There’s something undeniably soothing about slipping into warm, mineral-rich waters, especially when surrounded by stunning landscapes and the charm of small-town America. From secluded desert springs to historic spa towns, the United States is dotted with destinations where you can soak your cares away. Join us as we count down the 20 best towns in America for hot springs, each offering its own unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
20. Embrace Adventure at Alvord Hot Springs in Alvord Desert, Oregon
Nestled on the edge of the remote Alvord Desert, Alvord Hot Springs offers a serene soak with a dash of adventure. This family-owned spot features rustic pools where you can relax while gazing out over the dry lake bed and the towering Steens Mountain. The isolation makes it a perfect place for stargazing, and if you time it right, you might catch a stunning desert sunrise or sunset. It’s a hidden gem for those looking to unplug and connect with nature in one of Oregon’s most secluded landscapes. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in the area are priced between $300,000 and $500,000, providing an affordable retreat near this unique desert oasis.
19. Relax in the Desert Calm of Buckeye Hot Spring in Bridgeport, California
Located near the town of Bridgeport, Buckeye Hot Spring is a natural wonder tucked along a creek in the Eastern Sierra. The hot spring pools are formed by mineral-rich waters cascading over a travertine cliff into natural rock tubs, offering breathtaking mountain views. This off-the-beaten-path destination provides a tranquil setting where the only sounds are the gentle flow of water and the rustling of nearby aspens. A short hike rewards visitors with a soothing soak in a truly picturesque environment. 3-4 bedroom homes in the area are priced between $350,000 and $550,000, making it an accessible haven for desert tranquility.
18. Unwind at Carson Hot Springs in Carson City, Nevada
Steeped in history, Carson Hot Springs in Carson City invites you to experience relaxation amid Nevada’s high desert landscape. Established in the nineteenth century, this resort maintains its historic charm while offering modern amenities. The natural mineral waters are channeled into private soaking rooms and an outdoor pool. After a rejuvenating dip, explore the nearby Kit Carson Trail, featuring a walking tour of the city’s notable landmarks and historic homes. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Carson City range from $376,000 to $600,400, offering a blend of history and modern comfort.
17. Bask in the Beauty of Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Just outside Steamboat Springs lies Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where rustic elegance meets natural splendor. The stone pools are terraced along Hot Springs Creek, surrounded by towering pines and the rugged beauty of the mountains. In winter, the contrast of warm waters against the snow-covered landscape is especially enchanting. For a unique experience, stay overnight in one of their rustic cabins or even a caboose converted into cozy accommodations. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Steamboat Springs are typically priced between $600,000 and $900,000, reflecting the premium access to this breathtaking mountain getaway.
16. Gila Hot Springs, New Mexico: Discover Rustic Comfort in Gila Hot Springs
Adjacent to the Gila Wilderness, Gila Hot Springs offers a peaceful retreat in a remote setting. The privately operated springs feature soothing pools along the Gila River, where you can soak while listening to the gentle flow of water and observing local wildlife. Nearby, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument provides a glimpse into the lives of the Mogollon people who inhabited the region over 700 years ago. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a touch of history. 3-4 bedroom homes in the area range from $200,000 to $450,000, making it an affordable option for nature and history lovers.
15. Rejuvenate at Hot Springs, North Carolina
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Hot Springs, North Carolina, combines small-town charm with natural wellness. The hot mineral springs here have attracted visitors for centuries, offering private soaks in outdoor tubs along Spring Creek and the French Broad River banks. The town is also a trail town on the Appalachian Trail, making it a haven for hikers. Don’t miss the Bluff Mountain Festival in summer, celebrating local music and crafts. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Hot Springs typically cost between $318,000 and $600,000, providing a tranquil base for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
14. Immerse in Tranquility at Sol Duc Hot Springs, Washington
Located within Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort provides a serene escape amid lush forests and cascading waterfalls. The mineral pools vary in temperature, allowing you to find the perfect soak after a day of exploring the park’s trails. Nearby, the Sol Duc Falls trail offers a moderate hike leading to one of the park’s most stunning waterfalls. The rejuvenating waters and natural beauty make it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts. 3-4 bedroom homes in the area are priced between $450,000 and $700,000, blending tranquility with access to nature’s splendor.
13. Soothe Your Senses in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
Known as America’s first spa town, Berkeley Springs boasts a rich history of healing waters frequented by George Washington himself. The town’s warm springs bubble up at a constant 74 degrees Fahrenheit, and visitors can enjoy them at Berkeley Springs State Park in historic Roman baths or outdoor pools. The vibrant arts community, boutique shops, and the annual Apple Butter Festival add to the town’s charming appeal, making it more than just a wellness destination. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Berkeley Springs range from $200,000 to $300,000, making it an affordable and historic retreat.
12. Explore the Wild West at Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
Lava Hot Springs offers family-friendly fun nestled in the scenic Portneuf River valley. The town’s namesake hot springs feature a variety of pools ranging in temperature, all chemical-free and naturally heated. In addition to soaking, you can enjoy river tubing, zip-lining, and even a water park during the warmer months. The quirky local shops and eateries add to the small-town charm, making it a delightful stop for travelers of all ages. 3-4 bedroom homes in Lava Hot Springs are priced between $300,000 and $500,000, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation.
11. Find Peace in Warm Springs, Georgia
Warm Springs holds a special place in history as the retreat of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who sought relief from polio in its therapeutic waters. Today, visitors can tour the Little White House, Roosevelt’s personal retreat, preserved much as he left it. While the original springs are no longer open for bathing, the town retains a tranquil atmosphere with antique shops, cafes, and the beautiful Warm Springs Winery, offering a taste of local flavors. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Warm Springs range from $179,793 to $350,000, providing an affordable and peaceful historical escape.
10. Soak Under the Stars in Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
Just a short drive from Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs provides a unique experience where you can relax in steaming waters while surrounded by snow and ice. It’s one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights during winter months, turning an already magical soak into an unforgettable spectacle. The resort also features the Aurora Ice Museum, showcasing impressive ice sculptures year-round. It’s an oasis of warmth in the rugged Alaskan wilderness. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in the area are priced between $350,000 and $500,000, offering an adventurous lifestyle in Alaska’s pristine wilderness.
9. Reconnect with Nature at Ojo Caliente, New Mexico
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa is one of the oldest natural health resorts in the country, offering a serene retreat amid high desert mesas. The resort features multiple pools with different mineral compositions, such as iron, arsenic, and soda springs, each believed to offer unique health benefits. The surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking or biking, with trails leading to ancient ruins and petroglyphs left by the Native people who once inhabited the area. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Ojo Caliente are priced between $250,000 and $479,000, providing a tranquil escape in the high desert.
8. Relax in Thermopolis, Wyoming
Home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs, Thermopolis invites visitors to unwind in its naturally heated waters. Hot Springs State Park features free bathhouses where the water is maintained at a soothing 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The park also offers scenic hiking trails, a swinging bridge over the Bighorn River, and a chance to see bison roam in designated pastures. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center adds an element of prehistoric wonder to this family-friendly destination. 3-4 bedroom homes in Thermopolis range from $221,362 to $248,397, offering affordability with natural beauty and small-town charm.
7. Discover the Oasis of Desert Hot Springs, California
Just north of Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs is a wellness haven known for its mineral-rich aquifers. The town sits atop both hot and cold mineral water sources, supplying a multitude of spas and resorts with healing waters. Modern retreats blend luxury with holistic wellness practices, offering everything from mud baths to yoga sessions. The nearby Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, a Hopi-inspired home built by hand, adds a touch of cultural intrigue to your visit. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Desert Hot Springs are priced between $450,000 and $500,000, making it a luxurious yet accessible wellness destination.
6. Escape to Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Pagosa Springs boasts the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, as certified by the Guinness World Records. The “Mother Spring” feeds numerous soaking pools along the San Juan River, with temperatures to suit every preference. The scenic surroundings offer endless outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking in summer to skiing at the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area in winter. Keep an eye out for the vibrant local art scene, featuring galleries and public installations. 3-4 bedroom homes in Pagosa Springs range from $541,072 to $672,000, providing a serene retreat amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
5. Experience the Healing Waters of Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
This quirky town, often called “T or C,” got its name from a 1950s radio show but is better known for its abundant hot springs. Situated along the Rio Grande, the town has several bathhouses that offer private and public soaking options in waters rich with minerals. The downtown area features colorful murals, eclectic shops, and the Geronimo Springs Museum, which delves into local history and Native American culture. It’s a laid-back destination where relaxation is paramount. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Truth or Consequences are priced between $150,000 and $270,000, making it an affordable and restorative destination.
4. Unwind in Saratoga Springs, New York
Renowned for its naturally carbonated mineral springs, Saratoga Springs has been a destination for health and wellness since the 1800s. The Saratoga Spa State Park houses several classical bath and spa houses, where you can experience traditional mineral baths and modern spa treatments. The town is also famous for its horse racing track, vibrant arts scene, and the historic Congress Park. Sampling the different mineral springs dotted around town is a unique way to experience the area’s rich geological offerings. 3-4 bedroom homes in Saratoga Springs are priced between $550,000 and $700,000, reflecting the town’s blend of historical charm and modern luxury.
3. Indulge in Luxury at Calistoga, California
At the northern tip of Napa Valley, Calistoga is famed for its geothermal hot springs, mud baths, and world-class wineries. The town exudes a laid-back vibe, where you can spend the morning enjoying a mineral-rich mud bath and the afternoon touring vineyards. Don’t miss the Old Faithful Geyser of California, one of only three “old faithful” geysers in the world, which erupts regularly and adds a touch of natural spectacle to your visit. Calistoga seamlessly blends indulgent relaxation with the rustic charm of wine country. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Calistoga are priced between $800,000 and $1,100,000, making it a luxurious haven in Napa Valley.
2. Rejuvenate in Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, Glenwood Springs offers a rejuvenating experience amidst stunning mountain scenery. The historic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has been welcoming guests since 1888, providing expansive pools for soaking and swimming. Adventure seekers can explore the caverns and cave tours at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park or enjoy hiking and biking trails along the Colorado River. The combination of wellness and outdoor activities makes it a vibrant destination year-round. 3-4 bedroom homes in Glenwood Springs are priced between $700,000 and $900,000, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
1. Soak in Serenity at Hot Springs, Arkansas
At the top of our list is Hot Springs, Arkansas, a town where history and natural beauty converge. Famous for Bathhouse Row, a collection of eight historic bathhouses, the city has been a haven for relaxation since the early 20th century. Today, you can experience the thermal waters in luxurious spa settings that preserve the elegance of a bygone era. Hot Springs National Park surrounds the town, offering hiking trails with panoramic views. The city’s rich history, from speakeasies to the early days of baseball spring training, adds depth to this already enchanting destination. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Hot Springs are priced between $200,000 and $350,000, making it an affordable retreat steeped in history and wellness.
