Romantic Christmas Getaway in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

If you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, charming downtown strolls, and a cozy boutique hotel that feels like something out of a Hallmark movie, Hot Springs, Arkansas absolutely delivers. My husband and I enjoyed a romantic holiday getaway in Hot Springs, Arkansas and it’s something we dream about doing again every winter. Here’s how to plan a romantic holiday weekend for two, filled with great food, gorgeous views, a little adventure, and time to actually relax during this busy season. This post contains affiliate links.

Stay Here: The Reserve at Hot Springs.

This is, without question, one of my most favorite places I have ever stayed. In fact (here’s a little secret): I plan solo getaways here after I drop my kids off at summer camp. In the winter time it gets even more magical with holiday decorations and Christmas opulence. The Reserve in Hot Springs is so much more than a bed and breakfast. It’s a retreat that takes you completely out of regular life and gives you a peaceful, romanic, and wonderful getaway. A few of my favorite features that make The Reserve the perfect place to stay for a romantic holiday getaway in Hot Springs, Arkansas:

• The entire house is decorated for Christmas and it’s incredible.
• The butler’s pantry is open all night long for midnight snacks.
• If you contact them ahead of time, the chef can make accommodations for food allergies for the add on breakfast amenity. I got to enjoy gluten free and vegan eggs benedict when we went!
• Every suite has an AMAZING bathroom. They’re beautiful and so elegant.
• The den, the fireplace, the huge leather chairs, the staircase with all of the gold mirrors. I could go on and on.
• Book here.

A tip: get the add on package with champagne and flowers, which will await you upon check in. Oh, and stay two nights. Trust me.

Unwind Here: Astral Spa at Oaklawn.

Hot Springs is home to the only Forbes 4 Star spa in the entire state of Arkansas. The Astral Spa is inside Oaklawn Resort and it’s an absolute must for any romantic holiday getaway in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It’s a luxurious experience from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out, with no detail overlooked. I highly recommend a 90 minute massage and an add on facial with ice roller add on. Leave time to linger and enjoy the amenities too. Try the iconic “needle” shower, eucalyptus steam room, sauna, cold room, and hot tub.

The Astral Spa is on par with some of the iconic spas I’ve been to in Scottsdale, Arizona; it’s THAT good. Book in advance online or by calling.

Dine Here: The Vault.

Vault 723 is on Central Avenue in downtown Hot Springs, and just a short drive from The Reserve. It’s a find dining restaurant that’s inside an old bank and it has seriously good vibes. One of my favorite surprises is the menu itself. I’ll leave that surprise for you to discover. My other favorite surprise was to learn that the Chef also has a gluten intolerance (I have Celiac Disease). Nearly everything on the menu can be made gluten free and I got to enjoy delicious gluten free bread with my dinner. A tip: you can also head upstairs afterwards for an elevated cocktail lounge at The Heist 723.

Make sure you make a reservation online as they can get busy on weekend evenings and holidays.

For the adventurous.

When my husband and I took off for our romantic Christmas getaway in Hot Springs, Arkansas, we started with an adventure. Which is par for the course for us. Our date started with a few hours of digging for crystals at Ron Coleman crystal mine. It may have been freezing cold but we had so much fun. Digging for crystals is one of our family’s favorite activities and it was just as enjoyable as a date to kick off our getaway.

You will get very muddy and dirty with this, so plan to bring a change of clothes before you check in to your room at The Reserve.

Optional Add-Ons for Holiday Shenanigans.

Hot Springs, Arkansas is truly a winter holiday wonderland, minus the cold weather and snow! Here are a few more things to add for extra magical Christmas shenanigans:

• Stroll Central Avenue and enjoy the holiday decorations, and photo ops by the hot spring fountains.
• Visit the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center in Forydce Bathhouse.
• Enjoy coffee at Kollective Coffee and Tea.
• Shop at Kringles in the Park, a year round Christmas shop.
• Try some beer brewed with hot spring water at Superior Bathhouse Brewery.

See it all on a map.

Make it Magical.

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a surprise weekend away, or just craving quiet time with your favorite person, a holiday escape to Hot Springs is the perfect mix of festive and romantic. It’s only two hours from Texarkana, or an hour from Little Rock yet feels like a world away.

Want more holiday magic? Here are 15 magical holiday date ideas in Texarkana and the ArkLaTex. Or, check out my full guide to the best Christmas attractions around Texarkana, plus here are five places to see Christmas lights in Texarkana.

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