Best Sightseeing in Arkansas
If you’re looking for some of the best sightseeing in Arkansas, you’ve come to the right place. The state is home to several beautiful attractions. For example, the city of Little Rock offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and the Buffalo River. For a little more culture and history, head to the Compton Gardens & Arboretum, the Clinton Presidential Center, and the Old Washington State Park.
Whitaker Point Trail
You can hike to this overlook, which is a mile-and-a-half long. The trail descends gradually and offers an ideal photo op. At the end of the trail, you will reach the bluffs of a smaller scale. The views are breathtaking! But it’s not just the scenery you’ll get from the overlook. You’ll also be able to see the famous Civilian Conservation Corps dam that created this lake!
You can access the trailhead from County Road 5 in Kingston, Arkansas. Highway 16 and 21 also have access to the trailhead, so you can get there easily. The road to the trailhead is steep and gravel, but it’s worth the drive. Highway 16 is the easier way to access the trailhead. Upon arrival, park your car at the trailhead, turn left and walk for about 20 minutes.
If you are looking for a scenic hiking trail, the Whitaker Point Trail in the Ozark National Forest is the one for you. Despite steep cliff edges, the trail is easy to hike. Dogs are permitted on the trail, but you should keep them on a leash near the Hawksbill Crag. If you plan to take photos while hiking, be sure to check the area’s regulations for photography and drone use.
Compton Gardens & Arboretum
The seven-acre garden is a peaceful oasis showcasing the rich history of native Arkansas plants. From champion trees to native flowers, this Arkansas attraction is filled with lush greenery. It also contains a Dr. Neil Compton Exhibit Room. Compton helped save the Buffalo River, so the garden pays tribute to him with its native plants. In addition to the lush gardens, the arboretum also offers a variety of exhibits, including the Dr. Neil Compton Exhibit Room, which showcases his contribution to Arkansas’s history.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to spend a day, head to Compton Gardens and Arboretum. This oasis of green is the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring Downtown Bentonville. Featuring Champion Trees, native plants, and impressive greenery, this garden is the best sightseeing in Arkansas. You’ll also enjoy nature trails, which wind through the garden and showcase some of the beautiful native plants. You can even rent a boardroom here to host your next business meeting or special event.
Compton Gardens is a seven-acre garden and the gateway to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The 6.5-acre garden features native flora and fauna, and is the former home of Dr. Neil Campton, who was dedicated to protecting the region’s natural biodiversity. A 1/2-mile trail is part of the gardens, and is meant to be a free public green space and access point to the Crystal Bridges Trail. There are also several educational exhibits and a conference center, if you’d like to meet with a group.
Buffalo River
If you’re planning a road trip in Arkansas, you may want to start in Jasper and end in Eureka Springs City. In between, you can check out Scenic Point, where you can see the Buffalo River Canyon and purchase souvenirs. It’s about 30 minutes from Ponca City. The museum is free to visit, and you can also rent cabanas if you want to soak up the view from a high vantage point.
While the area is far from populated, you’ll have a great time exploring the surrounding countryside. Whether you want to explore the ancient petroglyphs or see the historic country church in Boxley Valley, the Buffalo River is a perfect place for outdoor activities. Moreover, it’s an easy trip to combine it with other places in Missouri, Texas, or Louisiana. This river provides endless possibilities for fun and adventure.
The most popular attraction for tourists in Arkansas is the Buffalo River Canopy Tour, which is a two-hour experience combining nature and adventure. The tour is best suited for people who weigh between 70 and 250 pounds. It’s also in horse country, so you can also take a horseback ride or go on a hayride at Rimrock Cove Ranch. For groups, there are also other activities and places to visit.
Old Washington State Park
If you’re planning a trip to Arkansas, make sure to include a visit to the state park known as Historic Washington State Park. This 101-acre park is the perfect place to spend the afternoon since you can see pioneer artifacts preserved from Washington, Arkansas, which is an ancient settlement on the Southwest Trail. You can even take a tour of the park’s museum village. And, if you’ve got the time, you can learn how pioneers built their homes and communities.
The Park is also home to the historic Washington State Pioneer Museum. It has the largest collection of pioneer-era buildings in the state and highlights pioneer culture during the period of 1824 to 1889. Visitors can see a working 19th-century printing press and witness basket-weaving and weaving on a loom. Among the other sites in the park are several historical churches, including the oldest Methodist congregation in the state.
For history buffs, you can see the Blacksmith Shop, which was built by a local foundation in 1960. It contains two working forges. James Black, the best known blacksmith in Washington, worked under James Bowie and forged the original Bowie knife. The museum has a gift shop where you can purchase some of the works of art. If you’re hungry, you can try the ground buffalo steak.
Hot Springs National Park
When it comes to sightseeing in Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is undoubtedly the top attraction. It is the equivalent of the world’s largest outdoor bathhouse. The thermal waters here are believed to have healing properties. You can even go diamond-digging and collect semi-precious gems. In addition to its stunning landscape, Arkansas also has eight lesser-known state parks that deserve a visit.
Regardless of your age, your visit will be a memorable one. If you’re planning to travel to Hot Springs, you’ll want to plan your trip according to the weather conditions in the area. Depending on the time of year, the climate can be extremely hot or very cold. NASA’s website offers weather data for Hot Springs for each month. A day trip to the park can last a full day or as little as one hour.
While you’re here, don’t miss the Bob Wheeler Science Center. The tower is a popular tourist spot, with a robust gift shop and observation deck. You can even walk up to the top of the mountain for an unobstructed view of the park and surrounding area. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while learning about its history. The park has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Blanchard Springs
If you’re looking for some great sightseeing opportunities in Arkansas, you’ve come to the right place. The Blanchard Springs Caverns are located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest in northern Arkansas, two miles off Highway 14 just north of Mountain View. These beautiful limestone caves are perfect for day trips, family outings, or even just a relaxing afternoon. Here are some things you should know before visiting:
The caverns at Blanchard Springs are one of the best natural wonders in the state. They are the largest in the US and are three football fields deep. Visitors can take three different tours to explore the caverns. The easiest is the Dripstone Trail, while the more adventurous options are the Discovery Trail and Wild Cave Tour. You can also participate in special events at Blanchard Springs Caverns.
The waterfall and beautiful springs at Blanchard Springs are just a few of the many things to do here. You can also camp on the grounds of the park, enjoy a day at the lake, or take a bike ride on the Syllamo Bike Trail. There are trails available for all levels of cyclists. Another great place for sightseeing in Arkansas is Mount Magazine State Park. This scenic area was first designated as Ouachita National Forest in 1938, and was later transferred to the Ozark National Forest. The park was dedicated to state status in 2002.
Beaver Lake
If you love the beauty of natural landscapes, Beaver Lake is the best place for sightseeing in Arkansas. The man-made reservoir is in Northwest Arkansas, formed by a dam across the White River. It boasts four hundred and seventy miles of shoreline, towering limestone bluffs, natural caves, and a variety of flowering shrubs and trees. Regardless of your interest, there’s a place here for you.
The beautiful surroundings of Beaver Lake will make you want to spend more time on the shore. The scenic lake is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and forests. Thousands of people visit this region every year for its stunning landscapes. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to go boating, scuba diving, hiking, or just relax. If you have a boat or a canoe, you can rent a kayak and go on a picnic along the shoreline.
The area’s biggest attraction, Beaver Lake is home to approximately three million visitors every year. The lake helps sustain many businesses, including restaurants and hotels in Eureka Springs. Summer, spring, and fall are the peak seasons for visiting. The water activities and natural beauty will help keep your family busy and entertained. For those looking for a memorable time with the family, a boat tour is a great way to begin your vacation.
Things to Do in Arkansas
With its beautiful landscapes and abundant parks, there are plenty of things to do in Arkansas. The Ozarks region has limestone caves, hot springs, and hiking trails. Visitors can also visit the Clinton Presidential Center, where Bill Clinton’s presidential archives are kept. There are plenty of things to do in Arkansas that are sure to make your stay memorable. Continue reading to find out more about the attractions of this southern state. Let us help you plan your next trip to Arkansas.
Quigley’s Castle
If you are interested in history and architecture, you can visit the historic Quigley’s Castle. It is a beautiful house with beautiful gardens inside and outside. The Quigley family lived in the house for 40 years, filling up every square inch with their collections. In 1984, the castle was opened as a museum to honor Quigley’s memory. The current owners open the doors to the public for tours from April through October.
Elise Quigley built Quigley’s Castle in 1943, using lumber from their own property. She had been collecting rocks since her childhood, and she incorporated them into the house’s exterior. The interior of the castle has lush gardens, and she has a remarkable collection of arrowheads and crystals. The house itself is surrounded by a beautiful garden and features more than 100 rock sculptures, including the famous “bottle tree.”
Unlike many historic homes, Quigley’s Castle is a truly beautiful place to visit. The garden has plants climbing the walls and an amazing collection of butterflies and Ozark rocks. The castle is a family favorite, and the Quigley family has done a fantastic job of preserving it. The castle is now run by the Quigley family’s grandchildren. If you have never been to this castle, you are missing out on a wonderful adventure. If you are looking for something different to do in Arkansas, make sure you add it to your bucket list!
While visiting Quigley’s Castle, be sure to plan a visit to the nearby Sculpture Garden. Its unique collection of rock and crystals will inspire you. Elise Quigley loved nature and wanted to incorporate it into her home. The design is eclectic, and she spent decades on her project. You will also want to consider the Quigleys’ collection of antiques.
Lake Ouachita
Lake Ouachita is a large body of water located in western Arkansas, near Hot Springs. Surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest, it stretches over 40,000 acres and is a popular destination for scuba diving, water skiing, and camping. Visitors can find many types of recreational activities at Lake Ouachita, including marinas, boat launch ramps, and horseback riding. To learn more about the area’s many recreational opportunities, read below.
The lake has plenty of marine life, including rare freshwater jellyfish and a species of freshwater sponge. Spear fishing is permitted, and there is a special season for this sport. Mountain bikers can take advantage of the lake’s bike trail and explore the water’s many geological features. The lake also features a Geo-Float Trail, which features marked water trails and brochures highlighting prominent geologic features.
To reach the water, head south on I-30 and exit at Hot Springs. From there, take AR Hwy 7 to Hot Springs and continue for another 35 miles to Lake Ouachita. You can also take US 270 from Little Rock to the east, which makes it a convenient place to start your journey to Lake Ouachita. You can also drive down US Hwy 270 to reach the lake’s many attractions and access points.
Aside from the water, Lake Ouachita is home to bald eagles, waterfowl, and wading birds. You can enjoy fishing, jet skiing, and tubing along the lake. If you love the outdoors, you can camp on its islands. Camping on the lake is allowed in the Ouachita National Forest. And if you’re into fishing, you won’t have a hard time finding bream and bass in the lake.
Thorncrown Chapel
If you are looking for a unique place to visit in Arkansas, then you may want to visit Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The chapel was designed by E. Fay Jones and built in 1980, and reflects the Prairie School of architecture popularized by Frank Lloyd Wright. Jones was an apprentice to Wright and was responsible for creating many of the famous prairie-style buildings in the United States.
In addition to its architectural beauty, the Thorncrown Chapel is open for the public to attend a variety of services. The chapel holds Sunday services, and you can participate in one of them during your stay. The services last one hour and include a mixture of biblical teaching and music. The chapel is free to visit, and donations are accepted. You can find a map of local attractions here.
In the heart of Eureka Springs, you can experience the beauty of the Thorncrown Chapel. This soaring chapel was designed by the renowned architect E. Fay Jones. It was a Top Ten Design in the twentieth century by 2001. It was also awarded Design of the Decade for the 1980s. If you love modern architecture, you should visit Thorncrown Chapel.
If you are in need of a unique wedding venue, Thorncrown Chapel is one of the most popular wedding venues in the state. With over four hundred and twenty-five windows and surrounding rock formations, the venue offers a unique setting for your big day. You can even hold an outdoor ceremony on the grounds of the chapel. While you’re in Eureka Springs, you may want to stop by Thorncrown Chapel and plan your wedding there.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
If you have never been to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, you’re missing out. Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, it offers free admission to the general public and a world-class collection of American art. More than half a billion dollars is included in the museum’s permanent collection, and visitors can view works by nearly every major American artist from the Colonial Era to the 21st century. Visitors will find works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Mark Rothko, Roy Lichtenstein, Adolph Gottleib, and more.
The museum’s permanent collection is free of charge, and the exhibitions often change every few years. Visitors can also explore the museum’s eye-catching installation, the Buckyball, which is illuminated every day from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Buckyball, an interactive exhibit of light, changes from a white-light sequence during the daytime to a colorful sequence during the nighttime hours.
The museum has several free tours that highlight the permanent collection and can be enjoyed on foot. You can choose from audio tours or self-guided tours, depending on your level of comfort. You may want to explore the surrounding gardens on your own. The museum is also home to the Bachman-Wilson House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Admission is free, and the trails are open from sunrise to sunset every day.
The Crystal Bridges museum is located in Bentonville, Arkansas. It is owned by the Walton family, one of the richest people in the world in 2010. The Waltons have been investing billions of dollars in the area and created a personal utopia. For the locals, it is a special experience and a must-see on your list of things to do in Arkansas.
Eureka Springs
You’ll find Eureka Springs, Arkansas, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, in northwest and central Arkansas. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture, with the Basin Park Hotel, Crescent Hotel, and Palace Bath House all occupying the historic district. In addition, you’ll find the striking wood and glass Thorncrow Chapel and the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, home to bears and big cats. No visit to Eureka Springs would be complete without checking out some of the many things to do in Eureka Springs.
For the arts-conscious, Eureka Springs features a museum of local pottery, blown glass, and fine art. Basin Spring Park is a beautiful setting for a picnic or people-watching. You can take carriage rides around the historic downtown area, or attend a magic show at the Intrigue Theater with magician Sean Paul. If you want a night out, there are 21 local bars and pubs offering adult beverages and live music.
The historic downtown district of Eureka Springs is full of exciting things to do. From a museum to a full-sized train set, there’s something for every age. If you’re looking for something different, you can visit Inspiration Point, a scenic overlook of the town. The location is free to visit, and you can see the scenery in all seasons. At the end of your trip, you’ll have a great time exploring Eureka Springs, Arkansas!
One of the most inspiring landmarks of Eureka Springs is the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, which is over a century old and on the National Register of Historic Places. The church also boasts a small prayer garden and a charming bell tower. The church is a popular destination for religious pilgrims and is also the perfect place to witness a Catholic mass. You can even get married in this beautiful church.
Top 3 Places to Visit in Arkansas
For those visiting Arkansas for the first time, there are some things you should do. From the iconic Mount Nebo to the spectacular scenery of the Blanchard Springs Caverns, this state has so much to offer. There are also many great places to explore in the state, such as Mount Magazine State Park, which is one of the most popular parks in the state. Here, we will discuss some of the best things to do in each location.
Mount Nebo
If you are looking for a great place to hike in Arkansas, Mount Nebo may be the place for you. This state park in the Arkansas River Valley is 1,350 feet above sea level. It is an excellent place for hiking and offers sweeping views. The park is also a site of the historic Trail of Tears. In the 1830s, people from Native American tribes crossed the Arkansas River below Mount Nebo. In the late 1800s, the park was home to a luxurious hotel. Unfortunately, it burned down in the early 1900s. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps began building trails and infrastructure at Mount Nebo.
Mountain Nebo State Park has two launch sites for hang gliding. Visitors must be at least 16 years old to participate. There are no lessons at Mount Nebo, so you should only come if you have been practicing for a while. However, the views are well worth it! You can also take your hang gliders on a flight over the beautiful Arkansas Valley. Just make sure to bring your advanced pilot license to ensure you are ready for the experience.
When visiting Mount Nebo, make sure to bring your hiking shoes and plenty of water. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Arkansas River and 34000-acre Lake Dardanelle. You’ll be in for a great workout, too. Mount Nebo is a great place to visit in Arkansas! The scenery is stunning and the views are unforgettable. You can also stay in the state park and enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping and biking.
Despite its small size, Mount Nebo State Park offers a variety of lodging options, including a campground with cabins and picnic sites. There are also four modern cabins at Mount Nebo State Park that offer heat and air conditioning. The modern cabins are equipped with kitchen facilities, as well as 19-inch TVs. Additionally, you’ll have access to picnic areas and pavilions. There’s even a visitor center at the park.
A historical perspective of Mount Nebo is an interesting insight into its origins. This mountain, along with many other areas of the Arkansas River, was a popular summer destination for the upper class from all over the nation. Many people traveled by steamboat down the Arkansas River to visit Mount Nebo. By 1889, the city had two hotels and nearly five thousand summer residents. Today, however, the area is home to fifty private residences. Many of these are family members of early settlers.
The trails around the mountain can be challenging or easy, depending on your skills. There are also multiple loops that cater to different skill levels. A trail around the mountain’s peak offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Whether you prefer to hike in the park or go biking, there’s something for everyone. The park offers a variety of trails that are great for mountain biking in Arkansas.
Blanchard Springs Caverns
If you love caves, then Blanchard Springs Caverns is the place to go. Located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest in northern Arkansas, the caves are two miles off Highway 14 north of Mountain View. Visit the caverns and experience the natural beauty of the area. While you’re there, don’t forget to take a photo. The caves are huge, so take your time exploring them.
There are three levels to the caverns, and portions of each level are open for guided tours. Visitors can view hundreds of formations and even cave salamanders. You can choose from three different tours: Dripstone Trail, Discovery Trail, and Wild Cave Tour. There are also special events held there throughout the year, including a summer music festival. For a guided tour, purchase your ticket online or call ahead to reserve a spot.
One of the most unique things about Blanchard Springs Caverns is that you can visit the caves while they are still alive. Because of the glistening formations and the water, you’ll be able to feel the presence of water as you walk along the paved trails. For the more adventurous, you can climb over rocks or crawl through red clay mud. Alternatively, you can watch a movie at the Discovery Trail Caverns and explore its dazzling underground world.
The Cathedral Room is the most famous part of the caverns, and the only one in which you’ll find such a large number of creatures. There are more than 80 documented species, and you can see them for yourself by taking an elevator ride. Once you’re down there, you’ll discover an incredible domed ceiling that’s the size of four football fields. There’s nothing quite like being able to feel the water.
There are hiking trails near the caverns that are accessible to people with disabilities. The Accessible Trail, a half-mile-long paved trail, is wheelchair and stroller-accessible. Another hiking trail, known as the Spring Trail, starts at the Visitor Center and runs along Blanchard Creek. It drops down below the dam area. A good hike, which includes some fun, is a must.
The caves are cool inside. The temperature stays between fifty-eight degrees Fahrenheit and one hundred percent relative humidity. Despite the cool temperatures, the caves remain wet and humid. The caverns have been carefully preserved to mimic the conditions that occur naturally. Nonetheless, there are safety measures and handrails to ensure the safety of visitors. You’ll want to pack a jacket or bring along some lightweight non-slip shoes. Tours take place seven days a week from April to October, with exception of holidays.
The cave is full of stalactites and stalagmites. The stalagmites, or rock formations that rise out of the floor, are the most famous. The spring is spring-fed, so it flows year-round into the streambed below. The ruins of a mill once stood nearby. A hidden waterfall, the Blanchard Spring, is just a short walk away.
Mount Magazine State Park
Mount Magazine State Park is a 2,234-acre park located in Logan County, Arkansas. It was first inhabited in the 1850s and was eventually included in the Ouachita National Forest. It was renamed to state park status in 1999. You can explore the beautiful scenery in this Arkansas park. It is the perfect destination for those looking for an outdoor adventure or a peaceful place to relax after a day of hiking or fishing.
You can get a breathtaking view of the Ouachita Mountains and the Arkansas River Valley from the top of Mount Magazine State Park. The top of the mountain is flat and forested, but the rim is forested. Hiking trails and scenic overlooks are popular activities at the park. You can also find accommodations at the park, as well as picnic areas, a pavilion, and a visitor center.
When visiting Mount Magazine, make sure you take the time to visit the visitor center. It has an excellent topography model to help you visualize the park’s terrain and make the most of your time. Exhibits tell you about the history and natural history of the park, as well as its animals and plants. You can also learn about the park’s history and see if you’re able to find a good hiking trail.
While you’re at Mount Magazine State Park, take a hike along the Bear Hollow Trail. This trail crosses several creeks and is around 2.8 miles long. It passes through the highest point in Arkansas. You’ll also see a stone map of the state. This scenic overlook will leave you breathless. There are other activities that you can do at Mount Magazine State Park, including mountain biking.
Visitors can go geocaching in the park, which encourages exploration and discovery. Another great way to see wildlife is by visiting geocaching sites. There are many accommodations available at Mount Magazine State Park. If you’re traveling in an RV, there are several campgrounds located nearby. You can find one that matches your preferences. If you want to spend the night, you can stay in one of the beautiful cabins.
If you’re an avid birdwatcher, Mount Magazine is an excellent place to observe wildlife migration. The state park is part of a national forest, and partners with the USDA Forest Service to help preserve and protect the natural environment. The park offers interpretive programs that allow visitors to learn more about plants and animals, such as the butterflies that migrate. During the spring, a park is a great place for bird watching, and the area is filled with various species.
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax, Mount Magazine is a great place to visit. At 2,753 feet, the mountain rises dramatically from the Arkansas River and Petit Jean River valley. It is a remnant of an ancient seafloor, and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and plains. The park is rich in wildlife, including endangered species.
