Information
Landmark: Galleria at SunsetCity: Henderson
Country: USA Nevada
Continent: North America
Galleria at Sunset, Henderson, USA Nevada, North America
The Gangster Museum of America is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It documents the city's historical connections to organized crime figures.
Visual Characteristics
The museum is housed in a brick building with a red tile roof. The facade features large display windows and a prominent sign. Interior exhibits consist of display cases, informational panels, and audio-visual equipment.
Location & Access Logistics
The museum is situated at 705 Central Avenue in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. This is the primary thoroughfare of the city. It is approximately 0.5km from the main bus station. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, with several paid parking garages located within a 2-block radius. The city's trolley service stops directly in front of the museum.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The building itself was constructed in 1923 and originally served as a bathhouse. Its historical significance stems from its location in an area frequented by notorious figures during the Prohibition era and mid-20th century. The museum's purpose is to educate the public about this specific period of Hot Springs' history.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can view exhibits detailing the lives and activities of gangsters such as Al Capone and Lucky Luciano. Interactive displays provide audio recordings of historical accounts. The museum offers guided tours that focus on the criminal underworld's influence on Hot Springs.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available on-site. Limited seating is provided within the exhibit areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the museum. Food and beverage options are available from numerous restaurants and cafes located along Central Avenue, adjacent to the museum.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekday mornings typically have lower visitor numbers. No specific tide or weather conditions affect access or the visitor experience.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical detail is that Hot Springs was once known as "Little Chicago" due to the significant presence of Chicago Outfit members who used the city as a gambling and resort destination, often operating with impunity.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.1km West: Bathhouse Row
- 0.3km North: Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center
- 0.4km Southwest: Gangster Museum of America (different location, historical site)
- 0.6km East: Garvan Woodland Gardens