Get ready to explore Arkansas, where the Ozarks rise, the past is alive, and Southern cuisine reigns supreme.

Unveiling Arkansas: where history meets hiking, and comfort food is king! It’s a place where you can hike through history, soak in hot springs, and devour some of the South’s tastiest treats. In this guide, we’re going to spill the beans (or rather, the BBQ sauce) on this hidden gem of a state.

A Brief History: A Tapestry of Indigenous Roots and Settler Antics

Before Arkansas became known for its hot springs and diamonds, it was a patchwork quilt of indigenous cultures. The Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw tribes had their own party going on. Like many other place names in the United States, the Quapaw—also referred to as the Arkansaw by the French—are where the state gets its name from. The first Europeans to plant roots in the area were the French, then came the Spanish, and finally, the Americans.

In 1803, the Louisiana Purchase brought Arkansas under American control, leading to its organization as the Arkansas Territory in 1819. Arkansas was later admitted to the Union in 1836 where slavery served as a major part of the state’s economy, hence why it would later be grappled with divisions during the Civil War. It would also ending up being ground zero in the civil rights movement, notably with the monumental moment in history surrounding the integration of nine African American students into Little Rock Central High School in 1957.

Today, Arkansas’s legacy continues as a bewildering admixture of things such as being the birthplace of Walmart and also one of the few places in North America where diamonds can be found! It’s a natural wonderland for outdoorsmen/women and a hub for American history buffs alike. Arkansas is truly a piñata full of surprises and has a little something to suit everyone’s fancy!

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Arkansas? Think springtime strolls among blossoms or fall foliage that’s more extra than your grandma’s holiday decorations. Spring and fall are the seasons when Arkansas pulls out its A-game.

While Arkansas can be enjoyed year-round, spring and fall are the seasons that truly showcase its beauty. During spring, from March to May, the state comes alive with vibrant blooms, making it an excellent time for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. The temperatures are mild, and the landscapes burst with colors.

Fall, from September to November, is equally captivating. The Ozark and Ouachita Mountains transform into a mesmerizing tapestry of red, orange, and yellow foliage. The crisp air and comfortable temperatures make it an ideal time for hiking, camping, and exploring the state’s natural wonders.

Best Ways to Get There

Transportation options? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered:

By Air: Fly into Little Rock National Airport (LIT) – your gateway to all things Arkansas. There are several other regional and municipal airports in the state as well.

By Road: Roll into town on a good old-fashioned road trip. Arkansas has highways aplenty for your scenic drive fix. Check out a list of super beautiful, super scenic drives in Arkansas here.

By Train: Fancy a more laid-back arrival? Hop on the Amtrak Texas Eagle route, easily one of the most underrated to traverse the state.

Things to Do

In Arkansas, adventure awaits around every corner. Nature lovers can hike, camp, and explore lush forests and serene lakes, while history buffs can delve into the state’s rich heritage through museums and historic sites. After a day of exploration and the sun has set, Arkansas’s cities come to life with live music, and bustling bars, making it a perfect way to cap off your day.

Nature Lovers’ Paradise

Calling all nature enthusiasts! Arkansas is like Mother Nature’s amusement park. Here are three ways to get your dose of the great outdoors:

1. Ozark National Forest: This vast forest covers a significant portion of northern Arkansas and is filled with scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and oodles of opportunities for hiking and camping.
2. Ouachita National Forest: Hike, swim, and channel your inner lumberjack in the Ouachita Mountains. If you don’t find Bigfoot, at least you’ll find incredible vistas.
3. Mount Magazine State Park: Get high on adventure at Mount Magazine State Park, where the views are as beguiling as the tales you’ll tell later.

For Foodies

Just go ahead and loosen your belts. Carbie Barbie’s eat your heart out because they’ll be serving up hearty Southern comfort foods more comforting than your grandmother’s hugs. Here’s a taste of the goodness:

1. Huey’s Southern Cafe (Little Rock): Start your day with beignets that rival a New Orleans parade and breakfast dishes that are Southern comfort on a plate.
2. The Hive (Bentonville): At The Hive, you’ll discover farm-to-table dining so fresh that the veggies are probably still photosynthesizing.
3. The Venesian Inn (Tontitown): Travel to Italy without leaving Arkansas. Try the fried chicken and spaghetti with meat sauce; your taste buds will thank you.

Nightlife Enthusiasts

After dark, Arkansas lets its hair down. Whether you’re into live music or sipping craft cocktails, Arkansas’s got a nightlife scene that’s lit:

1. Discovery Night Club (Little Rock): Discovery is a well-known LGBTQ+ nightclub in Little Rock. It offers a lively atmosphere, drag shows, themed parties, and a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community.
2. Maxine’s Live (Hot Springs): Maxine’s knows how to party. Live music, dancing, and signature cocktails; it’s a one-stop party shop. While not exclusively an LGBTQ+ bar, it’s known for its inclusivity and support for local artists and performers.
3. The Meteor Guitar Gallery (Bentonville): Music, art, and a little bit of magic – this place is like a unicorn in the entertainment world.

History and Culture Buffs

Looking back, Arkansas was a crossroad of the Trail of Tears on the edge of “Indian Territory” and a hotbed for the enslavement and commodification of black human beings. Arkansas has a heartbreakingly painful history — one not to be regarded lightly. But for those looking for a good history lesson, Arkansas has got you more than covered:

1. Historic Washington State Park: Step into a time machine at this 19th-century village. You might not find Doc and Marty, but you’ll definitely find Bowie Knives and a slice of history.
2. Mosaic Templars Cultural Center (Little Rock): Get your culture fix here. From African American history to interactive displays, it’s a museum with pizzazz.
3. Old State House Museum (Little Rock): If walls could talk, these ones would have a lot to say. Explore the Civil War and more in Arkansas’s oldest state capitol building.

Thrill Seekers’ Delight

Hold onto your pants! Arkansas is like a theme park for adrenaline junkies. Here are three ways to get your heart racing:

1. Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo (Hot Springs): When nature gets wild, visit the Alligator Farm in Hot Springs. Get your gator hugs here – just kidding, we don’t recommend that!
2. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (Eureka Springs): Lions and tigers and bears – oh my! Get close to these majestic creatures at the wildlife sanctuary.
3. Ouachita River Whitewater Park (Malvern): Ready to ride the rapids? Grab a paddle and prepare for a water adventure you’ll never forget!

Hidden Gem: Garvan Woodland Gardens

Arkansas’s Garvan Woodland Gardens is an absolute delight! It’s a stunning 210-acre botanical garden located in the heart of the state on the shores of Lake Hamilton. The gardens put on a diverse display of themed sections, including tranquil Japanese Gardens and vibrant Camellia Collections. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with beautiful landscapes and the unique Evans Tree House Whether you’re into plants or just looking for a peaceful escape, it’s a top notch destination to get outside and get some fresh air in Arkansas.

Conclusion

Arkansas is perhaps an unassuming destination, but is definitely the kind of place that leaves you surprisingly charmed. The state in and of itself is really a hidden gem all on its own! Whether you’re exploring the rugged Ozarks, savoring Southern flavors, or diving deep into history, Arkansas promises an experience you won’t forget. So pack your bags and get ready to be wowed by the Natural State, where every corner reveals a new story, a new flavor, and a new adventure.