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Arkansas
United States
Visit Arkansas
Arkansas, often referred to as "The Natural State," is a hidden gem in the United States, offering an abundance of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that makes it a unique destination for travelers. Nestled in the heart of the country, Arkansas is characterized by its lush landscapes, ranging from the sprawling Ozark Mountains in the north to the dense forests and meandering rivers of the Ouachita National Forest in the west. The state's diverse geography makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing available in abundance.
One of the must-visit destinations in Arkansas is Hot Springs National Park, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs and historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row. This area has attracted visitors for centuries and continues to be a popular spot for relaxation and wellness. Just a short drive away, the city of Little Rock, the state capital, offers a more urban experience with its vibrant arts scene, museums, and dining options. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is a notable attraction here, providing insights into the life and presidency of Bill Clinton, alongside rotating exhibits on American history and politics.
For those interested in exploring the natural beauty of Arkansas, the Buffalo National River offers an unspoiled setting for kayaking, hiking, and camping. As America's first national river, it flows freely for 135 miles and is flanked by towering bluffs and verdant forests. Meanwhile, the quaint town of Eureka Springs, with its Victorian architecture and winding mountain streets, offers a picturesque retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The town is known for its unique shops, galleries, and the famous Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the woods.
Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a dive into America's past, or a peaceful retreat in a scenic locale, Arkansas offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Its warm hospitality, coupled with an array of attractions and natural wonders, makes it a compelling destination that invites exploration and enjoyment.
Find your Next Adventure in Arkansas
Explore Arkansas
Iconic Landmarks
Hot Springs National Park
- Famous for its naturally heated springs, this park offers therapeutic baths and scenic mountain views.
William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
- Located in Little Rock, this library and museum chronicles the life and presidency of Bill Clinton with exhibits and archives.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
- Nestled in Bentonville, this museum showcases American art from various periods within an architecturally stunning setting.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- This site commemorates the 1957 desegregation crisis, where nine African American students famously integrated into the previously all-white school.
Thorncrown Chapel
- A beautiful glass and wood chapel located in Eureka Springs, designed by architect E. Fay Jones and nestled in a woodland setting.
Mount Magazine State Park
- Arkansas's highest point, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Cultural Experiences
King Biscuit Blues Festival
Held annually in Helena, this festival celebrates the rich legacy of blues music in the Delta region.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Located in Bentonville, this museum offers a premier collection of American art set in a picturesque natural landscape.
Arkansas Folk Festival
This annual event in Mountain View showcases traditional Ozark music and crafts in a family-friendly environment.
Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival
A significant cultural event in Hot Springs that features international documentary films and filmmakers.
Eureka Springs May Festival of the Arts
A month-long celebration in Eureka Springs that highlights the arts with gallery walks, artist demonstrations, and musical performances.
Johnny Cash Heritage Festival
Held in Dyess, this festival honors the legacy of Johnny Cash with music performances and educational activities reflecting the New Deal era.
Outdoor Adventures
Whitewater Rafting on the Cossatot River
Experience the thrill of navigating through Class III, IV, and occasionally V rapids in the rugged beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
Hiking the Ozark Highlands Trail
Explore over 200 miles of scenic trails offering breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and numerous streams in the Ozark National Forest.
Rock Climbing at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
Challenge yourself with over 300 sport routes on quality sandstone, suitable for climbers of all skill levels.
Mountain Biking the Womble Trail
Ride one of the country's premier single-track trails, featuring rolling terrains and stunning vistas along the Ouachita Mountains.
Fishing on Bull Shoals Lake
Cast your line in one of the largest lakes in Arkansas, renowned for its bass, trout, and walleye fishing.
Kayaking the Buffalo National River
Paddle through America's first national river, enjoying the serene waters, towering bluffs, and abundant wildlife.
Off the Beaten Path
Haw Creek Falls Campground
- Nestled in the Ozark National Forest, this area offers picturesque waterfalls and serene hiking trails less traveled by tourists.
Devil's Knob-Devil's Backbone Natural Area
- Explore this remote natural area featuring unique geological formations, diverse ecosystems, and panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains.
Louisiana Purchase State Park
- A historic swamp site marked by a granite monument, this park preserves the initial point from which all surveys of the property acquired in the Louisiana Purchase were made.
Rush Ghost Town
- Visit the remains of a historic zinc mining town from the 1880s, complete with abandoned mines and dilapidated structures, offering a glimpse into Arkansas's industrial past.
Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area
- Ideal for adventurous travelers, this park features rugged river scenery, challenging whitewater rapids, and beautiful, untouched natural landscapes.
Snowball, Arkansas
- A tiny, secluded community surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Arkansas Fun Facts
- Arkansas is known as "The Natural State" due to its beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, caves, rivers, and hot springs.
- The only active diamond mine in the USA, the Crater of Diamonds State Park, is located in Arkansas. Visitors can search for diamonds there.
- Arkansas is the birthplace of former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who served as the 42nd president from 1993 to 2001.
- The state is a major producer of rice, supplying about 50% of the nation's rice.
- The World's Championship Duck Calling Contest is held annually in Stuttgart, Arkansas.
- Arkansas contains over 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,700 miles of streams and rivers.
- The town of Hot Springs features Bathhouse Row, a collection of historic bathhouses that are part of Hot Springs National Park.
- The University of Arkansas mascot, the Razorback, is one of the most unique in the U.S. It is a type of wild boar.
- The Ozark National Forest covers 1.2 million acres and includes over 500 species of trees and woody plants.
- Mountain View, Arkansas, is known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World" and hosts regular folk music performances.
Featured Picture Gallery
Experience Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park has 26 Miles of Hiking