Romantic Weekend Getaways in Arkansas
What makes Arkansas so appealing is the way it combines breathtaking scenery with intimate settings, giving every couple a chance to create lasting memories. I found that romantic weekend getaways in Arkansas are the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and cozy escapes, making them a wonderful choice for couples looking to reconnect. With its mix of mountains, lakes, and historic towns, Arkansas offers both adventure and relaxation, often within just a short drive.
Choosing where to stay is part of the fun, from romantic cabins tucked away in the woods, to boutique hotels in lively downtowns. Here are some of the most unique Arkansas getaways I came across while road tripping across the state for four weeks that I think you’ll love for your next romantic weekend adventure.
1. Cliff Cottage Inn in Eureka Springs
I thought that Cliff Cottage Inn was one of the best romantic weekend getaways in Arkansas when I moved to the South. Why? From the moment we arrived, I felt like I had stepped into a whimsical storybook setting perched on the hillside above downtown. A 3 hour 30 minutes drive from Little Rock, it makes for a cool three-day weekend getaway.
We loved how the Victorian cottages and suites each had their own personality, filled with antique charm, cozy touches, and a sense of history that made me feel right at home.
My suite for three days came with a private porch overlooking the winding streets of Eureka Springs, and sipping coffee there quickly became my favorite part of the morning.
I thought one of the best features was the homemade breakfast delivered right to my door at 8am. It felt indulgent and personal, with fresh, hearty dishes that started the day perfectly.
I also discovered how convenient the location was because I could walk down the steps and be right in the heart of town, surrounded by shops, galleries, and restaurants, yet still retreat back to the quiet comfort of the inn.
I enjoyed having a choice of things to do nearby, including visiting the unique Thorncrown Chapel and Christ of the Ozarks, exploring historic downtown, seeing rescued animals at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and riding the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway.
I found that the innkeepers added to the charm, offering thoughtful hospitality and local recommendations that made my stay even more memorable.
I spent my evenings relaxing on the porch for 30 minutes, listening to the sounds of the town below and watching the hillside lights twinkle—it felt like my own private escape.
For me, Cliff Cottage Inn was a hidden gem in Eureka Springs that was romantic, welcoming, and perfectly placed for both relaxation and adventure.
To book, check availability or prices for Cliff Cottage Inn.
A downside? I loved the whimsical Victorian feel, but parking in Eureka Springs was tight. I found myself circling the narrow streets more than once before settling in.
My personal highlight was the romantic atmosphere, with charming details like stained glass windows, clawfoot tubs, and cozy fireplaces that made it feel warm and intimate.
2. Lookout Point Lakeside Inn, Hot Springs
I found Lookout Point Lakeside Inn in Hot Springs to be a true hidden treasure that made me feel right at home from the moment we arrived.
We drove four hours from Eureka Springs to Hot Springs and I loved how the inn sat right on the edge of Lake Hamilton, giving me peaceful water views that felt like the perfect romantic backdrop for my stay.
My room for two days was cozy and elegant, filled with thoughtful touches like soft linens, fresh flowers, and a balcony that opened right out to the lake.
You can trust that this is a special and unique place because it was named one of “The South’s Best Inns” in Southern Living.
I enjoyed mornings with a homemade breakfast served in a sunlit dining room, and every dish tasted fresh and comforting—it set the tone for my day.
I found that the inn felt like an amazing retreat, where I could read a book by the fireplace for 45 minutes, sip wine on the porch, or take a kayak out on the calm waters.
What stood out to me most was the warm hospitality; I felt truly cared for, as if I was staying with family rather than at a hotel.
I thought the location was also wonderful. It was just a short 20 minute (6.8 miles) drive into downtown Hot Springs, yet it felt private and secluded enough for a weekend escape.
Every moment here reminded me why this inn is such a gem in Arkansas, and I left already dreaming about when I could return.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star Lookout Point Lakeside Inn.
The gardens were my personal highlight, with winding paths, colorful flowers, and quiet benches where I could sit and just soak in the beauty.
3. Hilltop Manor Bed and Breakfast, Hot Springs
Chris and I decided to spend the next two nights in Hot Springs at the nearby Hilltop Manor Bed and Breakfast. A quick 25 minute (9.7 mi) drive took us to our new location.
I loved how Hilltop Manor sat on five beautiful acres, giving me plenty of space to unwind while still being just minutes from all the attractions of Hot Springs.
My room for two days felt like a romantic retreat, and completely won me over with a fireplace, a plush bed, and a spa-like bathroom that made me never want to leave.
I thought the stonework and wood accents throughout the house gave it a warm, timeless character that was truly my favorite feature.
I started each morning with a gourmet breakfast served in the sunroom, where I could sip coffee while looking out over the peaceful grounds.
For me, Hilltop Manor felt like an amazing blend of history and hospitality—it had the elegance of a 1910 Craftsman manor with all the comforts I wanted for a relaxing getaway.
I appreciated the thoughtful little touches, from fresh cookies in the afternoon to helpful recommendations for exploring Hot Springs National Park.
Staying here made me feel like I had discovered a hidden corner of Arkansas hospitality, and I left already planning my return visit.
To book, check availability or prices for the 3-star Hilltop Manor.
My personal highlight was walking around the property, listening to the sound of the waterfall, and sitting on the porch swings where time seemed to slow down.
4. Arsenic and Old Lace Bed & Breakfast, Eureka Springs
Back in Eureka Springs, this was the kind of place that made you forget your phone in your bag. Surrounded by stained glass, heirloom furniture, and lush garden views, Arsenic & Old Lace Bed and Breakfast felt like stepping into a time when romance was unhurried.
I loved how the Victorian charm wrapped around me the moment I walked through the door, making me feel both welcomed and transported back in time.
The inn sits on a hillside, and I couldn’t stop staring at the gorgeous views of the Ozark Mountains from the veranda. Every morning, I found myself lingering and extra 10 minutes there with a cup of coffee, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere—it became one of my favorite routines during my stay.
My room for two days was filled with thoughtful details: antique furnishings, soft linens, and a whirlpool tub that made me feel truly spoiled. I especially appreciated how every corner seemed designed with comfort in mind, and I knew right away this would be my favorite place to return to after exploring town.
Breakfast was another highlight. I enjoyed a hearty, home-cooked meal served in the elegant dining room, where I met other travelers and swapped stories. I thought it added such a personal touch, and it reminded me why I prefer staying in a B&B over a big hotel.
I liked nearby activities like hiking and mountain biking, experiencing ghost tours, visiting the Blue Spring Heritage Center just 20 minutes by car (8.5 miles via US-62 W), and taking a tour of the Onyx Cave just 15 minutes from the inn where I picked up some unique rocks at the Gift shop as Christmas gifts.
To book, check availability or prices for the 3-star Arsenic & Old Lace Bed and Breakfast.
What I loved most was how Old Lace captured the heart of Eureka Springs...it’s romantic, cozy, and full of character. For me, it’s a true hidden gem, and I couldn’t imagine a better getaway spot to relax, recharge, and experience the beauty of the Ozarks.
5. Gilded romance at The Empress of Little Rock
I stayed at The Empress of Little Rock, and from the moment I arrived I felt like I had stepped into a Victorian dream. The mansion’s towering spires, intricate woodwork, and stained-glass windows immediately set the tone for an unforgettable stay.
We drove to Little Rock from Austin TX for 8 hours where we started this four week Arkansas road trip.
Inside The 3-star Empress of Little Rock, I found myself surrounded by opulent details—antique furnishings, velvet drapes, and ornate fireplaces that made me feel like I was living in another era. I loved how each room told its own story, and I couldn’t help but feel that sense of history woven into every corner.
My suite for two days was filled with elegance and charm, featuring a plush bed, rich fabrics, and a whirlpool tub that felt so indulgent after a day of exploring Little Rock. I especially loved waking up to soft morning light streaming through the tall windows—it was one of my favorite moments of the trip.
Breakfast at the Empress was a highlight for me. I enjoyed a beautifully prepared meal served in the grand dining room, where the chandeliers sparkled overhead and the atmosphere felt both intimate and special.
What stood out most was the warmth of the hospitality. I felt cared for in a way that made my stay even more memorable, and I left with the sense that I had discovered one of Little Rock’s hidden gems.
For me, The Empress of Little Rock was more than just a place to stay—it was a romantic experience, full of history, beauty, and charm that made my getaway truly unforgettable.
To book, check availability or prices for The Empress of Little Rock.
Conclusion
Each stay gave us something we didn’t know we needed, a deeper silence, a richer breakfast, a longer moment. Arkansas’s romantic getaways aren’t flashy, but they’re deeply felt. They invite you to slow down, to savor the morning light through lace curtains, to hold hands on wraparound porches, to fall in love again in the spaces between plans. Whether you're drawn to lakeside luxury or Victorian grandeur, these destinations gave us more than memories, they gave us presence.
6. Timeless luxury at the Capital Hotel, Little Rock
The moment we walked into the 5-star Capital Hotel, I felt a hush, that kind of hush reserved for grand staircases, soaring ceilings, and silver service.
I couldn't stop admiring the grand cast-iron façade and the ornate Victorian front, which instantly transported me to the late 1800s—what an amazing testament to history.
I wandered into the lobby, and I was struck by the gleaming chandeliers, marble columns, and stained-glass accents that glow under soft light—it was one of my favorite parts of arriving.
My room for three days felt both timeless and comfortable, outfitted with Frette linens, tasteful furnishings, and all the refined touches that made me feel like royalty during my stay.
I loved how the dining options—One Eleven and the Capital Bar & Grill—offered elevated Southern dishes with genuine flair, and I eagerly looked forward to every meal.
For me, what truly stands out is how seamlessly the Capital Hotel melds storied tradition with modern comfort. I felt nestled in history, but also fully catered to—what an unforgettable experience.
Its nickname, “the Front Porch of Little Rock,” rings so true to me—I felt like I was welcomed home.
Whether I was marveling at its architectural grandeur or savoring decadent Southern cuisine, every moment there reminded me that this hotel is a true gem—and in Little Rock, a rare kind of stay that so genuinely warms the heart.
To book, check availability or prices for Capital Hotel.
A downside? The downtown location meant street noise at night. I wished for a little more quiet once I went upstairs.
7. Historic charm at Inn at Carnall Hall, Fayetteville
We stayed at the Inn at Carnall Hall in Fayetteville for our anniversary, and I felt like I was part of history the moment I stepped inside. The building itself, once a women’s dormitory at the University of Arkansas, has been beautifully restored, and I loved how it blended classic charm with modern comfort.
We drove 2 hours 45 minutes from Little Rock to Fayetteville. My room for two days felt warm and inviting, with tall windows, soft bedding, and thoughtful touches that made me feel right at home. I especially enjoyed waking up to views of the campus—it gave me such a peaceful start to my day and quickly became my favorite part of the mornings.
One evening, I had dinner at Ella’s Table, the on-site restaurant, and it was an experience in itself. I loved how the menu combined Southern tradition with a modern twist, and the atmosphere felt both lively and intimate, perfect for a romantic night out or a laid-back evening with friends.
I also spent some time on the wide front porch, relaxing with a drink in hand and watching students and locals pass by. It was such a simple pleasure, but honestly, it felt like one of those underrated moments that make a trip unforgettable.
We enjoyed having lots to do nearby, from exploring the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks and the Arkansas Air and Military Museum to enjoying live music on Dickson Street and sampling craft beers on the Fayetteville Ale Trail. You can visit historical sites like the Clinton House Museum, enjoy the outdoors at Lake Fayetteville, or see a performance at the Walton Arts Center.
To book, check availability or prices for Inn at Carnall Hall.
The only drawback? Staying on the University of Arkansas campus was fun, but I quickly realized that football weekends brought big crowds and higher rates.
For me, the Inn at Carnall Hall is a true gem in Fayetteville and one of the best romantic weekend getaways in Arkansas. I left feeling like I had discovered one of the best ways to experience the town, with history, hospitality, and comfort all wrapped into one.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
