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Need a quiet desert getaway or outdoor adventure? Head to Harrison, Arizona! Nestled near red rock canyons and sun-drenched trails, Harrison offers a taste of authentic Arizona with its Old West charm, stunning desert landscapes, and friendly small-town spirit. From hiking to history, it’s a peaceful escape for explorers and nature lovers alike.
Harrison, AZ Highlights:
- Harrison Historic District: Explore adobe buildings, rustic shops, and remnants of Old West culture.
- Red Mesa Trails: Hike scenic desert trails with panoramic views of cliffs, canyons, and cacti.
- Harrison Desert Botanical Center: Discover native desert plants, wildlife habitats, and guided nature walks.
- Coyote Canyon Ranch: Enjoy horseback riding, petting zoos, and cowboy cookouts for the whole family.
- Stargazer Bluff: Head out at night for breathtaking stargazing in one of Arizona’s darkest sky areas.
Best Time to Visit Harrison, AZ
The best time to visit Harrison is from October to April. Cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the desert without the intense summer heat. Spring wildflowers and fall sunsets are especially beautiful.
How to Get to Harrison, AZ
- If you are traveling by car: Located off State Route 77, Harrison is about 1.5 hours southeast of Tucson and 3 hours from Phoenix.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Tucson International Airport (TUS), followed by a scenic drive through the Sonoran Desert.
- By Bus: Regional shuttle services and Greyhound offer limited service to nearby towns, with local taxis available to Harrison.
Where to Stay in Harrison, AZ
- Harrison Canyon Lodge – Rustic lodge with canyon views, a cozy fireplace lounge, and proximity to hiking trails.
- The Desert Star Inn – A charming adobe-style inn with modern amenities and desert garden courtyards.
- Cactus Bloom B&B – Quaint bed-and-breakfast run by locals, perfect for travelers seeking peace and hospitality.
Best Things to Do in Harrison, AZ
1. Buffalo National River Park
Paddle through scenic waters and hike trails with breathtaking views.
© Courtesy of Craig Hanson - Fotolia.com
Buffalo National River Park was established in 1972 and has one of the few undammed rivers which remain in the United States. Cruise through the Ozark Mountains as you journey from flowing rapids to serene pools. You can spend your time in the park hiking the many trails, floating down the river, or camping on the expansive grounds. Something that many other parks don’t offer is the opportunity to explore the park after the sun sets so that you can see the dark, star-lit skies. While you’re there be sure to stop by and explore the many historic homesteads and structures scattered there.
170 Ranger Road, St Joe, AR 72675
2. The Collier Homestead at Tyler Bend
Explore a preserved homestead and discover pioneer life history.
© Courtesy of DSGNSR - Fotolia.com
The Collier Homestead at Tyler Bend is a beautiful sight which you can see from the River Overlook Trail. There’s a lot of history behind the site: the Colliers were one of the last families to acquire land under the 1862 Homestead Act. They moved to Arkansas from Kentucky and built a three-room house with numerous outbuildings. They planted over 40 acres in the surrounding area, making themselves self-sustaining on the unclaimed slopes and ridges. The re-discovered and restored structure is a wonderful way to see the architecture of past buildings from Arkansas’ past.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Boone County Heritage Museum
Discover Boone County’s rich history through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
© Boone County Heritage Museum
Explore the wonderful and unique history of Harrison, Arkansas and the Ozark Mountains at the Boone County Heritage Museum. Visitors will be able to see several exhibits which depict the area’s earliest settlers and how the forefathers colonized the land. You’ll be able to browse the ‘war room’ which houses many artifacts related to the role Arkansas soldiers and Boone County played in the Civil War, World War I, and World War II. It’s a fun way to spend the day and will capture the interests of visitors young and old as each room has something different for you to see and learn about.
124 S Cherry St, Harrison, AR 72601, Phone: 870-741-3312
4. Lyric Theater
Enjoy live performances and experience local arts in a historic venue.
© Courtesy of maxcam - Fotolia.com
Let your creativity run wild at Harrison’s Lyric Theater, which was originally built as the area’s first movie theater in 1929. The unique venue has an intimate design that lets their guests really immerse themselves with the many plays, concerts, workshops, and performances that are held there. Some of the events that have been held there include the Battle of the Bands, performances by two-time Grammy winner Laurence Juber, the theater production of Play On!, and the HAL Figure Drawing Workshop. If you’re in Harrison for an extended period of time you may want to consider volunteering to support the local arts.
113 W Rush Ave, Harrison, AR 72601, Phone: 870-391-3504
5. Rust, Dust & Wanderlust
Browse unique antiques and discover hidden vintage treasures.
© Courtesy of Ben R - Fotolia.com
Rust, Dust & Wanderlust is one of Harrison’s premier antique and consignment shops. The 23,000 square feet of space is filled with booths and vendors which sell a number of goods, from electronics and clothing to toys and home decor. You’ll love walking aisle after aisle of products which are wonderful for the entire family. Everyone from kids to the elderly will be sure to find something gorgeous for themselves, their friends, or their houses. The selection of antiques that you’ll come across come from all over the world and have such rich and unique histories. Services such as shipping and delivery may be available in certain instances.
1307 N Main St, Harrison, AR 72601, Phone: 870-280-5245
Where to Eat:
6. Neighbor's Mill Bakery & Cafe
Savor fresh-baked bread and enjoy hearty, homemade meals.
© Sergey Ryzhov/stock.adobe.com
Break bread with neighbors and friends at Neighbor’s Mill Bakery & Cafe, which is renowned in Harrison for their American Hearth breads which are made from scratch. They offer over twenty-five varieties of hand-crafted breads that are made with wheat berries shipped from Montana and grinded on a 100-year-old grist mill. You can enjoy a healthy meal such as one of their award-winning soups, salads, sandwiches, or their famed baked goods, all of which are made with fresh ingredients. Choices that popular with patrons include the grilled French dip sandwich, the honey pecan chicken salad sandwich, and the pumpkin cream cheese muffins.
1012 US-65, Harrison, AR 72601, Phone: 870-741-6455
7. Devito's Restaurant
Indulge in Italian cuisine and enjoy fresh trout in a cozy setting.
© Devito's Restaurant
Devito’s Restaurant is synonymous with good food, so come prepared to feast on fine Italian cuisine that is concocted by a fourth-generation Italian cook. Offering both carry-out and dine-in options, you’ll be able to choose from a number of items on their dinner menu. The Italian dinner entrees are made from age-old family recipes and include favorites such as spaghetti with Italian sausage, fettuccine alfredo, ravioli, and chicken parmesan. If you’re not in the mood for Italian, you can also try something from the several variations of rainbow trout such as homestyle fried trout, pesto trout, and trout amandine. Other options include prime rib, filet mignon, and calabash shrimp.
350 Devitos Loop N, Harrison, AR 72601, Phone: 870-741-8832
More Places to Eat in Harrison, AZ
- The Rusty Cactus Grill – Western-themed eatery known for mesquite-grilled steaks, burgers, and local craft beer.
- Prickly Pear Café – Cozy breakfast and brunch café serving pancakes, huevos rancheros, and herbal teas.
- Coyote Cocina – Flavor-packed Southwestern cuisine with patio dining and desert sunset views.
If you are interested in local events:
- Harrison Desert Days Festival (March) – Celebrate spring with live music, artisan vendors, food trucks, and outdoor games.
- Old West Reenactments (Monthly) – Witness mock shootouts, cowboy parades, and storytelling in the historic district.
- Stargazing Nights at the Bluff (Bi-monthly) – Join local astronomers for telescope tours and night sky talks.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Harrison, Arizona:
- Copper Ridge Ghost Town – Explore abandoned buildings, antique mining equipment, and legends of the Wild West.
- Saguaro Hills Preserve – Hike among towering cacti and spot wildlife like roadrunners and jackrabbits.
- Silver Springs Hot Springs – Soak in natural desert springs surrounded by red rock cliffs.
- Mission Trail Lookout – Scenic viewpoint and historic chapel overlooking the valley below.
- Whispering Pines Picnic Area – Shady trails, picnic tables, and a peaceful setting in the upper elevations nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What makes Harrison, Arkansas a great place to visit?
- Harrison welcomes visitors with a blend of down-home Southern hospitality, traditional Ozark heritage, and modern attractions.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Harrison?
- Harrison offers opportunities to shop, explore the outdoors, and visit unique natural sites.
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What kind of dining options are available?
- Visitors can enjoy authentic Southern cuisine at the many wonderful restaurants in town.
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Is Harrison a family-friendly destination?
- Yes! Harrison features attractions and activities that are fun for the whole family.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. |
The Queen Anne House Bed & Breakfast – A charming historic stay in downtown Harrison. |
Explore Mystic Caverns – Discover beautiful underground rock formations. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor adventures. |
Hampton Inn Harrison – A comfortable stay with modern amenities. |
Visit Buffalo National River – Go kayaking, canoeing, or hiking along the scenic river. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage. |
Hotel Seville – A historic boutique hotel with elegant charm. |
Drive the Scenic 7 Byway – Experience breathtaking autumn colors in the Ozarks. |
Plan Your Trip