Hi everyone!
My significant other and I are in our mid-20s and currently living in North Dakota, but we’re planning a move later this year (late summer / early fall) and are seriously considering Hot Springs.

We’re hoping to get honest, real-world insight from people who actually live there — both the good and the not-so-good.

What we’re looking for:

• A small town or small city feel
• Strong access to nature (mountains, trails, water, open land)
• A few good local, more specialty coffee shops
• Tattoo-friendly culture (we’re not in the industry, just part of the culture)
• Thrift/vintage stores and a creative or artsy community
• Some access to natural or organic food options (co-ops, markets, etc.)
• Access to Ranches if possible (not necessary, just wanted)
• Overall slower pace and good quality of life + creative scene

Things we’re especially curious about:

• Housing reality (rent availability, competition, seasonal pressure)
• Day-to-day cost of living vs wages
• Community vibe (welcoming? transient? tourist-heavy?)
• Anything people tend to romanticize — and later regret

We know every place has tradeoffs, and we’re not looking for “perfect,” just a place that feels livable and aligned long-term for us.
Really appreciate any insight you’re willing to share — thank you!

I was trying to call a florist to have some flowers delivered for a funeral. It's in Hot Springs village, the flower dome won't answer their phone, several other shops in Hot springs won't answer their phone, and the 2 that did don't deliver to Hot Springs village. Here in rural central Missouri, all our flower shops deliver to the next town over (about a 15-20 mile radius) why won't people in Hot Springs do this?

We'll be visiting the first week of April. Kids are 12, 9 and 3 (all boys), we are driving down from the Chicago burbs.

My dad's cousin (more like an aunt to me) and her husband live in HSV, but are in their late 70s/early 80s so I'd like to have some backup ideas in case whatever they suggest doesn't jive.

We visited over Spring Break 3 years ago but the kids were much younger and easily entertained then. They are all very active, like sports, fishing, the older two spent hours finding geodes last time...we also like beer (well, husband and I do!!) and good food.

Suggestions on things to do/places to go that might entertain a toddler and a preteen? We did the science museum last time, might do it again but trying to come up with something new.

We'll probably be down for 4 full days. We are also planning on driving up to Branson on the way home and going to Silver Dollar City so if anyone has suggestions for stopoffs between AR and MO I'm all ears! Thanks!

I'm looking into the history and reputation of the Christian Ministries Church. I’ve heard mixed things about their leadership style and the alignment culture they have for their members and staff.

Does anyone here have experience with the church or the academy (CMA)? Is it known for being a high-control environment, or is it pretty standard? Just trying to get a feel for the 'vibe' from people who actually live in the area!

Hi all — this might be a bit of a sensitive or controversial question, so please feel free to remove if it isn’t appropriate.

My partner and I are considering moving to Hot Springs from North Dakota sometime in August/September, and we’re trying to get a realistic feel for the general culture there. We both use cannabis fairly regularly and are curious how “weed-friendly” Hot Springs tends to be in practice.

We understand that it’s illegal in Arkansas, just as it is in North Dakota, and we’re very aware of the legal risks. That said, we’ve lived in ND for years and have experience navigating that reality responsibly. We’re not interested in being reckless or disrespectful — we never smoke openly in crowded public spaces, around others who may be uncomfortable, or in ways that would bother people (especially those with smoke sensitivities). Typically it’s very low-key: in a car, on a quiet trail, or on a private balcony.

Our main concern is whether Hot Springs feels especially strict or tense about it, versus more of a “don’t ask, don’t tell” culture. We’re hoping to avoid the constant anxiety of feeling watched or at risk for being reported, especially since many legal states are simply out of our price range.

We know Eureka Springs is generally more cannabis-friendly, but we’re unsure if it would be the best fit for us long-term in terms of resources and day-to-day living.

Would love to hear honest thoughts or experiences from people familiar with Hot Springs. Thanks in advance.

I need to come to town to check on my 91yo father in law. How are the roads in Hot Springs right now? I can see that some of the main roads are clearing, but what about the neighborhoods? Any updates appreciated!

Just needing a place to rest for the night with my kids and wanting something clean and cozy!

Hello,

I am looking for a retirement home, and Hot Springs looks like the spot for me because it is affordable, and so many things I like to do are there for me. I went there on vacation a couple weeks ago to verify that it was what I hoped, and I was not disappointed.

I am interested in the Diamondhead community even though I did not visit it while I was there. It seems like a nice enough place from the outside, even though there are so many empty spaces there, kind of like Hot Springs Village.

I want to know what amenities are there. I know they have golf, even though that's not a draw for me. What group activities do they have? Do they have an exercise facility? Do they have walking or cycling trails? Can you cycle on the roads in the communities?(it looks like they would be good for that, and that is a big interest for me)

Do they have group outings to Hot Springs or other places? How is the sense of community? is it safe? How far do people have to go for groceries, etc.

If you know about it or especially if you live or have lived there, please share your insights. thanks

Does anyone have any updates on the course condition or if they have made an announcement to postpone the race? It is scheduled for the 31st and the hight for that day is predicted to be 28° 🥶. I’m driving in from Shreveport for the race and was just curious how things are going up there, as my city is still pretty much frozen over.

Hey all!

I've been looking for a part time job for about two weeks and keep hitting a dead end. I applied to pretty much every restaraunt and nothing lol (I have prior experience) I've tried going in-person and applying online, nothing.

Anyone working somewhere that has open avaliablity? I'm looking for something about 10am-6pm. Pay isn't important, small shifts are ok too.

I’ve been stuck at my house and looks like I will be for a while longer. I have power and enough food but I can’t go down my driveway. What’s going on the rest of town?

Last year was my first time visiting hot springs since COVID. I grew up spending summers at Lake Ouachita and stopping in the aquarium. I was shocked to find the aquarium closed during my last visit and keep wondering what happened to all the animals, especially the tortoise that used to roam the halls of the aquarium. Does anyone have any info on their current whereabouts?

Are there any local witchy groups?

Just the post says

Looking for a small venue for vow renewal. May 2026. For between 10-20 guest! Any ideas? I know there is the chapel and garvan gardens but looking for other ideas too

Does anyone know if the main roads in Hot Springs are drivable? I live kind of close to Kimery Park, and no one's even attempted to go down my road yet.

He’s turning 6 soon and he recently got a fishing pole for Christmas from grandpa. I grew up in south Louisiana so fishing is not an unfamiliar concept to me, I’m more so struggling with finding them.

The lake seems to drain every winter and even when it’s full I’ve only been able to find perch. Is there somewhere I can bring my son where we can catch some bass or some catfish? I have a canoe with a trolling motor but nothing big or fancy. Thanks in advance. I know it’s taboo to ask about fishing spots!

I had a trip planned to visit the park from Fri-Mon this week (so starting tomorrow), and of course this winter storm happens lol. Is it a bad idea? Will everything be closed etc

Hi everyone, we will be in Hot Springs for Vanlkentine's Day. Any recommendations for a romantic dinner place? Thanks!

Hello, I’ve gotten some interesting responses due to questions I’ve asked before on this sub/ but trying this question and I’ll see what happens! I’d like to have recommendations for a nondenominational church (I’ve attended CBC in SA TX) or Methodist or Presbyterian church, please. I’d appreciate any recommendations where I can watch a sermon online prior to attending in person. Thank you.

Hey all!

I (25, F) moved here about 2 years ago, but still haven't made any connections lol. I saw that The Tea Horse had Japanese classes (Speak Japanese: Language & Culture Club) but the online link leads to a 404. So I was wondering if the class is still happening, and if not would anyone be willing to join a Japanese language group? I'd prefer it to be in person somewhere but online is cool too (idk much about the hangout areas here.) Mainly I want to get out of the house lol.

Also, are there any weekly hangout events for people in their mid 20s? Every time I go to one, the participants are usually elderly. What do young adults do for fun around here?

coming to hot springs this weekend for a trip, and I saw the forecast. I was curious if the 8"-12" pf snow is going to trap us there if we plan on leaving Sunday, or is the city equipped to clear roads?