Toasting at Superior Bathhouse Brewery in Hot Springs National Park
“Beer tastes better in a park.” That’s what the shirt I bought at Superior Bathhouse Brewery in Hot Springs, Arkansas, says. It’s a statement that I am inclined to agree with.
The brewery is located in Hot Springs National Park, the only brewery in a United States National Park. This one-of-a-kind brewery is located in a beautifully restored historic Superior Bathhouse. While you can no longer get a soak, you can certainly get a pint.
Superior Bathhouse to Brewery
The first Superior was constructed on portions of the old Hale and Big Iron bathhouse sites. It was made of red brick, some of which was likely reused in the current building, which was built in 1916. But it has a long, storied history.
“The sweat house is rudely constructed and with boards which but partially exclude the air; and the mouth of it is stopped by a blanket. The patient has to come into the open air to dry himself, hurry on his clothes, and go home” – Arkansas-Gazette, 1829
The smallest bathhouse on the Row, the Superior, also had the lowest rates; it offered only basic services and was known for its “superior” service to patrons.
Superior Bathhouse had the longest continuous operation of all Hot Springs bathhouses before it closed for good in November 1983. It would sit vacant for 30 years. Then, in 2013, Superior Bathhouse Brewery opened its doors.
Today, it’s not only the sole brewery in a U.S. national park but also the only one in the world that uses thermal spring water in its beer.
Sipping History at Superior Bathhouse Brewery
We visited the brewhouse on a beautiful spring afternoon. We stayed at the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, close to the brewery.
Walking into Superior Bathhouse Brewery, my first impressions were this place was cool and this is going to be fun. The space that blends vintage charm with a modern, laid-back vibe. Original tilework and large arched windows pay homage to its bathhouse past, while the taps and kegs showcase its brewing present.
The Beer: A Taste of the Springs
The real star here is the beer. The natural thermal spring water, which has been percolating underground for over 4,000 years, is pretty fun. Some say the water makes the beers naturally a bit smoother, honestly I could not tell. That’s said, the beers were tasty barley pops.
The tap list changes regularly, but some standout favorites were
- The Beez Kneez – A light, honey basil kölsch with a crisp finish.
- Space Force IPA – A citrusy, hop-forward IPA with a balanced bitterness.
- Superior Root Beer – A house-made, non-alcoholic root beer. Which is great for kids and DDs.
If the weather is nice, grab a seat on the outdoor patio to sip a cold brew while people-watching along Bathhouse Row.
More Than Just Beer: Dining & Atmosphere
Superior Bathhouse Brewery isn’t just about beer—it also serves excellent pub fare. My wife gets giant pretzels with beer cheese every chance she gets. This was no exception, and it was awesome. Later, we shared a delicious burger and fries.
We sat down when it was still light out and left a bit light-headed in the dark. My wife and I spent about 3 hours there drinking, eating, and chatting. I was very impressed and thoroughly enjoyed our visit.
Whether you’re a craft beer nerd, a history lover, or just someone looking for a fun and unique experience, Superior Bathhouse Brewery is one very fun spot to chill out in Hot Springs.
Raise a glass, soak in the history, and enjoy the only beer in the world made from a national park’s thermal waters!
