7 Prettiest Towns to Visit in Arkansas
In Arkansas, the prettiest small towns pair Ozark mountain scenery and waterfront views with plenty of small-town charm. With 48 million visitors making their way here each year, word is clearly getting out. From Eureka Springs, tucked like a secret into the hills, to the steaming bathhouses of Hot Springs, where Al Capone once came to unwind, the state rewards curious travelers with history, live music, and wilderness around every bend. Whether you are chasing outdoor adventure or a slower, more scenic pace of life, these seven towns are the prettiest places to start your Arkansas journey.
Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs is a charming little hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Most visitors find their perfect starting point in the lively downtown area, which is one of the top highlights of the town. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed stroll to shop, dine, explore art galleries, and visit the fascinating Eureka Springs Historical Museum. The museum, housed inside the beautiful 135-year-old Calif House, showcases a wonderful mix of permanent and rotating exhibits, along with an art gallery filled with paintings, photos, and sculptures.
Just a short drive away, Beaver Park welcomes you with its expansive reservoir featuring nearly 500 miles of shoreline, perfect for swimming and boating in its crystal-clear waters. For outdoor lovers, the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, where you can see some of the most remarkable wildlife around, including Chief, a graceful 17-year-old lion known for his playful antics and lively spirit.
Hot Springs
Amidst the stunning Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking exciting hikes, mountain biking adventures, and encounters with fascinating wildlife. Before venturing into the great outdoors, be sure to stop by Bathhouse Row for a relaxing soak in the hot springs—it's the perfect way to unwind and melt away any tension. The charming complex features eight historic bathhouse buildings that display beautiful architecture from the 1800s. After your visit, nature continues to invite exploration, with wonderful spots like Garvan Woodland Gardens, where you can enjoy peaceful walks among towering trees, rocky cliffs, and gentle streams.
For art lovers, Hot Springs hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year, including Arts & The Park, a lively 10-day festival packed with exhibitions, live performances, and fun, interactive workshops. While today Hot Springs is known as a friendly and welcoming tourist destination, its history is rich with stories of gangsters like Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, who once visited the city. Dive into this intriguing past at the Gangster Museum of America, which offers guided tours and a fascinating gallery to help you learn more about the city's colorful history.
Mountain View
Mountain View is proudly known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World," offering some of the best bluegrass music you'll find anywhere in the country. If you're not already familiar, bluegrass is a vibrant genre that blossomed in the Appalachian region during the mid-20th century, combining traditional country, jazz, and folk influences. Don’t miss the Mountain View Bluegrass Festival happening this November 7th to 9th, a perfect chance to experience this lively music scene.
Just a short half-hour drive from the city, you’ll find the breathtaking Blanchard Springs Cavern, where you can explore stunning crystalline geological formations along accessible paved paths. Finish your adventure at the Ozark Folk Center State Park, open from mid-April to October, where you can watch talented artisans creating local crafts, music, and other rich cultural traditions that truly bring the area to life.
Bentonville
Bentonville is a lively town and the county seat of Benton County. It’s especially loved by history enthusiasts, thanks to its many museums that tell fascinating stories from the past. One standout is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which is free to visit and features impressive collections spanning five centuries, from early American art to modern creations. You might also enjoy the Walmart Museum Heritage Lab, where you can learn about the early days of the company that has grown into one of the world's largest corporations, right here in Arkansas. Just a short drive away is the Slaughter Pen Trail, a favorite among cyclists for its exciting paths that challenge your skills and help you get active. Bentonville also offers charming boutique shops and lively farmers markets, with plenty of stores to explore and enjoy.
Heber Springs
Heber Springs is a charming and historic town, founded all the way back in 1881. Visitors can dive into the area's rich history by exploring the Ruland Junction Train Museum and the Cleburne County Historical Society. Just nearby, the Sugar Loaf Mountain Nature Trail offers breathtaking 360-degree views of beautiful landscapes, perfect for watching local birds and wildlife. For lovers of nature, Heber Springs is right next to Greers Ferry Lake, a massive body of water covering over 40,000 acres. It's well-known for its impressive fish, with some of the largest walleye and bass ever caught, including a walleye weighing 22 pounds! Besides fishing, the lake invites visitors to swim or even jump off cliffs into the refreshing waters—it's all safe and fun.
Van Buren
Van Buren holds a special place in history during the Gold Rush, as travelers gathered wagons, horses, and other vital supplies to journey westward. The town's rich heritage is beautifully preserved, especially in the Van Buren Historic District, which boasts many charming landmarks. Highlights include the 1842 Crawford County Courthouse and the 1908 Hebe Fountain, both telling fascinating stories of the past that delight visitors. Plus, Van Buren is a wonderful gateway to Lake Fort Smith State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. In the evenings, the town becomes a favorite spot for stargazers — thanks to its remote setting and low light pollution, it's perfect for gazing at stars and planets. Remember to bring your telescopes and enjoy the breathtaking night sky!
Siloam Springs
Smithsonian Magazine named Siloam Springs one of the top small towns in America in 2012. This recognition comes from the charming mix of attractions that draw visitors from all over the country. Historically, the area was inhabited by Native Americans before European settlers arrived in the 1830s, and it quickly grew into a vibrant tourist destination. You can discover the town's rich history through engaging guided walking tours and fascinating exhibits like the "Industries of Siloam Springs' and the "Sager Family and Pioneer Life" displays. These exhibits highlight different facets of the town, from historic businesses to everyday life in the 1800s.
Today, Siloam Springs continues to welcome tourists with a variety of enjoyable attractions. Visitors can explore the City of Siloam Springs Kayak Park, have fun at The Family Aquatic Center, or relax at the 165-acre City Lake Park by a picturesque lake. This outdoor oasis offers excellent fishing and paddling opportunities, along with scenic trails perfect for running and biking.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Arkansas offers endless pretty towns where tourists can get fresh outdoor air this summer and enjoy outdoor fun. Whether you're inclined to attend music festivals, countless museums, or outdoor activities like fishing and hiking, these Natural State towns are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Each town's unique charm, historical significance, and natural beauty ensure that visitors of all interests will find something to love and remember. So, pack your bags and explore Arkansas's diverse landscapes and vibrant communities.
