Hot Springs’ Steve Arrison headed to Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame

Steve Arrison, longtime CEO of Visit Hot Springs and one of Arkansas’ most influential tourism leaders, will be inducted into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame during the 53rd Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Outdoor Recreation, scheduled for Feb. 22–24, 2026, in Little Rock.

Arrison has been CEO of Visit Hot Springs for the past 27 years, where he has been responsible for the creation and implementation of the advertising, promotion, and marketing strategy for the City of Hot Springs.

Under his leadership, the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission oversees a $14 million annual budget and attracts more than 3.6 million overnight visitors to the city each year.

In addition to leading Visit Hot Springs, Arrison operates the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission, which manages key tourism assets including Visit Hot Springs, the Hot Springs Convention Center, the Northwoods Biking and Hiking Trails System, and the Majestic Park baseball complex.

Arrison is widely recognized for his creativity and vision in developing signature events and attractions that have become synonymous with Hot Springs. He is the founder of the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the Running of the Tubs Bathtub Races down historic Bathhouse Row, and the Hot Springs Baseball Trail — all of which have garnered national attention and contributed significantly to the city’s tourism identity.

He served for 15 years on the Arkansas Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission, including one term as chairman. He has also served as Chairman of the Arkansas Hospitality Association and President of the association’s Travel Council.

His numerous honors include induction into the Arkansas Hospitality Association Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame in 2025.

The Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, vision, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the state’s tourism industry.