As dynamic and picturesque today as when it first opened in 1832, this park remains one of the state’s best-kept secrets.

If you want to branch out from the typical vacation ports of call — pricey Aspen, say, or a sleepy beach resort in South Florida — the vast, forested state of Arkansas is definitely worth considering. Why? Because it’s home to a rare national treasure: an entire park devoted to hot springs.

Clusters of geothermal pools can be found in western states like Colorado and New Mexico, but none represent as important a milestone in the National Park Service catalog as Hot Springs National Park. This remarkable land was set aside by the government in 1832, making it the oldest federal reserve in the U.S. — it predates even Yellowstone, which is traditionally recognized as the country’s first national park, by 40 years.

Here’s a look at some of our favorite things to do in Hot Springs National Park if you want to incorporate Arkansas’s natural wonder into your itinerary on your next mountain-town adventure.

Buckstaff Baths

Much of the city’s delightful architecture has been preserved in charming Neo-classical and Spanish-style museums along Bathhouse Row. But there’s one bathhouse that has operated continuously since 1912, making it the city’s longest-running facility. Equipped with steam cabinets, needle showers, whirlpool tubs, and Swedish massage therapists, Buckstaff Baths offers separate floors for men and women, and its no-reservation policy for baths and massages works in favor of travelers who wish to take a spontaneous trip to the healing waters — appointments are needed for manicures, pedicures, and facials, however. Though it’s open Monday through Saturday starting at 8 a.m., many locals like to line up beforehand, so make sure you get there early.

Quapaw Baths

If you’re in need of something more full-service, head to Quapaw Baths, a contemporary, European-style spa facility. Like at Buckstaff, the thermal water is piped directly into the soaking pools, but the menu also offers services such as foot scrubs, steamy facials, herbal-infused towel wraps, and something called a Mudslide — a signature service that incorporates a full clay body mask — followed by a MicroSilk treatment, which uses tiny oxygen bubbles that reach into the pores to promote skin cell growth and reduce wrinkles.

Gallery Walk

For culture lovers, Hot Springs National Park has also made a name for itself as a serious art destination. That’s most apparent at the Ozark Bathhouse, a 1922 Spanish Colonial Revival building made of white stucco and red clay tile. Though it stopped operating as a bathhouse in 1977, it reopened in 2014 as a fine art gallery. Meanwhile, other galleries spread across Central Avenue come alive every first Friday of the month for “Gallery Walk,” when local artists open their studios for mingling and live music.

The Sunset Trail

The city of Hot Springs is built right into the park itself, so getting into nature isn’t hard to do. One popular route, the Sunset Trail, leads to several impressive mountain overlooks that face away from the city entirely. On its own, the 8.9-mile loop is doable for beginner or moderate-level hikers — if you’re seeking something more rigorous, try coupling it with adjacent trails for a complete 14-mile loop all the way around Hot Springs National Park.

Superior Bathhouse Brewery

Another reason Hot Springs National Park appeals to more than just bathers? Its micro-brewery. Superior Bathhouse Brewery incorporates real water from the springs into its pale ales and golden stouts, resulting in an immersive experience of the park’s unique hydro system that doesn’t involve an hour-long soak.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

For one of the best overlooks in the entire state, head to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, where you can enjoy beautiful 360-degree views of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains, the Diamond Lakes, and Hot Springs Mountain. To reach the tower, either embark on a scenic 1.5-mile hike from Fountain Street or drive straight up to the parking lot. From there, you can ride the elevator the remaining 216 feet to the top.

Bathhouse Row Emporium

If you’ve had a great trip and want to take something special home to remember it by, plan to stop by the Bathhouse Row Emporium before you head home. Located inside The Lamar Bathhouse, the shop is open daily, selling all sorts of souvenirs highlighting the area’s history, plants, animals, and of course, bath products — everything from fancy soaps and luffa sponges to bottles you can fill with water from the hot springs. Several products, including coffee, other hot drinks, and several spa items, are actually made with the hot spring’s natural waters.

Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center

Worth a look, especially after new exhibits featuring the geology behind the natural springs were installed in early 2023, the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center is open daily, with park rangers ready to answer any questions about the national park or the area’s history. Originally opened in 1915, the 28,000-square-foot Fordyce Bathhouse was once the largest on Bathhouse Row, but closed its doors in 1962 before extensive restoration efforts were made in 1989. Today, it’s a must-visit part of any Hot Springs trip.

Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive

No visit to this national park is complete without cruising down the 3.6-mile Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive, a major Hot Springs National Park highlight — as long as you’re a fan of switchbacks, that is. Originally built as a carriage road during the 1880s, the long and winding road takes you from downtown Hot Springs (just off Central Avenue at the end of Fountain Street) to a lovely picnic area and overlook featuring a historic pagoda that dates back to 1910. The drive eventually takes you past the Hot Springs Mountain Tower (mentioned above) and the North Mountain Loop before leading you back to town.

Western Mountain Scenic Drive

On the other side of the national park, the Western Mountain Scenic Drive takes visitors from Whittington Avenue or Prospect Avenue up to the Summit Loop, which features three scenic overlooks. Enjoy views of Bathhouse Row and the old Army–Navy Hospital from the lower overlook, and Lake Hamilton and the Trap Mountains from the Summit Overlook; the Western Mountain Picnic Overlook is also home to a historic trail shelter house that dates back to 1924. Keep an eye out for Arkansas Novaculite once you reach the top, a type of silica stone once used by Indigenous Americans to make tools (Europeans later used them for whetstones).

Northwoods Trails

Mountain biking enthusiasts, rejoice! Hot Springs National Park’s Northwoods Trails system offers more than 31.5 miles of trails for biking, hiking, trail running, and nature viewing, all while letting visitors criss-cross their way through spectacular forest scenery. Choose from green, blue, or black single tracks, jump lines, and flow trails — then, show off your bike skills at nearby Cedar Glades Park, which also has a climbing wall, a three-story tree house for kids to check out, and 18 holes of disc golf.

The Tufa Terrace Trail

Named for a type of rock commonly found in the area, the Tufa Terrace Trail is an easy 0.3-mile walk along a paved trail starting from Arlington Lawn, close to where Fountain Street and Bathhouse Row meet. Along the way, you can expect to see views of the Hot Water Cascade, a large hot spring near the Grand Promenade that runs underneath the path before flowing down the cliffside into two separate pools. Be careful if you decide to touch it — that water you see is about 143 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wildlife Viewing

Keep an eye out for the area’s rich natural wildlife, as Hot Springs National Park and its dense forests and surrounding mountains are home to more than 50 species of protected mammals, including chipmunks, groundhogs, squirrels, and white-tailed deer. You’ll also find more than 100 different types of birds, over 70 species of reptiles and amphibians — including five types of venomous snakes, such as the copperhead, which tends to share the park’s trails — and roughly 50 species of fish throughout the many shallow creeks and ponds. Due to its proximity to the bustling town of Hot Springs, your best chances for wildlife viewing are likely early or late in the day. Regardless of what time of year you visit, a trusty pair of binoculars will certainly help.

It’s time to turn those long-overdue plans into reality and create new memories with your closest friends. Friendship Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your bond by exploring some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or tranquil retreats, these handpicked international locations are sure to inspire your next Friendship Day getaway.

Abu Dhabi, UAE:

Abu Dhabi blends exhilarating adventures with rich cultural experiences. Begin your trip with high-speed thrills at Ferrari World and then cool off at Yas Waterworld. Dive into marine wonders at SeaWorld or immerse yourselves in the fantastical realms of Warner Bros World and Al Ain Adventure. For a taste of local flavor, dine at Al Fanar Restaurant for traditional Emirati cuisine or savor international dishes at Zuma. Don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos at the Corniche and the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which will undoubtedly add a memorable touch to your trip.

New Zealand:

A haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, New Zealand offers awe-inspiring landscapes and thrilling activities. Feel the rush with jet boating on the Shotover River or bungee jumping at AJ Hackett Bungy in Queenstown. Movie enthusiasts can visit the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, while geothermal wonders await in Rotorua. Indulge in seafood at Fergburger in Queenstown or local delicacies at The Grove in Auckland. From breathtaking glaciers and volcanoes to serene kayaking in crystal-clear lakes and whale watching, New Zealand promises both exhilarating and soothing experiences.

Seychelles:

For a serene yet vibrant Friendship Day celebration, Seychelles is an idyllic choice. Relax on the pristine beaches of Mahé and snorkel in the clear waters of Sainte Anne Marine National Park. Explore the lush Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin and experience the charming vibe of La Digue. Enjoy beachside dining at Café des Arts on Anse Volbert or sample local cuisine at Wildflour Cafe near Victoria. The picturesque Beau Vallon Beach and Anse Source d’Argent offer stunning backdrops for unforgettable memories.

Thailand:

Thailand caters to every interest with its lively markets and stunning beaches. Wander through the bustling streets of Bangkok and explore ancient temples in Ayutthaya. Enjoy the vibrant night bazaars in Chiang Mai and taste delicious street food at Yaowarat (Chinatown). For fine dining, Gaggan in Bangkok is a must-visit. Capture the beauty of Wat Arun and the Phi Phi Islands, and don’t forget a scenic river cruise on the Chao Phraya River, which adds a unique touch to your adventure.

Morocco:

Morocco offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity for a memorable Friendship Day. Immerse yourselves in the vibrant souks of Marrakech, stroll through the serene Jardin Majorelle, and explore the historic Medina of Fez. A camel ride across the Sahara Desert and a night under the stars will deepen your bond with unforgettable late-night conversations. For a distinctive dining experience, savor the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine at Dar Moha in Marrakech.

Georgia:

Discover Georgia’s charm by wandering through the historic streets of Tbilisi and taking in panoramic views from Narikala Fortress. Indulge in world-renowned Georgian wines and explore the breathtaking scenery of Sighnaghi and Kazbegi. Adventurers will find plenty of hiking opportunities, and no visit to Georgia is complete without trying iconic dishes like khachapuri and khinkali at renowned restaurants like Kakhelebi.

Plan your trip with friends and make this Friendship Day unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, these destinations offer something extraordinary for everyone.

Learn how to get out of your comfort zone when shooting street photography, with pro advice from Jamie Canning

One of the most intriguing aspects of humans is their natural curiosity, which naturally leads to exploring the diversity of life. The bustling streets of cosmopolitan cities offer a perfect platform for observing people from different parts of the world. Through capturing their visual impressions, we can learn a lot about their cultures, traditions and ways of life.

Although the exceptions may prove the rule, there are still many stereotypes that stand out, especially when we encounter tourists from different cultures. For instance, the cliche is that Germans wear Birkenstock shoes, while the English are known for wearing shorts in cold weather. The rich variety and diversity of people from different backgrounds and cultures make street photography appealing, not only for us as photographers but also for delivering impactful insights.

However, it’s important not just to focus on the tourists and visitors but also to capture the people who live in the city. They are the ones who bring the urban landscape to life. These faces are the missing puzzle pieces that add authenticity to your perspective of street life, making your portfolio stand out.

By communicating with the locals as you photograph them, you can discover insider information that isn’t found in most city guidebooks. This is particularly valuable if you’re new to the city or have limited time to explore as they give a more comprehensive understanding of life in that location.

We talked to street photographer Jamie Canning and asked him about his top five communication techniques to get you out of your comfort zone when shooting on the streets, whether you’re rocking the Fujifilm X100VI or your camera phone…

Jamie Canning is a street photographer from South Wales, United Kingdom. His role as a public servant in the UK has finely tuned Jamie’s ability to observe and understand people in various situations. This experience translates seamlessly into his street photography, enabling him to capture genuine and diverse moments that reflect the rich tapestry of human life.

1. Be polite

When connecting with strangers, approach them with respect. I usually engage subjects with a genuine smile, it can work wonders!

2. Introduce yourself

Explain what your work is about and why you are photographing people on the streets. This will help them understand your goals and projects.

3. Show your work

Have your phone ready to show your work on Instagram or other social media platforms. This will give the person a better idea of what you are doing.

4. Establishing a connection

I seek their unique story. Show interest and be open to their thoughts and input. And don’t forget, everyone has a ‘good’ side.

5. Don’t give up!

Not everyone will be happy to get photographed and sometimes you might get rejected. But when a stranger is willing to appear in front of your camera, then the feeling of rejection will disappear in a second.

Mentally, physically and emotionally, you can gain a lot from packing your bags and visiting places you’ve never been.

When was the last time you traveled abroad? Traveling for business is one thing, but I’m talking about packing your bags, logging out of your email account and disconnecting from your normal routine for a week or more.

Traveling the world isn’t just fun and exciting; there’s ample research to suggest it’s highly beneficial for your physical, mental and emotional health as well.

Check Out These Five Proven Benefits

Americans may say they like to travel, but most don’t venture abroad very often. According to a study published in the Hostelworld Global Traveler Report,Americans are half as likely as Europeans to go abroad and visit more than one country.

The average resident of the UK has visited 10 countries, Germans have seen eight, and the French traveled to five nations on average. But Americans? They tend to visit just three. In fact, 29 percent of American adults have never been abroad!

When citizens of the U.S. do move past the border, most visit Canada or Mexico. Affordability is evidently a big factor — about 71 percent of Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story.

Given what all the travel and deal sites have to offer today, you can travel abroad without ransacking your piggy bank. Perhaps many Americans don’t grasp the benefits of traveling abroad — and there are many!

Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the health benefits that researchers have explored and verified scientifically.

1. Travel Makes You Healthier

According to a joint study from the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, travelingactually keeps you healthier. The study found that women who vacation at least twice a year show a significantly lower risk of suffering a heart attack than those who only travel every six years or so.

The same is true for men. Men who do not take an annual vacation show a 20 percent higher risk of death and 30 percent greater risk of heart disease.

2. Travel Relieves Stress

Although missing a connecting flight or losing baggage in a foreign airport is sure to boost your anxiety, traveling has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, and rather dramatically.

According to one study, three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood. Interestingly, these benefits tend to linger for weeks after the trip has ended.

3. Travel Enhances Your Creativity

“Foreign experiences increase both cognitive flexibility and depth and integrativeness of thought, the ability to make deep connections between disparate forms,”explains Adam Galinsky, a professor at Columbia Business School who hasauthored a number of studies that investigate the concrete links between creativity and international travel.

Travel alone isn’t enough, however. Galinsky has found that international travelers have to be purposeful about engaging.

“The key, critical process is multicultural engagement, immersion and adaptation,” he continues. “Someone who lives abroad and doesn’t engage with the local culture will likely get less of a creative boost than someone who travels abroad and really engages in the local environment.”

4. Travel Boosts Happiness and Satisfaction

Most people tend to be happier when they’re traveling and don’t have to worry about work, of course. However, one of the more interesting takeaways from a Cornell University study is that people also experience a direct increase in happiness from just planning a trip.

The study found that the anticipation of taking a vacation is far greater than the anticipation of acquiring a physical possession. Thus, the benefits of traveling abroad begin well before the trip does.

5. Travel Lowers the Risk of Depression

While people tend to avoid the subject in our society, depression is unfortunately a major problem. Millions of Americans struggle with depression on a regular basis and it’s not uncommon for doctors to over prescribe medication for depression.

Luckily, healthier alternatives are available for escaping the hopelessness of a depressed state. According to research, travel may be one of them.

A study from the Marsh field Clinic in Wisconsin found that women who vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer from depression and chronic stress than women who vacation less than once every two years.

Where Will Your Travels Take You This Year?

So there are clear, scientifically-backed health benefits of traveling the world. Mentally, physically and emotionally, you can gain a lot from packing your bags and visiting places you’ve never been.

But where will you go? Thousands of places across the world are worth visiting. Here are a few that should be on your radar:

• London, England. London is a must-visit city. If you’re new to international travel and want to get your feet wet, there’s probably no better destination. Not only is there a lot to do in London, but it’s cheap and easy to get to from most major U.S. cities. There’s also no language barrier, which is a bonus for people who get nervous about that.
• Cape Town, South Africa. The beauty of Cape Town is astonishing. Not only is the landscape unique, but there’s wildlife galore, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhino). There’s much to see; whether you prefer a fast pace or slow and easy, there’s an itinerary for you.
• Lucerne, Switzerland. If you’ve never been to Switzerland, Lucerne is a fantastic first city to experience. Conveniently near to the Zurich airport, the town is compact, yet lively. Not only are there lots of attractions in the city, but you can enjoy an array of hiking trails just outside of town.
• Auckland, New Zealand. Whether you want to kayak to a volcano, abseil down a waterfall, swim with sharks, or tackle challenging trails on a mountain bike, Auckland has everything an adventure lover could ask for. Oh, and it’s also a city that teems with good food and entertainment.

For many, the notion of international travel isn’t as mysterious and thrilling as it used to be. In a world accessible via YouTube, Google Earth, and virtual reality, many think they’ve already seen all the world has to offer, when they’ve really only stared at a screen a few inches in front of their face.

If you want to enjoy the scientifically proven health benefits of travel abroad, you should start planning a trip. Whether you go to London, Cape Town, Lucerne, Auckland, or somewhere entirely different, boarding a plane and flying to a foreign destination where you’re equal parts excited and intimidated is great for your growth and development.

Where will you go?