When I first visited Arkansas, I wasn’t sure what to expect — but it completely surprised me in the best way. This state is full of natural beauty, friendly towns, and fun outdoor adventures. From the peaceful mountains to the relaxing hot springs, Arkansas has so many things to see and do.
Whether I was hiking in the Ozarks, paddling down a river, or enjoying small-town charm, I always felt close to nature. There are also museums, tasty Southern food, and unique places that I had never heard of before but loved discovering.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the best things I did in Arkansas. If you’re planning a trip or just curious about what this state has to offer, these spots are worth adding to your list.
Visit Hot Springs National Park
One of my favorite places in Arkansas was Hot Springs National Park. It’s right in the middle of the town of Hot Springs, but it still feels like a peaceful escape. The natural hot springs have been drawing people here for hundreds of years.
I started by walking along Bathhouse Row, where I saw the historic buildings that once served as luxurious spas. I even took a soak in one of the traditional bathhouses — it was warm, relaxing, and just what I needed after a day of exploring.
There are also some great hiking trails in the park. I hiked up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, and the view from the top was amazing. I could see miles of green hills and winding roads below.
If you’re ever in Arkansas, I highly recommend stopping by Hot Springs. Whether you want a spa day or a nature walk, this place has a little bit of everything.
Explore the Ozark Mountains
One of the highlights of my trip to Arkansas was exploring the Ozark Mountains. This area is full of rolling hills, deep forests, and peaceful streams. It felt like a hidden gem where I could truly slow down and enjoy nature.
I spent time hiking some beautiful trails — the views were amazing, especially during the fall when the leaves were changing colors. One of my favorite spots was around Eureka Springs, a charming little town tucked into the mountains with winding streets, historic buildings, and cozy shops.
The Ozarks are perfect for outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, or just taking scenic drives. There are also caves to explore and quiet places to stop and take it all in.
If you love nature and peaceful mountain towns, the Ozark Mountains are a must-visit when you’re in Arkansas.
Enjoy Water Activities on Lake Ouachita
If you’re looking for a fun day on the water, Lake Ouachita is the perfect place. I spent a sunny day here, and it turned out to be one of the most relaxing parts of my trip to Arkansas.
The lake is big and clean, surrounded by trees and rolling hills. I went swimming in the clear water and even rented a kayak to paddle along the quiet shoreline. It felt peaceful and far away from the noise of everyday life.
There were also people fishing, boating, and camping by the water. I met a few families who visit the lake every summer — and I could see why. It’s great for both adventure and relaxation.
Whether you want to get active or just float in the sun, Lake Ouachita is a beautiful spot to enjoy the outdoors in Arkansas.
Walk Around Little Rock
When I arrived in Little Rock, the capital city of Arkansas, I was excited to explore. It has a mix of history, culture, and modern charm. Walking around downtown, I found cute shops, tasty places to eat, and friendly people everywhere.
One of my favorite spots was the River Market District. I wandered through local markets, grabbed a snack, and sat by the river to enjoy the view. I also visited the Clinton Presidential Library, which was both interesting and beautifully designed — even if you’re not into politics, the exhibits are worth checking out.
For a peaceful walk, I strolled across the Big Dam Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the U.S. The view of the Arkansas River from there was incredible, especially at sunset.
Little Rock felt like a city that still holds onto its small-town heart. It’s full of character and well worth a visit when you’re in Arkansas.
Tour Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville was a real highlight of my Arkansas trip. The museum is stunning, set in the middle of a beautiful forest with walking trails all around.
Inside, I was amazed by the collection of American art — from classic paintings to modern pieces. The exhibits felt welcoming and easy to enjoy, even if you don’t know much about art. I especially loved seeing works by famous artists like Norman Rockwell and Georgia O’Keeffe.
After touring the galleries, I took a walk along the peaceful trails outside. The museum’s architecture blends perfectly with nature, making it a peaceful place to relax and reflect.
If you appreciate art or just want to experience something special in Arkansas, Crystal Bridges is definitely worth a visit.
Discover the Buffalo National River
One of the most beautiful places I visited in Arkansas was the Buffalo National River. It’s one of the few free-flowing rivers left in the country, and being there felt like stepping into a peaceful, untouched world.
I spent time canoeing along the calm waters, surrounded by tall bluffs and lush forests. The river was so clear, and I even saw some wildlife like deer and birds along the banks. It was the perfect spot for both adventure and quiet reflection.
There are also hiking trails nearby, and I enjoyed walking through the woods and discovering hidden waterfalls. The river area is great for camping too, and I wished I had stayed overnight to fully enjoy the natural beauty.
If you love nature and want to experience one of Arkansas’s best-kept secrets, the Buffalo National River is a must-see.
Step Back in Time in Historic Towns
One of the things I loved about Arkansas was visiting its charming historic towns. Places like Eureka Springs and Fort Smith made me feel like I had stepped back in time.
In Eureka Springs, the winding streets are lined with Victorian buildings, quirky shops, and cozy cafes. I enjoyed exploring the unique architecture and learning about the town’s history as a healing destination. The small-town charm made it a perfect spot to relax and soak in local culture.
In Fort Smith, I visited old forts and museums that told stories about the Wild West days. It was fascinating to see how the town played a big role in American history, especially during frontier times.
If you’re a fan of history or just want to enjoy some peaceful walks through beautiful old streets, these historic towns in Arkansas should definitely be on your list.
Visit the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo
Visiting the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo in Hot Springs was a fun and unexpected part of my trip. It’s a unique place where you can see alligators up close, watch feeding shows, and even hold baby alligators if you’re feeling brave!
Besides the alligators, there’s a petting zoo with friendly animals like goats, sheep, and ponies. It was a great spot to visit with family or if you just love animals.
The staff were friendly and full of interesting facts about the creatures, which made the visit both fun and educational. If you want a break from hiking or sightseeing, this place offers a fun change of pace in Arkansas.
Hike to Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker Point)
One of the most unforgettable hikes I did in Arkansas was to Hawksbill Crag, also known as Whitaker Point. This trail is popular for a good reason — the views at the top are absolutely stunning.
The hike itself is about 3 miles round trip, and it’s not too difficult, making it perfect for most people who enjoy the outdoors. As I walked through the forest, I was surrounded by tall trees and the sounds of nature. When I reached the rock ledge, I was blown away by the dramatic cliff overlooking the valley below.
Standing on Hawksbill Crag felt like being on top of the world. It’s one of those spots where you want to stop, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the incredible scenery. I definitely recommend this hike if you’re visiting Arkansas and want to experience its natural beauty up close.
Try Local Southern Food
One of the best parts of visiting Arkansas was tasting the local Southern food. I loved trying dishes like fried catfish, barbecue ribs, and homemade cornbread — all full of rich, comforting flavors.
I visited small diners and family-owned restaurants where the food felt like a warm hug. The hospitality was amazing, and I often found myself chatting with locals who shared stories and food recommendations.
Arkansas also has great seasonal festivals where you can enjoy live music and tasty treats, from sweet peach cobbler to spicy gumbo. Trying the local cuisine really made my trip feel complete and gave me a true taste of Southern culture.
If you visit Arkansas, don’t miss the chance to dig into its delicious food — it’s a big part of the experience.
Conclusion
My trip to Arkansas was full of surprises and wonderful experiences. From exploring the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains and Buffalo National River to enjoying the rich history in charming towns, there’s so much to discover here.
Whether you love outdoor adventures, art, history, or simply relaxing with delicious Southern food, Arkansas has something for everyone. It’s a place where nature and culture come together in a way that feels welcoming and real.
If you’re planning your next trip, I highly recommend adding Arkansas to your list. You’ll find plenty of things to do, and I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this beautiful state just like I did.
