Where I’d Spend Spring Break in Arkansas If Money Wasn’t a Factor

I recently came across this quote by Helen Gurley Brown, former editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan magazine, and it made me laugh. It states, “Money, if it does not bring you happiness, will at least help you be miserable in comfort.” Of course, money doesn’t make anyone happy, but it can certainly provide us with comfort and fleeting pleasures. Do you know what else money can do? Pay for our dream vacations. Currently, my bank account isn’t overflowing with cash, but if it were, I would plan my ultimate spring break bucket list trip in Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

Spring break is all about celebrating the warmer weather. And what is the best way to welcome the season? Spending time on the water, of course! Naturally, Lake Hamilton would be my go-to destination due to its location in Hot Springs, which is considered one of the best tourist towns in the state. Here is my list of things to do during spring break in Arkansas if money is no object:  

Here's Where I'd Stay

There are so many great places to stay in Hot Springs. I could easily spend my nights luxuriating in one of the exquisite hotels in town. While soaking in geothermal Hot Springs mineral baths and savoring delectable cuisine in town sounds amazing, I found a place that’s even better. (Let’s remember, this is my dream vacation, so I am choosing an out-of-this-world destination!)

Tucked on the banks of Lake Hamilton inside an upscale community is the Lakehouse Oasis, and it’s the ultimate spring break retreat. This six-bedroom luxury Airbnb features a sparkling swimming pool, a hot tub, a fireplace, a game room, a movie theater, an outdoor kitchen, a boat deck, and the most stunning views of the lake. My days would be spent soaking up the sun by the pool or cruising on a boat across the lake. I could fit up to 16 people in this house, so I would choose several friends and family to join me on this dreamy spring break vacation. So, what's the price tag? If you must know, it’s $1,500 per night.

Excursions and Places I'd Visit

Besides spending time on Lake Hamilton, it would be nice to experience the colorful hues of the season. Nothing says spring more than strolling through a serene garden overflowing with fields of vibrant blooms. A trip to Garvan Woodland Gardens would be the ideal location to bask in the season's beauty, and I would opt for a more magical experience instead of general admission. 

Each spring, the garden offers workshops and guided tours that feature a meditative and immersive journey through the woodland forest aimed at soothing your mind, body, and soul. The tours last approximately three hours, and some even cater to folks with all mobility levels. This sounds amazing to me, but that’s not all; there’s so much more to enjoy here.

I would not only take one of the tours but also book a professional spring photoshoot. It’s always been a dream to take professional pictures surrounded by beautiful spring flowers in a garden. After the tour and photo session, there will be plenty of time to explore the gardens and grab a bite to eat at the enchanting Chipmunk Café tucked inside the woodlands. Since money is of no concern to me, I wouldn't mind the price tag of approximately $300 for this outing.

Another excursion I would take is to the Arkansas Derby in Hot Springs. I’ve never been to the Arkansas Derby and would love to watch the races from a VIP box seat at Oaklawn Park. I would dress to impress in a demure but elegant pastel-colored outfit accented with a dainty derby hat. After the races, I would spend the night as a high roller inside the 24-hour casino at Oaklawn Park. The price tag here is undetermined, but regardless of whether I win or lose, I am living out my bucket-list fantasies!

Lastly, I find trolley rides to be quite charming, and though I’ve been on a trolley tour before, I have never chartered one for my own private use. Obviously, that price tag was outside of my budget, but guess what—it doesn’t matter here. It would be a dream to charter the Hot Springs Trolley for a private tour around town. Plus, I could invite random strangers to share this ride with me. Not including taxes and other fees, the trolley ride would cost $900 for three hours.    

Dining Options I'd Try

To be honest, if money were no object, I would simply hire a private chef to prepare all my meals at the Airbnb. However, if I had to dine out, Fisherman's Wharf Steak & Seafood would be ideal. The views of Lake Hamilton from the back patio are enough reason to visit. McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant would be my go-to spot for casual eats. This beloved joint has been around for almost 100 years. For a more sophisticated experience, the Ohio Club, the historic speakeasy and former gangster hotspot, is at the top of my list. Who knows what this would cost, but again, I have no budget, so the sky is the limit!

Folks, this is all a fantasy. Though it would be great to live out this spring break dream one day, if money were truly no object for me, I would seriously spend most of it making the dreams of others come true. But we can all dream a bit!

What do you think about my ultimate spring break bucket list in Arkansas if money were no object? What would you splurge on for your Arkansas vacation if you had the same opportunity? If you would, we think you'll love a spring break like this! And if you're looking for ways to make your Arkansas getaway even more dreamy, head over to our itinerary planner for recommendations!