Your Arkansas Bucket List

As much as I have traveled my beloved state throughout the years, there are still places and things in The Natural State that I have yet to see.

Here are a few I hope to mark off my bucket list for the upcoming year.  What are yours?  I invite you to share with our readers. Who knows?  We may all discover destinations and attractions we’ve never heard of, thanks to suggestions by  someone else.

1. The renovated and much improved Mather Lodge at Petit Jean State Park.  I have to admit this park is my favorite because of its history, beauty and attractions. Arkansas State Parks maintained the historic CCC structure while adding much needed space for more to enjoy.
   
   
    
2. Bass Reeves Statue in Fort Smith: If you’ve never heard of his legendary exploits and his role in Fort Smith and American history, make plans to visit the Fort Smith National Historic Site. In addition to exhibits, there is a wonderful video depicting his life. After that, head down to Pendergraft Park and see the awesome stature honoring this great American. 
   
   
    
3. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville: Rotating exhibits with one of the largest collection of art in the county. 
   
   
    
4.  Arkansas Arts Center Exhibits: featuring world-renowned art work. Don’t miss this incredible collection of work The AAC in Little Rock is one of only four museums in the U.S. to host this exhibition.
    
5. Delta Resort, Tillar: What has already been done is incredible but it’s nothing compared to what the finished project is going to offer. It’s tentatively scheduled to open this spring.
    
6. Johnny Cash Boyhood Home and Dyess Colony Restoration: Like many Arkansans and Johnny Cash fans all over the world, I have been eagerly waiting for this project to take place. The 1935 home Cash grew up is restored to what it was like when he and his family lived there. The Administration Building for Dyess, one of the nation’s agricultural resettlement colonies under the New Deal, has exhibits and how it impacted Cash and his music.