I've visited 39 US national parks. If I had to recommend just one, it'd be this unique spot with a brewery and bathhouses.

Out of the 39 US National Parks I've traveled to, Hot Springs National Park was the most unusual.Kara Williams

• After visiting 39 US national parks, one stands out as the most unique I've been to.
• Unlike many national parks, Hot Springs National Park is set in the middle of an Arkansas city.

When thinking of national parks, many people imagine vast tracts of land and scenic drives through awe-inspiring mountain, forest, or desert scenery.

Hot Springs National Park, on the other hand, is the country's second smallest national park and is set right in the middle of a small Midwest city.

Although the park features plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities, the centerpiece is its row of historic bathhouses.

In my quest to visit all of the national parks in the continental US and Hawaii, I looked forward to knocking Hot Springs National Park off my list.

After an autumn visit to this historic site in Arkansas, I can confidently say Hot Springs National Park is a must-see for history buffs, wellness aficionados, and outdoorsy types.

Here's why I think Hot Springs National Park is one of the most unique and underrated national parks in the US.