Oaklawn was one of several racing ventures in Hot Springs before becoming the city’s surviving racecourse. Anti-gambling measures interrupted its early meetings, and racing did not resume until 1916. The Cella family’s involvement continued through that difficult period. By 1920, it was the only racecourse remaining in Hot Springs.
Oaklawn has been a stage in the careers of champions from different generations. American Pharoah won the Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby here before completing the Triple Crown, while the venue’s history also includes celebrated older horses and mares. The connection gives the course a role beyond its own major fixtures.
Bathhouse Row. Explore the national park’s historic bathhouses and thermal-water heritage, with walking routes rising behind the town.
Garvan Woodland Gardens. Add a botanical garden visit for woodland paths and planting displays on the wooded edge of the Hot Springs area.
Hot Springs has 37,930 residents.
