Hot Springs National Park is in an urban area, surrounding the north end of the city of Hot Springs. Be aware that many businesses in the area say they are in "Hot Springs National Park" when they actually are not; the city's post office name is Hot Springs National Park.

The hot springs only emerge in the Bathhouse Row area downtown because the town grew around the hot springs.

If you only have an hour:

-Tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse
-See (and feel if you want) the hot springs

If you have half a day:

-Tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse and watch the park movie, Valley of Vapors, and the bathing video. Ask about guided tours.
-Stroll through the Bathhouse Row National Historic Landmark District which includes the Grand Promenade.
-Experience the thermal water: Take a traditional bath at the Buckstaff Bathhouse or a modern spa experience at the Quapaw Baths and Spa.

If you have all day or more:

-Do all of the above
-Drive the park's scenic mountain roads
-Plan a picnic at one of the park picnic areas
-Take a hike