Arkansas is a state full of surprises, offering a mix of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re paddling down a scenic river, exploring an underground cavern, or visiting a world-class museum, there’s always something new to discover. This guide highlights some of the great experiences across the state, perfect for weekend getaways or extended trips.
1. Hot Springs National Park
Location: Hot Springs
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs National Park is a mix of natural beauty and historic charm. The park is best known for its thermal springs, which have drawn visitors for centuries seeking healing and relaxation. Stroll down the iconic Bathhouse Row, where you’ll find restored bathhouses dating back to the early 20th century, many of which have been converted into spas, museums, or cultural centers.
For an authentic experience, visit the Buckstaff Bathhouse, which still offers traditional thermal baths. Alternatively, the more modern Quapaw Baths & Spa combines the soothing mineral waters with a luxurious touch. Beyond the bathhouses, take a scenic hike through the park’s network of trails, where you’ll pass by serene forests, natural hot springs, and picturesque overlooks.
Tip: Climb to the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower for panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains. The observation deck provides a fantastic photo opportunity, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Fun Fact: Hot Springs National Park was originally protected as a federal reservation in 1832, making it older than Yellowstone. It officially became a national park in 1921.
2. Explore the Ozark National Forest
Location: Northern Arkansas
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, the Ozark National Forest is a must-visit destination. Covering over 1.2 million acres, this forest is a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers. One of the most iconic spots is Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag. It’s a stunning rock formation that juts out over the valley, providing breathtaking views that are especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.
Another popular trail is the Glory Hole Waterfall, where water flows through a hole in the rock, creating a magical scene after heavy rain. The forest also offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, with rivers like the Mulberry River and Big Piney Creek offering exciting rapids.
Tip: For a less crowded experience, visit in the spring or early summer when the waterfalls are flowing, and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Wildlife Alert: The forest is home to deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears, so keep your eyes open while exploring.
Fun Fact: The Ozark Highlands Trail stretches for over 165 miles, making it a long-distance hiking dream. If you’re up for a challenge, you can tackle multi-day backpacking trips and camp along the way.
3. Visit Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Location: Bentonville
You don’t need to be an art enthusiast to appreciate the beauty of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Located in Bentonville and funded by Walmart heiress Alice Walton, the museum seamlessly blends nature and art, offering an experience like no other. The building itself is a work of art, designed by architect Moshe Safdie and situated around a natural spring-fed pond.
Inside, you’ll find masterpieces ranging from colonial works to contemporary installations. Some highlights include iconic pieces like Norman Rockwell’s Rosie the Riveter and works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol. Don’t miss the rotating exhibits, which frequently feature internationally renowned artists.
Beyond the galleries, you can explore the museum’s scenic walking trails that weave through beautiful woodlands and outdoor sculptures. The Art Trail is a popular choice, leading you past contemporary installations integrated into the landscape.
Tip: Admission to the museum is free, thanks to the Walton Family Foundation. This makes it an ideal stop whether you’re visiting for an hour or planning a full day.
Fun Fact: Crystal Bridges is home to one of the oldest surviving homes in Arkansas, the Bachman-Wilson House, a structure designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It was carefully relocated to the museum grounds and is open for tours.
4. Blanchard Springs Caverns
Location: Near Mountain View
Step into a world beneath the surface at Blanchard Springs Caverns, often called one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cave systems in the country. The caverns are a living, breathing natural wonder, with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and sparkling formations formed over millions of years. You can choose from several guided tours depending on your comfort level and sense of adventure.
The Dripstone Trail is the most popular, featuring easy pathways and stunning views of the largest formations. For thrill-seekers, the Wild Cave Tour takes you deep into areas off the beaten path, where you’ll crawl and climb through narrow passages.
Outside the caverns, take some time to explore the surrounding Ozark National Forest. You can hike to Blanchard Springs, a crystal-clear natural spring that flows into a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole.
Tip: Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes inside the caverns since the trails can get damp and slippery. Bring a jacket—the temperature inside stays at a cool 58°F year-round.
Fun Fact: Blanchard Springs Caverns is known as a “living cave” because the formations are still actively growing due to constant dripping water.
5. Buffalo National River
Location: North-Central Arkansas
The Buffalo National River is an unspoiled gem, offering some of the best outdoor activities in the state. It’s one of the first rivers in the United States to receive the designation of “national river,” and it remains protected from dams and development. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and floating trips down its pristine waters while taking in stunning views of towering bluffs, dense forests, and wildlife.
One of the most popular sections for floating is from Ponca to Pruitt, which passes through the scenic Hemmed-In Hollow and its impressive 200-foot waterfall (the tallest in the state). For hikers, trails like the Lost Valley Trail lead to caves, waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints. You can also explore old homesteads and historic sites scattered along the riverbanks.
Tip: Spring is the best time to visit if you want to float the river, as water levels are higher and more consistent. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the views.
Wildlife Alert: Keep an eye out for bald eagles, river otters, and elk—especially in the Ponca area, where herds often graze.
Fun Fact: The Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles, making it one of the longest undammed rivers in the country.
6. Eureka Springs: A Hidden Gem of Victorian Charm
Location: Eureka Springs
Tucked away in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is known for its quaint charm and historic downtown filled with preserved Victorian architecture. The town’s winding streets, vibrant art galleries, and eclectic boutiques make it a favorite for weekend getaways. Stroll along the cobblestone sidewalks and discover hidden shops, cafes, and antique stores around every corner.
One of the town’s top attractions is the Crescent Hotel, a grand Victorian hotel with a reputation for ghostly encounters. Whether you’re there for a spooky tour or a relaxing spa day, the hotel is a must-visit. The nearby Thorncrown Chapel is another highlight—an architectural marvel made of glass and wood that blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest.
For a taste of the local art scene, visit the Eureka Springs School of the Arts or one of the many galleries downtown. You can also catch a ride on the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, which offers scenic excursions through the Ozarks.
Tip: Visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the town hosts several festivals, including the Eureka Springs Blues Festival and the Folk Festival.
Fun Fact: Eureka Springs is one of the few towns in the country where the entire downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
7. Crater of Diamonds State Park
Location: Murfreesboro
Imagine digging into the earth and walking away with a diamond you found yourself—that’s the magic of Crater of Diamonds State Park. As the only diamond-bearing site in the world open to the public, it attracts treasure hunters and curious adventurers alike. The 37-acre field is the eroded surface of a volcanic crater, making it rich in minerals like amethyst, garnet, jasper, and, of course, diamonds.
Visitors are free to search and keep any gemstones they find, and some have hit the jackpot. The park’s largest discovery was the 40.23-carat “Uncle Sam” diamond found in 1924. The park also has a Diamond Discovery Center, where you can learn how to identify and clean your finds. Even if you don’t uncover a gem, the excitement and possibility make the experience worth it.
Tip: Visit after a rainstorm when the soil has been loosened and diamonds are easier to spot. You can bring your own digging tools or rent equipment at the park.
Fun Fact: The most valuable diamond found in recent years is the 8.52-carat Esperanza Diamond in 2015, which was later cut into a $500,000 masterpiece.
8. Garvan Woodland Gardens
Location: Hot Springs
Nestled on the shores of Lake Hamilton, Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical paradise. Designed to highlight the natural beauty of Arkansas, the gardens feature a blend of carefully curated landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic walking paths. One of the highlights is the Anthony Chapel, a stunning glass-and-wood chapel that looks like something out of a fairy tale. It’s a popular spot for weddings, but it’s worth visiting even if you’re not tying the knot.
Spring is a particularly magical time to visit, as thousands of vibrant tulips, azaleas, and daffodils are in full bloom. In the fall, the gardens transform into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold, making for a picturesque walk. There’s also a children’s garden with interactive exhibits and a model train display.
Tip: Don’t miss the Evan’s Children’s Adventure Garden, which is filled with fun features like a treehouse, caves, and a water exhibit that’s perfect for kids (or adults who feel like being kids again).
Fun Fact: Garvan Woodland Gardens was originally donated to the University of Arkansas by Verna Cook Garvan, who spent decades cultivating and shaping the landscape before turning it into the public garden it is today.
9. Mount Magazine State Park
Location: Paris, AR
Standing at 2,753 feet, Mount Magazine is the highest point in Arkansas and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, rivers, and forests. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing retreat, the park has something for everyone. Adventure seekers can try their hand at rock climbing, hang gliding, and mountain biking. The Signal Hill Trail is a must-do hike, leading to the summit where you can stand at Arkansas’s highest peak.
The park is also a great place for wildlife watching, with sightings of deer, black bears, and a variety of birds. If you’re visiting for the weekend, consider staying at the Mount Magazine Lodge, which features comfortable rooms, a pool, and a restaurant with panoramic views. For a more rustic experience, there are plenty of camping options as well.
Tip: The Cameron Bluff Overlook Drive is perfect for a scenic drive at sunset. It’s also a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the rugged beauty of the Ozarks.
Fun Fact: Mount Magazine is one of the few places in Arkansas where you can experience hang gliding, thanks to its steady updrafts and wide-open launch sites.
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