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Compare car rental prices from leading brands in Hot Springs, Arkansas with Road Genius. From compact cars to luxury SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles in convenient locations. Pick up downtown or choose a wider selection at Little Rock Airport an hour away, then drive to Bathhouse Row, Lake Ouachita and the Ouachita Mountains on your own schedule. Reserve early for summer weekends and spring racing season, when Hot Springs car rental fleets are tight and popular vehicles go fast.
Car Rental Locations & Options
Hot Springs does not have a major commercial airport serving regular passenger flights. Most visitors arrive via Little Rock (LIT) or by car.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
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| Little Rock Airport (LIT) |
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| Hot Springs City Locations |
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| Hot Springs Memorial Field |
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Available Rental Companies in Hot Springs: Enterprise (Central Ave), Hertz (at Memorial Field Airport)
Car Rental Prices
Saving Tips
- Compare pickup spots: Prices at Little Rock Airport can beat Hot Springs city branches thanks to bigger fleets. Factor in the 1-hour drive, gas and airport fees to see which combo is cheaper for your trip.
- Shift your dates: Hot Springs rentals spike on summer weekends, spring break and the Arkansas Derby. Traveling mid-week or in the November–February off-season usually drops the rate.
- Grab a weekly deal: If you need the car 5 days or more, a 7-day "weekly" rate often costs less than paying the daily price.
- Return to the same location: Swapping cities sounds handy but one-way fees in Arkansas run $50-100. Stick to round-trip pickups unless your route really demands otherwise.
- Use the free downtown garage: Park at Exchange Street Garage and skip hotel or meter fees—saves cash and avoids circling for street spots.
Car rental prices at Hot Springs Airport 2025/2026
Parking and Local Driving
Hot Springs offers convenient options for visitors, making it easy to explore the city.
Where to Park
- Bathhouse Row: Free public garage at 128 Exchange Street (very close to bathhouses)
- Downtown Hot Springs: Metered street spots on Central Avenue (often not strictly enforced)
- Hot Springs National Park: Limited short-term spots at the visitor center
- Large Vehicles/RVs: Designated area one block south of bathhouses at Hill Wheatley Plaza
- Hotels: Free at virtually all Hot Springs hotels
Local Driving Rules
- Speed limits: 25–35 mph in city areas, 55 mph on highways near town
- School zones have reduced speed limits when flashing
- Downtown area has one-way streets; pay attention to signage
- Central Avenue (main street) can be congested during peak tourist times
- Arkansas requires headlights when using windshield wipers
Toll Roads: There are no toll roads in Arkansas, including the Hot Springs area.
Why rent a car in Hot Springs
A rental car lets you move beyond Bathhouse Row to lakes, state parks and scenic drives across the Ouachita Mountains.
- Lake Ouachita
- Garvan Woodland Gardens
- Lake Catherine State Park
- Crater of Diamonds State Park
- Mount Magazine State Park
Local Rental Locations
- Arkansas
- Car Rental Bill & Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT)
- Conway, AR
- Fayetteville, AR
- Fort Smith, AR
- Jonesboro, AR
- Little Rock, AR
FAQs
Should I rent from Little Rock Airport or in Hot Springs?
If you fly into Little Rock, you'll probably find it easier to rent at the airport and drive to Hot Springs. If you get to Hot Springs some other way, renting in town is easier but you'll have fewer cars to choose from.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Hot Springs?
A standard sedan works well for most visitors. You should consider an SUV if you plan to explore more remote areas or will visit in the winter when roads can get icy.
Do I need a four-wheel drive vehicle in Hot Springs?
No, you'll be fine in a standard car for all major attractions and highways. You only need to consider 4WD if you plan to explore very remote trails or visit during winter storms.
Is there public transportation I can use instead of renting a car?
Hot Springs has very little public transportation. A trolley runs through downtown and to the national park visitor center, but it won't take you to many places outside that area.
Can I park for free near Bathhouse Row?
Yes, the National Park Service says you can park for free in the Exchange Street Parking Garage near Bathhouse Row.
How far in advance should I reserve a rental car for Hot Springs?
You should reserve your car at least 2-3 weeks ahead for normal times. Book 1-2 months ahead for summer weekends, spring break and special events like the Arkansas Derby in April.
Are there any driving hazards I should be aware of in the Hot Springs area?
You should watch for deer on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk. The mountain roads can be curvy, and it's sometimes hard to see around the bends. In the summer, be aware that afternoon thunderstorms can suddenly make it hard to see.
