Family 50 Quest

A Family Weekend in Hot Springs, Arkansas 🍂

In the fall of 2022, our family set out on a road trip from Louisiana to Arkansas, eager to explore Hot Springs during the crisp autumn season. With the leaves beginning to turn and the air carrying that unmistakable fall freshness, it was the perfect time for a long weekend getaway.

First Stop: Colorado Grill 🍴

After arriving in Hot Springs, our first order of business was dinner. We headed straight to Colorado Grill, a local favorite known for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere. It was the perfect way to kick off our trip—comfort food after a day on the road, laughter around the table, and the joy of being somewhere new.

Settling In 🏡

Once our bellies were full, we checked into our VRBO rental overlooking Lake Hamilton, which quickly became our cozy home base for the weekend. There’s something special about staying in a vacation rental—it gives you the space to spread out as a family, cook breakfast together, and feel like locals rather than tourists.

Day One: Discovering Downtown Hot Springs 🌿

Our first full day in Hot Springs began with a stroll downtown, where history and nature blend seamlessly. The highlight for the kids was being introduced to the Junior Ranger Program at Hot Springs National Park.

Learning with the Rangers 👩‍🏫

We were lucky enough to meet a wonderful Park Ranger who was preparing to host an informational class. The kids sat wide-eyed as they learned about the different types of animals that call Hot Springs home. From forest creatures to birds soaring overhead, the lesson sparked their curiosity and set the tone for the rest of the day.

Junior Ranger Packets 📖

After the class, the kids eagerly picked up their Junior Ranger packets. These activity books became their guides as we explored, encouraging them to notice details, ask questions, and dive deeper into the park’s history and wildlife. Watching them engage so enthusiastically reminded us why family travel is so rewarding—it’s not just about seeing new places, but about learning together.

Exploring Bathhouse Row 🛁

With packets in hand, we set off to tour the historic Bathhouse Row. Each bathhouse told a story of the city’s past, from its heyday as a spa destination to its preservation as part of the National Park. Walking through the ornate buildings gave us a glimpse into a time when Hot Springs was considered a wellness retreat for visitors from all over the country.

Immersed in Nature 🌲

Of course, we couldn’t resist exploring the park itself. Surrounded by trails, trees, and the soothing sounds of nature, we felt the balance between history and the outdoors that makes Hot Springs so unique. The kids checked off activities in their Junior Ranger booklets while we soaked in the beauty of the fall season.

The Hot Springs Mountain Tower 🌄

After exploring downtown and Bathhouse Row, we set our sights on the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, perched high above the park. You can either hike up the trail or drive to the base, depending on your mood and energy level. At the top, we discovered something unexpected: Mark’s fear of heights! It was the first time we realized just how uneasy he felt being up high, and it added a memorable twist to our adventure.

Views Worth the Journey 🌲

Once we reached the observation deck, we were rewarded with sweeping views of Hot Springs National Park. The rolling hills, vibrant fall foliage, and endless horizon made the climb completely worth it. Standing there, surrounded by nature’s beauty, we felt both small and connected to something much bigger.

Mid-America Science Museum 🔬✨

After Hot Spring National Park, we headed to the Mid-America Science Museum, and it quickly became one of the kids’ favorite stops of the entire trip.

Hands-On Fun 🖐️

The museum is packed with interactive exhibits that make learning feel like play. From the moment we walked in, the kids were drawn to every corner — eager to touch, explore, and experiment.

Fossil Digging & Mini Tornados 🌪️🦖

Two of the biggest hits were the fossil dig and the mini tornado exhibit. The fossil dig gave the kids a chance to uncover hidden treasures, sparking their imaginations as little paleontologists. The mini tornado exhibit was equally thrilling, letting them see science in action as they watched swirling winds form right before their eyes.

A Family Favorite ❤️

What made the museum so special was how it blended education with adventure. The kids were learning without even realizing it, and we loved watching their curiosity come alive.

Dinner with a View at Bubba Brew’s 🍻🌅

After a full day of exploring Hot Springs National Park, we were ready to relax and refuel. We headed to Bubba Brew’s Brewing Co., a lively spot right on the shores of Lake Hamilton.

Delicious Food & Local Flavor 🍔

The menu was full of hearty options, perfect after a day of hiking and sightseeing. Between the craft brews, flavorful dishes, and friendly atmosphere, it was exactly what we needed to wind down.

Lake Hamilton Views 🌊

What made the evening truly special were the views. Sitting by the water as the sun dipped lower, we enjoyed the peaceful beauty of Lake Hamilton. The kids loved watching boats glide across the lake, while we soaked in the moment — a perfect blend of good food, family laughter, and nature’s backdrop.

Garvan Woodland Gardens 🌸🌳

On our last day in Hot Springs, we visited Garvan Woodland Gardens, and it quickly became Michelle’s favorite part of the trip.

The gardens were breathtaking, with winding paths, vibrant seasonal colors, and carefully curated artwork tucked into the scenery. Every turn revealed something new — from serene water features to striking sculptures — making it a feast for both the eyes and the soul.

Views That Inspire 🌅

The sweeping views across the gardens and surrounding landscape were unforgettable. It was the kind of place where you could pause, breathe deeply, and feel completely immersed in nature’s beauty.

Fun for the Kids 🕵️‍♂️

To top it off, the gardens offered a kids’ scavenger hunt, which kept our three explorers engaged and entertained. While Michelle soaked in the artistry and tranquility, the kids raced around with excitement, checking off clues and discoveries. It was the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for the whole family.

The Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens ⛪

One of the most unforgettable parts of our visit was stepping inside the Anthony Chapel, tucked within the gardens. Surrounded by towering trees and designed with soaring glass walls, the chapel feels like it’s part of the forest itself.

Architecture in Harmony with Nature 🌿

The chapel’s design blends wood, stone, and glass to create a space that feels both grand and peaceful. As sunlight streamed through the windows, it illuminated the natural beauty outside, making the entire experience feel magical.

A Place to Pause ✨

After days filled with adventure, the chapel offered a quiet moment of reflection. It was a chance to slow down, take in the serenity, and appreciate the balance between human artistry and the natural world.

One Last Stop: Lake Catherine 🌊👣

Before heading home, we squeezed in one final stop at Lake Catherine State Park. We hadn’t realized just how much there was to do there — from hiking trails to picnic areas and water activities, it’s a destination all on its own.

A Refreshing Finale 💦

With only a little time before the park closed, we made the most of it by kicking off our shoes and wading into the shallow beach. The water was freezing, but it was also incredibly refreshing after a weekend full of exploring. The kids laughed as they splashed around, and we all enjoyed the simple joy of ending our trip with bare feet in the sand and cool water at our ankles.

A Perfect Send-Off 🌅

Lake Catherine gave us the perfect finale to our Hot Springs adventure — a reminder that sometimes the best memories come from unplanned moments.