9 Small Towns In Arkansas To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Arkansas is dotted with inviting small towns that blend history, natural beauty, and warm Southern character, offering travelers an easy escape from busy city life. Whether nestled in the Ozark Mountains or spread along forested rivers and rolling hills, each town reveals its own identity. Some, like Eureka Springs and Van Buren, are known for Victorian architecture and historic districts, while others, like Mountain View, are famous for music traditions. Jasper is ideal for exploring the outdoors, and El Dorado welcomes culture enthusiasts with its thriving arts scenes. From culture-filled getaways to nature-steeped retreats, these Arkansas towns deliver the perfect mix of exploration and relaxation.
Eureka Springs
Visitors to Eureka Springs are charmed by its Victorian architecture and its position near the Ozark Mountains, creating a relaxing weekend of days steeped in history and the outdoors. Visitors will want to visit the Historic Downtown, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There, guests will find a string of shops and dining options couched within historic spots like the Peabody House Historic Inn. The inn has stood since 1883 and today makes the perfect place to stay, putting you steps away from downtown. An exploration of the town's history continues at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum, where exhibits depict the town's history. The museum is situated within the Calif House, a three-story home first built in 1889. Those who want to head outdoors will want to visit the unique Eureka Springs Music Park. This park allows guests to walk through nature while enjoying outdoor interactive music sculptures.
Mountain View
Mountain View lives up to its name, attracting those who seek to relax in outdoor settings. Visitors to the area can enjoy a cozy stay at The Inn at Mountain View Bed and Breakfast. Situated in the heart of town, guests will find themselves down the street from the Ozark Highlands Theater. If you are staying in town for the day, this is the place for bluegrass music and fiddle contests, along with other musical events held throughout the year. As stated, though, people really come here for the incredible views. Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is located near the renowned Ozark National Forest and Ozark Mountains. Visitors will find natural wonders, such as caverns and waterfalls, alongside places to grill and numerous hiking trails, with many incredible spots to take in the surrounding hills. A return to town invites a visit to the Stone County Museum, housed in the historic Mountain View school building, which today showcases the town's history through artifacts and exhibits that depict the area's culture.
Jasper
Jasper is the ideal retreat for those seeking to spend time outdoors. Those arriving in town for a weekend recharge will enjoy the Sommer House Inn, which puts them at the foot of the area's attractions. Heading outdoors is easy, with a trip to Steel Creek Overlook just a short drive away. The overlook provides a majestic view of the Buffalo National River and unparalleled photo opportunities. If you are instead staying close to town, Bradly Park puts you on the banks of the Little Buffalo River, where you can enjoy time along the water. If you would like a day indoors learning about the area's history, then the Bradley House makes the perfect destination. This house was once the home of Dr. and Mrs. W.A. Bradley and includes full-room replicas of what a doctor's office or a typical kitchen looked like a century ago.
El Dorado
Those who enjoy relaxing best while enjoying live entertainment will enjoy El Dorado. When arriving in town, visitors will want to stay at The Haywood El Dorado, which puts you in the heart of the Murphy Arts District. Just steps away, you will find the First Finance Music Hall, which hosts concerts, film festivals, and more throughout the year. The nearby Mad Amphitheater offers a blend of indoor entertainment and outdoor excitement, featuring music festivals, outdoor films, and seasonal farm markets. And within a short walk, you will find Main Street, which is lined with dining locations before your show starts. For a unique sight, head up the street to the Newton House Museum, a demonstration of Greek Revival architecture and the only antebellum home open to the public in town.
Siloam Springs
Siloam Springs is a unique place to unwind, thanks to its diverse range of activities and attractions. A major attraction in the area that serves as both a place to visit and a venue for entertainment is the Cherokee Hotel and Casino. Guests will find a combination of well-appointed rooms, dining options, gaming opportunities, and even concerts to enjoy. If you want to escape the hotel for a day outdoors, head to Gypsy Camp and Canoe, which offers canoe tours along the Illinois River. The "Original Gypsy” tour offers a two- to three-hour tour in boats ranging from single-person kayaks to six-person rafts. Those who want to explore the town's past will want to head to the Siloam Springs Museum instead. The museum depicts the history of Siloam Springs from the times of the original Native Americans who called the area home to the days of the frontier settlers who arrived later.
Batesville
Those who enjoy history and the outdoors will enjoy Batesville. To that end, you may want to stay at The Royal On Main. The Royal began life as a commercial building, first constructed in 1897, and today offers elegant suites from which to enjoy your weekend. Not far away, you will find The Old Independence Regional Museum. The museum contains 19,000 items that range from local tools to public records and anything related to daily life in Batesville. Not far away, visitors will find Riverside Park, located on the banks of the White River. This park is the most visited in Independence County and features an amphitheater, pavilions, and a Christmas-time light display. For a unique piece of racing history, you can also head south of town to the Mark Martin Museum. Mark Martin, a Batesville native, went on to become a Hall of Fame NASCAR driver. Today, the museum features some of his race cars, gear, and articles about his life.
Van Buren
Relaxing days outdoors and visits to historic destinations are the best ways to relax in Van Buren. The easiest place to stay in town is the Hampton Inn, which puts you just down the street from historic sights. The Van Buren Historic District is a must-see destination, featuring numerous shops, restaurants, and galleries housed within a restored Victorian Main Street that evokes a bygone era. Arts on Main is a popular stop along this route, where guests will find photography, sculptures, and painted displays. Not far away, the Drennen Scott House provides a window into the area's past. John Drennen and David Thompson first purchased the land in 1836 and subsequently established a ferry business, donating land to create the Fairview Cemetery. The house is situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, and while you are in the area, you can head to Lee Creek Park. At 104 acres, it is the largest park in the Van Buren park system and is ideal for days spent kayaking on the river or reeling in a catch.
Heber Springs
Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous ways to unwind in Heber Springs. Visitors will find themselves on the banks of Greers Ferry Lake. The Heber Springs Resort puts you close to some of the most attractive destinations in the area. This resort is just minutes from the lake and the nearby Little Red River. Guests have easy access to the Dam Site Recreation Area along Greers Ferry Dam, where they can enjoy a day of hiking and fishing. The Dam Site Marina is also available for those seeking boat rentals that accommodate an entire family. Across the river, the Collins Creek Trailhead leads along a small waterfall and continues southward to the John F. Kennedy Park Campground. If you are remaining in town, you can enjoy your day outdoors at Courthouse Square. The square is part of the downtown historic district, which includes the historic Cleburne County Courthouse, originally established in 1883. Following modernization in the 1900s, it now sits along a string of shopping and dining destinations that sit on Main Street.
Magnolia
Visitors to Magnolia will find plenty of activities to enjoy in the great outdoors. Visitors can stay at the Hampton Inn, located on the edge of town, near Logoly State Park. Logoly was Arkansas's first environmental education park, where students can learn about the natural environment. Over the course of its 370 acres, visitors can walk beneath ancient forests along the many trails that wind through the area. An alternative is to head west to Lake Columbia. This multipurpose reservoir features a 30-acre park with a swimming area and numerous fishing spots. Visitors can also look forward to the annual Magnolia Blossom Festival in the Historic Downtown Square. Guests will find live music, a variety of food options, and games and events to enjoy.
Entertaining Weekends Everywhere
Arkansas is a diverse state with a rich history that offers plenty for those seeking a weekend getaway. History aficionados have the option of visiting the many historic districts found in towns throughout the state. At the same time, nature lovers can appreciate the beauty of the Ozarks and the numerous rivers that flow through Arkansas. Whatever way you prefer to relax, Arkansas has a destination for you. When you are thinking about your next weekend getaway, make one of these towns your next stop.
