Arkansas is a state known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. From the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to the Mississippi Delta, Arkansas offers a wide range of attractions for visitors.
Let's start off with some facts about this state
- Capital: Little Rock
- Population: Approximately 3.0 million
- Median home price: $157,000 (as of 2021)
- Median household income: $50,292 (as of 2020)
- Cost of living index: 89.3 (lower than the national average)
- Major industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism
- Accommodation options: Hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, cabins
- Home to the Hot Springs National Park, which contains the only hot springs in the U.S. that are protected by the National Park Service
- Home to the University of Arkansas, a public research university with a enrollment of over 27,000 students
- Home to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which contains one of the finest collections of American art in the world
In this article, we will explore ten popular places to visit in Arkansas, highlighting some of the state's most iconic and interesting destinations. So, if you are planning a trip to the Natural State and want to discover all that it has to offer, read on!
Hot Springs National Park
This national park is located in central Arkansas and is home to a number of hot springs and thermal baths. It is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities and offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours. Fun fact: Hot Springs National Park is the oldest national park in the United States, established in 1832.
Little Rock
Located in central Arkansas, Little Rock is the capital of the state and a popular destination for tourists. It is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Arkansas Arts Center and the Central High School National Historic Site. Fun fact: Little Rock is home to the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States, the Little Rock Farmers' Market.
Eureka Springs
Located in northwest Arkansas, Eureka Springs is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is known for its Victorian architecture and natural springs. It is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Thorncrown Chapel and the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway. Fun fact: Eureka Springs is home to the largest collection of public outdoor murals in the United States.
Fayetteville
Located in northwest Arkansas, Fayetteville is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas Air and Military Museum. Fun fact: Fayetteville is home to the oldest opera house in Arkansas, the Walton Arts Center.
Hot Springs Village
Located in central Arkansas, Hot Springs Village is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Hot Springs Village Nature Center and the DeSoto Golf Course. Fun fact: Hot Springs Village is home to the largest gated community in the United States, with over 26,000 residents.
Ozark Folk Center State Park
Located in northwest Arkansas, Ozark Folk Center State Park is a popular destination for music and cultural events and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Ozark Folk School and the Skillet Restaurant. Fun fact: Ozark Folk Center State Park is home to the largest mountain dulcimer collection in the world.
Petit Jean State Park
Located in central Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Mather Lodge and the Arkansas State Arboretum. Fun fact: Petit Jean State Park is home to the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Arkansas, the Cedars Restaurant.
Mount Magazine State Park
Located in northwest Arkansas, Mount Magazine State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway and the Mount Magazine International Butterfly Festival. Fun fact: Mount Magazine State Park is home to the highest peak in Arkansas, Mount Magazine, which stands at over 2,700 feet tall.
Fort Smith
Located in western Arkansas, Fort Smith is a popular destination for history buffs and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Fort Smith National Historic Site and the Fort Smith Museum of History. Fun fact: Fort Smith is home to the oldest continuously operating post office in Arkansas, the Fort Smith Post Office.
Delta Heritage Trail State Park
Located in eastern Arkansas, Delta Heritage Trail State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Delta Cultural Center and the Mississippi River Museum. Fun fact: Delta Heritage Trail State Park is home to the longest rails-to-trails project in Arkansas, the Arkansas Delta Heritage Trail.
As you can see, Arkansas is a state with a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. From national parks and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and rich history, there is something for everyone in the Natural State. So, if you are planning a trip to Arkansas, be sure to check out these exciting destinations and discover all that the state has to offer.
