The 10 Best Hot Springs in the US for a Scenic Getaway

Connect and unwind at one of these natural wonders.

Photo: Wirestock | Getty

Updated Jan 09, 2024

Couples in search of the best hot springs in the US are in luck: there are countless sumptuous spots across the country. Though thermal waters are more common in places like Japan and Iceland, you can easily get a soothing fix either within your home state or a couple of states over. There are hot springs almost everywhere in the US—from Alaska and Arizona to Colorado and Nevada—so there's no excuse not to take a romantic weekend getaway or one-day couples road trip out into nature.

Hot springs comprise mineral-rich waters, which have been said to possess a multitude of health benefits like relieving stress. Plus, they're darn right romantic and trendy. Just imagine a restful soak out in the lush forest surrounded by mountains, with the hot fog rising as you sink into each other's arms. Convinced? We've rounded up the 10 best hot springs in the US, along with the best things to do and places to stay while you're there.

Hot Springs Etiquette for First-Time Soakers

If it's your first time going to a hot spring, we've got you covered for etiquette. Here are some of the golden rules of hot springs in the US.

Do not bring glassware into the water.
Be mindful of other soakers when taking photos.
If possible, have a rinse before you get in.
Unlike in Japan, it's not common to use the hot springs nude in the US.
Try and keep quiet, as if you are in a spa.
Finally, be kind to nature and take any trash away with you.

What to Pack for a Visit to a Hot Spring

Here are our suggestions for what to pack when you visit hot springs in the US.

Towel
Wet wipes
Slippers
Bathing suit
Drinking water
Trash bag

Goldmyer Hot Springs, Washington

Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Goldmyer Hot Springs is forest bathing with a hike. But it's worth the nearly five-mile trek for seclusion. Amenities here are very limited, so bring plenty of snacks and water. There are open-air cabanas at the hot springs pools, campsites nearby, picnic tables and a bike rack. No cellular service or internet connection is available.

Things to Do: Go chasing waterfalls! The North Bend area has Twin Falls, and you can even take an antique train ride to the top of Snoqualmie Falls. To make things easier, TripAdvisor offers a small group tour to the falls with wine tastings, plus hotel pick up and drop off if you're staying in Seattle.

Places to Stay: Near the hot springs you'll find the ultra-cute Coal Creek Cabin and Snoqualmie Summit Chalet. If you're staying in Seattle, consider romantic stays like Lotte Hotel Seattle and the W Seattle.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

What's better than one hot spring bath? Forty-seven of them. Hot Springs National Park's name says it all, and though it's the smallest US National Park, it has a ton of geothermal pools to pick from. Visitors can check into a bathhouse with all the necessary facilities, like whirlpool baths, hydro treatments, bathrooms, cafes and shops. You can also drink the spring water from the park's fountains—don't worry, the water from the drinking nozzles is not boiling.

Things to Do: As far back as 1915, Fordyce Bathhouse was said to be the best hot spring in America, and now visitors can take a guided tour of the historic bathhouse. Soak in the views as well as the water up on the Mountain Tower, situated 216 feet above ground. The national park is also popular for birdwatching.

Places to Stay: Couples should consider one of the many Airbnbs in the region. For those who prefer hotels, The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa are both top-rated stays that are convenient for reaching the hot springs.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

How about a side of northern lights with that soak? Chena is situated right under the aurora oval, putting it in a prime position for viewing. The hot spring is open all year round, but to witness the sky dance, you'll want to be here between August and May. Those who prefer warmer overall conditions can still have a swell time in the summer when hikes can be taken before a dip in the geothermal waters.

Things to Do: This is an outdoor adventurers' playground, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to snowmobiling and snowshoeing. On Viator, you can book a nighttime experience of two of Fairbanks' top attractions. It starts with the Fairbanks Ice Museum to see champion ice sculptures and ends with an aurora borealis viewing and soak at Chena Hot Springs Resort.

Places to Stay: Chena Hot Springs Resort is where the action is, so couples should book an Airbnb nearby. If you want to stay in downtown Fairbanks, there's the SpringHill Suites Fairbanks by Marriott.

3.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Wild Willy's Hot Spring, California

Wild Willy in name, wild willy in nature. The California hot springs near Mammoth Lakes are most often enjoyed by visitors in the nude (but when hopping between pools, please use a towel or put on swimwear—weekenders sometimes bring their kids for camping). There are multiple springs connected by elevated wooden walkways, including one shaped like a heart, and they all have fabulous panoramic mountain views. Best of all, the entrance is completely free at this clothing-optional hot spring.

Things to Do: Mammoth Lakes is a major ski and snowboarding destination for Californians, so why not join them? Premium ski gear is available to rent. Outside of the snow season, couples can get their thrills on a private guided rock climbing tour.

Places to Stay: Mammoth Mountain Inn, Tamarack Lodge and Resort and Juniper Springs Resort are full of mountain charm, while The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth has all of the modern amenities.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Sand Springs, Massachusetts

Sand Springs is one of the only thermal springs in New England, and equally one of the oldest in North America. It's believed that Native Americans from the Five Nations harnessed this spring as a water source and a medicine spring. Today, the Sand Springs Pool and Recreation Center is run by a non-profit and is a spot for the local community to gather, play and relax. It's located in the heart of the Berkshires in Williamstown, Massachusetts, a convenient drive for residents of New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont and Upstate New York.

Things to Do: The recreation center is great if you're traveling from Boston with a bach party group that wants to partake in sports such as volleyball and basketball. In the summer, there's plenty of space to host your own barbecue. Williamstown's No. 1 attraction is The Clark Art Institute, where you can admire the works of Renoir before enjoying the picturesque grounds and walking trails.

Places to Stay: The area has a handful of locally run stays, including the Maple Terrace Motel, which is situated next to a horse farm. VRBO has a stylish cottage with lake views for a relaxing getaway.

Granite Falls Hot Springs, Wyoming

Wyoming has some of the nation's most famous bubbling waters, but away from the heaving crowds, honeymooners can enjoy the romantic Granite Falls Hot Springs in peace. It's an hour drive from Jackson (consult our road trip packing list before you go), and then making it up to the spring requires extra effort during winter when it can only be accessed by snow equipment. But the effort is well-rewarded upon arrival because once there, you'll be treated to jaw-dropping mountain views surrounded by pine trees, and plenty of opportunity to spot the area's teeming wildlife.

Things to Do: You can't visit Wyoming without going to Yellowstone National Park, which sits on a dormant volcano and has more geysers and hot springs than anywhere on Earth. Viator has guided tours if you want to make the most of one day there, including stops at Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful. Couples can also purchase a ResortPass to enjoy Snow King Resort's spa facilities, including massage and facial treatments.

Places to Stay: The most luxurious stays in Jackson Hole include The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection, Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Mystic Hot Springs, Utah

Appreciate the raw beauty of Utah from the comfort of a steamy soak with a trip to Mystic Hot Springs. Situated in Monroe, you'll need to purchase a two-hour soaking pass to get in. This includes access to two concrete pools and five vintage cast-iron bathtubs that can fit a couple. There's a shallow pool with an arch waterfall that feels like a massage when you stand under it, and lucky guests can catch live music performances up on the hill. Check the events page for details.

Things to Do: The area is ideal for hikers and photographers, but if you want an extra special sight, drive on Highway 89 South, a gorgeous road trip of canyons along the Sevier River that leads up to a caramel-colored wonder, Big Rock Candy Mountain.

Places to Stay: Camp at Castle Rock Campground lets you extend the outdoor experience. For the complete home comforts, check into a local Airbnb property or VRBO's woodland cabin, where you can relax with your loved one from a balcony with river views.

3.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Spencer Hot Springs, Nevada

When your bach party is done with the slot machines, drive three hours from Reno for a wellness retreat at Spencer Hot Springs. This spot has been popular for decades thanks to steady hot water temperatures and panoramic views all year round. There are three main bathing spots with natural waters—two are man-made pools made from cowboy tubs, and one has a natural soft bottom. A fourth cooler pool is sometimes accessible. The vicinity is free to enter.

Things to Do: Drive 30 minutes to Toquima Cave, a historic site of cultural importance to Native Americans with pictographs covering the cave walls. You can also visit the tiny "ghost town" of Austin with a population of approximately 100. Wander Main Street for a quirky photography session with your travel companion, and journey back thinking of clever social media captions.

Places to Stay: Visitors may camp at Spencer Hot Springs, but lodging is otherwise limited. Those flying in and out of Reno will likely want to stay within the city. Good options include Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Grand Sierra Resort and Casino and Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel and Spa.

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Arizona Hot Springs, Arizona

Perhaps your bachelor or bachelorette herd is coming from fabulous Las Vegas. In that case, Arizona Hot Springs is the answer to your R&R needs, as it's just an hour away from Sin City. It's situated inside a slot canyon and has beautiful vistas of blue waters from the Colorado River. You'll need to work up a sweat to reach it—there are three main trails to get there, and they're between five and seven miles long.

Things to Do: The Willow Beach Marina is close by, where you can hike, bike or rent a boat to enjoy the views. TripAdvisor's Half-Day Emerald Cove Kayak Tour is excellent value, as it includes round-trip transportation from Vegas.

Places to Stay: Being so close to Sin City, you might as well take advantage of the vast accommodation options. Our favorites are Bellagio Las Vegas, The Venetian Resort, Treasure Island - TI Hotel and Casino, a Radisson Hotel and The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Autograph Collection. Getting FOMO? Pool-hop all of them—ResortPass has day passes.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Omni Homestead, Virginia

Not all hot springs require a ton of effort to reach. In Virginia, you simply need to check into The Omni Homestead and mosey over to the spa area in your robe. The resort was founded upon natural springs, which feed a main indoor pool (built in 1904), as well as their two-acre waterpark, Allegheny Springs. Couples, however, should make a beeline for their Serenity Garden. The adult-only enclave has a geothermal octagon pool fed by the springs, plus a river reflexology walk, an infinity pool, a hot tub and a Finnish sauna. It's the ultimate place to get pampered on an anniversary trip or a honeymoon trip.

Things to Do: The resort is packed with things to do, such as golf, tennis, ziplining and lawn games. Have a romantic dinner at their elegant Jefferson's Restaurant and Bar or sign up for a Virginia wine tasting session.

Places to Stay: The Omni Homestead is the obvious choice, but there are a few small lodges nearby, such as Vine Cottage Inn and King's Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast.

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews