Some of the best attractions in Arkansas include everything from museums to state parks and opportunities to explore the beautiful outdoors. No matter what part of the state you find yourself in, sightseeing is easy to do in the Natural State. We’ve compiled this guide to 10 of the best attractions in Arkansas to see the next time you visit.
- There are quite a few must-see attractions to see right here in Eureka Springs. A great place to start is the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railroad. The whole family will enjoy seeing how the town used to travel on the 1940 diesel locomotive. Take some time to walk around the historic depot and pop into the gift shop for railroad souvenirs.
- The Blue Springs Heritage Center in Eureka Springs is open March through November from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. There are over a mile of trails that wind through lush gardens that bloom each season. The main attraction is the Blue Spring which pours 38-million gallons of water daily.
- Your last stop in Eureka Springs should definitely include Thorncrown Chapel. It is known as the most beautiful chapel in the world. It stands 48-feet in the air and has 425 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass. The church offers services on Sundays from April through December.
- History buffs will enjoy a stop at the Pea Ridge National Military Park in Garfield, Arkansas. The park’s visitor’s center offers exhibits, a bookstore, gift shop, and orientation film. The grounds of the park offer hiking trails, horse trails, 28 interpretive exhibits, and a 7-mile self-guided tour road.
- Murfreesboro, Arkansas is home to Crater of Diamonds State Park. Their motto is “you keep what you find” and that’s exactly what happens. Visitors can head out to the park’s 37.5-acre field to uncover diamonds in the rough. Tools are available at the park to rent. The park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Another great way to discover the outdoors is at Hot Springs National Park. The park is free to enter and offers a visitor’s center in the Fordyce Bathhouse, 26-miles of trails and an overlook at the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Guests can also tour the Edwardian Era Bathhouse, take an actual bath at the Buckstaff Baths or soak in pools filled with water from the hot springs.
- Learn about Little Rock history at the Historic Arkansas Museum. You can tour the grounds, visit the oldest home still standing in Little Rock and see how the early settlers to the area lived. The museum is open 7 days a week.
- Movie buffs will love seeing a little piece of movie history. The Old Mill in North Little Rock was featured in the opening scene of Gone with the Wind. The mill was built in 1933 but designed and built to look much older. The Old Mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- The Walmart Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas gives visitors a glimpse into the history of how Walmart began. There are interactive displays, Sam Walton’s old office, and even his old Ford F-150. The museum is also home to The Spark Café Soda Fountain. The best part about the Walmart Museum is that it is free to enter.
- The Central Arkansas Nature Center is located in Little Rock, Arkansas overlooking the Arkansas River. Visitors can tour aquariums, a gift shop, the exhibit hall, theater and see the many beds of native plants that can be found in Arkansas. The center is open year-round and closed on Mondays.
After visiting the attractions in Arkansas, you’ll need a cozy spot to kick up your feet. Arsenic and Old Lace in Eureka Springs is just the place to unwind. We are home to 5 guest rooms each complete with private bathroom and seasonal fireplace. Our gourmet breakfast is the perfect way to start the day. There are even homemade snacks available throughout the day. When booking your reservation, be sure to ask about our current specials to ensure you get the most out of your stay. For additional information, please call us at 479-253-5454.
