What Are The Most Amazing Places To Travel In Arkansas?

Arkansas, often called the Natural State, boasts stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, making it a fantastic destination. SIXT.VN is here to guide you through Arkansas’s best travel spots, offering convenient services to enhance your experience. Discover Arkansas’s natural beauty, historical sites, and exciting activities, and let SIXT.VN take care of your travel needs. Consider Arkansas your next vacation spot for stunning scenery, fun outdoor activities, and interesting history.

1. Discover Little Rock

Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. From presidential history to beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone. According to the U.S. Travel Association, cities with diverse attractions see a 15% increase in tourism revenue, highlighting the importance of variety in travel destinations.

1.1 What to Do in Little Rock

• William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum: Explore the life and presidency of Bill Clinton. The library offers exhibits, archives, and educational programs.

• Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts: Discover a stunning new space featuring art, learning experiences, dining, and drinks. The museum showcases a diverse collection of art from around the world.

• Pinnacle Mountain Hike: Hike the west summit, a 1.2-mile trail offering gorgeous views. This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Arkansas River Trail: Spanning over 21 miles, this trail runs riverside from the Clinton Presidential Library to Two Rivers Park. It’s perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the scenery.

• Two Rivers Park: Rent kayaks with Rock Town River Outfitters and explore the river. The park also offers picnic areas and walking trails.

• Big Dam Bridge: The longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in the world, built specifically for recreational use. Enjoy stunning views of the Arkansas River.

• Museum of Discovery: A great place for kids, with interactive exhibits and educational programs.

• Altitude Trampoline Park: Fun for kids and adults, with trampolines, games, and activities.

• Dust Bowl Lanes Bowling: A retro bowling alley with a fun atmosphere.

• Allsop Park Trail: A 3.7-mile trail great for kids and pets.

• Barefoot Yoga: Enjoy yoga in a unique outdoor setting.

• River Market District: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and farmers markets.

• Faulkner Farm: Pick your own peaches at this local farm.

• The Old Mill (North Little Rock): A historic park with a picturesque mill.

• Kavanagh Blvd Boutiques: Shop at cute boutiques like Steamroller Blues, Tulips, Belle & Blush, and Domestic Domestic.

1.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Little Rock

• The Root Cafe: Offers locally sourced, sustainable food in a friendly atmosphere.
• Lost Forty Brewing: A popular brewery with a wide selection of craft beers.
• Sims Bar-B-Que: A local favorite for delicious barbecue.
• Kemuri: Serves Japanese-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
• Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill: A lively spot with a great selection of beers and grilled dishes.
• Boulevard Bread Company: A bakery and cafe serving fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
• Mylo Coffee Co.: A cozy coffee shop with excellent coffee and pastries.
• Loblolly Creamery: Homemade ice cream with unique flavors.

1.3 Where to Sleep in Little Rock

• The Capital Hotel: A historic luxury hotel in downtown Little Rock.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Little Rock: Offers comfortable suites and a central location.
• The покраска Inn at Quapaw Quarter: A charming bed and breakfast in a historic neighborhood.
• Little Rock Marriott: A modern hotel with great amenities.
• Holiday Inn Little Rock-Airport-Conference Center: Conveniently located near the airport.
• Airbnb: Offers a variety of rental options for different budgets and preferences.

2. Explore Fort Smith

Fort Smith, Arkansas, is rich in history and culture, marking the edge of the Old West. It serves as a great place for anyone interested in the past, art, and exploring unique landscapes. According to the National Park Service, historic sites like Fort Smith contribute significantly to local tourism, driving economic growth.

2.1 What to Do in Fort Smith

• Fort Smith National Historic Site: Explore the historic fort and learn about the city’s past.
• Fort Smith Museum of History: Discover artifacts and exhibits about the region’s history.
• The Park at West End: A park with playgrounds, walking trails, and sports facilities.
• Old Fort Days Rodeo: An annual rodeo event with competitions and entertainment.
• The Unexpected Art Project: Explore urban art installations throughout the city.

2.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Fort Smith

• Rolando’s Restaurante: Serves delicious Latin American cuisine.
• AJ’s Oyster House: A popular spot for seafood and oysters.
• The Chicken Place: A local favorite for fried chicken and comfort food.
• 906 Coffee: A cozy coffee shop with a variety of drinks.
• Brick City Coffee: Offers specialty coffee and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Pendergrass Cafe: A classic diner serving breakfast and lunch.

2.3 Where to Sleep in Fort Smith

• Hampton Inn Fort Smith: Offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
• Courtyard by Marriott Fort Smith Downtown: A modern hotel in the heart of downtown.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Smith: Provides spacious suites with kitchenettes.
• Holiday Inn Express Fort Smith: Offers a comfortable stay with great amenities.
• Residence Inn Fort Smith: Ideal for extended stays with apartment-style suites.
• Airbnb: Provides a variety of lodging choices to fit different budgets and preferences.

3. Discover NWA (Northwest Arkansas)

Northwest Arkansas (NWA) is a region experiencing rapid growth and development. Home to major companies like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt Transport, NWA offers a blend of business and leisure. The Walton Family Foundation has invested significantly in the region, contributing to its cultural and economic growth.

3.1 What to Do in Northwest Arkansas

• Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium: Catch a Razorbacks game and experience college sports.
• Dickson Street / Fayetteville Square: Explore shops, restaurants, and the Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings.
• Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: Stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy nature.
• Lake Fayetteville 5 Mile Trail: A scenic trail for walking, running, and biking.
• Elxr Yoga Lounge: Enjoy yoga and wellness classes.
• Spoon Moon Cosmic Community: A unique community space with events and workshops.
• Razorback Greenway Trail: A trail for running, hiking, and biking.
• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: Explore American art in a stunning setting.
• The Momentary: A contemporary art space in a former cheese factory.
• Amazeum: A children’s museum with interactive exhibits.
• Prairie Grove Battlefield Park: A historic Civil War battlefield.
• Downtown Bentonville Square: A charming town square with shops and restaurants.
• War Eagle Mill & Cavern: A historic mill and cavern with scenic views.

3.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Northwest Arkansas

• Theo’s Fayetteville: Offers an eclectic mix of global cuisines.
• Hugo’s: A local favorite for burgers and sandwiches.
• Mockingbird Kitchen: Serves farm-to-table dishes in a cozy setting.
• Ozark Beer Company: A brewery with a variety of craft beers.
• Airship Coffee: A coffee shop with multiple locations in the area.
• Tavola Trattoria: An Italian restaurant with a great wine list.
• Pressroom: Offers upscale dining with a focus on local ingredients.

3.3 Where to Shop in Northwest Arkansas

• Fayetteville Square: Features local shops, boutiques, and art galleries.
• Bentonville Square: Offers a mix of retail and dining options.
• Pinnacle Hills Promenade: An upscale shopping mall with major retailers.
• Malco Theatre Square: A shopping center with a movie theater and restaurants.

3.4 Where to Sleep in Northwest Arkansas

• 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville: A boutique hotel with a contemporary art museum.
• The Chancellor Hotel: A luxury hotel in downtown Fayetteville.
• Embassy Suites Northwest Arkansas – Hotel, Spa & Convention Center: Offers comfortable suites and a convenient location.
• Aloft Rogers-Bentonville: A modern hotel with a stylish design.
• Hilton Garden Inn Fayetteville: Provides a comfortable stay with great amenities.
• Airbnb: Offers a variety of accommodations to fit different budgets and preferences.

4. Experience Lake Ouachita / Mt. Ida

Lake Ouachita, Arkansas’s largest lake, offers 40,000 acres of clean, clear water perfect for water sports and recreation. Mt. Ida, known as the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, is nearby. According to the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, outdoor recreation contributes billions to the state’s economy annually.

4.1 What to Do in Lake Ouachita / Mt. Ida

• Boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and even scuba diving: Enjoy a variety of water sports on the lake.
• Harbor Marina: Rent boats and equipment for water activities.
• Turtle Cove Spa: Relax and rejuvenate at this lakeside spa.
• Horseback riding: Explore the area on horseback.
• Ouachita National Forest: Hike and explore the beautiful forest.
• Crater of Diamonds State Park: Dig for diamonds at this unique state park (an hour from Mt. Ida).

4.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Lake Ouachita / Mt. Ida

• Mountain Harbor Resort Restaurant: Offers lakeside dining with scenic views.
• The Wharf Cat: A casual restaurant serving seafood and burgers.
• Dairy Queen Mt. Ida: A classic spot for ice cream and fast food.
• Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Beer Garden: Enjoy artisan pizza in a casual setting.

4.3 Where to Sleep in Lake Ouachita / Mt. Ida

• Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa Cabins: Offers cozy cabins with lake views.
• Dreamchasers Houseboat Rental: Rent a houseboat for a unique experience.
• Camp grounds: Enjoy camping in the Ouachita National Forest.
• Airbnb: Provides lodging options to fit different preferences.

5. Relax at Lake Hamilton / Hot Springs

Lake Hamilton and Hot Springs offer a mix of relaxation, recreation, and history. Known as the hometown of Bill Clinton, Hot Springs is famous for its thermal waters and historic bathhouses. According to the National Park Service, Hot Springs National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country.

5.1 What to Do in Lake Hamilton / Hot Springs

• Boating and water sports on the lake: Enjoy a variety of water activities on Lake Hamilton.
• Oaklawn Horse Racing: Experience live horse racing and casino games.
• Bathhouse Row: Explore the historic bathhouses and learn about the city’s spa history.
• Hot Springs National Park: Hike, explore the hot springs, and enjoy the scenery.

5.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Lake Hamilton / Hot Springs

• Superior Bathhouse Brewery: A brewery located in a historic bathhouse.
• The Ohio Club: The oldest bar in Arkansas, with a rich history.
• SQZBX Pizza Joint: A pizza place with live music.
• McClard’s Bar-B-Q: A legendary barbecue joint with a long history.
• Rolando’s Restaurante: Serves delicious Latin American cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
• Fat Jack’s Oyster Bar: A popular spot for seafood and oysters.
• The Pancake Shop: A classic diner serving breakfast all day.

5.3 Where to Sleep in Lake Hamilton / Hot Springs

• The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa: A historic hotel with a spa and thermal baths.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Hot Springs Hotel & Spa: Offers comfortable suites and a spa.
• Holiday Inn Resort Hot Springs: Provides great amenities and a convenient location.
• Airbnb: Rent a house on the water for a scenic and relaxing experience.

6. Visit Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is a unique and quirky town built on a steep hill, known for its historic architecture and European vibes. The city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. According to the Eureka Springs Historical Museum, the town’s unique architecture and history attract visitors from around the world.

6.1 What to Do in Eureka Springs

• Thorncrown Chapel: A stunning chapel with a glass and wood design.
• Eureka Springs Downtown: Explore the unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
• Lake Leatherwood: Enjoy hiking, biking, and water activities at this scenic lake.
• Crescent Hotel ghost tours: Take a spooky ghost tour at this historic hotel.

6.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Eureka Springs

• Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking: Serves authentic Italian dishes.
• The Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave: Offers wood-fired dishes and a great wine list.
• Local Flavor Cafe: A cozy cafe with a variety of dishes.
• Sparky’s Roadhouse Cafe: A casual spot with burgers and sandwiches.
• Brewery Eureka: A brewery with a variety of craft beers.

6.3 Where to Sleep in Eureka Springs

• Crescent Hotel: A historic hotel with ghost tours and scenic views.
• Basin Park Hotel: A charming hotel in the heart of downtown.
• The Grand Central Hotel: Offers comfortable rooms and a central location.
• Airbnb: Rent a unique property in this historic town.

7. Enjoy Jasper

Jasper is a gateway to the Buffalo National River, one of the few remaining unpolluted, free-flowing rivers in the lower 48 states. The area is known for its waterfalls, hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. According to the National Park Service, the Buffalo National River attracts thousands of visitors each year for outdoor recreation.

7.1 What to Do in Jasper

• Float the Buffalo River with Buffalo River Outfitters: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and floating on the river.
• Horseshoe Canyon Ranch: Offers rock climbing and horseback riding.
• Triple Falls: Hike to this beautiful waterfall.
• Hemmed-In Hollow Falls: Visit one of the tallest waterfalls in the state.
• Big Bluff / Goat Trail: Hike to stunning overlooks and scenic views.
• Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag): A popular hiking spot with iconic rock formations.

7.2 Where to Eat and Drink in Jasper

• Ozark Cafe: A classic diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Buffalo River Restaurant: Offers American cuisine with river views.
• Jasper Pizza: A local spot for pizza and sandwiches.

7.3 Where to Sleep in Jasper

• Buffalo River Outfitters Cabins: Offers cozy cabins near the river.
• Airbnb: Provides lodging options to fit different preferences.

8. Planning Your Trip to Arkansas with SIXT.VN

Planning a trip to Arkansas involves considering transportation, accommodation, and activities. SIXT.VN offers services to make your trip seamless and enjoyable. According to a study by Expedia, travelers who book bundled services save up to 20% on their trips.

8.1 How SIXT.VN Enhances Your Arkansas Adventure

• Convenient Airport Transfers: Arrive in Arkansas stress-free with pre-booked airport transfers. SIXT.VN ensures a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel.
• Diverse Hotel Options: Choose from a wide range of hotels that fit your budget and preferences. SIXT.VN provides options from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations.
• Curated Tour Packages: Explore Arkansas with expertly designed tour packages. Discover the best of the state with guided tours and unique experiences.

8.2 Booking Process with SIXT.VN: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit SIXT.VN: Start by visiting the SIXT.VN website to explore available services.
2. Select Your Services: Choose from airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tour packages.
3. Customize Your Trip: Tailor your booking to meet your specific needs and preferences.
4. Confirm and Pay: Review your booking details and complete the payment process.
5. Enjoy Your Trip: Relax and enjoy your Arkansas adventure, knowing that SIXT.VN has you covered.

9. Essential Travel Tips for Arkansas

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Arkansas, consider these essential travel tips. The U.S. Department of State recommends travelers stay informed about local laws and customs.

9.1 Must-Know Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the state’s natural attractions.
• Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Packing Essentials: Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear.
• Safety: Stay aware of weather conditions and wildlife when hiking and exploring.

9.2 Navigating Local Customs and Etiquette

• Southern Hospitality: Embrace the friendly and welcoming culture of the South.
• Tipping: Standard tipping practices apply in restaurants and service industries.
• Respect Local Traditions: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.

10. Answering Your Questions About Arkansas Travel (FAQ)

10.1 What is the best time of year to visit Arkansas?

The best times to visit Arkansas are during the spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery.

10.2 What are the top attractions in Arkansas?

Top attractions in Arkansas include Hot Springs National Park, Buffalo National River, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.

10.3 How do I get around Arkansas?

The best way to get around Arkansas is by renting a car. This allows you to explore the state’s natural attractions and visit different cities at your own pace.

10.4 What type of outdoor activities can I enjoy in Arkansas?

Arkansas offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. The state is known for its beautiful rivers, lakes, and forests.

10.5 Are there any unique cultural experiences in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas offers unique cultural experiences such as visiting historic sites like Fort Smith National Historic Site, exploring the quirky town of Eureka Springs, and attending local festivals and events.

10.6 What is the cost of traveling in Arkansas?

The cost of traveling in Arkansas varies depending on your preferences and budget. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Dining options include affordable local eateries and upscale restaurants.

10.7 Is Arkansas a family-friendly travel destination?

Yes, Arkansas is a family-friendly travel destination with attractions such as the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, the Amazeum in Bentonville, and numerous parks and outdoor activities.

10.8 What are some must-try foods in Arkansas?

Must-try foods in Arkansas include barbecue, fried catfish, chicken, and pecan pie. These dishes reflect the state’s Southern culinary heritage.

10.9 How can SIXT.VN help me plan my trip to Arkansas?

SIXT.VN offers a range of services to help you plan your trip to Arkansas, including airport transfers, hotel bookings, and curated tour packages. These services ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

10.10 What safety precautions should I take while traveling in Arkansas?

While traveling in Arkansas, it’s important to stay aware of weather conditions, especially during severe weather seasons. Also, take precautions when hiking and exploring outdoor areas, such as wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, and being mindful of wildlife.

Ready to explore the amazing places Arkansas has to offer? With SIXT.VN, planning your dream trip is easier than ever. From convenient airport transfers to a wide selection of hotels and expertly crafted tour packages, SIXT.VN is your one-stop destination for a seamless and unforgettable travel experience. Don’t wait – visit SIXT.VN today and start planning your Arkansas adventure. Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.