The Fordyce Bathhouse, located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, is a distinguished historic landmark that epitomizes the grandeur of the early 20th-century American spa culture. Opened in 1915, it was the most luxurious bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, designed to offer an opulent spa experience with advanced therapeutic treatments of its time. Built with striking Classical Revival architecture, the Fordyce Bathhouse features elegant marble, stained glass, and intricate tile work. Its three-story structure includes a grand lobby, elaborate men’s and women’s baths, massage rooms, a gymnasium, and even a bowling alley—highlighting the emphasis on health, relaxation, and social interaction.Today, the Fordyce Bathhouse serves as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park. Visitors can explore its meticulously restored interiors, learn about the history of the bathhouse and the therapeutic use of the park’s natural hot springs, and gain insights into the “American Spa” era that once attracted visitors from far and wide seeking wellness and leisure.The Fordyce Bathhouse stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Hot Springs, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of elegance, health, and social prominence.
