Buckstaff Bathhouse
Step back in time at Buckstaff Bathhouse, Hot Springs' oldest operating bathhouse, for an authentic, traditional thermal soak.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Buckstaff Bathhouse
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Buckstaff Bathhouse, Hot Springs' oldest operating bathhouse, for an authentic, traditional thermal soak.
"It felt more authentic than the other which was more of a spa type feel."
Pack Light: Swimsuit & Flip-flops
Just bring your swimsuit and flip-flops. Towels, robes, and all other necessities are provided. :athleticshoe: :beachwith_umbrella:
Embrace the Tradition
This is a historic, communal experience, not a modern spa. Relax and let the attendants guide you. :old_key:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thermal Soak
Soaking Tubs
Immerse yourself in the naturally hot, mineral-rich waters for ultimate relaxation. A true Hot Springs tradition.
Steam Cabinet
Steam Room
Experience the therapeutic benefits of a hot steam cabinet, a key part of the traditional bathing ritual.
The 'Mummy Wrap' Rest
Rest Area
After your soak and steam, relax wrapped in warm blankets, a signature part of the Buckstaff experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tradition
What to Bring & Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Light: Swimsuit & Flip-flops
Just bring your swimsuit and flip-flops. Towels, robes, and all other necessities are provided. :athleticshoe: :beachwith_umbrella:
Embrace the Tradition
This is a historic, communal experience, not a modern spa. Relax and let the attendants guide you. :old_key:
Couples May Wait
Men and women are separated. Couples might have to wait for each other after their treatments. :couplewithheart:
Consider the Deluxe
Many visitors recommend the deluxe package for the full, unforgettable experience. :star2:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Light: Swimsuit & Flip-flops
Just bring your swimsuit and flip-flops. Towels, robes, and all other necessities are provided. :athleticshoe: :beachwith_umbrella:
Embrace the Tradition
This is a historic, communal experience, not a modern spa. Relax and let the attendants guide you. :old_key:
Couples May Wait
Men and women are separated. Couples might have to wait for each other after their treatments. :couplewithheart:
Consider the Deluxe
Many visitors recommend the deluxe package for the full, unforgettable experience. :star2:
Attendants Make it Great
Positive mentions of attendants like Mason, Bobby, Justin, Erik, and Latoya who make the experience comfortable. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Buckstaff Bathhouse for its authentic, historic thermal bathing experience, praising the therapeutic waters and the guidance of long-tenured attendants. While not a modern spa, its traditional charm and connection to the past are major draws. Some find the massages less impressive than the core bathing ritual.
"Buckstaff Bathhouse, the oldest still functioning bathhouse (only 2 still operation) in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is a relaxing time. The men are on the first floor and women on the second. You put your stuff in a locker and then wrap yourself in a sheet to get into the private hot tub. From the hot tub you sit in a small porcelain seat with water flowing on your lower back. Then into the steam closet, then they wrap you up like a mummy for a little rest. Then massage if you selected that option. You are naked through the whole thing but they give you a towel to cover yourself. There is a guy who guides you on to each stage. Mason is the guy to do it. He didn’t make it uncomfortable at all. Very relaxing time there; it felt more authentic than the other which was more of a spa type feel."
Jake Hewitt
"I’ve been coming to hot springs for years but never did the bathhouses, what a freaking amazing experience. I soaked in the same tub as Al Capone and sat in the same steam box as President Eisenhower. Amazing piece of history, and my bath attendant was awesome. I will be back! Had the strangest massage of my life so maybe skip that, but awesome experience! Oh and the men and women are separated so couples may end up waiting on the other, I had to hang out for over an hour afterwards but I was relaxed!"
Keith Demele
"The staff here as tenure and is great. I wasn’t sure what to think when I first got here and I was a little setback but as we went through and Bobby took care of me and Justin and all the other guys, this is an experience I’ll never forget and can’t wait to return to thank y’all very much. I do recommend the deluxe."
wpp1231
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buckstaff Bathhouse is located on Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving or ride-sharing is often recommended. Many visitors find it convenient to park and walk along Bathhouse Row to explore other attractions. +1
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the Buckstaff Bathhouse, there are several public parking lots and street parking options available along Bathhouse Row and in the surrounding downtown area. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
Absolutely! Buckstaff Bathhouse is situated on the historic Bathhouse Row, which is a very walkable area. Many visitors enjoy strolling between the various bathhouses and the national park visitor center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Buckstaff Bathhouse operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not take reservations. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure your spot.
Buckstaff Bathhouse typically opens in the morning, around 8 AM, and closes in the late afternoon. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours of operation, as they can vary seasonally.
The cost varies depending on the package you choose, with the traditional thermal bath being the most common. The 'deluxe' package, which includes a massage, is also popular. Expect to pay around $50-$70 for the basic thermal bath experience.
The standard experience includes a guided thermal soak, a session in the steam cabinet, and a period of rest wrapped in blankets. You can also opt for a massage. All towels, robes, and bathing attire are provided.
While specific age restrictions can vary, generally, children may need to be accompanied by an adult. It's best to confirm with the bathhouse directly if you plan to visit with minors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll be guided through a series of steps: a soak in a private tub with water flowing on your back, a steam cabinet session, and a rest period. Attendants are present to assist you at each stage. It's a communal experience with men and women separated.
You are naked during the bathing process, but you are provided with a towel to cover yourself. You will wear your swimsuit for the initial soak in the communal tubs, but then you'll be guided to private areas for other treatments.
Reviews for the massages are mixed. Some visitors find them to be a great addition, while others suggest skipping them, noting they can be 'strange' or not up to spa standards. The traditional bath experience itself is highly praised.
No, the Buckstaff Bathhouse separates men and women for the bathing treatments. Couples will go through the experience at different times and may have to wait for each other afterward.
It's a historic and traditional atmosphere, often described as a 'toga party' vibe. It's not a luxury spa but offers an authentic glimpse into the past. The attendants are key to making the experience comfortable and enjoyable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Buckstaff Bathhouse itself does not have a restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available along Bathhouse Row and in the surrounding downtown Hot Springs area, ranging from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
Visitors often enjoy places like Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden for a casual meal with live music, or other local eateries on Central Avenue. The area offers a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, it's best to be discreet and respectful. Inside the treatment areas, photography is usually not permitted to ensure guest privacy. The exterior and lobby areas are typically fine for photos.
The historic architecture of the bathhouse and Bathhouse Row itself are very photogenic. Capturing the unique facade and the surrounding park setting can make for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a more universally appealing activity in Hot Springs, consider exploring the other attractions on Bathhouse Row, such as the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, which offers a museum-like experience without the bathing treatments. The surrounding Hot Springs National Park also provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature, which can be more engaging for a wider age range.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, focus on the core thermal bath experience and consider skipping the massage if you're on a tight budget, as reviews suggest the massage quality can be inconsistent. Bringing only your swimsuit and flip-flops also saves on packing needs. For dining, explore local eateries and cafes away from the immediate tourist hotspots for more budget-friendly options.
💖 Couples
Consider coordinating your appointment times so you can have a meal or explore together afterward. The shared historical context of experiencing the same place, even separately, can still be a bonding experience. Many couples enjoy the relaxation and unique nature of the treatments, making it a memorable part of their trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Significance of Buckstaff Bathhouse
During its heyday, Hot Springs attracted a diverse clientele, from the wealthy elite seeking rejuvenation to those looking for relief from various ailments. Presidents like Thomas Jefferson and John F. Kennedy, as well as notorious figures like Al Capone, are said to have experienced the waters here.
The architecture itself reflects the era's grandeur, with ornate details and a sense of timeless elegance. While it's not a modern luxury spa, the charm lies in its authenticity and the connection it provides to a bygone era of wellness tourism. Experiencing Buckstaff is not just about a soak; it's about stepping back in time and participating in a ritual that has defined Hot Springs for generations.
Understanding the Traditional Bathing Ritual
After the steam, you'll likely experience a period of rest, often referred to as the 'mummy wrap,' where you're covered with warm blankets to allow your body to continue to relax and absorb the heat. This is a crucial part of the ritual, allowing your body to cool down gradually and deeply. If you opt for a massage, it will typically follow this rest period. While the massages receive mixed reviews, the core bathing ritual is consistently praised for its therapeutic and relaxing effects.
It's important to remember that this is a communal, albeit separated by gender, experience. The attendants play a vital role in ensuring comfort and guiding you through the process, making it feel less intimidating for first-time visitors. The focus is on the therapeutic benefits of the water and steam, offering a unique and authentic wellness experience that differs significantly from modern spa treatments.
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