9 Most Charming Town Squares In Arkansas
Arkansas is famous for its open spaces, natural beauty, and mountain ranges, including the Ozarks. Throughout this rugged landscape are several small towns that exude the best characteristics of the region, from unique attractions to friendly communities. Often, the hub of communal activity is centered in downtown districts, where visitors can experience regional foods, boutiques, and historic structures that make the area stand out.
Even among the best town squares in Arkansas, these nine are the best. They all share similar qualities, but each one has something distinctive to offer. Eureka Springs offers everything from underground tunnels to a vibrant culture scene, while Mountain View is known for its contributions to American folk music. If planning a trip to Arkansas, be sure to check out these amazing districts that promise a memorable stay.
Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs has a solid argument for being the best downtown district in the Ozarks, filled with unique finds and stunning architecture. The district's architectural masterpiece is the Flatiron Flats Building. Built in 1880, the triangular building sits at the intersection of Center and Spring Streets, underscoring the district's vibrant cultural scene. Spring Street obtained its name from the underground springs in this area, which can be seen at two unique restaurants.
Mud Street Cafe is in what is known as "Underground Eureka" on top of a spring that flooded the road in the 1800s, hence the name. The Grotto, located on top of a spring, offers not only a menu but also a unique sensory experience. The historic building was carved out of stone, and the dining room sits in the middle of this cave, providing one of the most distinctive dining experiences available.
Batesville
Batesville embodies the true spirit of Arkansas and boasts the oldest existing Main Street in the Natural State. The community takes great pride in its district, which, along with a new streetscape, boasts antique stores and historic buildings like the Melba Theater. The Art Deco theater originally was a mercantile store, but was converted to Arkansas's first Cinemascope theater in 1940.
Booking a room at The Royal on Main, a boutique hotel housed in an 1897 commercial building, puts you in the center of the district's almost 50 shops and restaurants. Restaurants include the charming Whistle Stop Cafe, which has wooden walls and serves classic American fare. Walking through the district feels like time travel with modern amenities and venues, and it is one of the best experiences in Arkansas.
Van Buren
Van Buren's eight-block historic downtown district is loaded with art galleries, antique shops, and historic sites, framed by a classic storefront motif. Notable structures include the Crawford County Courthouse and the Crawford County Bank Building. The courthouse is believed to be the oldest active county courthouse west of the Mississippi. It was constructed in 1842 and still contains the original Seth Thomas tower clock.
The bank is a jaw-dropping architectural marvel. Constructed in 1889, the dramatic former bank contains three stories of red and brown brick, arched windows, and is adorned with blue cones. Both structures show the pride the community has put into their district, and each one is stunning. Another landmark is the King Opera House, a Main Street staple for over 100 years, and it still hosts several venues every year.
El Dorado
It may not be the legendary city of gold, but El Dorado has plenty of remarkable attractions and things to do. Known as the Union Square District, the charming area contains a significant amount of 1920s architecture funded by the 1921 oil boom. Among the boutiques and restaurants are themed sections to discover, such as the Murphy Arts District.
This section is the premier destination for the arts and live music events at First Financial Music Hall and the outdoor MAD Amphitheater. These venues add fun and vibrancy to a charming area that is unmatched. Oil Heritage Park is a must for those seeking artifacts, exhibits, and interpretive plaques of the town's oil boom history and how it shaped into what it is today.
Mountain View
Mountain View is famous for being the home to American Folk music, and the quaint town square district reflects this singular history and Ozark Mountain culture. Downtown Square is a significant draw for many Ozark visitors and includes unique finds like Urban Forge. This shop is where ironwork meets art, and features everything from home decor to iron beds.
The state's largest craft cooperative, Arkansas Craft Guild, is located in the historic district and provides a glimpse into what makes this town so exclusive. A can't-miss eatery for most is Tommy's Famous Pizza on West Main Street. It has been a Mountain View tradition since 1991, offering pizza, calzones, and Southern barbecue.
Magnolia
Magnolia's charming courthouse square features six colorful murals, including the only one in the world autographed by actor Charlton Heston. The Historic Columbia County Courthouse was completed in 1905 and is a classic example of the Renaissance-Revival architectural style, featuring columns and a domed roof, features that have made it the centerpiece of the district.
After an Italian-style lunch at La Bella Vita, relax at the Cecil Traylor Wilson Garden. The sitting area features immaculate landscaping and flowing fountains that provide a serene respite while taking in the downtown scenery. Magnolia's courthouse square was designed for culture and relaxation, and it is one of the best districts in the state.
Siloam Springs
Main Street Siloam Springs is a delightful district with an artistic ambiance. Part of this charm is the 150-foot mural, “Its History and the People That Make It,” featuring the area's past, present, and future. The community celebrates its uniqueness with several events throughout the year, including Fourth Friday, a monthly family-friendly event that transforms Memorial Park into a block party for the community.
Shops include the Southern Grace Shoppe, Heart of the Home, and many others. The district is fun to discover on foot, a nod to yesteryear with an eye on the present, which is exactly the point of the new mural. It is clear that a lot of effort goes into preserving Main Street and its businesses, and it is one of the best shopping hubs around.
Blytheville
Blytheville's historic commercial district is located near the Missouri state line, near the archway that welcomes drivers to the Natural State. The downtown district embodies this welcoming spirit and, along with the colorful brick buildings, has many charming venues. The Arkansas Welcome Center should be the first stop for information about this town and others throughout the state.
Next, visit the Main Street Blytheville Visitor Center, which is housed in a historic Greyhound Bus Depot. The structure is thought to be one of the last Art Moderne depots in existence, and it is a masterful sight. For regional and local history, stop at the Delta Gateway Museum. The center interprets this history through numerous exhibits, paintings, and photographs.
Mena
While Mena is famous for its natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities, it also has a photo-worthy downtown area. The district is a shopper's paradise, offering unique finds such as Books & Stuf (a fun spelling) and the Mena Art Gallery. The bookstore has been a landmark since 1977, and the gallery boasts fused, painted, and stained glass.
Dining is another golden opportunity in the walkable downtown area at places like American Artisans. Only a mile from the shopping and live theatre district, the bistro features American fare, a landscaped area, and outside dining with a small-town charm. This is a great destination for a relaxing getaway, and one you won't soon forget.
Arkansas’ Most Charming Town Squares
From vibrant cultural hubs to charming historic streets, these Arkansas town squares showcase the unique spirit of the Natural State. Eureka Springs dazzles with its culture and distinctiveness, while Mountain View charms with its Ozark simplicity—each a must-visit destination.
With diverse attractions, live events, and inviting dining, these communal centers offer authentic experiences that make any trip memorable. These nine towns belong on every traveler’s Arkansas bucket list.
