Display Springs is a small public hot spring located in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas, just steps from Bathhouse Row. Unlike the city’s famous bathhouses, Display Springs is not for bathing—it’s an above-ground thermal spring displayed in a natural rock enclosure as part of the Hot Springs National Park walking trails. The water here comes directly from the park’s geothermal system and can reach temperatures of up to 143°F (62°C) at the source. While it may cool slightly at the surface, it is still extremely hot and not suitable for touching. (Other hot springs in Arkansas, especially those meant for soaking, are usually much cooler and safe for bathing.) Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, this spot offers a glimpse into the source of the region’s historic thermal culture. It’s free to visit, requires no permits, and is easily accessible by foot from anywhere in the downtown area.
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What you Should Know Before Visiting Display Springs?
Display Springs is a view-only thermal spring—there’s no soaking and the water is too hot to touch safely. The site is small, with no benches or restrooms, but it’s easily accessible via paved walkways behind Bathhouse Row. It’s best visited as part of a short walking loop through Hot Springs National Park. There’s no entrance fee, no need to reserve anything, and the spring is open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
How to Get to Display Springs
Display Springs is located behind the Maurice Bathhouse, just off Bathhouse Row in the heart of downtown Hot Springs.
How to Get to Display Springs by Car
If you’re arriving by car, the town is easily accessible via US Highway 70 or Highway 7, both of which connect to Central Avenue—the main street running through the historic district and Hot Springs National Park.
From Little Rock, it’s about a 1-hour drive southwest via I-30 West to US-70 West, then a straight shot into downtown. Once in Hot Springs, follow signs for Bathhouse Row or Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center—Display Springs is just a short walk from either location.
Parking downtown is widely available:
- Priority street parking along Central Avenue costs $2/hour with a 4-hour limit.
- Secondary zones and side streets are $1/hour, with no time limit.
- For longer stays, there’s the Exchange Street Parking Plaza, a parking garage just one block from the national park entrance.
- A few free spots may be found on side streets, especially early in the day.
From any parking area downtown, Display Springs is just a short walk along paved and fully accessible paths. Whether you’re on foot, using a stroller, or in a wheelchair, you’ll have no trouble reaching the spring.
How to Get to Display Springs by Bus
If you’re not driving, you can also take the Hot Springs Intracity Transit, which operates Monday through Saturday and has a stop right near Bathhouse Row. A single ride costs $1.25, and buses run from 6:10 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays, and 10:10 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturdays. This makes it easy for visitors staying in town without a car to reach the spring and explore the surrounding trails comfortably and affordably.
The spring sits just a few steps off the main trail, making it wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. It’s a quick and easy stop, perfect to combine with a walk, a visit to the bathhouses, or a nearby museum.
Best Time to Visit Display Springs
Display Springs is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, making it an easy stop any day of the week. Since it’s an outdoor site and there’s no admission or wait times, you can visit whenever it suits your schedule.
That said, the best experience is usually in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the park’s walking trails are at their most scenic. Weekday mornings are typically quieter, especially if you want to enjoy the site without other visitors around.
During the summer, Hot Springs can be hot and humid—so it’s better to visit early in the day or closer to sunset. And while the spring is a quick stop, wearing good walking shoes is still a good idea, especially if you plan to explore the Grand Promenade or nearby trails.
Opening Hours and Entry Cost in Display Springs
Display Springs is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and there’s no entry fee or permit required. The site is part of Hot Springs National Park and is fully open to the public. You don’t need a reservation or ticket—just walk up and enjoy the view.
There are no on-site services or staff, so plan ahead if you want to combine your visit with a longer walk or a stop at the visitor center. The spring is located on a paved path and is easy to access at any time of day.
Where to Stay Nearby Display Springs
Display Springs sits right in downtown Hot Springs, making it easy to find accommodation within walking distance. The area around Bathhouse Row and Central Avenue is filled with small hotels and vacation rentals, perfect for travelers who want to explore the national park without needing a car.
Staying nearby means you’ll be close not just to Display Springs, but also to the Grand Promenade, museums, shops, restaurants, and several historic attractions. And if you’re looking to actually soak in the thermal waters, check out nearby Buckstaff Baths, a historic bathhouse that still offers traditional hydrotherapy services.
Recommended Places to Stay:
Contemporary Loft on Bathhouse Row
Modern two-bedroom loft just 2 minutes from Display Springs, located directly on Bathhouse Row. Offers 2 bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a spacious living area. Great mid-range stay for couples or small groups who want to explore downtown on foot.
The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Boutique hotel located right across from Bathhouse Row, less than 3 minutes from Display Springs. Features stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant (The Avenue), a rooftop lounge, and a 24/7 fitness center. Ideal mid-range choice for travelers who want a mix of history and comfort.
For more options, explore our full list of the best Hot Springs Arkansas hotels, or use the interactive map below:
What to Do Nearby Display Springs
A visit to Display Springs is usually a quick stop, but the area around it is full of things to do especially if you enjoy walking, history, or natural beauty.
Just a few steps away is the Grand Promenade, a brick-paved walking path that runs behind Bathhouse Row. It offers scenic views of the city and the surrounding forest and connects to several short hiking trails in Hot Springs National Park. You can easily turn a visit to Display Springs into a peaceful 30–60-minute walk.
If you’re in the mood for something more structured, check out the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center, located in the historic Fordyce Bathhouse. It offers free exhibits on the area’s geology, history, and thermal water system.
Looking for something fun to book?
Catch a live show at the Maxwell Blade Theatre of Magic, just down the street. This two-hour experience blends illusions, comedy, and music in a historic downtown venue.