For many people the Fourth of July holiday started at 5PM Thursday. Visitors are already arriving in the Natural State. But many Arkansans are picking destinations close to home.
There's nothing like a day in the park or in this case an extended weekend in Hot Springs National Park, a place some are returning for the holiday, while others are arriving for the first time. A look at downtown Hot Springs on Thursday afternoon is only a glimpse of what's to come this weekend.
"We're busy," says a representative from the Arlington Hotel while checking in guests.
People from near and far are checking in.
"It's not too far. It was a last minute trip," says K. Balentine visiting from Shreveport.
He's looking forward to a weekend of fun. "I heard about the lakes, hanging out on the lake all day and soaking up the sun," Balentine said.
It's what tourism officials expected this holiday even with the state of the economy.
"I think everyone is saying 'if you're even, that's the new up.' I think we'll have a good Fourth of July. Is it a record year? I don't think so," says Convention and Visitor's Bureau CEO Steve Arrison.
He says hotels are selling out and there are a host of attractions ready for tourists. "We have three brand new hotels this year so we have more capacity than we've had in the past. There's a lot going on on the lakes, the fireworks displays, to concerts!" Arrison said.
No matter whether you are coming from out of state or within the Natural State, Hot Springs has one message, "Happy Independence Day!"
Saturday, the Arlington is holding an Independence Day bash on its pool deck for the public. And starting Friday through Sunday there will be a
fireworks display each day in or around Hot Springs.
