For people unfamiliar with The Natural State, a frequent question is “What are the must-see attractions?” Even those who have general knowledge of the state ask “What should I not miss while in Arkansas?” Ask no more. We’ve made it easy for you.
Here you’ll find what we consider “don’t miss” when visiting Arkansas. These highlights–some of the top attractions in the South– are divided into six geographic regions: Ozarks, Ouachitas, Central, Arkansas River Valley, Delta, and Timberlands. The listings range from outdoors, history, and family-friendly to parks and museums.
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Arkansas Air and Military Museum
Airplane enthusiasts will enjoy this attraction, which is home
to vintage aircraft, including pre-World War II racing planes in flying
condition, aeronautical memorabilia, and a gift shop housed in a
historic hangar at Fayetteville’s Drake Field.
Scenic U.S. 71 S.
479-521-4947.
http://www.arkansasairandmilitary.com/
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Blanchard Springs Caverns
Ranked among the most beautiful underground discoveries of the 20th
century, this limestone cavern is located deep in the Ozark National
Forest, 15 miles north of Mountain View. It is the only developed cave
system operated by the U.S. Forest Service and is open throughout the
year. Lighted walkways lead to stunning formations and massive rooms,
one as large as six football fields. The "Wild Cave Tours" have proved
to be extremely popular with the more adventuresome.
Nearby, Blanchard Springs Recreational Use Area provides scenic
campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, a massive natural spring and a
trout lake.
Off Ark. 14 near Mountain View.
870-757-2211.
http://www.fs.fed.us/oonf/ozark/recreation/caverns.html
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Buffalo National River
The country's first national river (1972), the scenic Buffalo National
River flows roughly 150 miles and offers boaters premier whitewater
floating in the Arkansas Ozarks. One of the most popular Arkansas waterways, the river is flanked by soaring
limestone bluffs, beautiful vistas and wilderness areas.
It includes nearly 95,000 acres of public land along its corridor, where
hiking trails lead to geologic marvels - springs, caves, waterfalls,
natural bridges and box-like canyons. Fishing, rock climbing and
wildlife watching (especially of the state’s elk herd) are major draws
too. The landscape is popular with photographers, who like to capture
pictures of historic homesteads, fall foliage, high vistas and other
nature scenes that are among the most popular when it comes to sightseeing in Arkansas.
Numerous outfitters (for canoeing, rafting, horseback riding and
fishing) service the river, and there are several campgrounds, cabins,
motels and other lodging options nearby.
Buffalo Point off Ark. 14 and Tyler Bend off U.S. 65 are developed use
areas.
870-439-2502.
http://www.nps.gov/buff
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Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art The brainchild of Walmart heiress Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a premier art institution dedicated to American art and artists, learning and community gatherings. The main pavilions house a permanent collection of American art masterworks from the colonial era to modern day, and touring collections from national art institutions. Visitors can enjoy the collection within the state-of-the-art galleries and throughout the surrounding park. A dynamic temporary exhibitions program complements the holdings of the permanent collection and exemplifies the diversity of American artists.
Founded in 2005 by the Walton Family Foundation, the museum of American Art takes its name from a nearby natural spring and the bridge construction incorporated in the building design by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. A series of pavilions nestled around two creek-fed ponds will house galleries, meeting and classroom spaces, and a large, glass-enclosed gathering hall. Visitor amenities include a café on a glass-enclosed bridge overlooking the ponds and a Marlon Blackwell-designed museum store. Sculpture and walking trails link the museum’s 120-acre park and gardens to downtown Bentonville. For art lovers, this is easily one of the top attractions in the South, if not the whole country. Admission is free. 600 Museum Way in downtown Bentonville. 479-418-5700. http://www.crystalbridges.org/
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Daisy Airgun Museum
Located in historic downtown Rogers in what is probably best known to
locals as the old Rexall drug store building, circa 1890s. Exhibits
depict the company’s history, airguns, advertising and other
memorabilia.
202 West Walnut
479-986-6873.
http://www.daisymuseum.com/
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Eureka Springs
“America’s Victorian Village” preserves turn-of-the-century
architecture with fine dining, shopping, antiquing, spas, historic
hotels, art galleries and museums. Winding mountain streets and natural
springs provide the scenic setting for this quaint town that has been
heavily influenced by its artist community. It's packed with attractions
such as Blue Spring Heritage Center and Gardens, caves, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, a doll museum, live
music and magic shows, and Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway dinner train excursion rides.
It was named one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the
National Trust for Historic Preservation and is a great spot for romantic getaways in the South. Nestled in the Ozark
Mountains, the entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic
Places.
479-253-9417.
http://www.eurekasprings.org
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Greers Ferry Lake
Nestled in the hardwood forests and foothills between Clinton and
Heber Springs, Greers Ferry is the third largest lake in Arkansas’s
Ozark Mountains (31,500 surface acres). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
reservoir has served as a national model for environmental cleanliness.
Commercial and public use campgrounds, first-class lodging, resorts and
championship golf courses are trademarks. The Little Red River emerges
icy-cold from Greers Ferry Dam and provides excellent trout fishing
waters for miles downstream. The current world-record brown trout (40
pounds, four ounces) was landed on the Little Red in 1992. Resorts and
outfitters are available.
Providing more than 31,000 acres of crystal-clear water for fishing,
water sports, boating and camping, Greers Ferry Lake is a national model
for environmental cleanliness.
Between Clinton and Heber Springs.
501-362-2416.
http://www.swl.usace.army.mil/parks/greersferry
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Mammoth Spring State Park
One of the great natural wonders of mid-America, Mammoth Spring flows
at an average hourly rate of some nine million gallons of 58-degree
water. The flow creates a 10-acre lake and then becomes Spring River, a
popular year-round canoe and fishing stream. The park, located at the
big spring, includes a restored 1886 Frisco Depot with engaging exhibits
and a “crew” of workmen and waiting passengers from the early 1900s.
Other features include walking trails, picnic sites, playgrounds, early
hydroelectric power plant and an official Arkansas Welcome Center.
U.S. 63 near Mammoth Spring
870-625-7364.
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/mammothspring/
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Mark Martin Museum
Museum honoring one of "The 50 Greatest NASCAR Drivers of All Time."
Includes several of Martin’s past cars, racing mementos including around
100 trophies and several of Martin’s racing helmets and fire suits
800-566-4461.
http://www.markmartinmuseum.com/
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Ozark Folk Center State Park
Mountain View is the home of the only park in America devoted to the
preservation of Southern mountain folkways and music. The Ozark Folk
Center State Park is a “living museum” of traditional pioneer skills,
such as furniture making, quilting, blacksmithing, tintype photography,
woodcarving and 15 other craft demonstrations. Concerts, performed in a
1,000-seat theater, feature songs and instruments from America’s past.
The park also offers a restaurant, lodge, library, conference center,
visitor center and gift shop.
Off Ark. 5-9-14, Mountain View.
870-269-3851.
http://www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
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Pea Ridge National Military Park
The site of one of the largest Civil War battles west of the
Mississippi River, Pea Ridge marks the successful culmination of the
Union's effort to secure control of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers
and protect the arsenal at St. Louis, which made easier the supply of
General Grant's Vicksburg campaign. The park encompasses 4,300 acres and
includes a seven-mile, self-guided tour with 10 stops featuring wayside
exhibits, including Elkhorn Tavern. It also has a visitors center,
museum and bookstore.
U.S. 62 in Pea Ridge
479-451-8122.
http://www.nps.gov/peri/
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Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
The 1862 Battle of Prairie Grove was the last time two armies of
almost equal strength faced each other for supremacy in northwest
Arkansas. When the Confederate Army withdrew, it was clear Missouri and
northwest Arkansas would remain in Federal hands. Today, historic homes
are located on the 500-acre Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, which
has a self-guided walking tour and driving tour. The park's visitors
center has a gift shop, museum and bookstore. Pavilions, a picnic area
and a playground are also at the park.
On U.S. 62 in Prairie Grove
479-846-2990.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com
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Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
Dedicated to the study, interpretation and preservation of the rich
history of the Arkansas Ozark Mountains, the museum offers lectures,
films, classes, tours and frequently changing exhibits of interest to
adults and children. Beautiful park-like grounds showcase six historical
buildings.
118 West Johnson Avenue, Springdale
479-750-8165.
http://www.springdaleark.org/shiloh
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Thorncrown Chapel
Designed by Arkansas native E. Fay Jones, a nationally honored and
recognized architect, the chapel soars skyward from an Ozark woodland.
Extensive use of glass and wood beams makes nature an integral part of
the structure. The chapel was chosen in 2001 as one of the Top 10 Designs of the 20th Century by The American Institute of Architecture. It has also won the institute's Design of the Year for 1981 and Design of the Decade for the 1980s. Non-denominational services are offered.
Off U.S. 62 West, Eureka Springs
479- 253-7401.
http://www.thorncrown.com
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Wal-Mart Visitors Center
The origin and growth of the nation's largest corporation is
encapsulated at this Bentonville museum housed in the building that gave
birth to the retail giant. In 1962, Sam Walton opened his first
discount store in Rogers at 8th and Walnut streets and had 25 employees.
Today, Wal-Mart is the world's largest company with more than $220
billion in annual sales and more than 1.3 million employees.
105 North Main, Bentonville
479-273-1329.
http://www.walmartstores.com
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War Eagle Crafts Fair
Each fall, War Eagle hosts one of the largest crafts fairs in the
country. Arts and crafts exhibitors from Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma,
Kansas and beyond come to display and sell their wares. Customers come
from all over the U.S.
Blanche Elliott and a group of fellow weavers founded the original War
Eagle Fair over 50 years ago as a means to preserve and display the
skills and traditions of Ozark craftspeople. As the fair grew, more and
more people made their way to the event at Mrs. Elliott’s home, historic
War Eagle Mills Farm near Springdale. Over the years, the rural site
has attracted all sorts of national attention including coverage from The New York Times and Southern Living. Today numerous fairs take place adjacent to the original fair and across Northwest Arkansas in October.
Located at historic War Eagle Mills Farm near Hindsville
479-789-5398.
http://www.wareaglefair.com
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Crater of Diamonds State Park:
North America’s largest diamond (40.23 carats) and more than 70,000
other diamonds have been found in a field south of Murfreesboro since
farmer John Huddleston discovered the first such gems there in 1906. Now
the eroding surface of a volcanic pipe located about three miles south
of Murfreesboro is preserved as Crater of Diamonds State Park, the
world’s only site where, for a small fee, anyone can dig for diamonds
and keep what they find.
The park’s visitors center offers an audio-visual presentation giving
tips on diamond hunting, a display of diamonds in the rough, and
exhibits detailing the site’s history and geology. The park also has a
campground, hiking trail, a picnic and play area, and Diamond Springs, a
water park.
On Ark. 301 near Murfreesboro
870-285-3113.
http://www.CraterOfDiamondsStatePark.com
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DeGray Lake Resort State Park:
Arkansas's only resort state park is located about eight miles north
of Arkadelphia on 13,800-acre DeGray Lake, formed when the Caddo River
was dammed in 1972. Located on an island and reached by a short
causeway, the park's 96-room lodge features a spa, swimming pool,
well-equipped exercise room, convention facilities, and a full-service
restaurant. Other park facilities include a challenging 7,200-yard golf
course with pro shop, a riding stable, campgrounds and hiking trails.
Visitors can avail themselves of rental watercraft at the park marina to
take advantage of the lake's fishing or can launch for free their own
craft. Water-skiing, sailing, jet-skiing and pleasure boating are other
popular DeGray activities. Also located on the lake are a private resort
and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreational areas, most of which have
campsites.
Eight miles north of Arkadelphia off Scenic 7 Byway
501-865-2801.
http://www.degray.com
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Garvan Woodland Gardens:
Located on the shores of Lake Hamilton, this 210-acre botanical garden
contains the Oriental-influenced “Garden of the Pine Wind” with stream
courses, waterfalls, stone bridges, native and Asian plantings. Other
features are “Daffodil Hill,” a welcome center, gift shop, canopy
bridge, bird sanctuary. The Evans Children's Garden provides special
natural play area just for kids. The glorious Anthony Chapel is a
striking glass and wood structure popular for weddings. Postcard-quality
photo opportunities.
550 Arkridge Rd., 12 minutes from I-30.
800-366-4664.
http://www.garvangardens.org
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Hot Springs National Park:
America's first national preserve predates Yellowstone by some 40
years. A film and exhibits in the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center
located on historic Bathhouse Row tell how a remarkable array of thermal
springs in a valley of the Ouachita Mountains prompted Congress to
protect the area in 1832. Today it’s one of the top weekend getaway destinations in the Ouatchitas. Learn how the town of Hot Springs earned a
reputation as “The American Spa.” Thermal baths and massages are
available on the Row at the Buckstaff Bathhouse, the Ozark Bathhouse and
Spa, and at other locations.The park also offers scenic drives and a
campground.
Central Ave. in Hot Springs.
501-624-3383.
http://www.nps.gov/hosp
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Magic Springs/Crystal Falls:
Among more than 80 attractions and amusement rides at this combination
theme and water park are five exciting roller coasters, including the
legendary Arkansas Twister, The X-Coaster, The Gauntlet and The Plummet
Summit. The beautifully landscaped water park features a 350,000-gallon
wave pool, thrilling water slide complex, relaxing lazy river,
children’s activity pool and a family splash zone. The park’s
amphitheater hosts a summer series of musical concerts featuring
big-name entertainers. Don't miss the Surf Simulation Ride.
U.S. 70 immediately east of Hot Springs.
501-624-0100.
http://www.magicsprings.com/
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Queen Wilhelmina State Park/Talimena Scenic Byway:
Beginning at Mena, the scenic byway stretches for 54 miles along
crests of the Ouachita Mountains before terminating at Talihina,
Oklahoma. The route offers some of the best sightseeing in Arkansas, with numerous vistas from atop some of the highest
peaks between the Rocky and Appalachian mountains. Along the route atop
Rich Mountain, Arkansas’s second highest peak, lies Queen Wilhelmina
State Park with a lodge, restaurant, camping, picnic areas and hiking
trails. The 192-mile Ouachita National Recreation Trail passes through
the park.
Ark. 88 near Mena.
479-394-2863.
http://www.QueenWilhelmina.com
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The Witness Musical Passion Play: An Christian musical drama which tells of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ through the eyes of the apostle Peter. Performed in an outdoor amphitheater in Hot Springs. 1960 Millcreek Road, U.S. 70 East. http://www.witnessproductions.com/
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Arkansas Arts Center
Located in Little Rock’s historic MacArthur Park, the arts center is a
first-class facility with an internationally recognized collection of
drawings with works dating from the Renaissance to the present. It is
also the home of world class art exhibitions that are spread throughout
seven galleries.
9th and Commerce Sts., MacArthur Park, Little Rock.
501-372-4000.
http://www.arkarts.com
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Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
Home to the USS Razorback, a 311-foot submarine was present in Tokyo
Bay at the signing of the Peace Treaty ending World War II. Also docking
at the museum is the Arkansas Queen cruise and dinner riverboat.
501-758-1424.
http://aimm.museum/
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Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame Museum
Displays memorabilia chronicling sports legends from Arkansas.
Exhibits highlight the three major sports – football, baseball and
basketball – plus golf, tennis, the Olympics and more.
#3 Verizon Arena Way, Inside Verizon Arena, North Little Rock
501-663-4328.
http://www.arksportshalloffame.com/
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Arkansas State Capitol
A striking Neoclassical building in downtown Little Rock, the capitol
was modeled after the United States Capitol. It has served as the
state’s seat of government since it was completed in 1915.
At Woodlane and Capitol Ave. in Little Rock.
501-682-5080.
http://www.sos.arkansas.gov/tours.html
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Central Arkansas Nature Center
Located on 3.4 acres in Little Rock within the Julius Breckling
Riverfront Park overlooking the Arkansas River. Exhibits highlight the
role of fish and wildlife management and many of the projects conducted
throughout the history of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
River Market District; 500 Clinton Avenue, Suite 216
501-907-0636.
http://www.centralarkansasnaturecenter.com/
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Clinton Presidential Center and Park
America's 12th Presidential Library is situated on the banks of the
Arkansas River in the River Market District of downtown Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas. The
library contains the largest collection of presidential papers and
artifacts in U.S. history and includes an authentic replica of the Oval
Office and the Cabinet Room, making this among the most popular attractions in the South. Forty-two, which gets its name from
Clinton's place in line of U. S. presidents, features an eclectic menu.
The University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service is also
located within the park in the renovated 1899 Choctaw Station.
501-370-8000.
http://www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org/
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Heifer Village
The village uses interactive exhibits and engaging educational
programming to introduce visitors to Heifer International’s innovative
work of providing livestock and training to families worldwide, and
focuses on the sustainable, practical and cost-effective solutions to
hunger and poverty. Half-hour tours of the headquarters showcases
Heifer’s dedication to sustainability, its mission to end world hunger
and commitment to responsible use of resources.
1 World Avenue
Little Rock. 877-870-COWS .
http://www.heifer.org/heifervillage
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Historic Arkansas Museum
Visit the state's oldest neighborhood where medicine came from the
herb garden and the newspaper was printed on a hand-operated press. Four
original Little Rock dwellings provide the setting as expert tour
guides describe life on the Arkansas frontier and costumed living
history actors portray early Arkansans. Also on site is a center
celebrating Arkansas's cultural and material heritage with full-scale
galleries and interactive exhibits.
200 E. Third St., Little Rock.
501-324-9351.
http://www.historicarkansas.org/
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Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
Experience the history of this major U.S. Civil Rights landmark at the
Museum and Vistor Center across the street from Central High. The first
African-American students -- "the Little Rock Nine" -- were admitted to
the school in 1957 following a dramatic confrontation between Gov.
Orval Faubus, who used the state's National Guard to block
desegregation, and President Eisenhower, who sent federal troops to
enforce it.
See and feel the history of this important civil rights landmark–easily one of the must-see attractions in the South.
2120 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Dr., Little Rock.
501-374-1957.
http://www.nps.gov/chsc/
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Little Rock Zoo
Nationally accredited 40-acre zoological garden, housing over 700
mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians representing 170 species, some
of which are on the endangered list. Historic Works Progress
Administration-constructed buildings are found throughout the natural
tree-shaded grounds, including the original big cat house, now Cafe
Africa. Don't miss the Over the Jumps Carousel, the only left in the
world, plus the petting zoo, gift shop, miniature train rides.
One Jonesboro Dr., War Memorial Park, Little Rock.
501-666-2406.
http://www.littlerockzoo.com
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Old State House Museum
Set in the oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi
River, the museum has been designated a National Historic Landmark,
though it is probably best known throughout the country as the scene of
President Clinton’s 1992 and 1996 election night celebrations. This
magnificent Greek Revival structure houses a multimedia museum of
Arkansas history, with a special emphasis on women’s history, political
history, and historical programming for school children. The Little Rock
museum also boasts nationally recognized collections of Civil War
battle flags, the inaugural gowns of governors’ wives, Arkansas art
pottery, and African-American quilts.
300 W. Markham in Little Rock.
501-324-9685.
http://www.oldstatehouse.com
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River Market District/Riverfront Park
Formerly a nearly abandoned warehouse district, this area of downtown
Little Rock is now filled with restaurants, shops, art galleries, a
museum, library, bars and seasonal farmers market. The Ottenheimer
Market Hall has more than 17 permanent merchants. Other attractions in
the area include the Clinton Presidential Center and Library, the River
Rail Trolley, Junction Bridge Pedestrian and Bicycling Walkway, the
Central Arkansas Nature Center, Heifer International Headquarters and
Heifer Village. The River Market District is bordered by Riverfront Park
and the Arkansas River to the north.
President Clinton Blvd.
501-375-2552.
http://www.rivermarket.info
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Scott/Keo
The flavor of the Old South surrounds these two tiny communities located approximately 20 minutes southeast of Little Rock.
U.S. 165 South.
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The Old Mill
An authentic reproduction of an old water-powered grist mill, this
striking structure appears in the opening scene of the classic 1933 film
Gone with the Wind and is believed to be the only building remaining from the film.
McCain Boulevard and Lakeshore Drive in North Little Rock
501-758-1424.
http://www.northlittlerock.travel
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Arkansas and Missouri Railroad
Travel over the Boston Mountains aboard beautifully restored turn-of-the-century cars, passing over three high trestles and through the 1882 Winslow tunnel. Enjoy a 134-mile round trip beginning in Springdale with a layover in historic Van Buren for shopping and lunch, or a 70-mile excursion from Fort Smith to Winslow. 800-687-8600.
http://www.arkansasmissouri-rr.com
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Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway
For unbeatable sightseeing in Arkansas, go for a cruise on one of the most scenic drives in the nation. Scenic 7 runs from the Louisiana border to Bull Shoals lake near the Missouri state line, passing through both the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. Numerous resorts, attractions and scenic overlooks are found along its route. Car and Driver magazine named a portion of Scenic 7 Byway as one of the top 10 driving experiences in the United States and it’s a popular route for motorcycling adventures.
http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2155/
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Fort Smith National Historic Site
The site embraces the remains of two frontier forts and the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Through a recent multi-million dollar rehabilitation project the historic courthouse and jail building have been restored and now include a visitor’s center. You can visit the “Hell on the Border” jail, “Hangin’ Judge” Isaac C. Parker’s courtroom and see the gallows where justice came at the end of a rope. Numerous exhibits and videos also focus on U.S. Deputy Marshals and outlaws, Federal Indian policy, and the Trail of Tears. The center also contains a bookstore and auditorium.
301 Parker Avenue
479-783-3961.
http://www.nps.gov/fosm
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Heifer Ranch
At the ranch, one of Heifer International's three learning centers, visitors can participate in educational programming that promotes sustainable solutions to global hunger, poverty and environmental degradation. The Ranch offers a variety of education programs from a couple of hours up to 5 nights long. The 1,200 acre working ranch and experiential learning center includes Global Villages, Challenge Course, Conference and Retreat Center with modern group lodging and dining facilities, Gift Shop, livestock and organic gardens. The Ranch is a place where families and individuals can drop-in for a tour and see many of the animals that Heifer International uses around the world, as well as see housing similar to those found in developing countries such as Guatemala, Zambia, and Thailand. Tours are available for drop-in visitors (10 or less) Monday-Saturday from 8-5 pm Central time. All overnight programs and group tours require advance reservations.
Located in Perryville, an hour west of Little Rock on Ark. 9/10.
501-889-5124 .
http://www.heifer.org/ranch
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Lake Dardanelle State Park$2.4-million, 10,527-square-foot visitor center features exhibits on Lake Dardanelle and the Arkansas River and its tributaries. The center features four large aquariums, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, a lab, and touch-screen kiosks that feature information on the park, the area’s water resources and history. Lake Dardanelle, a 34,000-acre reservoir, has become known as one of Arkansas’s hottest bass fishing destinations, hosting over 50 tournaments annually. The park’s facilities also include a state-of-the-art fishing weigh-in pavilion, designed to accommodate major fishing tournaments. The park also offers 83 campsites.
Located four miles west of Russellville on Ark. 22
479-967-5516.
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/lakedardanelle/
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Lake Fort Smith State Park
Lake Fort Smith State Park features all new facilities including campsites, a group lodging facility, picnic sites, a pavilion, marina with boat rentals, swimming pool and visitor center with exhibit gallery.
Located eight miles north of Mountainburg on U.S. 71
479-369-2469.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com/LakeFortSmith
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Mount Magazine State Park
Near Paris, the highest point in Arkansas rises from the Arkansas River Valley to an elevation of 2,753 feet. It offers hang gliding, rappelling, rock climbing, horseback riding, camping and hiking. The mountain's main road contains bicycle lanes and from its eight scenic overlooks visitors can see hundreds of miles of beautiful forested lands and mountains. It is also known for its outstanding butterfly population, boasting 94 of the 126 species found in Arkansas. The new luxury 60-room lodge with a grand lobby welcomes guests and has an indoor swimming pool, Skycrest Restaurant, conference center, meeting rooms, fitness center and gift shop. Thirteen full-service cabins with fireplaces, a bathroom for each bedroom, and wrap-around covered porches with outdoor hot tubs. All lodging facilities have views of the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake below. A large visitor center has an exhibit gallery and gift shop. Nearby, the Blue Mountain Lake area offers more camping and outdoor recreation. Mount Magazine Scenic Byway leads travelers across the top of Mount Magazine and past the Cove Lake Recreation Area and the Cove Lake Trail.
Ark. 309 near Paris
479-963-8502.
http://www.MountMagazineStatePark.com
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Mount Nebo State Park
Rising 1,350 feet, Mount Nebo offers sweeping views of the Arkansas River Valley. In 1933, a portion of the mountain was chosen as a park site. Native stone and logs from Mount Nebo were used by the Civilian Conservation Corps to construct many of the park's bridges, trails, rustic-style cabins and pavilions. The park offers 35 campsites and 14 fully-equipped cabins with kitchens. Fourteen miles of trails encircle Mount Nebo. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the 4 1/2-mile Bench Trail is a fairly level route encircling the side of 1,350-foot Mount Nebo. Historic Cornwell House contains exhibits about legacy of the mountain, including the teachers college, the grand resorts, the CCC, and the Cornwell Family that last owned the home. 16728 West State Hwy. 155, Dardanelle 479-229-3650.
http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/mountnebo
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Petit Jean State Park
Popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts, Petit Jean State Park offers a restaurant, swimming pools, playgrounds, tennis court, ball field, boating, fishing, campsites, cabins, lodge and gift shop. Scenic views are found throughout more than 20 miles of hiking trails that lead to mountain overlooks, streams, an abundance of unmarred woods, ravines, springs, caves, interesting ecological formations and 95-foot Cedar Falls.
The history of the area is evidenced by Native American pictographs on a cave wall and the grave of a French explorer’s great love for whom the mountain is named. Pioneers that settled the summit left their mark as did the Civilian Conservation Corp., which constructed Mather Lodge and the dam for Lake Bailey.
The visitor center’s touch-screen program anchors the exhibit area. This mountaintop respite is the flagship of the state parks system. The Museum of Automobiles is also located on the mountain.
Near Morrilton on Ark. 154, off Ark. 9
501-727-5441.
http://www.PetitJeanStatePark.com
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Van Buren Downtown Historic District
Located along a beautifully restored Victorian Main Street, the district is composed of six blocks of art galleries, antique shops, restaurants and historical attractions. From specialty stores to warehouses, shoppers can search for offer hard-to-find collectibles, one-of-a-kind gifts, original art, local Ozark crafts, home decoratives and extraordinary antiques. Van Buren is also the southern terminus of the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad that offers patrons Ozark Mountain excursions aboard refurbished passenger cars.
800-332-5889.
http://www.vanburen.org
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Arkansas Post Museum
Located near to the Arkansas Post National Memorial is the Arkansas
Post Museum, an Arkansas State Parks site, which includes authentic
Delta structures and numerous exhibits, including farm implements and
Native American pottery.
5530 U.S. 165 S., Gillett.
870-548-2634.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com
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Arkansas Post National Memorial
The memorial, a National Park Service unit, commemorates the first
permanent European settlement (1686) in the Mississippi River’s lower
valley. The Post also served as Arkansas’s first territorial capital and
was the site of a major Civil War battle.
Ark. 169, seven miles south of Gillett.
870-548-2207.
http://www.nps.gov/arpo
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Crowley's Ridge Nature Center
State-of-the-art displays create a realistic "rain storm," and a movie
about the massive 1811 New Madrid earthquake actually "shakes" the
audience. The new center has a computerized "fly-over" of the entire
200-mile ridge country, topographical models and a 23-foot-long space
satellite photo of the delta landscape. It also features hands-on nature
exhibits, walking trail, aquarium, and a duck hunting adventure.
600 E. Lawson Road, Jonesboro
870-933-6787 .
http://www.crowleysridge.org
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Crowley's Ridge Parkway National Scenic Byway
National scenic byway follows the 198-mile length of the Delta's only
"highlands;" comprised of federal, state and county roads. From Piggott
to Helena, the route passes by or near five state parks, a national
forest, Civil War sites, the former home of Ernest Hemingway, historic
homes, museums, rich agricultural areas, and the Delta Cultural Center.
870-910-8080.
http://www.byways.org
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Delta Cultural Center
Located in a restored depot and storefront in the historic Mississippi
River port of Helena, the center’s exhibits sketch the history and
culture of Arkansas’s portion of the Delta, the lower river’s fertile
alluvial plain. Exhibit topics include the region’s blues and gospel
music, its natural history and the Civil War battle at Helena.
Missouri and Natchez Sts., Helena.
870-338-4350.
http://www.deltaculturalcenter.org
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Great River Road National Scenic Byway
The Great River Road shadows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to
the Gulf of Mexico. Arkansas's portion of the route, which was
designated a National Scenic Byway in 2002, travels the flat terrain of
the nation's largest alluvial plain as well as an extraordinary strip of
elevated ground known as Crowley's Ridge. At stops on and near
Arkansas's Great River Road, travelers can explore the rich heritage of
eastern Arkansas's Delta region, including remnants of its original
hardwood-forest landscape, Native Americans, the Civil War and more.
870-910-8080 .
http://www.deltabyways.com
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Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Educational Center
Visitors to the center step back to the 1930s and tour the restored
home and barn-studio where Ernest Hemingway penned portions of A Farewell to Arms
and other works. Original furnishings and memorabilia related to his
extended visits to the childhood home of his wife, Pauline, add to the
interest in this early 20th-century home in Piggott.
870-598-1037.
http://hemingway.astate.edu
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Lake Chicot State Park
A former main channel of the Mississippi River, Lake Chicot is
Arkansas’s largest natural lake and North America’s largest oxbow lake.
The state park offers cabins, camping, hiking trails, a swimming pool, a
marina and lake tours for observing wildlife and sunsets.
On Ark. 144, eight miles northeast of Lake Village.
870-265-5480.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com
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Lepanto’s ‘A Painted House’
The original house used in the Hallmark Hall of Fame production of John Grisham’s novel, The Painted House, has been re-assembled in Lepanto. The CBS movie included many scenes in the area, including the historic downtown.
Located on south Greenwood Ave/Ark. 135.
870-475-2415.
http://www.lepantoaralumni.com/CITYOFLEPANTOHOMEPAGE.html
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Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park A boardwalk leads through a rare headwater swamp to a monument marking
the starting point established in 1815 for surveys of the Louisiana
Purchase territory. Interpretive panels along the way reveal the history
of the 1803 land deal, under which the land that would become Arkansas
first became U.S. soil.
U.S. 49 South of Brinkley to Ark. 362.
888-AT-PARKS.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com
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Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie
The museum tells the story of the people who pioneered Arkansas’s
emergence as the nation’s leading rice state on a 500,000-acre
tall-grass prairie and of the German settlers who gave the town of
Stuttgart its name. Exhibits include historic farm equipment, pioneer
life and duck hunting. Authentic and re-created prairie structures.
921 E. 4th St., Stuttgart.
870-673-7001.
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Parkin Archeological State Park
Parkin Archeological State Park in eastern Arkansas at Parkin
preserves and interprets the Parkin site on the St. Francis River where a
17-acre Mississippi Period Native America village was located from A.D.
1000 to 1550. A large platform mound on the river bank remains.
At the junction of U.S. 64 and Ark. 184 near Parkin.
870-755-2500.
http://www.ArkansasStateParks.com
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White River National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center
A 10,000-square-foot visitors center for the White River National
Wildlife Refuge located off Ark. 1 just south of St. Charles in east
Arkansas. The $2.6-million facility houses a bookstore and an
environmental education classroom. Exhibits cover such topics as an
historic timeline of the area, fish and wildlife, bottomland hardwood
forests, and birds and migratory flyways. There is also an exhibit on
bears. Long-range plans call for the development of more than two miles
of trails around the center. Established in 1935 and covering some
160,000 acres along the lower White, the refuge is home to the nation’s
largest contiguous block of bottomland hardwood forest under a single
ownership.
870-946-1468.
http://whiteriver.fws.gov
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Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources
Films and exhibits relate the history of Arkansas's oil and brine
industries and the big 1920s oil boom that caused an explosion of
population and wealth in South Arkansas virtually overnight. The
museum’s Oilfield Park contains full-size derricks, other equipment.
Near El Dorado on Ark. 7 in Smackover.
870-725-2877.
http://www.amnr.org
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Camden Visitors Center & McCollum-Chidester House
In the spring of 1864, the Union Army briefly captured the town of
Camden during a failed Civil War campaign. Gen. Frederick Steele
occupied the McCollum-Chidester House at 926 Washington Street, then the
home of stagecoach operator John T. Chidester. Now hosting public
tours, the house is mostly furnished with antiques original to the
Chidester family, who moved into the home in 1857. Ten miles west of
Camden on Ark. 76, Poison Spring Historic State Park preserves and
interprets a battlefield of the Red River Campaign. (870) 685-2748,
www.ArkansasStateParks.com/redrivercampaign. Civil War artifacts and
displays on two of Camden's historic products, Camark pottery and
Grapette soft drinks, are among exhibits housed in the Camden Visitors
Center and Museum. 314 Adams S.W.
870-836-6426.
http://www.teamcamden.com/index.php/chamber
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Delta Rivers Nature Center
Designed to resemble an old-fashioned Delta hunting lodge, the
center’s exhibits reveal the history and importance of Arkansas’s delta
streams and wetlands. Live and preserved wildlife displays include a
20,000-gallon aquarium. The center also offers trails for wildlife
observation and a gift shop.
Off U.S. 65-B Regional Park, Pine Bluff.
870-534-0011.
http://www.deltarivers.com
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El Dorado Downtown Historic District
Llisted on the National Register of Historic Places, this downtown
contains a significant collection of 1920s and 1930s architecture
(courthouse, churches and commercial buildings) made necessary and
financed by the oil boom that began in 1921. A walking tour reveals the
variety of boutiques, shops and dining options recently brought to the
district.
870-863-611.
http://www.goeldorado.com/
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Historic Washington State Park
This 19th-century restoration village contains the state’s largest
collection of pre-Civil War homes open for tours and Arkansas’s
Confederate capitol from 1863-65. Weapons and print-shop museums,
re-created blacksmith shop, restored courthouses, exhibits on
19th-century construction techniques.
On U.S. 278, northwest of Hope.
870-983-2684.
http://www.HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com
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President William JeffersonClinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site
On August 19, 1946, Bill Clinton, the nation's 42nd President, was
born in the southwestern Arkansas town of Hope. He lived his first four
years with his maternal grandparents in a house at 117 S. Hervey Street.
Today, the two-and-one-half story, wood-frame structure built in 1917
in an American Foursquare design is the centerpiece of the Clinton
Center. With input from Clinton's late mother, the house has been
decorated with period furnishings to appear as it did when it served as
the future chief executive's home. Guided tours are offered.
Located in a restored 1912 railroad depot at Fourth and Division
Streets, the Hope Visitors Center and Museum contains exhibits on
Clinton, the town's history, railroad memorabilia, and the area's legacy
of producing giant watermelons.
870-722-2580. http://www.nps.gov/wicl/index.htm
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Saracen Landing
A $4.2 million park facility features a 10,080-square-foot pavilion
and concrete fishing pier plus a fountain that sprays water 40 feet into
the air; it is also the home of the Pine Bluff Farmers Market; located
on the shores of 500-acre Lake Saracen in downtown Pine Bluff. Perfect
for fishing tournaments, educational programs, car shows, picnics,
concerts, reunions and weddings.
Martha Mitchell Expressway (U.S. 65B), across from the Jefferson
County Courthouse complex and adjacent to the Regional Park entrance.
870-536-0920 .
http://www.cityofpinebluff.com/parks/
