Things to do in Arkansas
When most people think of places to visit in the United States, popular states like California, New York, or Florida come to mind. Arkansas, on the other hand, is a lesser-visited state full of hidden treasures! This state’s nicknamed “the Natural State” due to its forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys. It also has historical sites and magnificent architecture.
Plan a trip to this amazing city of Arkansas visit and enjoy your days here!
Whitaker Point
Whitaker Point, located in the Ozark National Forest, is a short 1.5-mile hike that leads to an incredible vista! The overlook provides a scenic view of lush mountains and ranks first on the list of the most beautiful locations in Arkansas. Going at sunrise or sunset and bringing a picnic to appreciate the scenery. Check out my Whitaker Point hiking tour to learn everything you need to know.
Glory Hole Falls
Glory Hole Falls in the Ozark National Forest is one of the most interesting cascades I’ve ever seen! You can park on the side of the road, and there is a trailhead marker. The 1.8-mile path to the cascade is marked and all downhill. To get to the actual waterfall, you’ll have to descend a steeper path, but it’s possible. If you go after it rains, you’ll see the cascade gushing.
Triple Falls
Depending on when you go, you might see two or three waterfalls – hence the two titles! I was lucky enough to come after a rainy week and see Triple Falls! This waterfall’s situated within Camp Orr, a Boys Scout Camp, but it is open to the public. Drive down a winding road to locate the start of the waterfall trail. The path is simple and short. (0.3 miles).
Kings River Falls Natural Area
After the Kings River Falls Trail, there are cascading waterfalls! On a hot day, this natural location also serves as a refreshing swimming hole. The trail is scenic, with lovely viewpoints along the river on the way to the waterfall – a true Arkansas treasure!
Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel
The Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, hidden away in the woods of Northwest Arkansas, is a breathtaking site to behold! It is available to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. unless there are special events planned such as weddings, vow renewals, and so on.
Tanyard Creek Nature Trail
The Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, located a mile from the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, is a famous scenic walk with a magnificent waterfall and a suspension bridge. It’s a 2-mile loop with plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and wildlife photography. If possible, come on a weekday because the parking lot can fill up due to the popularity of this trail.
St. Catherine’s at Bell Gable
I couldn’t believe my senses when I first saw this chapel online! This chapel is a little piece of Europe minutes from central Fayetteville. Most Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the chapel is available to the public, but check their Facebook page for other open house schedules. What a lovely state Arkansas is!
Enjoy every bit of everything in Arkansas so book a flight to Arkansas and enjoy Arkansas’s famous food.
War Eagle Mill
While you’re in Northwest Arkansas, stop by this old mill! It is a completely functional mill that sells flour, cornmeal, pancake and biscuit mixes, preserves, and other items. There’s also a restaurant on the premises that offers War Eagle Mill dishes!
Blue Springs Heritage Center
This Eureka Springs attraction includes crystal blue waters in a botanic garden setting. This is a lovely location, but the admission fee is quite high ($13.75/adult) and there isn’t much to do.
Thorncrown Chapel
The Thorncrown Chapel is an architectural marvel with 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass. Thorncrown Chapel has been dubbed “one of the finest religious spaces of modern times” by critics. Since the chapel’s opening in 1980, over 7 million people have attended. It is free to explore, and there is plenty of parking.
Downtown Eureka Springs
Downtown Eureka Springs is a famous tourist attraction in Arkansas, with quirky shops, cafes, and eateries. Walking through the winding streets, shopping, and eating your way through this historic neighbourhood is enjoyable. The Flatiron Flat, shown here, is one of my favourite structures in New York!
Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical park that includes a treehouse and scenic views. It’s situated in Hot Springs, Arkansas, so while you’re there, check out Hot Springs National Park. It’s a fantastic way to pass an afternoon. Adult admission is $15.
Anthony Chapel
The designed Anthony Chapel, located on the grounds of the Garvan Woodland Gardens, is one of my favourite spots in Arkansas. The interior design is stunning. It’s simple to see why this is such a popular wedding location! This chapel is free to visit, but before you go, check their website to see if there are any planned events.
Bathhouse Row
Bathhouse Row, located in the centre of downtown Hot Springs, is a historic group of bathhouses with beautiful Spanish revival architecture. Stroll down Central Avenue and take in the distinctive design and decor of each of the eight structures.
The Old Mill
Finally, a picturesque mill in the state’s capital city makes the list of the most beautiful locations in Arkansas. You might recognise this iconic mill from the opening moments of Gone with the Wind. This popular location in Little Rock is a photographer’s favorite, and it’s simple to see why! It is also completely free to explore.
Above all, they are friendly and genuine in their interactions with strangers. When you decide to move to the Gem State, you can expect a warm welcome from your new neighbours.
