Visual Traveler: The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, Hot Springs, AK

    The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa lobby. Photo Credit: Lisa Waterman Gray

​What's in This Post  
1) Exploring the Hot Springs, AK Bathhouse Tradition
2) Touring The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa
3) Ultimate Relaxation at The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa
4) The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa Slideshow

Exploring the Hot Springs, AK Bathhouse Tradition

An attendant vigorously rubbed my arms, legs and back with a loofah as I sat in a deep tub full of steamy, bubbly water. After my 20-minute soak she helped me put on my terrycloth wrap, offered a small cup of ice water, and directed me to a tiny dry sauna, where I sat with several other women for about 10 minutes.

I got a great taste of Hot Springs National Park, AK's iconic bathhouse tradition during a two-hour, multifaceted spa treatment called 'The Works' - a signature offering at The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa. In the heart of town, this regal hilltop hotel has served guests amid classic luxury since the 1920s.

Touring The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa

In The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa delicately carved ornamental lintels top doorways to guestrooms favored by Al Capone, and American presidents including childhood resident, President Bill Clinton. Most guestrooms blend old-school vibe with contemporary style.

During our visit the lower level resembled a small, indoor 'avenue' of shops. A ballroom full of linen-draped tables, hefty columns, architectural arches, and massive chandeliers was the backdrop for our group's multi-course lunch. Antique wall treatments also decorated several walls here, and near the lobby bar. 

Ultimate Relaxation at The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa

But 'The Works' figured most prominently in my hotel experience. For part two of my spa treatment I laid down before warm, wet towels wrapped my arms and legs. My attendant then covered me with a sheet and encircled my face with a cold wet towel. I almost fell asleep during the next 20 minutes.

After a shower, my massage technician led me to a tiny room where lotion bottles waited in a crock pot, and soothing Native American flute music played. With warm lotion and firm pressure my attendant straddled the line between traditional and hot stone massages. 

Vintage furnishings and fixtures, plus original copper pipes, enhanced bathhouse charm. During my visit peach walls complemented pastel floral seat cushions in the waiting room, and old-fashioned banks of lights on gold metal strips flanked a broad mirror in the dressing area. 

Here's why people flocked to Hot Springs National Park, AK by the early 1900s:

​​Long before immunizations, antibiotics, and cortisone, 47 mineral-rich thermal springs drew visitors here. Producing about 700,000 gallons of water annually, these ‘healing springs’ ushered in a thriving local bathhouse culture by the early 1900s. Soaks were reputed to cure paralysis and rheumatism, kidney and digestive problems, and other medical conditions. Today, the National Park Service considers Bathhouse Row a ‘significant national cultural landmark.’ And modern visitors primarily enjoy ‘the waters,’ for relaxation and recreation. 

                             The Arlington Resort Hotel &  Spa Slideshow              

Disclaimer: As a writer I may receive complimentary stays, admissions, meals, transportation, and, occasionally, products I am asked to review. However, I make every effort to report my experiences fairly and honestly.

​Please note these photos are older. While they accurately reflected this destination during my visit, specific details have undoubtedly changed.