What’s your idea of a romantic afternoon, day or weekend with your loved one? Let Arkansas, the Natural State, set the scene for a romantic getaway. There are plenty of charming, small towns to drop by, scenic driveways to explore on a lazy afternoon and an abundance of hiking trails to discover Mother Nature’s beauty. Treat your sweetheart to a retreat to find all the romantic places in Arkansas and discover why tourists return year after year.
Spend an afternoon driving or hiking the Ozark Mountains to discover the nature made waterfalls. Many of these waterfalls can be found along the many hiking trails and some can be seen on the scenic roadways. Richland Falls and Twin Falls are said to be two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Arkansas and can be found in one spot. The falls are located where Devil’s Fork Creek crosses Richland Creek in the Ozark National Forest. Though the trail makes for a difficult hike, the waterfalls are worth the trek once you arrive. How romantic would it be to take the afternoon and walk hand in hand to discover these beautiful falls.
Arkansas is filled with towns boasting local artists and their work. Bentonville, Arkansas is home to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. In addition to the guided tours and many exhibits, the museum is surrounded by more than 3.5 miles of trails that give guests up close views of the Ozark surroundings. Stroll the trails and enjoy an afternoon of beautiful artwork and nature. Be sure to stop by the Overlook located on the west side of the ravine overlooking the campus. The area is surrounded by redbud and dogwood trees and is just the place to sit back and relax. Be sure to also check out the Skyspace, a naked-eye viewing chamber that allows you to view the sky through a round oculus in the roof. Perfect for views of the sunrise or sunset, the Skyspace is programmed with an LED light display that changes color against the ceiling.
For a romantic night out for two, spend the evening aboard the Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Treat your special date to a night of dinner and dancing on this two hour sunset cruise around Lake Hamilton. Dinner options range from their award winning prime rib to a grilled salmon filet. The tour will include a history of the city, pass by million dollar houses and natural islands and provide stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains.
Fine dining in Eureka Springs, Arkansas can be found at Autumn Breeze Restaurant. Open since 1993, Autumn Breeze offers an award winning wine list, a menu diverse in offerings from steaks to seafood and tables each with their own beautiful view. Chef and owner Richard Bloch takes pride in the menu offerings, keeping the wine list new and updated, has a thoroughly trained staff and has even hand-picked the table settings and stemware to be of the utmost quality. Don’t miss the chef’s specialty items on the menu including the Coconut Beer Battered Shrimp and the Chocolate Soufflé. Reservations can be made by calling 479-253-7734.
With its setting tucked away in the hills of the mountains, Arsenic and Old Lace is a romantic bed and breakfast located in Eureka Springs Arkansas. This beautiful mansion is home to five guest suites that will set the tone for a peaceful and restful weekend. Each of the rooms has a seasonal fireplace and feature luxurious bathrooms with either a whirlpool tub or spa shower. Each morning, a complimentary breakfast is served in the dining room overlooking the gardens. When looking to make your reservations for a stay in the beautiful state of Arkansas, be sure to check availability at Arsenic and Old Lace.
Photo courtesy of friggy_30