By Jeanni Ritchie
My solo drive to Hot Springs was a blessing in disguise. I could stop whenever whimsy struck, turning the trip into a collage of quirky detours: two interesting museums, a giant library, the town of Dubach with its chicken festival, a Bible camp, and Farmerville—forever Stupid Farmerville in my head since age 14 when my best friend Jennifer had to move there. A stop at my dad’s childhood home in Junction City was surprisingly moving, reminding me how our parents’ yesterdays shape our todays.
By the time I reached Willow Beach Resort on Lake Hamilton, the day- even with all its rain-had melted into peaceful reflection. My notes sprawled across the bed, ducks gliding past the illuminated courtyard, and Psalm 104:1-3 filling my heart with awe.
Rain, Pancakes, and Chocolate Fudge
Day 2 greeted me with rain, thunder, and lightning—a perfect setting for a staycation within a vacation. I lingered over writing, then ventured downtown for brunch at The Pancake Shop, in operation since 1940. Giant pancakes, fresh farm-to-table sausage, and fresh-squeezed orange juice fueled my explorations.
I wandered through the Mountain Valley Spring Water Museum, marveling at their flavored sparkling waters, then posed for antique photos at Tombstone Old Time Photos. Kilwins Hot Springs offered a sweet interlude—authentic Mackinac Island fudge poured onto marble slabs, a chocolate pick-me-up for my lakeside evening.
Stops at Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum and Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium kept the day playful and fragrant. I left with souvenirs, stickers for my scrapbooking dream, and a heart full of gratitude for time spent in reflection and creativity.
Pizza, Gangsters, and Hot Springs History
By Day 3, the sun finally appeared as I watched it rise over the lakefront dock. After a morning spent writing, I wandered downtown again: The Candy Shop for orange taffy, Artists Workshop Gallery for local art, and It’s About Rocks for crystal-filled geodes.
Historic Bathhouse Row called for a soaking session, but first, pizza! Grateful Head Pizza delivered an epic meal on their balcony, and the interactive Gangster Museum kept history thrilling. I tried on hats (pink Navy ball cap: a contender), indulged in Kilwins ice cream, and finished the day with a cinematic meal of Coca-Cola and fudge.
Healing and Hope
Days 4 and 5 were dedicated to a While We’re Waiting retreat for bereaved parents. The experience was both solemn and joyful, blending grief, remembrance, and hope. From the trails and waterfalls to Memorial Walk pavers honoring lost children, the retreat offered reflection, connection, and spiritual restoration.
Even amidst sorrow, Hot Springs’ charm was never far. Scenic drives, the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, Bathhouse Row, and Quapaw Spa offered relaxation and perspective on Day 6. Discovering how much of Hot Springs is locally sourced was uplifting.
Off to the Races at Oaklawn
I spent most of Day 7 watching the races from the Carousel lounge, perched high above the track with a perfect view and a plate of Oaklawn’s famous corned beef on rye—my first time trying it. I sipped my Coke, oblivious to the chaos below, completely absorbed in my salty, tangy sandwich and the elegant pace of the races.
For the final race, I ventured down to trackside, where the energy hit me like a thunderclap. People were yelling, cursing, and waving their programs like battle flags, fully invested in every hoofbeat. That’s also when I had the unforgettable honor of standing with Ross Rumore, the Bugler of Hot Springs, as he called the horses out from the paddocks.
Nearly 70 years of bugling had made him a living legend, and hearing that sound in the middle of the track’s controlled chaos was pure adrenaline. The contrast between my serene upstairs lunch and the wild, high-stakes frenzy below was nothing short of Oaklawn magic.
Playful Adventures and Childhood Joys
Days 8-10 combined reflection with unabashed fun. The Galaxy Connection transported me back to my childhood with vintage toys and games. At Hamilton Hangout I played Skee-Ball, rode a 5-D virtual roller coaster, and bowled for the first time post-rotator cuff rehab. I laughed, reminisced, and embraced my inner dork proudly.
A sunset at Willow Beach, a movie at Hot Springs Mall VIP Cinema, and quiet moments with Scripture closed the trip perfectly.
Philippians 4:11-12 became my travel mantra: contentment is cultivated, whether in plenty or want. Joy is a currency that buys every adventure.
Hot Springs Highlights: Where to Eat, What to See
Eats & Treats:
• Grown & Grazed – Sausage biscuits (don’t be afraid to ask if breakfast is over!)
• The Pancake Shop – Farm-to-table sausage, giant pancakes, fresh-squeezed OJ
• Grateful Head Pizza – Epic pizzas like the Dire Wolf
• Deluca’s Pizza – Gourmet options with deck views
• Kilwins Hot Springs – Fudge and ice cream
• Phil’s Restaurant – Biscuits with sausage (or chocolate) gravy and grits
Sightseeing & History:
• Willow Beach Resort – Lakefront tranquility, writing, and reflection
• Hot Springs National Park – Scenic drives, trails, spring water fountains
• Bathhouse Row & Quapaw Spa – Thermal baths, day passes available
• Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains
• Gangster Museum – Interactive history and hidden casinos
• Artists Workshop Gallery & It’s About Rocks – Local art and geodes
• Rocket Fizz Candy Store – Nostalgia candy heaven
Family-Friendly & Fun:
• T-REX FUN SPOT – Arcade, go-karts, mini-golf, VR rides
• The Galaxy Connection – Toy and game museum, interactive rooms
Gardens & Nature:
• Garvan Woodland Gardens – Scenic trails, treehouse, chapel, lakefront
• Lake Hamilton – Sunrise and sunset views, lakeside writing and reflection
Hot Springs is a wild mix of indulgence and intrigue—one minute you’re soaking in a thermal spring, the next you’re imagining Al Capone counting cash in a shadowy bathhouse. You can race motorcycles, munch locally sourced sausage, sniff artisan soaps, and still find time to relax like a boss. Chocolate at Kilwins? Check. Antique Wild West photos? Check. Galleries, fudge, hot springs, and history dripping from every corner? Double check. Hot Springs doesn’t just wake your senses—it makes them dance, laugh, and maybe even plot a heist…all before lunch.
Adventure and relaxation, gangster glam and duck-filled serenity, coexist perfectly here. This town isn’t just a getaway—it’s a full-on, slightly mischievous experience for anyone who loves life in motion.
Jeanni Ritchie is a travel writer from Central Louisiana who loves all things water, from lakeside docks to resort spas. Hot Springs gave her a little of both! Follow her adventures at www.jeanniritchie.com.
