The site was settled in about 1809 by John Hemphill, operator of a nearby salt works, Arkansas's first industry.

[6] The climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.

[citation needed] Opened in 2011, the Arkadelphia Arts Center hosts exhibits, productions and educational workshops for many organizations in town, including the Caddo River Art Guild, the Poet and Writer's Guild, the Little Theatre, the two universities, and Arkadelphia School District.

[13] Henderson State University holds plays and musical performances in Arkansas Hall located on campus.

Ouachita Baptist University displays student art and sculpture in the Hammons Gallery.

[16] Arkadelphia Parks and Recreation Department operates facilities and manages activities for the community.

The park includes a recreation center that has an indoor basketball/volleyball court, a weight lifting area and an elevated walking track.

In 2013, the department completed construction of DeSoto Bluff Trail, which overlooks the Ouachita River.

The state park has facilities for camping, fishing, water sports, golf, hiking, and biking.

The Iron Mountain Bike Trail is a winding path inside the park that runs for approximately 26 miles (42 km).

To the west of Hot Springs is Lake Ouachita, which has more than 690 miles (1,110 km) of shoreline and more than 40,000 acres (63 sq mi; 160 km2) of water.

Bathhouse Row, Oaklawn Park Race Track and Casino and Magic Springs are some attractions located there.

Passenger rail service is provided by Amtrak's Texas Eagle, which stops at Arkadelphia station.

Connecting service between San Antonio and Los Angeles is available three times a week via the Sunset Limited.

Dexter B. Florence Memorial Field (KADF) in southeastern Arkadelphia can serve small business jets as well as single and double-engine aircraft.

[34] Henderson State University offers a four-year bachelor of science degree in aviation and is responsible for the airport's fixed-base operation.