Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas. Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains of central Arkansas, Hot Springs is a historic resort city famed for its natural thermal springs. It is the county seat of Garland County and the primary city within the Hot Springs Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city's identity is inextricably linked to Hot Springs National Park, the oldest federally protected area in the National Park System.

History

The area's thermal springs were held sacred by indigenous tribes, including the Caddo and Quapaw, long before European exploration. Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto is often credited with being the first European to visit the springs in 1541. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 brought the territory under United States control, leading to the establishment of a permanent settlement in 1807. The federal government created the Hot Springs Reservation in 1832 to protect the springs, a precursor to the national park. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the city flourished as a premier health and leisure destination, attracting figures like Al Capone and becoming a noted center for Major League Baseball spring training. The Prohibition era saw a rise in illegal gambling, overseen by figures such as Owney Madden.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 36.51 square miles, with Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine forming significant portions of its southern and eastern boundaries. The city lies within the rugged terrain of the Ouachita Mountains, with Hot Springs Mountain and West Mountain situated within the urban area. The central feature is Hot Springs National Park, which encompasses the historic Bathhouse Row and the protected springs. Major thoroughfares include U.S. Route 70 and Arkansas Highway 7.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 37,930. The racial makeup was predominantly White and African American, with smaller populations of Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and American Indian residents. The population density is approximately 1,077 people per square mile. The Hot Springs Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Garland County, had a population of over 100,000 according to the same census.

Economy

The economy has historically been driven by health tourism centered on the thermal baths and Hot Springs National Park. This legacy continues with major spa resorts like the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa and Quapaw Baths. Healthcare is a significant sector, with institutions like CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs and the Arkansas Children's Hospital system. Manufacturing, retail, and hospitality also contribute substantially. The city hosts the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, a major entertainment and gaming complex that originated as Oaklawn Park race track.

Culture and recreation

The city's culture is deeply rooted in its spa heritage and outdoor amenities. Bathhouse Row features architecturally significant structures like the Fordyce Bathhouse, which serves as the park's visitor center. Annual events include the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival and the World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade. The Mid-America Science Museum and the Gangster Museum of America are key cultural attractions. Outdoor recreation abounds in the surrounding Ouachita National Forest and on the area's lakes, with Magic Springs Theme and Water Park providing family entertainment.

Government

Hot Springs operates under a city manager–council form of government. The legislative body is the City Council, consisting of elected representatives. The mayor, currently Pat McCabe, presides over council meetings and serves as the city's ceremonial head. Day-to-day administrative operations are managed by an appointed city manager. The city is part of Arkansas's 4th congressional district and is served by the Hot Springs Police Department and Garland County Sheriff's Office.