The Best Fall Foliage in Hot Springs, Arkansas

a fall tree displaying vibrant hues of oranges and yellows

When the calendar flips to September, we all start thinking about cooler weather, pumpkin spice, and fall colors.  It’s also a great time to plan a Hot Springs fall getaway!   Did you know that only a few regions in the Northern Hemisphere enjoy brilliant fall foliage like Arkansas?  While it’s never easy to predict such things, the best fall foliage in our area usually happens in early to mid-November.  There are numerous places to view the foliage, so we’ll share a few of our favorites.

  • The Hot Springs Mountain Tower has 360-degree views of Hot Springs National Park and much of Hot Springs.  You can choose to hike the Peak Trail, which starts behind historic Bathhouse Row, or drive up Hot Springs Mountain Drive to reach the tower – and yes, the tower has an elevator!  You can also make the short drive up West Mountain to see similar views from the opposite side of the park (and watch planes take off & land at Hot Springs Memorial Field). 
  • Hickory Nut Mountain Vista is a short drive west of Hot Springs on Highway 270, with beautiful panoramic views of Lake Ouachita.  It is the highest point above the lake’s shoreline(about 1000 ft).  Be aware that the 4-mile road up to the overlook is trees in green, brown & rust at the edge of a lakeunpaved. 
  • DeGray Lake State Park has several spots to view the fall colors. The Caddo Bend day use area offers views across the lake such as the one featured on the right.  Another favorite spot for our guests is the Shouse Ford beach and picnic area.  This is a perfect spot to have a quiet picnic, watch for migrating birds, and catch a sunset. 
  • If you have time for a day trip, Mount Magazine State Park is about 2 1/2 hours away, via Arkansas Scenic Highway 7.  We’ve planned out the perfect fall road trip for you incorporating 2 of Arkansas’ most scenic drives. 
  • Another easy day trip is Queen Wilhelmina State Park atop Rich Mountain, Arkansas’s second highest peak.  This drive is also about 2 1/2 hours, and will take you up the Talimena Scenic Drive.  The lodge restaurant sits atop Rich Mountain, and provides excellent views during lunch.

Of course if you don’t want to spend your vacation driving, one of our favorite places to view the fall colors is from our front porch swing!  Bob’s Japanese maple trees show off their spectacular colors this time of year, and are located all around the the house.  Each of our guest rooms also has a wonderful view, whether it’s the tree-top view from the king-size bed in The Ouachita, the private deck off The Hamilton, or the window seat view in The DeGray.  

Experience the perfect fall escape at Tiffany’s Bed and Breakfast, where we’ve curated an roasted marshmallows and a chocolate bar smooshed between 2 graham crackers, forming a "S'Mores" in front of a dark backgroundunforgettable package just for you. Embrace the autumn magic with our Free S’Mores Kit package, which includes a two-night stay in the room of your choice, daily breakfast at Tiffany’s, two tickets to explore Garvan Woodland Gardens, and, as a special treat, a complimentary S’Mores kit.

As you wander through Garvan Gardens, immerse yourself in the breathtaking tapestry of changing fall colors. When you return to the cozy embrace of Tiffany’s, take a leisurely stroll through our 60 acres of serene woodlands, find solace on our front porch swing, or simply revel in precious moments together, free from the usual distractions of everyday life. And what’s a fall getaway without the joy of roasting marshmallows for S’Mores under the starry night sky? Count the constellations while gathered around our fire pit.

Hurry and secure your spot for this unforgettable fall retreat, because reservations must be made by November 17, 2023. Come join us for ‘nature’s grand finale,’ and let the beauty of the season envelop you.

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