[List] 25 Unforgettable Activities You Can’t Miss When Visiting Arkansas

Key Takeaways:

• Arkansas offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture for all travelers.
• From scenic hikes to exciting festivals, Arkansas is a place that promises unforgettable experiences.
• Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or enjoying a local event, Arkansas has something for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of the American South, Arkansas is a hidden gem with a wealth of natural beauty and fascinating history. Known for its lush forests, sparkling lakes, and majestic mountains, the state offers an incredible variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to boating and wildlife watching. Arkansas also has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its charming towns, museums, and festivals. Its historical significance includes pivotal moments in American history, such as the Little Rock Nine’s fight for school desegregation in the 1950s, making it a place where history and modern culture intersect.

People love Arkansas for its diverse landscapes, which range from the rugged Ozark Mountains in the north to the peaceful Ouachita Mountains in the south. Whether you’re hiking through dense forests, relaxing by a serene lake, or exploring the cultural offerings of its cities, Arkansas never fails to surprise visitors with its beauty and charm. The state’s vibrant local communities celebrate their heritage with numerous events and festivals, making it a year-round destination. With so much to offer, Arkansas is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone in search of unique adventures.

Here are 25 things to do in Arkansas:

#1 Hike the Ozark Highlands Trail: Traverse this scenic 165-mile trail through the Ozark Mountains for breathtaking views.

#2 Visit Hot Springs National Park: Relax in the famous thermal springs and explore the historic bathhouse row.

#3 Explore Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: Enjoy world-class art exhibitions in a stunning setting surrounded by nature.

#4 Take a Scenic Drive Through the Pig Trail: Enjoy a picturesque route through the Ozarks with winding roads and lush forests.

#5 Go Fishing at Beaver Lake: Fish, boat, or simply enjoy the stunning views at this crystal-clear lake in the Ozarks.

#6 Tour the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Learn about the pivotal role this site played in the Civil Rights Movement.

#7 Explore Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Arkansas River and beyond.

#8 Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Eureka Springs: Soar above the stunning Ozark Mountains and experience the beauty of the region from the sky.

#9 Visit the Museum of Native American History in Bentonville: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Native American tribes at this unique museum.

#10 Go Horseback Riding in the Ouachita Mountains: Ride through beautiful mountain trails surrounded by picturesque forests.

#11 Visit Thorncrown Chapel: Marvel at the architectural beauty of this glass chapel nestled in the woods near Eureka Springs.

#12 Attend the Arkansas Folk Festival in Mountain View: Enjoy music, arts, and crafts celebrating Arkansas’s folk traditions.

#13 Take a Boat Tour on Lake Ouachita: Discover the natural beauty of one of Arkansas’s largest and most scenic lakes.

#14 Explore Blanchard Springs Caverns: Go on a guided tour of these stunning underground caves in the Ozarks.

#15 Visit the William J. Clinton Presidential Library: Learn about the 42nd president’s legacy and explore interactive exhibits in Little Rock.

#16 Hike to Whitaker Point: Trek to one of Arkansas’s most iconic viewpoints, known for its picturesque rock formations.

#17 Go Camping at Devil’s Den State Park: Enjoy camping, hiking, and swimming in this scenic state park surrounded by the Ozarks.

#18 Take a Ride on the Arkansas Scenic Byway: Explore the natural beauty of the state’s highways with this designated scenic route.

#19 Relax at Lake Catherine State Park: Enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming at this tranquil park located near Hot Springs.

#20 Tour the Arkansas State Capitol: Explore the impressive architecture and history of Arkansas’s state government building.

#21 Attend the Ozark Folk Center State Park: Learn about traditional crafts and music of the Ozarks at this interactive museum.

#22 Go Ziplining in the Ozarks: Experience the thrill of ziplining through the treetops in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

#23 Explore the Historic District of Eureka Springs: Stroll through this charming Victorian town, known for its unique architecture and art galleries.

#24 Visit the Little Rock Zoo: See a wide variety of animals and learn about wildlife conservation at this family-friendly zoo.

#25 Go Caving at the Devil’s Den Cave: Explore the hidden caves beneath Devil’s Den State Park on a guided tour.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in Arkansas?

If you’re looking to find both free and paid events in Arkansas, a great resource to use is PlanMyWeekend.ai. This platform offers a variety of listings for all kinds of events across the state, from arts festivals and cultural celebrations to outdoor activities and concerts. Whether you’re seeking free local events or larger paid attractions, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to plan your weekend by showing you everything Arkansas has to offer, all in one place.

Final Thoughts

Arkansas is a state full of natural beauty, rich history, and unique experiences. From hiking in the Ozarks to exploring the cultural treasures in Little Rock, there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re here for outdoor adventure, history, or vibrant local events, Arkansas offers an unforgettable experience. Be sure to use PlanMyWeekend.ai to help you organize your trip, find exciting events, and make the most of your weekend getaway in this amazing state.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai