Overview
Arkansas is a state of natural beauty, Southern charm, and rich history. Known as The Natural State, it boasts mountains, forests, rivers, and thermal springs, making it a haven for outdoor lovers. From historic Little Rock to the Ozark Highlands and Delta blues, Arkansas offers a diverse and authentic American experience.
- Capital: Little Rock
- Largest Cities: Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, Jonesboro
- Population: ~3 million (2024 est.)
- Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
- Climate: Humid subtropical — hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters
Top Destinations in Arkansas
Little Rock
The capital city features historic landmarks, museums, and a lively riverfront with trails and restaurants.
Hot Springs
A unique resort town known for its natural thermal waters, historic bathhouses, and mountain views.
Fayetteville
A vibrant college town nestled in the Ozarks with arts, culture, and great hiking nearby.
Eureka Springs
A Victorian-era mountain village filled with quirky shops, spas, and charming architecture.
Buffalo National River
One of the few undammed rivers in the lower 48, perfect for floating, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Must-See Attractions
- Hot Springs National Park – Historic bathhouses and scenic mountain trails
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville) – A world-class art collection in a stunning natural setting
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site – A pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement
- Thorncrown Chapel (Eureka Springs) – A breathtaking glass chapel in the woods
- Buffalo National River – Canoe, hike, or explore bluffs and waterfalls
Things to Do
- Soak in thermal springs or visit a historic bathhouse
- Canoe or kayak down clear rivers surrounded by cliffs
- Tour Civil War and Civil Rights landmarks
- Explore caves, trails, and waterfalls in the Ozarks and Ouachitas
- Attend a small-town festival or craft fair
Getting There & Around
Major Airports
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT – Little Rock), Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM)
Transport
- Rental cars are recommended for exploring state parks, towns, and backroads
- Amtrak serves Little Rock and other stops via the Texas Eagle route
- Public transit is limited outside of urban areas
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers, waterfalls, and festivals
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for river floats and lake trips
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Stunning foliage and comfortable weather
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet parks, crisp hikes, and mountain retreats
Local Food & Culture
- Cuisine: Southern comfort food with influences from the Ozarks and Delta
- Specialties: Fried catfish, possum pie, cheese dip, barbecue, purple hull peas
- Drinks: Sweet tea, Arkansas wines, and craft beers
- Events & Festivals:
- Toad Suck Daze (Conway) – Food, music, and quirky fun
- King Biscuit Blues Festival (Helena-West Helena)
- War Eagle Craft Fair (Rogers)
- Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival
- Fayetteville Roots Festival
Souvenirs from Arkansas
- Locally made jams, jellies, or honey
- Quartz crystals from Mount Ida
- Handmade crafts or pottery from the Ozarks
- Arkansas-themed apparel or prints
- Blues music memorabilia or Delta souvenirs
Fun Facts
- Arkansas is home to more than 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,000 miles of rivers and streams
- It’s the only U.S. state with a diamond mine open to the public (Crater of Diamonds State Park)
- Former President Bill Clinton was born in Hope, Arkansas
- Walmart was founded in Bentonville and still has its headquarters there
- Arkansas has more than 50 state parks, many with historic lodges and cabins
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Nature & History Getaway
- Day 1: Little Rock – River Market, museums, and historic sites
- Day 2: Hot Springs – soak in a bathhouse and hike the trails
- Day 3: Buffalo National River – float trip or scenic drive
5-Day Ozark Adventure
- Day 1: Bentonville – Crystal Bridges and downtown
- Day 2: Eureka Springs – explore the town and Thorncrown Chapel
- Day 3: Ozark Highlands – hiking, waterfalls, and picnic
- Day 4: Buffalo National River – canoe and camp
- Day 5: Drive back through scenic Arkansas Wine Country near Altus
