After undergoing renovations for over a year, the Fordyce Bathhouse has reopened. The Fordyce has been Hot Springs National Park’s visitor center and museum since 1989. Considered to be the best on Bathhouse Row, the Fordyce originally opened in 1915. In addition to the standard hydrotherapy treatments, it also offered a beauty shop, shoe shine stand, a music room, pool table, garden room and even a bowling alley – more services than any of the others.
Self guided tours allow visitors to view the splendor of the Fordyce in its earlier days. Stained glass ceilings, marble walls and a wood-paneled gym are some of the architectural highlights. The tour also features some of the machines and equipment used for electrotherapy, chiropody, and mercury treatments. Guided tours are offered at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily. The visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.
Guests always ask us about “must see” things to do in Hot Springs National Park. Start at the Fordyce with the tour and a short film about the baths. After that, visit either the Buckstaff or Quapaw for an actual bath. Then have lunch at Superior Bathhouse Brewery & Distillery, and shop for National Park souvenirs at the Lamar or handmade gifts at the Hale Bathhouse. End your day by hiking the paths off the Grand Promenade behind Bathhouse Row – and if you’re up to the challenge, hike up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the area!