Little Rock, Ark. — 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 February 22–24, 2026, in Little Rock.
Arrison has served as 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. His mission has consistently focused on bringing an ever-increasing number of visitors to Hot Springs and the surrounding region to enjoy its unique attractions and experiences.
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.
His impact on tourism extends well beyond Hot Springs. Arrison 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. Arrison’s induction celebrates nearly three decades of innovation, collaboration, and commitment to positioning Arkansas—and Hot Springs in particular—as a premier travel destination
More information about the Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism and the Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be announced closer to the event.
