Garvan Woodland Gardens
550 Arkridge Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913
10am opening; closure varies seasonally
$$$
outdoor-adventures, fun-paid-activities, run, parks
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Spend a Half Day Exploring these Amazing Gardens!
Garvan Gardens was a highlight of our trip to the Hot Springs area. It is enormous, and families can easily spend a half-day or more enjoying the natural beauty. Some of our favorite spots were:
Waterfall on Lake Hamilton – after you leave the visitor center and get your ticket, veer to the left and head along the path to the waterfall. You’ll see several bridges and a small lake with huge goldfish that will swim really close to you. After you see the waterfall, head to the edge of the large lake for some amazing views.
Children’s Garden and Treehouse – this was one of the most well-designed children’s gardens I’ve ever seen. It’s unique in that it’s made to look all-natural (with the exception of the treehouse). Pay attention and you’ll find secret passageways through large boulders, a cave where you can climb out of, fun paths and creeks and a large bridge. The highlight is the treehouse with multiple levels and a climbing feature in the corner.
Anthony Chapel – this is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. It’s made of wood and glass and you can see from one side to the other. If you’re lucky, there are some cool churchbells that might ring when you visit.
Trains – there’s a large outdoor model train that my kids loved watching while we waited for our lunch at Chipmunk Café.
Chipmunk Café – we stayed for lunch here; the quality of food was great and prices were reasonable and the frozen lemonade was divine!
Peacocks – there were several peacocks at the entrance to the gardens and you can get pretty close to them. Stunning birds!
Admission: Adults start at $15. But check and see if you have an AHS Reciprocal Membership! Families with a membership to a garden (think Cheekwood Botanical Gardens in Nashville) can use their membership to enter the gardens for free.
Dogs: Member dogs are free; all others on a leash for $5.
Note: we found the maps handed out at the visitor center very hard to understand. However, the signage along the pathways easily shows you which way is which.