Pros & cons
PROS
- Unique spa products and hot-spring–made beverages
- Great stop for bottles to fill at public fountains
- Purchases support park education via America's National Parks
CONS
- No soaking or spa services here
- Closes at 5 pm and can be crowded midday on weekends
Overview
Set in the historic 1923 Lamar Bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, the Bathhouse Row Emporium is the park’s official store—part souvenir shop, part history stop. It’s where you pick up books on the springs and the Ouachitas, bath-themed gifts, and locally minded items, all in a beautifully preserved bathhouse backdrop.
What You’ll Find
Expect a curated mix: educational books and postcards, glass and plastic bottles for filling at the hot-spring fountains, whetstones and traditional luffa mitts, plus an exclusive line of spa products made with the thermal water. They also brew coffee and other hot beverages using the spring water—very on-theme and fun to try.
A Bit of History
The Lamar replaced an 1888 wooden structure and arrived with a Spanish-influenced façade that complements its neighbors. Back in the day, it was known for offering various tub lengths (to fit different heights) and even had a small coed gym. Today, beyond the store, the building houses park offices, archives, museum collections, and a research library—so you’re browsing in the middle of living park history.
What It’s Not (Set Expectations)
There’s no bathing at the Lamar. If soaking is your goal, look to Buckstaff for traditional baths or Quapaw for modern spa pools. The Emporium isn’t listed with public restrooms; plan to use facilities at the Fordyce Visitor Center on the Row. Also note: it no longer sells the America the Beautiful Pass; certain other passes are handled at the Fordyce.
Hours and Practicalities
Typical hours are 9 am–5 pm daily, closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day; summer hours may run longer. If you want thermal-water drinks or bottles before exploring the fountains, swing by right at opening.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays are smoother and the first hour after opening is the calmest window. Midday and Saturday afternoons draw the heaviest crowds. If you can’t make it early, late afternoon (3–5 pm) is your next-best bet.
Make the Most of It
- Buy a bottle here, then fill up at the park’s public hot-spring fountains nearby.
- Pop into the Fordyce Visitor Center afterward for context on bathhouse culture and the science behind the springs.
- Treat the stop as a quick, worthwhile browse—then continue your walk along Bathhouse Row and the Grand Promenade.
Where it is
34.5121, -93.0536Tips for Lamar Bathhouse (Bathhouse Row Emporium)
- 01Arrive at opening or after 3 pm to avoid the midday rush.
- 02Buy a bottle here and fill it at the public hot-spring fountains nearby.
- 03No bathing at Lamar—head to Buckstaff or Quapaw if you want a soak.
- 04For passes, go to the Fordyce Visitor Center; the Emporium doesn’t sell the America the Beautiful Pass.
- 05Closed on major holidays; confirm hours if visiting in summer when they may extend.
Amenities
Near Lamar Bathhouse (Bathhouse Row Emporium)
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayHot Spring EmporiumPark store for books, spa goods, and spring-water coffeeStore · Food
0 mi awayBathhouse Row EmporiumGift shop for spring water coffee and spa souvenirsStore · Food
0 mi awayBuckstaff BathhouseLiving‑history thermal bath ritual in a still‑operating 1912 bathhouseRestroom
0 mi awayHot Springs National Park Entrance SignQuick photo-op to mark your spa-city adventure
0.1 mi awayGrand PromenadeBrick promenade above Bathhouse Row with springs and historyEasy · 0.7 mi · 18 min
0.1 mi awaySunset TrailHot Springs’ longest, view-studded backbone with a novaculite showpieceChallenging · 13 mi · 7.5 hr
0.2 mi awayPeak TrailShort, steady climb from downtown to Hot Springs Mountain Tower viewsModerate · 1.2 mi · 42 min
0.3 mi awayTufa Terrace TrailSteaming cascade, tufa cliffs, and a quick climb to the promenade.Easy · 0.3 mi · 24 min
