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Hot Springs National Park In Arkansas Has Just Been Named One Of The Most Stunning Parks In The World

Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is celebrated for its unique combination of natural hot springs, rich history, and scenic beauty.

Updated Dec 11, 2023

Written by 

Daniella DiRienzo

Folks, the results are in! Hot Springs National Park was ranked one of the world’s most stunning parks – and we couldn’t agree more. It’s brimming with incredible natural wonders, including its namesake springs, but that’s just half of its allure. The park also boasts a rich cultural history, which comes to life via historic bathhouses, exhibits, and more. Let’s take a look at one of our most beloved attractions in Arkansas.

MSN recently released a list of the world's most stunning national parks and Arkansas’ very own Hot Springs National Park made the cut.

A couple sits on a rock in a park, smiling at each other, while a man walks a dog nearby amidst autumn leaves.
Visit Hot Springs/Facebook

Definitely deserving of the ranking, Hot Springs National Park is the oldest national park, predating Yellowstone National Park by 40 years.

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A vintage postcard showing a tree-lined street with people walking, historic buildings, and a flag atop a tower.
Hot Springs National Park/Facebook

Of course, its age isn’t why the park was named one of the world’s best. What really makes Hot Springs National Park stand out is its incredible blend of history, nature, and…hot springs!

A tree-lined path in a park with people walking and a dog, surrounded by lush greenery.
Hot Springs National Park/Facebook

Thermal fountains and open springs are scattered throughout the park – and that’s in addition to mountain views, amazing geology, forested hikes, and an array of creeks.

A serene pond with a small waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky edges.
Regena Wilks/Google

History is just as abundant as natural beauty – and comes in the form of grand bathhouses from yesteryear.

Historic building with a dome, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky, featuring arched windows and a walkway.
Cindy Brigman/Google

Now known as Bathhouse Row, the collection of bathhouses dates back to the late-19th and early-20th centuries, when the area rose to fame as a health resort, earning it the nickname, “The American Spa.”

Historic building with ornate architecture, surrounded by greenery and people enjoying the outdoor space.
Hot Springs National Park/Facebook

Many of the bathhouses still serve as prime soaking spots; however, the Fordyce Bathhouse is now a museum and visitor center, making it a great place to kick off any visit to the park.

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A small, vintage bedroom with a bed, light blue bedding, and a sign labeled "Ladies Stateroom" beside a window.
charlie parks/TripAdvisor

Only adding to the park’s uniqueness is its locale – it’s right in the middle of town!

A statue of a woman holding a fish, flanked by two deer, in front of a historic building surrounded by greenery.
Diana Juarez/Google

Offering an idyllic escape, along with a glimpse into the grandeur of the past, Hot Springs National Park truly is one of the world’s best parks.

Sign for Hot Springs National Park, featuring the National Park Service logo and a historic building in the background.
lowens311/TripAdvisor

Step inside this Arkansas treasure with YouTuber Shore Me Some More where he highlights some of the best aspects of the park.

https://youtu.be/ZpZ7UkyB_cE?si=HdtpAKu4rxmEZQiJ

For more info, contact Hot Springs National Park at (501) 620-6715. Additionally, you can visit the National Park Service website.

So, did you know that Hot Springs National Park was named one of the most stunning parks in the world? Do you agree? Think another state park is more deserving of the rating? If so, tell us!

This isn’t the only park in the state worth a visit. Read more about eight lesser-known state parks in Arkansas that will amaze you. Or, we recommend that you explore some other of our incredible attractions in Arkansas.

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Experiences

Ride a Christmas Train Then Stay in a Christmas-Themed Hotel for a Holly Jolly Arkansas Adventure

Experience a magical Christmas adventure in Arkansas with a festive train ride and a stay at a holiday-themed hotel.

Updated Oct 22, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

It’s easy to have a holly jolly Christmas in Arkansas because there are tons of festive adventures happening during the season. There are twinkling lights, parades, shopping, winter wonderlands, and more. So, there's no doubt that the Christmas season is joyous and delightful. One of the best ways to celebrate is to take a magical Christmas train in Arkansas and then spend the night at an enchanting hotel. Get ready to have the jolliest Christmas-themed adventure in Arkansas that you’ve had in years.

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All aboard, all aboard! What better way to feel the holiday spirit than riding a Christmas train? Head to Springdale Arkansas for the unforgettable Arkansas and Missouri Railroad Holiday Express.

Two freight trains pass by on tracks beside a gravel area, with industrial structures in the background on a cloudy day.
Kurt Haubrich / Flickr

Beginning in November, the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad will offer several rides leaving from Springdale that you can choose from. And the one-hour excursions are guaranteed to delight you in the best way. There are Christmas carols, hot chocolate, cookies, and more. You might even see Mr. and Mrs. Claus as well as some of their helpers on your trip. One thing's for sure -- you'll want to have your cameras to capture these unforgettable holiday moments.

Also, Santa will be waiting at the train depot, so don’t miss a chance to see him. And the kids can drop off their Christmas letters in his mailbox! This magical train ride is what Christmas dreams are made of. And it’s guaranteed to bring back childhood memories while spreading the joy of the holiday season.

After your nostalgic Christmas train adventure, drive a short distance to the historic town of Eureka Springs. That's where you'll be spending the night at the most festive holiday hotel in Arkansas.

A vibrant autumn landscape with colorful trees and a historic building atop a hill under a blue sky with clouds.
Chris Friese / Flickr

Each year, the Crescent Hotel decks its halls with tons of holiday cheer. It's known around the country as one of the most regal hotels in the region, surrounded by the stunning Ozark Mountains. There's no wrong time of year to visit this stunning landmark, but winter proves to be especially lovely. Since 1886, Christmastime has been a cherished time of year at the hotel, which has become synonymous with family gatherings and memorable stays.

And this year, there are lots of Christmas-themed activities planned. Of course, the annual Christmas Tree Forest is a favorite of all the guests. Enjoy a magical stroll through 30 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and then vote for your favorite. In addition to the festive forest, you’ll love the hayrides, eggnog socials, gingerbread house decorating, Santa brunches, Christmas stories, and more. You'll want to bundle up in your coziest flannel and embrace all that the season has to offer!

Close-up of a Christmas tree adorned with sparkling lights and glass ornaments, creating a festive atmosphere.
Rügen, Winter, Ostsee, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Küste, Insel, Deutschland, Teelichter, Weihnachten, Weihnachtsschmuck, Weihnahctsbeleuchtung

This enchanting hotel is the perfect place to enjoy the jolliest Christmas in Arkansas this year. Its halls are brimming with the most delightful Christmas cheer that you can imagine. So, bring the family and enjoy all the magic of this holly jolly Christmas in Arkansas.

Are you ready for this enchanting Christmas-themed adventure? Visit the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad Holiday Express website to plan your trip. And be sure to follow the Crescent Hotel on Facebook for all the upcoming holiday events.

Did you know that Arkansas has a unique holiday tour that’s worthy of your bucket list? The spectacular helicopter Christmas Light tour is one you don’t want to miss. And speaking of Christmas, be sure to check out our ultimate gift-giving guide for the travel enthusiasts on your list this year!

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Experiences

Here’s The Story Behind The Massive Christ Of The Ozarks Statue In Arkansas

The Christ of the Ozarks statue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a massive and iconic landmark with a fascinating construction story.

Updated Jun 12, 2024

Written by 

Daniella DiRienzo

The Christ of the Ozarks statue is truly a remarkable sight. Several stories high and weighing millions of pounds, this Eureka Springs Jesus statue is absolutely massive. However, the size isn’t the only interesting thing about the iconic statue. The story behind its construction is equally as impressive and worth a mention. If you’ve never seen this statue in person, take it from me, you’ll be blown away by it. Read on to learn more about this Jesus statue in Arkansas.

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Overlooking the picturesque village of Eureka Springs, the Christ of the Ozarks statue stands at a towering 67 feet and weighs over 2 million pounds!

Aerial view of a large statue of Christ with outstretched arms, set against a vibrant sunset over lush green hills.
Christ of the Ozarks/Google

It was built in 1966, and has been one of the most visited attractions in the Ozarks ever since.

A large white statue of Jesus with outstretched arms, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.
The Great Passion Play/Facebook

The statue’s fame is no surprise – it’s quite remarkable…and huge!

A large white statue of Christ with outstretched arms, surrounded by trees and two people standing nearby.
The Great Passion Play/Facebook

To put its size into perspective, the face is about 15 feet in height, while the hands, from wrist to fingertip, measure about 7 feet, which is taller than most humans.

A large, unfinished sculpture of a man's face stands in a barren landscape, with a smaller object nearby.
greatpassionplay.org

And with a 65-foot "wingspan," it’s nearly as wide as it is tall.

Constructing the massive statue was no easy feat – especially when you learn that every inch of it was built by hand.

Workers pouring concrete into a foundation frame at a construction site, with machinery and materials in the background.
greatpassionplay.org

The grueling construction process was only made more difficult by the statue’s location. It’s nestled atop Magnetic Mountain, at an altitude of 1,500 feet.

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Historic photo of a large statue of Christ being constructed, surrounded by scaffolding and workers.
greatpassionplay.org

In order to secure the massive sculpture, its foundation had to be welded into the rock of Magnetic Mountain. What’s more, it required 340 tons of concrete interlaced with steel.

Three men observe a tall, partially constructed tower surrounded by trees and equipment in a vintage black-and-white photo.
greatpassionplay.org

As things progressed, workers had to build an elevator in order to reach the higher portions of the 7-story statue.

Workers observe the construction of a large statue on a tall structure, with scaffolding surrounding it.
greatpassionplay.org

The effort was definitely worth it, as Christ of the Ozarks is the fourth-largest Jesus statue in the world and the largest in the U.S.

A large white statue of Christ with outstretched arms, surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.
The Great Passion Play/Facebook

Often, Christ of the Ozarks is visited by those attending The Great Passion Play, which is performed in an amphitheater not far from the famous statue. You do NOT have to attend the play to visit, though.

A vibrant outdoor theater stage at dusk, with a large audience and scenic backdrop of buildings and trees.
greatpassionplay.ticketspice.com

Although, you might want to consider attending since it's the "number one attended outdoor drama in America," according to the Institute of Outdoor Drama in Greenville, North Carolina.

There is no cost to view Christ of the Ozarks; however, donations are appreciated. For more info on this iconic Jesus statue, call (479) 253-9200. You can also visit the Great Passion Play website.

So, did you know the story behind this famous statue in Eureka Springs? Ever viewed Christ of the Ozarks in person? If so, what do you think? Tell us!

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Christ of the Ozarks is one of the state’s most recognizable sites, but it’s just the beginning of the must-see places in Arkansas. Check out our previous article about some of Arkansas' coolest underrated attractions that belong on your list.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/coolest-underrated-attractions-ar/

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