The best area to stay in Hot Springs is the downtown historic district, particularly around Central Avenue and Bathhouse Row.
This area is the heart of Hot Springs' visitor experience. Central Avenue is a bustling thoroughfare lined with historic buildings, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Directly opposite is Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark featuring eight ornate bathhouses built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's very walkable, with the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Centre located here, providing easy access to the thermal springs and hiking trails.
Couples looking for a relaxing and indulgent getaway will find this area particularly appealing. Many hotels here offer direct access to the thermal waters for bathing experiences. You're also just a short stroll from fine dining options and the historic Fordyce Bathhouse, now a museum, offering a glimpse into the town's past.
For those who enjoy a bit more seclusion while still being close to the action, the areas just north and south of Central Avenue, particularly around Prospect Avenue or Fountain Street, offer a quieter residential feel with charming guesthouses.