Lamar Bathhouse (Bathhouse Row Emporium)

Historic bathhouse turned park store for spring‑water gifts and coffee

InsideHot Springs National Park

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.

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

Tips

Arrive at opening or after 3 pm to avoid the midday rush.
Buy a bottle here and fill it at the public hot-spring fountains nearby.
No bathing at Lamar—head to Buckstaff or Quapaw if you want a soak.
For passes, go to the Fordyce Visitor Center; the Emporium doesn’t sell the America the Beautiful Pass.
Closed on major holidays; confirm hours if visiting in summer when they may extend.