Hot Springs, featuring natural thermal springs, historic architecture, and diverse outdoor recreation. The landscape is defined by the Ouachita Mountains and large lakes such as Lake Ouachita and Lake Hamilton. This region offers a variety of experiences, from botanical gardens and scenic viewpoints to numerous trails within Hot Springs National Park.
Best attractions and places to see in Garland County
- The most popular attractions isβ¦
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths walk
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Buckstaff Baths
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Hot Spring Cascade
Highlight β’ Waterfall
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Garvan Woodland Gardens
Highlight β’ Natural
The facility is the University of Arkansas Botanical Gardens, made possible by a donation from the late entrepreneur Verna Cook Garvan.
Admission $15 for adults.
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Hot Springs Mountain Tower
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Goat Rock Overlook
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Historic Maurice Bathhouse
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Gulpha Gorge Campground
Highlight β’ Rest Area
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Caddo Bend Trail
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Cedar Glades Park Trailhead
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The Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths Walk takes you past the iconic bathhouses that made this area famous. Running along Bathhouse Row, the paved route winds through the heart of downtown Hot Springs, where youβll see early 20th-century buildings like the Fordyce, Buckstaff, and Quapaw, each with its own story in the parkβs long spa tradition. Interpretive signs and restored architecture offer a glimpse into the era when this was a major health destination. Itβs a short, accessible walk and you can still step inside for a soak, just as visitors did a century ago.
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One of the highlights of the trail is a peninsula that extends into Lake Ouachita, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. It winds through the forested area, featuring beautiful wildflowers, diverse flora, and occasional wildlife sightings. The trail also includes some rocky and hilly sections, providing a bit of challenge along with the rewarding views.
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Designed by architect George Gleim Jr., the present Maurice Bathhouse was built by William Maurice to replace an existing Victorian-style building, the Independent Bathhouse, later renamed the Maurice Bathhouse after owner Charles Maurice (William's father). The present building opened for business on January 1, 1912. With a total floor space of 23,000 square feet, the three-story bathhouse had ample room for a complete range of services and amenities, including a gymnasium, staterooms, a roof garden, twin elevators, and in the 1930s a therapeutic pool, situated in the basement. It was the only bathhouse on the Row to have a pool. The Maurice closed in November 1974.
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Located at the Arlington Lawn, this is the largest visible spring in the park. Hot water emanates from the hill side near the Grand Promenade and flows under the path, down a steep cliff into two pools.
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The Buckstaff Bathhouse, named for controlling shareholders George and Milo Buckstaff, replaced the old Rammelsberg Bathhouse, a brick Victorian structure. The Rammelsberg replaced the A.B. Gaines Bathhouse destroyed in the 1878 fire, but there was a brick bathouse on the site in the late 1850s as well. Designed by Frank W. GIbb and Company, Architects, the Buckstaff cost $125,000 to build and contains 27,000 square feet on three main floors. Because it has been in continuous operation since it opened on February 1, 1912. It is one of the best preserved of all of the bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. However, it has gone over many changes through the years. Originally, it had a large hydrotherapeutic department, which only it, the Fordyce, and the Imperial offered.
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Cedar Glades Park Trailhead is a trailhead for the Northwoods trails system. It includes a bike skills park, bike wash and repair station, and restrooms as well as a number of other amenities.
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The observation deck can be reached via an elevator and at 1256' elevation you can overlook 140 square miles over Hot Springs and into the Ouachita Mountains, and Diamond Lakes area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique historical sites to visit in Garland County?
Garland County is rich in history, particularly around Hot Springs. You can explore Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths walk, which takes you past iconic early 20th-century bathhouses like the Fordyce, Buckstaff, and Quapaw. The Buckstaff Baths are notable as the only continuously operating historic bathhouse on the Row. Beyond the baths, the city's past as a hotspot for notorious criminals is explored at The Gangster Museum of America, and the Hot Springs Historic Baseball Trail celebrates its spring training legacy.
Where can I find family-friendly attractions in Garland County?
For families, Garvan Woodland Gardens offers a beautiful and engaging experience with diverse flora and architectural structures. The Mid-America Science Museum provides interactive exhibits, and Magic Springs Theme and Water Park offers rides and water attractions for an adrenaline rush. The Hot Spring Cascade is also a family-friendly natural feature to observe.
What natural features are prominent in Garland County?
Garland County is defined by its stunning natural features. Hot Springs National Park is home to 47 natural thermal springs, including the largest visible one, the Hot Spring Cascade. The Ouachita Mountains provide a scenic backdrop, and the county boasts large lakes like Lake Ouachita (Arkansas's largest) and Lake Hamilton, both popular for water activities. Lake Catherine State Park also offers trails and a waterfall.
Are there good hiking opportunities in Garland County?
Yes, Garland County offers extensive hiking opportunities. Hot Springs National Park features 26 miles of hiking trails. For easy hikes, consider routes like Oertel Trail or Gulpha Gorge Trail. You can find more options and details in the Easy hikes in Garland County guide. The Gulpha Gorge Campground area is a good starting point for accessing trails on the east side of the park.
Where can I go for mountain biking in Garland County?
Garland County is a fantastic destination for mountain biking, especially with the extensive Northwoods Trails. You can find various routes, including the Northwoods Perimeter Traverse Loop, Freeman Trail, and Valkyrie and Bluejay Loop. Cedar Glades Park Trailhead also offers biking trails. For a comprehensive list, check out the MTB Trails in Garland County guide.
What are some scenic viewpoints or places for photography in the area?
For breathtaking views of the Ouachita Mountains, visit Goat Rock Overlook, built in 1924. Garvan Woodland Gardens also provides numerous picturesque spots with its diverse flora and unique architectural structures like the Anthony Chapel, perfect for nature photography.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Garland County?
Yes, the Hot Springs National Park Historic Baths walk along Bathhouse Row is a paved and accessible route, allowing visitors to experience the historic architecture. Many areas within Hot Springs National Park are designed to be accessible, and the Fordyce Bathhouse, which serves as the park's visitor center, is also accessible.
What is the best time to visit Garland County for outdoor activities?
While specific recommendations vary, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and biking in Garland County, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, requiring appropriate hydration and clothing, especially for longer hikes. Winter offers fewer crowds and a unique experience for visiting the historic bathhouses.
Where can I find unique local experiences beyond the main attractions?
Beyond the well-known spots, you can search for quartz crystals at Ron Coleman Mining for a unique hands-on experience. The Mountain Valley Water Museum offers insight into the region's famous spring water, and the Garland County Historical Society provides a deeper dive into local heritage. For a different kind of entertainment, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort offers horse racing and casino gaming.
Are there opportunities for running trails in Garland County?
Yes, Garland County offers several running trails. You can find routes like the Hot Springs National Park β West Mountain Overlook loop or the Buckstaff Baths β Hot Springs Mountain Tower loop. These range in difficulty from moderate to difficult. More details on these and other options are available in the Running Trails in Garland County guide.
What are some popular water-based activities in Garland County?
Garland County is home to several large lakes perfect for water activities. Lake Ouachita, Arkansas's largest lake, is ideal for swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and fishing. Lake Hamilton is another popular spot for water-skiing, pleasure boating, and fishing, with waterfront hotels and restaurants. Lake Catherine State Park also offers a marina for water access.
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