Centuries of Serenity
Our History
Step into History and Soothe Your Soul in Hot Springs’ Legendary Thermal Waters
A Legacy Born in 1922
Rising in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Quapaw Baths & Spa opened its doors in 1922, built in the striking Spanish Colonial Revival style that can still be seen today. Named after the Quapaw tribe—original stewards of this land—it stands on the historic site of the Horseshoe and Magnesia bathhouses. Today, Quapaw Baths & Spa invites you to experience a tradition of wellness that spans centuries.
Quapaw Baths & Spa, Est. 1922.
Centuries of Healing
For hundreds of years, the thermal springs of Hot Springs, AR, have welcomed Native Americans, early European explorers, and travelers from around the globe. Drawn by the mineral-rich waters, they sought the natural warmth and restorative power of these springs. An early explorer noted, “At the Hot Springs, we found a simple log cabin and a few huts, built by visitors seeking the waters’ healing touch.” In those days, bathers soaked in “dugout pools” with wooden planks for seats—humble roots for a now-iconic destination.
A Haven Since the 1800s
By the 19th and early 20th centuries, the natural hot springs in Hot Springs, AR, became a lifeline for those with rheumatism, arthritis, and other ailments. With few treatments available, doctors across the country sent patients to soak in these therapeutic waters. The springs’ unique minerals and soothing heat earned them a reputation for healing. Veterans from the Civil War to World War II flocked to this historic bathhouse town, hoping to ease their pain and reclaim their health.
Reborn for Today
After World War II, modern medicine dimmed the popularity of thermal bathing, and the industry in Hot Springs waned. Quapaw Baths & Spa closed in 1968, briefly reopened in 1969 as Health Services, Inc., then shut down again in 1984. Now, we’ve revived this historic bathhouse, bringing its timeless charm back to life. Visit us in Hot Springs, AR, and discover the healing waters that have captivated generations!
