11 Serene Arkansas Towns For A Weekend Retreat
Between reduced stress levels, increased motivation, and greater physical and mental health, the benefits of taking a vacation are plenty. With diverse landscapes ranging from beautiful rivers to picturesque national parks, scenic hiking trails, and renowned hot springs, you will quickly discover why they call Arkansas “The Natural State.” Mixed with historical wonders, artistic splendors, and warm and welcoming hospitality, this is the perfect place to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. From Eureka Springs to Hope, explore these 11 serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat that will leave you feeling invigorated!
Eureka Springs
Head into the heart of the Ozarks to visit Eureka Springs. Soak in the scenery of Lake Leatherwood City Park, where a stunning 85-acre lake, over 25 miles of lovely trails, and more than 120 bird species await. See the captivating wildlife, cool springs, unique rock formations, local creek, and historical wonders as you hike or bike through the park. Mix history with relaxation in the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa; the perfect place to get pampered and stay high above the village amidst the breathtaking Ozark Mountains. Treat yourself to refreshing massages, facials, and body treatments that will leave you glowing. Top off your weekend by exploring the gorgeous gardens of the Blue Spring Heritage Center, admiring the vibrant plants, crops, colorful florals, and healing herbs of Eureka Springs.
Bella Vista
Named after the region’s spectacular scenery (translating to “Beautiful View” from Spanish to English), Bella Vista is undoubtedly one of the most serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat. Head on a lovely hike through Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, listening to the sounds of nature as you reach the rushing Tanyard Creek Falls. Work on your aim in a scenic setting at the 18-hole Scotsdale Golf Course, and discover intriguing caves, springs, and waterfalls in Blowing Springs Park. Immerse yourself in nature at the campground, or enjoy a luxurious stay in a cozy Greens One Vacation Home at Bella Vista Village.
Mountain View
Deep within the Ozarks lies Mountain View; a picturesque small city that flawlessly blends nature with culture. Prepare for a relaxing retreat, learning about local mountain culture in the Ozark Folk Center State Park, seeing the handcrafted items, medicinal plants, and instruments as you listen to the sounds of live Southern mountain music in the “Folk Music Capital of the World.” Try White River rafting or fishing for Trout in Jack’s Fishing Resort, combining outdoor activities with flexible accommodation options. If you are feeling adventurous, head slightly northwest to Blanchard Springs Caverns. Explore the underground world with captivating cave tours, admiring the stunning underground river and fascinating rock formations.
Calico Rock
Enjoy a peaceful retreat in Calico Rock, a charming city situated on the White River. Uncover magnificent views of the Ozark Mountain-backed landscape from City Rock Bluff, accessible by a quick 1.1-kilometer trail. Taste comforting homemade soups in the winter, or old-fashioned hand-dipped ice cream in the summer at the cozy Printing Press Café & Ice Cream Parlor. Whether you are interested in Trout fishing trips or guided boat rides on the river, the locally owned and operated Calico Rock Trout Dock is the perfect place to visit. The Calico Riverview Inn is nearby. This quaint guest house, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underwent a restoration project completed in 2023 to offer maximum comfort and hospitality.
Jasper
Unravel mesmerizing views of the Ozark Mountains from Jasper, one of the most serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat. Bask in the beauty of the Little Buffalo River Valley with a hike up Roundtop Mountain, and venture through the scenic trails of the deep valley “Grand Canyon of Arkansas." Stay in the heart of nature in the Ozark Mountain Cabins, bordered by the Buffalo National River Park and Ozark National Forest. With 150 to 200 feet of trees between cabins, you can enjoy a peaceful, private stay away from the crowds that will leave you feeling revitalized.
Paris
Recognized as the Gateway to Mount Magazine, the state’s highest peak reaching 2,753 feet above sea level, Paris is as pretty as a postcard. This charming small city, named after the fascinating French capital, combines natural beauty with iconic landmarks. Get a taste of France in Arkansas, seeing the 25-foot tall Eiffel Tower with its two-tier water fountain. Spend some time by the 160-acre mountain lake in the Cove Lake Recreation Area; an ideal spot for swimming, hiking, boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. Immerse yourself in natural beauty at the Cove Lake Campground, or head south to stay in the nearby Mount Magazine Lodge overlooking the picturesque Petit Jean River Valley.
Heber Springs
Experience paradise with a trip to Heber Springs. Renowned for its exquisite mountain scenery and pristine waterways, this is one of the most serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat. Go fishing for Rainbow, Brook, or Brown Trout in the Little Red River, and climb the lovely 1.2-mile Collins Creek Trail to see the cascading waterfall. Plan a picture-perfect getaway by Greers Ferry Lake, a gorgeous 44,000-acre lake with clean blue waters and cozy points like Sandy Beach. Stay in the local Red Apple Inn, offering luxury lodging with sports courts and an 18-hole championship golf course.
Cave Springs
Named the Safest City in Arkansas by SafeWise in 2025, you can feel comfortable fully exploring Cave Springs. Soak in the sights of the Cave Springs Cave Natural Area, home to rare plant and wildlife species such as the Ozark Cavefish and Ozark Trillium. Practice your aim on Creeks Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole layout in a picturesque valley featuring two creeks flowing through the site. Enjoy a peaceful picnic in Cave Springs City Park; from there you can head east on Lowell to Monroe Avenue to reach Super 8. Discover cozy accommodations, free continental breakfast, and other amenities during your stay.
Ponca
Set in the wilderness of the Buffalo National River, the first national river in America (covering over 93,000 acres), Ponca is one of the most beautiful and serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat. Go swimming, canoeing, fishing, or swimming on the river via the Ponca Nature Center. See if you can spot Arkansas Elk in Boxley Valley or learn about their history and recovery at the center. The Buffalo Outdoor Center is an ideal spot for a unique rustic experience. Choose from their cabins, lodges, RV parks, and fly-in lodging opportunities.
Greenwood
Welcome to Greenwood, where a vibrant cultural heritage meets magnificent natural scenery. Watch an intriguing show at Greenwood Performing Arts; get inspired through entertaining and educational performances by talented professional artists. Walk around the beautiful promenade at Bell Park and try flavorful Mexican dishes for a delicious dinner at La Fiesta restaurant. You can stay in Home2 Suites by Hilton Fort Smith, which is accessible within 20 minutes of here. Experience comfortable accommodations with an in-suite kitchen and pet-friendly suite, along with other amenities like a fitness center, indoor pool, and free hot breakfast.
Hope
Get inspired with a trip to Hope, one of the most serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat. The birthplace of Bill Clinton, this legendary city is filled with history. Learn about the former U.S. President’s life in the President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site, including early life experiences that shaped his views with a 25-minute tour. Search for homemade treasures in Bob's Antiques, and find new clothes, gifts, and home decor in Martin’s specialty shop. Regarding accommodations, Best Western Hope offers several room types with non-smoking rooms, internet access, full breakfast, and kitchen appliances.
Takeaways
If you are looking to escape the crowds and swap the hustle and bustle of the big city for stunning natural scenery; you have come to the right place. Between the geological wonders of Eureka Springs, the fascinating caves of Mountain View, and the historical landmarks of Hope, you will quickly find out why they call it “The Natural State.” Choose from these 11 serene Arkansas towns for a weekend retreat you will never forget.
