If you’re craving waterfalls, hiking trails, and a dose of Southern charm, I’d tell you to put Arkansas at the top of your list. When I ventured into “The Natural State,” I was amazed by just how much beauty was packed into one place. You’ll find yourself wandering through forested trails in the Ozarks one day, and soaking in thermal springs the next—just like I did.
I explored caves, paddled calm rivers, and even traced some of the state’s deep-rooted history in Little Rock. You might be surprised at how each season brings something new—spring waterfalls, fiery fall colors, and cool mountain air in the summer. What stood out most for me was the genuine hospitality I felt everywhere I went. If you love nature, culture, or just want to slow down in a place that feels real and welcoming, I think Arkansas will speak to you the way it spoke to me.
Arkansas Highlights:
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Explore the Buffalo National River – One of the last free-flowing rivers in the U.S. with kayaking, hiking, and camping amid towering bluffs.
- For Spa Seekers: Soak in Hot Springs National Park – Enjoy natural thermal baths and historic bathhouses in a mountain town setting.
- For Mountain Lovers: Hike Mount Magazine – Arkansas’ highest point offers stunning vistas, wildflower meadows, and scenic drives.
- For Culture Buffs: Visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – A world-class collection set in the forested hills of Bentonville.
- For History Lovers: Tour Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site – Learn about the Civil Rights Movement at this pivotal landmark.
Best Time to Visit Arkansas
The best time to visit Arkansas is during the spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings wildflowers and waterfalls, while fall showcases brilliant foliage across the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.
How to Get to Arkansas
- By Car: Arkansas is accessible by interstates including I-40, I-30, I-55, and I-49. Major routes connect cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Hot Springs.
- By Air: Little Rock’s Clinton National Airport (LIT) and Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) are the state’s main commercial hubs.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak’s Texas Eagle stops in Little Rock, Malvern, and Walnut Ridge. Greyhound and Jefferson Lines also offer statewide bus service.
Where to Stay in Arkansas
- Recommended for Families: Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa (Hot Springs) – Historic, family-friendly with pools and easy access to the national park.
- For Couples: The Crescent Hotel & Spa (Eureka Springs) – A romantic Victorian-style hilltop inn with history and ghost tours.
- For Nature Escapes: Mount Magazine Lodge – Rustic yet upscale lodge with panoramic views and easy trail access.
Best Things to Do in Arkansas
For Art Lovers: Admire five centuries of American art at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art - Explore American masterpieces surrounded by nature at this world-class Bentonville art museum.
For Romantics: Enjoy the beautiful woodland setting of Thorncrown Chapel - Marvel at this stunning glass chapel set in the Ozark Mountains’ peaceful woods.
For Garden Lovers: Stroll through Garvan Woodland Gardens - Wander scenic trails, waterfalls, and blooms in these lush botanical gardens near Hot Springs.
For History Buffs: Visit the Museum of Native American History - Discover ancient artifacts and indigenous stories at this immersive Bentonville museum.
For Families: Take a tour of the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge - Encounter rescued big cats and learn about wildlife conservation in the Ozarks.
For Spa Fans: Explore Fordyce Bathhouse - Step back in time at this restored Hot Springs bathhouse turned national park museum.
For Socially Conscious Travelers: Take a guided tour of Little Rock Central High School - Reflect on civil rights history at this powerful and preserved national historic site.
For Photographers: See the historical artifacts at The Old Mill - Snap photos at this scenic, film-famous mill featured in Gone with the Wind.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts: See the exhibits at Fort Smith National Historic Site - Dive into frontier history with gallows, jails, and exhibits from the Old West.
For Theater Fans: Watch a performance at TheatreSquared - Catch bold plays and local talent at this acclaimed performing arts venue in Fayetteville.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • For Art Lovers: Admire five centuries of American art at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- • For Romantics: Enjoy the beautiful woodland setting of Thorncrown Chapel
- • For Garden Lovers: Stroll through Garvan Woodland Gardens
- • For History Buffs: Visit the Museum of Native American History
- • For Families: Take a tour of the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
- • For Spa Fans: Explore Fordyce Bathhouse
- • For Socially Conscious Travelers: Take a guided tour of Little Rock Central High School
- • For Photographers: See the historical artifacts at The Old Mill
- • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: See the exhibits at Fort Smith National Historic Site
- • For Theater Fans: Watch a performance at TheatreSquared