Hot Springs Convention Center – Things To Do With Your Team

Hot Springs, Arkansas is named after the attraction that has made it famous throughout history, its natural mineral hot springs. These pools put the city on the map and to this day people continue to flock to Hot Springs to experience the warm, soothing springs for themselves.

Many of the city’s attractions are located on or close to one road. The Hot Springs Convention Center is near that same road as well. You and your team can easily walk to most of the attractions from the Hot Springs Convention Center in no time.

 

Things to Do

The Gangster Museum of America

At one time, many gangsters frequented Hot Springs. In fact, they are partly responsible for the growth of the city. This fascinating history is memorialized at The Gangster Museum of America. This museum has several galleries focusing educating visitors about specific gangsters through audio and visual displays.

There are several galleries that you and your team can encounter as you find out about Hot Springs’ somewhat shady past. Learn about mobsters like the famous Al Capone. While he has a reputation of being a feared crime boss in Chicago, his presence at Hot Springs was welcomed by residents. He was a loyal patron of many local businesses and a generous tipper to boot. Other gangsters highlighted in the museum are Owen Madden and Lucky Luciano.

The antique casino is one of the most popular galleries at the Gangster Museum. Shedding light on a time when Hot Springs was the largest illegal gambling site in the country, this exhibit showcases some of the 103 gambling establishments that existed in the city at one time, footage of Maxine Harris Jones giving a history lesson of the town, and more.

This unique museum is one of Hot Springs’ most notable attractions. Give your team an interesting history lesson that they will appreciate at The Gangster Museum of America. 510 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

National Park Aquarium

Head over to National Park Aquarium for some aquatic amusement near the Hot Springs Convention Center. Just a short walk up Central Avenue, the aquarium has a diverse collection of marine animals and reptiles. They have freshwater fish like piranhas and alligator gar. Some of their saltwater fish include clownfish and lionfish. There are also salamanders, frogs, lizards, turtles, and a tortoise. A few strange looking invertebrates like waterbugs, urchins, and feather-duster worms are on display as well.

National Park Aquarium offers group discounts based on the number of visitors you have. This affordable attraction can peak your team’s interest with its exciting assortment of animals. 209 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901

 

Hot Springs National Park

It’s only reasonable that you stop by the hot springs during your trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas. You may not take a dip in the warm water, but you can still see some of the pools at Hot Springs National Park.

The key feature of this park, besides the hot springs, is Bathhouse Row. Built from 1892 to 1923, Bathhouse Row consists of eight bathhouses that are now a national landmark. Take a relaxing stroll by these buildings during your time at the park. There are 26 miles of trails you can hike too.

Experience some of the city’s natural sites on a warm afternoon. You will find some picnic spots throughout the park that you and your team can use to have a meal together. Don’t miss out on Hot Springs National Park during your visit to the Hot Springs Convention Center. This landmark is Hot Springs’ most famous attraction. 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

Josephine Tussad Wax & Gambling Museum

Meet some of the world’s most iconic figures, in wax form that is, at Josephine Tussad Wax & Gambling Museum.

This popular Hot Springs attraction has over 100 wax figures on display. You’ll encounter famous movie stars from the past and present. An interesting and slightly gruesome collection of wax figures depicting historically accurate medieval torture techniques is another key feature of the museum. Some other noteworthy presentations include battles from American history, fictional characters like Snow White and Alice in Wonderland, U.S. presidents, and French and British royalty. A special exhibit devoted to the gambling history of Hot Springs is also offered during your visit. 250 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

Tiny Town Trains

All aboard! Now departing for Tiny Town Trains. Not only can you observe impressively detailed model trains and towns, you can also operate the trains on the tracks.

All of the displays were built by the Moshinskie family. You’ll see sites from all over the United States, shrunken down for your enjoyment.

The models have many moving parts besides the trains. There is a functional model Ferris wheel, farmers plowing land, dancers, people building a house, an airplane circling an airport, and more. These lively models can keep you engaged for a while as you drive trains through the wonderful scenery.

Admission is very cheap. The owners aren’t in the business for the money, but for the love they have for model trains. Check out Tiny Town Trains, so they can share their love with you. 374 Whittington Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

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Places to Eat

Colorado Grill

Eating at Colorado Grill will please the whole team. Their menu is a combination of American and Mexican recipes. You can get burgers, wraps, and grilled options if you’re in the mood for American. If you want Mexican food, your choices consist of quesadillas, nachos, fajitas, burritos, tacos, and other flavorful grilled dishes.

You may want to stop at this place a few times during your visit to the Hot Springs Convention Center since the menu is packed with a lot of kid favorites. 320 Ouachita Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

The Pancake Shop

You don’t want to miss the most important meal of the day if your team’s playing a big game at the Hot Springs Convention Center.

You won’t have to if you go to The Pancake Shop. Serving all of the quintessential breakfast foods, this joint will be the perfect start to your day. You can order several kinds of pancakes, eggs or omelets, a variety of breakfast meats, or cereals. You won’t find a better breakfast spot than The Pancake Shop. 216 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

Cafe 1217

Looking for some homemade comfort food right by the Hot Springs Convention Center? Cafe 1217 is your destination. This is the closest you’ll get to eating a meal that feels like it was made by mom.

Classics like meatloaf, mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, and lasagna are all mouthwatering choices. Those are only a few of the restaurant’s entrees. They also have a sandwich menu with a variety of options. Your team will be delighted to learn that they also make all of their desserts. Cafe 1217 is the go-to spot for anyone looking for a meal that tastes like it’s been home-cooked. 1217 Malvern Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901

 

Rolando’s Restaurante

Rolando’s Restaurante is always happy to share their Latin American cuisine with customers. Enjoy some hot soups and fresh salads, or scratch-made tamales. Staples like tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and enchiladas can also be found on the menu.

A different menu for kids 12 and under is also offered; perfect if you’re traveling with younger kids. 210 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71901

 

There’s so much to see and do in Hot Springs that will keep you busy when you aren’t at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Make sure to check out the natural hot springs. Maybe even take a dip. Learning about the history and influence gangsters had on the city is another must-do activity. Regardless of what you do, your visit to the Hot Springs Convention Center will be filled with excitement.