ReZoom

Whether touted for their curative powers or just some good old-fashioned relaxation, hot springs have drawn visitors and admirers for centuries. If you're looking for the bath to put all other warm baths to shame, look no further than these seven hot spots.

1. Warm Springs
Georgia

Warm Springs was made famous by one of its most distinguished visitors, President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Seeking treatment for his polio-induced paralysis, Roosevelt first visited the springs in 1924. Roosevelt also built a home there, known as the "Little White House," where he passed away in 1945. Today, only patients of the Roosevelt Warm Spring Institute for Rehabilitation can bathe at Warm Springs, but anyone can tour the springs and learn about this small town's place in American history.

2. Lava Hot Springs
Idaho

As with Hot Springs, Arkansas, the waters of Lava Hot Springs in Idaho were appreciated by Native Americans long before the arrival of European settlers. Lava Hot Springs was mostly called "The Healing Waters" until the 19th century. Guests are invited to lounge in the 102 – 112 degree springs during their stay.

3. Hot Springs
Arkansas

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs derives its name and identity from the areas most prominent natural phenomenon. For centuries, Native Americans visited Hot Springs, referred to as the "Valley of the Vapors" at the time, for the therapeutic powers of its waters. In 1832, Hot Springs became the first federally protected area in the United States when the Hot Springs National Park was established. A number of spas and hotels in the area offer visitors the opportunity to take 100 degree baths in the springs' waters.

4. Desert Hot Springs
California

For the truly chic hot springs experience, a trip to Desert Hot Springs, California is definitely in order. Nestled in Joshua Tree National Park, the natural landscape of Desert Hot Springs appeals to any avid camper or outdoor explorer, but this town is also full of spas and resorts offering all of the luxury amenities a tried and true city dweller needs. Soak in the springs and sip on water bottled from the springs on your trip.

5. Glenwood Springs
Colorado

Found at the intersection of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, Glenwood Springs is best known for the Yampah springs that supply its warm waters and its underground vapor caves. As the Yampah springs flow through these underground caves, steam pours from the water, creating an enclosed environment with a temperature between 110 and 112 degrees. Visitors won't want to miss out on the opportunity to experience North America's sole natural sauna. Glenwood Springs also boasts "the world's largest hot springs pool."

6. Chena Hot Springs
Alaska

"Hot" probably isn't the first word that comes to mind when thinking of "Alaska," but true outdoorsmen will love a trip to Chena Hot Springs in our nation's northernmost state. While it takes a compass and lots of luck to find most of Alaska's hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is the "most accessible and developed hot spring resort in Alaska's interior." Early adventurers soothed aches and pains with a dip in Chena Hot Springs, and today, tourists can do the same while also watching the famed Northern Lights.

7. Truth or Consequences
New Mexico

In a nod to our "Top 7 Small Town Stops," Truth or Consequences, New Mexico finds its way to two ReZoom lists. Thinking a name change might boost tourism, “Hot Springs, New Mexico” voted to become “Truth or Consequences, New Mexico” in 1950. (The name change was also at the encouragement of Ralph Edwards, host of the popular "Truth or Consequences" radio show.) However, the hot springs that gave Truth or Consequences its original claim to fame still flourish. Stop in for a soak – after all, a hot springs by any other name still feels as good.