Hot Springs, Arkansas is the perfect location to indulge in a couple's romantic getaway, whether you're on a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary or just want to reconnect with your sweetheart. This town, nestled among the Ouachita Mountains and surrounded by beautiful lakes, has an old-fashioned, charming appeal, yet it's large enough to provide everything you desire in a romance-filled vacation for two.

Best Time of Year to Visit

You can find numerous activities to enjoy year round in Hot Springs, such as horse racing, water activities, hiking and shopping, but autumn is probably the best time of the year to visit this inviting city. Stroll beneath trees filled with the colors of fall, or admire the reflections of autumn leaves in the lakes; you'll find many romantic ways to relax with your loved one. The autumn months also bring pleasant temperatures to the area, which are ideal for perusing the unique and winsome shops. Take time to unwind from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.

Places to Stay in Hot Springs

An abundance of romantic lodging is available in Hot Springs, and it includes hotels, bed & breakfast inns and cabins on the lakes. One of the most idyllic is the Arlington Hotel Resort & Spa.

The architecture of the Arlington Hotel Resort & Spa is reminiscent of a castle, and it was first built in 1875. Although the original hotel was destroyed by a fire four decades later, it was restored to its original majesty in 1924. Past guests of the hotel include U.S. presidents, Hollywood celebrities, well-known sports figures and even gangsters. Wander into this austere resort to discover a beautiful long veranda facing Central Street, two swimming pools, a grand ballroom, an elegant marble staircase, chandeliers and other luxurious décor. The hotel interior hosts a salon, bath house, three restaurants, shops and a lounge, where you can listen to popular music hits from the past and present. You may find you don't even want to venture outside the resort!

The Hamilton House Estate, built in 1931, makes you feel as if you're in an alluring Italian villa. Overlooking Lake Hamilton, the estate is a sought-after venue for weddings and special events, and it also includes a waterfall cascading into the lake and dazzling gardens. You'll find all rooms, regardless of whether you're in a traditional room or master suite, are filled with luxurious décor to pamper and please.

Places to Dine

Travelers can find every type of cuisine imaginable in Hot Springs; if you seek the romantic ambiance, you can find it in the Venetian Dining Room at the Arlington Hotel & Resort. This spacious dining room has multiple chandeliers, floor-to-ceiling windows and white tablecloths that contribute to the enchanting atmosphere. Whether you care to dine on succulent seafood, sizzling steaks or the scrumptious Sunday brunch, you will find flavorful foods that suit every taste. Piano music adds to the relaxing appeal.

Café 1217 is an eclectic diner specializing in intimate meals that combine the flavors of California cuisine with those of the South. The gourmet offerings are always made from scratch, and the chef incorporates seasonal produce and fresh herbs into each dish. The restaurant has won multiple awards, yet the cheery and intimate ambiance reminds you of a cozy garden party. It is open for lunch and dinner during the weekdays and for lunch only on Saturday.

Things to Do in Hot Springs

The hot thermal springs that run through the city are responsible for the name of this town. You can indulge in a couple's hot bath and massage or many other spa services at the Quapaw Baths and Spa; this establishment also has a trendy boutique, if you want to purchase soothing bath products, and a delicious café. The thermal waters in Hot Springs have been touted as having medicinal purposes, dating as far back as when Native Americans lived in the area. People come from all over the world to soak in the rejuvenating waters.

Do you dream of the royal life? Many visitors take a dreamy carriage ride throughout this scenic city during the day or evening hours; this is a wonderful way to create fairy-tale-inspired memories of your visit.

Couples can spend pleasant hours strolling through the Garvan Woodlands Gardens, located on the grounds of the University of Arkansas. The gardens provide many photo opportunities in front of the waterfalls, scenic bridges and lush plants, and they also feature a gazebo, a chapel, scenic overlooks, koi ponds and a pavilion.

Hot Springs is centrally located and only a short drive from cities like Memphis, Tulsa, St. Louis and Fort Worth. For air travelers, you can arrive after a relatively short flight from just about anywhere in the domestic United States. If you are taking a plane, though, it's a wise idea to invest in travel insurance. This helps ensure no complications hamper your delight while visiting this charming and picturesque town.

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