20 Best and Most Amazing Hot Springs in the United States (2024 Updated)
In this Blog
1. Calistoga, California
Calistoga, California is the best place to experience hot springs in the United States. It’s located in the beautiful Napa Valley, known for its vineyards and scenic views. In Calistoga, there are special resorts with pools filled with warm, natural spring water. One popular place is Calistoga Spa Hot Springs, which has different pools, including a hot whirlpool and a warm lap pool.
If you want a fancy and relaxing stay, Solage, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, has a big spa with pools at different temperatures. Calistoga is not just about hot water; it’s also surrounded by lovely landscapes, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful and enjoyable getaway.
2. Hot Springs State Park, Thermopolis, Wyoming
Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming, secures its place among the top hot spring destinations in the United States. Named after the Greek words meaning “hot city,” Thermopolis lives up to its name with numerous natural hot springs. The park, situated a few hours from the famous Yellowstone National Park, offers a unique experience where visitors can soak in both indoor and outdoor pools fed by mineral-rich hot springs.
The bathhouse in the park provides free access to pools with water temperatures reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a soothing and therapeutic environment. In addition to the relaxing hot springs, visitors can explore hiking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, making Hot Springs State Park a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure in Wyoming.
3. Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, California
Nestled near Bridgeport, California, Travertine Hot Springs offers a natural and rustic hot spring experience against the scenic backdrop of the Sierras. Located on California State Park land off Route 395, these small, primitive pools are an ideal stop after a day of hiking. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the warm waters while taking in views of the surrounding mountains, creating a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat.
4. Chena Hot Springs Resort, Fairbanks, Alaska
Situated in the remote wilderness of Fairbanks, Alaska, Chena Hot Springs Resort stands out as a unique and adventurous hot spring destination. Operating year-round, the resort offers not only relaxing hot springs but also captivating activities.
During the winter months, visitors can enjoy a cozy soak in the hot springs, potentially witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights. The resort also features the Aurora Ice Museum, providing an intriguing complement to the natural hot spring experience amid Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.
5. Dunton Hot Springs, Dolores, Colorado
Transformed from an 1800s ghost town into an upscale resort, Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores, Colorado, offers an array of hot springs pools in a picturesque setting. Guests can choose to soak in the bathhouse or enjoy an outdoor pool.
For a more private hot springs experience, the Well House can be booked. Surrounded by scenic beauty, Dunton Hot Springs provides a luxurious and historic retreat, combining the charm of the past with modern comfort and relaxation.
6. Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado
Nestled between Aspen and Vail, Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado boasts the title of the world’s largest hot springs pool. Drawing visitors with its soothing mineral waters sourced from nearby springs, this destination is renowned for its therapeutic properties.
The pools offer a perfect retreat after a day of skiing or hiking in the surrounding mountains. With its expansive pool and luxurious spa offering various treatments, Glenwood Hot Springs provides a delightful combination of relaxation and natural beauty.
7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
While Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho is primarily known for its geothermal wonders like thermal basins and geysers, it also offers opportunities for a unique hot springs experience.
Although soaking in the park’s hot springs is not permitted due to safety concerns, visitors can enjoy the Boiling River in a designated area. Additionally, Yellowstone Hot Springs, located just a short drive from the park, provides pools filled with warm mineral water, allowing guests to unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
8. Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Nestled within the captivating desert landscape of Arizona, Castle Hot Springs stands out as a dreamy resort offering a luxurious hot springs experience. Secluded pools, surrounded by the
beauty of the desert, provide a unique and rejuvenating soaking experience.
A visit to Castle Hot Springs includes not only access to these exclusive springs but also farm-to-table meals and a range of activities such as guided hikes and farm tours. This resort offers an inclusive and upscale getaway, combining the tranquility of the hot springs with the natural splendor of the Arizona desert.
9. Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas
Situated in the charming town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is a historic gem renowned for its thermal waters. While outdoor hot springs suitable for bathing are not found in the park, visitors can explore the natural setting of Display Spring and Hot Water Cascade.
For those seeking a relaxing soak, the Buckstaff Bathhouse or Quapaw Baths in the area offer access to geothermal waters. The park’s rich history, combined with the therapeutic benefits of the thermal springs, makes it a notable destination for both relaxation and exploration.
10. Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Nestled amidst mountains, lakes, and a scenic canyon, Glenwood Springs in Colorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. After a day of hiking or enjoying winter sports, visitors can unwind in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
The Iron Mountain Hot Springs, featuring a bathhouse and 16 geothermal pools overlooking the Rocky Mountains, provides another serene option. With its diverse natural attractions, Glenwood Springs offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
11. Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
The intriguingly named town of Truth or Consequences in New Mexico beckons visitors with its unique hot springs experience. Originally named Hot Springs, the town changed its name to Truth or Consequences in response to a radio show challenge.
Today, it boasts several hot springs and one of the most popular spots is Riverbend Hot Springs. Overlooking the Rio Grande, these outdoor mineral baths provide a tranquil setting for soaking and enjoying the natural beauty of the New Mexico landscape. The town’s quirky history, coupled with its rejuvenating hot springs, makes Truth or Consequences a distinctive and memorable destination.
12. Burgdorf Hot Springs, Idaho
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Idaho, Burgdorf Hot Springs stands out as a hidden gem. Offering two hot pools with an average temperature of 113°F (45°C), along with a smaller pool for children, this natural retreat provides a rustic and immersive hot springs experience.
Accessible by road during the spring and summer months, Burgdorf Hot Springs becomes a cozy getaway, surrounded by nature. The resort, open 365 days a year, allows visitors to soak even on Christmas Day, making it a unique and inviting destination for those seeking a year-round escape.
13. Scandia Inn Motel
Situated as a charming family-run establishment close to ski hills and Payette Lake, Scandia Inn Motel exudes warmth with fairy lights and firepits illuminating the night. The honey-toned log cabins, originally built in the 1970s and now updated with whitewashed pine walls, offer a cozy retreat. Guests can enjoy Italian bed linens, furniture made of reclaimed lumber, and modern amenities. With a location near ski slopes and the lake, Scandia Inn Motel provides a delightful and comfortable stay, making it an ideal accommodation for those exploring the outdoor wonders of the area.
14. The Omni Homestead Resort
With a history dating back to 1761, The Omni Homestead Resort is a historic retreat featuring the Gentlemen’s Pool, the oldest spa structure in the United States. Nestled in Virginia’s Hot Springs, this resort has been a favorite among 23 U.S. presidents, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities.
Guests can partake in activities such as golf, falconry, and skeet shooting, while the natural springs provide a soothing experience. The Omni Homestead Resort provides a unique blend of history, luxury, and relaxation, making it an iconic destination for those seeking a timeless retreat.
15. Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Located 60 miles outside of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs in Alaska offers a remote yet captivating hot springs experience. Embraced by picturesque trails, visitors can soak in the bubbling pool while surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
The year-round ice museum, featuring intricately carved ice sculptures and an ice bar, adds an element of wonder to the experience. Chena Hot Springs also provides opportunities for dog mushing, snowmobiling, and skiing, making it a haven for both hot spring enthusiasts and adventure seekers in the heart of Alaska’s natural splendor.
16. Chena Hot Springs Resort
Immersed in the remote beauty of Fairbanks, Alaska, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors. Accommodations range from off-the-grid yurts with minimal services to geothermally-heated cabins featuring outdoor porta-potties.
The resort’s hot springs provide warm water, showers, and amenities, creating a cozy atmosphere amidst the Alaskan wilderness. Chena Resort also offers a variety of tours, including dog-sled rides with huskies and ski touring day trips. For those seeking a pioneer-like adventure with a touch of luxury, Chena Hot Springs Resort delivers a memorable stay in the heart of Alaska.
17. Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming
Located just a few hours from the renowned Yellowstone National Park, Hot Springs State Park in Wyoming beckons with its natural beauty and thermal pools. The park boasts hiking trails and thermal pools fed by mineral hot springs, providing the perfect opportunity to soothe muscles after exploring the surrounding landscapes.
The bathhouse, offering both indoor and outdoor pools, is a highlight, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the 104-degree waters. The absence of entry fees and the chance to encounter bison herds add to the allure of Hot Springs State Park, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hot springs aficionados alike.
18. Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel
Adding a touch of comfort to the hot springs experience, the Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel is a welcoming accommodation in the heart of Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming. Boasting two water parks just steps away in the park, guests can also indulge in a 24-hour hot-spring-fed hot tub on the property. The hotel provides various room options, with Queen suites featuring fireplaces and carved pine rocking chairs for a cozy atmosphere.
Additionally, a complimentary hot breakfast awaits guests every morning, and warm cookies are a delightful evening treat. With friendly staff and convenient access to the park’s attractions, the Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel offers a comfortable and enjoyable stay for those exploring the wonders of Hot Springs State Park.
19. Mono Hot Springs, California
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada range of northern California, Mono Hot Springs Resort offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by mountains. Accessible after a 70-mile drive southwest of Fresno, this serene spot boasts 12 hot springs alongside the San Joaquin River. The springs vary in temperature, with the hottest being Old Pedro at a toasty 107°F (42°C).
The Reed Pools provide a slightly cooler option for extended soaking. Open year-round, Mono Hot Springs Resort allows guests to enjoy the rejuvenating effects of the natural springs amidst the peaceful wilderness. After a soak, visitors can dine at the resort’s restaurant, featuring fresh trout caught from the adjacent river.
20. Elliott House Bed & Breakfast
For those yearning for a retreat in the woods, Elliott House Bed & Breakfast offers a 20-minute walk to the shores of Shaver Lake in California. Surrounded by forests and offering proximity to hiking trails, the bed and breakfast provides a cozy sanctuary. Guests can enjoy breakfast delivered to their suite’s feather bed, prepared by the gourmet cooks who own the establishment.
The cabins feature fully stocked kitchens, and complimentary wine and snacks from Trader Joe’s are provided. Whether relaxing in the mini-fridge or exploring the nearby outdoor activities, Elliott House Bed & Breakfast offers a comfortable and picturesque escape in the heart of nature.
Conclusion.
The United States boasts an array of remarkable hot springs destinations, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and relaxation. From the iconic Calistoga in California, surrounded by the vineyards of Napa Valley, to the remote and adventurous Chena Hot Springs Resort in the Alaskan wilderness, these hot springs cater to a diverse range of preferences. The historic charm of Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas and the expansive pools of Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado further contribute to the richness of the hot springs experience.
Travelers seeking a luxurious escape can find solace in the dreamy Castle Hot Springs in Arizona, where secluded pools within the desert landscape provide a truly exclusive soaking experience. Whether exploring the rustic Burgdorf Hot Springs in Idaho or enjoying the scenic tranquility of Truth or Consequences in New Mexico, the variety of hot springs destinations across the country ensures there’s a perfect retreat for every traveler.
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Meet David Hoper, a passionate travel Blog writer with 7+ years of experience in travel content. Through his exemplary storytelling and engaging narratives, he shares his experiences and brings destinations to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for exploration, he has cultivated a diverse portfolio of travel blogs that inspire and inform readers worldwide.