When I visit every National Park, I always have to stop at the gift shop to pick up some souvenirs. Typically my souvenirs are in the form of patches, magnets, stickers, and postcards but sometimes it includes a couple other items of interest that are representative of the park. I was surprised when the ranger informed me the gift shop was not in the visitor center but rather on the southern end of Bathhouse Row, a couple bathhouses away from Fordyce, in the Lamar Bathhouse.
After visiting Fordyce and before receiving a traditional bath at Buckstaff Bathhouse, I made my way to Lamar Bathhouse and was greeted by such a wide variety of national park paraphernalia and spa-related gifts - perfectly representing Hot Springs National Park and Hot Springs, Arkansas as a whole. The male employee who was working was so incredibly helpful. He pointed out some of the sale items, told me about the hot spring water that visitors can actually drink, and even offered to take a photo for a group of girls who wanted to pose in the replica tub.
The prices were definitely reasonable, especially for a National Park gift shop and there was a great selection. The customer service was fantastic and I just loved the fact the gift shop was located in an old bathhouse that may otherwise be vacant. Take a break from shopping and marvel at the intricate details of the bathhouse. Note that the store sells hot drinks (great for a cold November day) but there's also a water fountain with the hot spring water available for tasting for free! And, they cool it off :)
Bathhouse Row Emporium is open 9am-5pm daily although it's closed on some holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Although, they are open late for Gallery Walk on the first Friday of every month. I do wish the National Forest headquarters across the street was open but I guess that's closed on weekends. Either way, I found plenty of souvenirs all within Bathhouse Row Emporium... Check it out! read more