Planning a Trip? Why Every Traveling Pet Owner Should Visit Dog-Friendly Hot Springs, Arkansas

After traveling for so many years with my furry family members and avoiding trips to most cities because they simply don’t have a lot of pet-friendly things to do (besides restaurant patio seating and city parks). I’m always amazed when we find a place like dog-friendly Hot Springs, Arkansas, that is TRULY pet friendly.  

I originally started planning this trip so we could cross Hot Springs National Park off my bucket list. However, once I started doing more research, I found that pets were allowed in most stores and at least one museum. There was even a restaurant or two that let you sit indoors with your dog! 

But once we arrived, WOW! It was even more pet-friendly than I imagined- we even met someone’s traveling rabbit! Hot Springs, Arkansas, is now #1 on my top dog-friendly cities list. Here is a breakdown of what you and your dog can (and can’t) enjoy during your visit.

For another wonderfully dog-friendly city, consider taking a trip up to Michigan to visit Holland!

Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Hot Springs, Arkansas:

With Hot Springs being such a pet-friendly city, you will find so many places to stay that will allow your animals. There are so many to choose from that I can’t even list them all.

From pet-friendly hotels to AirBNBs, you can take your pick. Just pay attention to any pet restrictions they may have and then choose your location, price range, and amenities.

Dog-Friendly Restaurant in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Most restaurants in the surrounding area have dog-friendly patios if you want more options and don’t mind driving off the main strip. But if you want to stay closer to the main attractions, here are a few choices:

• 420 eats Hot Springs (Food Truck Court)- multiple food trucks to choose from, picnic benches, etc.
• Superior Bathhouse Brewery– pet-friendly indoor and outdoor seating. You get a free bandana, and they have a little doggy menu.
• Bubbalu’s– pet-friendly indoor seating, but be aware that the space is a bit crowded
• Diablos Tacos and Mezcal– pet-friendly patio with shade umbrellas.

Pet Friendly Stores in Hot Springs Arkansas

It would be easier to tell you which stores won’t allow your furry friend inside than to list the ones that do. The majority of stores on the strip are pet-friendly as long as your animal is well-behaved and stays on a leash or is carried. The only places we encountered that weren’t dog-friendly were the National Park’s Gift Shop and an art gallery. 

Our little guy Charlie is our only pup prone to marking his territory, so we had him in his little dog carrier in stores just to be safe. Keep in mind that many of these stores have breakable items and a policy of “you break it, you buy it,” so watch those wagging tails indoors!

Make sure to stop in to the Eureka Clothing Store to pick up Remington’s Pup Memory Passport! You can also find it in their sister store in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. If you want it customized, you can buy it through our store.

Dog-Friendly Activities in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Looking for something to do with your canine companion besides shopping and eating? From hiking trails to museums, this town has it all! 

• Hot Springs National Park– This national park is pet-friendly except for the park buildings (museum/visitor center, observation tower, and gift shop). Don’t forget to get your furry friend’s B.A.R.K. ranger certificate!
• Mountain Valley Spring Water Visitor Center and Museum– They have a cute little museum on the 2nd floor and a gift shop on the main floor. Stock up on merchandise and water. We found a few things that will be perfect for future camping trips.
• Gangster Museum of America– Learn about how Hot Springs was the vacation spot for gangsters all over America! Tours typically start on the hour and are a great way to spend time on hot or rainy days.
• Hot Springs Ghost Tour– Spend an evening learning about the ghosts of Hot Springs. They give tours every night, and reservations aren’t required.

If you don’t mind driving outside of town, you can find even more dog-friendly things to do. These activities are all outdoors and range from more hiking trails, a garden, and gem mining:

• Garvan Woodland Gardens– Spend a relaxing day with your pup enjoying nature with your pup in their gardens. This a great place to take photos of you and your four-legged friend.
• Lake Catherine State Park and Lake Ouachita State Park– Both of these state parks are within an hour’s drive of Hot Springs for more nature and hiking opportunities.
• Ron Coleman Mining– This quartz mine is about a 30-minute drive from Hot Springs. It’s a bit different than other gem mining places because they bring the dirt up for you to dig and search through. 
• Crater Diamond State Park– This state park has the only diamond mine open to the public. It’s about 1 ½ hours away from Hot Springs, but if you are a true rockhound, it’s a must so you can say you tried!

If you love gem mining as much as we do, visit Emerald Hollow Mine in North Carolina.

Tips for Visiting Hot Springs National Park with Your Dog

Like any state in the south, be aware that summers are very hot and humid. Most of our tips involve keeping your pets safe in the heat:

• Watch your animals closely and carry water and a shade umbrella to help keep your dog safe from overheating. Regular or misting portable fans can help everyone stay cool, too.
• Consider bringing sunscreen and sunglasses for your dog, depending on their health and coat. Our newest puppy, Francis, is going to need both during the summertime with his thin white coat.
• Make sure your schedule is flexible, and keep an eye on the weather. This way, you can switch to indoor outings when necessary to avoid tough weather.
• On sunny days, test the pavement and ground regularly to check that it’s not too hot for your dog’s feet. Foot protection can help prevent burnt paws and vet visits.
• Always verify that the place you are going to is still dog-friendly. We found several places like the wax museum, that no longer allowed pets.
• Always carry poop bags and clean up after your pup! Not only is it better for local wildlife, it will also help keep Hot Springs pet-friendly for other dog owners.

Dog-Friendly Hot Springs, Arkansas Belongs on Your Bucket List! 

After our visit to Hot Springs, Arkansas, I can confidently say that this town goes above and beyond making pups and their owners feel welcome. With plenty of activities, stores, and restaurants to choose from, you never have to leave your dog’s side during your vacation unless you want to. If you are looking for a vacation spot that is truly pet-friendly instead of pet-tolerant, Hot Springs should definitely be at the top of your bucket list!

Pin For Later: