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    Home»United States»Arkansas (AR)»21 Things to Do in Arkansas: Your Ultimate Guide to the Natural State’s Hidden Gems

    21 Things to Do in Arkansas: Your Ultimate Guide to the Natural State’s Hidden Gems

    By Xim GOSeptember 27, 2025

    Welcome to Arkansas, the Natural State that’s anything but boring! If you think Arkansas is just a flyover state, prepare to have your mind blown. From world-class art museums that’ll make you forget you’re in the South to diamond hunting adventures that could literally pay for your vacation, the things to do in Arkansas will surprise and delight even the most seasoned travelers. Whether you’re a culture vulture, outdoor enthusiast, or someone who just wants to soak in some historic hot springs while pretending to be fancy, Arkansas has got you covered. Pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some comfortable walking shoes) because we’re about to dive into 21 incredible experiences that prove the Natural State is anything but natural-ly boring!

    Table of Contents

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    • 1. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
    • 2. Garvan Woodland Gardens: Arkansas’s Botanical Paradise
    • 3. Thorncrown Chapel
    • 4. Crater of Diamonds State Park
    • 5. Hot Springs National Park
    • 6. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
    • 7. Fordyce Bathhouse: Step Into Hot Springs’ Golden Era
    • 8. Anthony Chapel – A Glass Cathedral in Nature’s Cathedral
    • 9. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
    • 10. William J. Clinton Presidential Library
    • 11. Bathhouse Row: Step Into Hot Springs History
    • 12. Christ of the Ozarks
    • 13. Southland Casino Hotel – Gaming Paradise in West Memphis
    • 14. Pinnacle Mountain State Park
    • 15. Blanchard Springs Caverns
    • 16. The Walmart Museum
    • 17. Intrigue Theater
    • 18. Petit Jean State Park
    • 19. Hot Springs Mountain Tower
    • 20. Lake Catherine State Park
    • 21. Museum of Native American History

    1. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

    Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

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    Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is where high culture meets Mother Nature in the most delightful way possible – imagine wandering through world-class American masterpieces while forest trails beckon just outside the windows. This architectural marvel in Bentonville houses an impressive collection spanning five centuries of American art, from colonial portraits to contemporary installations, all nestled within a stunning glass-and-timber structure that seems to float over natural spring-fed ponds.

    The museum’s outdoor sculpture trail is equally captivating, offering a perfect blend of art and Arkansas’s natural beauty. You’ll find works by renowned artists like James Turrell and Roxy Paine integrated seamlessly into the landscape, creating Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.

    • Time needed: 3-4 hours (including outdoor trails)
    • Perfect for: Art lovers, families, couples, and anyone seeking cultural enrichment
    • Admission: Free! (Yes, really – thanks to the Walton Family Foundation)
    • Location: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds, and don’t miss the museum café’s locally-sourced lunch menu

    Crystal Bridges proves that world-class culture doesn’t require a trip to New York or Paris – sometimes the best art experiences are hiding in the heart of America.

    2. Garvan Woodland Gardens: Arkansas’s Botanical Paradise

    Garvan Woodland Gardens: Arkansas's Botanical Paradise

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    Garvan Woodland Gardens is a stunning 210-acre botanical wonderland operated by the University of Arkansas that transforms every season into a living masterpiece – and trust us, your Instagram feed will thank you later. This horticultural haven showcases everything from Japanese gardens and butterfly conservatories to seasonal flower displays that’ll make you forget you’re still in Arkansas.

    Wander through themed garden areas including the spectacular Anthony Chapel (perfect for those “I’m cultured” photos), explore the Children’s Adventure Garden where little ones can burn energy while learning about nature, or simply lose yourself among the countless walking trails that wind through native Arkansas landscapes and exotic plant collections.

    • Time needed: 2-3 hours for a leisurely visit
    • Perfect for: Families, couples, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts
    • Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
    • Payment: Credit card or exact cash only
    • Pro tip: Visit during spring blooms or fall colors for maximum wow factor, and bring comfortable walking shoes

    Whether you’re seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops or genuine natural beauty, Garvan Woodland Gardens delivers both with the kind of Southern charm that makes you want to slow down and actually smell the roses.

    3. Thorncrown Chapel

    Thorncrown Chapel

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    Thorncrown Chapel is a breathtaking architectural marvel nestled in the Ozark Mountains that perfectly blends nature with sacred space, making it a must-visit spiritual and cultural destination. This stunning glass chapel, winner of the American Institute of Architects’ National Honor Award in 1981, features soaring 48-foot ceilings and 425 windows that create an almost ethereal experience as sunlight filters through the forest canopy.

    The chapel’s unique design uses native stone and wood, allowing visitors to feel completely immersed in the surrounding woodland while maintaining the solemnity of a sacred space. Whether you’re religious or simply appreciate exceptional architecture, the interplay of light, shadow, and natural materials creates a truly moving experience.

    • Visit duration: 30-45 minutes
    • Perfect for: Couples, architecture enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and anyone seeking tranquility
    • Admission: Free (donations welcome)
    • Location: 12968 Highway 62 West, Eureka Springs, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit during golden hour (late afternoon) for the most spectacular lighting effects, and avoid busy wedding weekends in spring and fall

    Thorncrown Chapel proves that the most profound experiences often come from the perfect harmony between human creativity and natural beauty.

    4. Crater of Diamonds State Park

    Crater of Diamonds State Park

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    Ever dreamed of finding your own diamond? Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only place in North America where you can dig for real diamonds and actually keep what you find – making it Arkansas’s most sparkling attraction.

    This 37-acre diamond field sits atop an ancient volcanic crater where over 75,000 diamonds have been discovered since 1906. You’ll spend your day sifting through dirt like a modern-day prospector, and who knows? You might just strike it rich. The park provides basic tools, but serious treasure hunters bring their own equipment for better odds.

    • Time needed: 4-6 hours for a thorough search
    • Perfect for: Families with kids, adventure seekers, and anyone who loves a good treasure hunt
    • Entry fee: Around $10-15 per person
    • Location: Murfreesboro, Arkansas
    • Pro tip: Visit after heavy rains when diamonds are easier to spot on the surface

    Whether you find a million-dollar gem or just have muddy fun, this unique experience offers the thrill of discovery that no ordinary tourist trap can match.

    5. Hot Springs National Park

    Hot Springs National Park

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    Hot Springs National Park is America’s original spa destination, where you can literally soak in the same thermal waters that attracted Native Americans and Victorian-era wellness seekers centuries ago. This unique national park isn’t about hiking trails or wildlife spotting – it’s about indulging in natural hot springs that bubble up from deep underground at a perfect 143°F.

    The park’s crown jewel is Bathhouse Row, a collection of beautifully preserved early 20th-century bathhouses that showcase how the wealthy once pursued wellness and relaxation. You can tour the opulent Fordyce Bathhouse (now a museum) to see how different their idea of luxury spa treatments was back then, complete with marble fixtures and elaborate bathing rituals. For the full experience, book a soak at Quapaw Baths & Spa, where modern comfort meets historic charm.

    • Ideal visit time: 3-4 hours for bathhouse tours and soaking
    • Perfect for: Couples, adults seeking relaxation, history buffs
    • Cost: Park entry is free; spa services $25-100+
    • Location: 369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
    • Pro tip: Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and bring a water bottle – you’ll work up a thirst in those hot springs!

    It’s the only place where you can pamper yourself in a national park and call it educational – because who knew relaxation could feel so historically significant?

    6. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

    Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

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    Get ready to come face-to-face with some of America’s most magnificent big cats at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest sanctuaries of its kind in the United States where rescued tigers, lions, and other exotic animals roam in spacious, natural habitats.

    This incredible 459-acre sanctuary houses over 100 rescued big cats and bears, offering visitors guided tours where you’ll witness feeding time drama, hear heartwarming rescue stories, and maybe even catch a tiger taking a swim. The refuge’s mission goes beyond entertainment – it’s about education and conservation, making every visit both thrilling and meaningful.

    • Visit Duration: 2-3 hours for guided tours
    • Perfect For: Families with children 6+, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers
    • Admission: Adults $20, Children (4-12) $15
    • Location: 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, AR
    • Pro Tip: Morning tours offer the most active animals, and don’t forget your camera – these cats are surprisingly photogenic!

    Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for an unforgettable Arkansas adventure, this sanctuary delivers an experience that’s both educational and absolutely roar-some.

    7. Fordyce Bathhouse: Step Into Hot Springs’ Golden Era

    Fordyce Bathhouse: Step Into Hot Springs' Golden Era

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    The Fordyce Bathhouse is your gateway to understanding why Hot Springs became America’s first resort destination, transforming from a working spa into the perfect visitor center that tells the story of therapeutic soaking and social glamour.

    This beautifully restored 1915 gem showcases original stained glass, marble fixtures, and vintage bathing equipment that once served the wealthy and health-seeking. Interactive exhibits reveal the fascinating history of “taking the waters,” while the building’s stunning architecture makes you feel like a fancy Victorian-era guest without the questionable medical treatments.

    • Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
    • Perfect for: History buffs, families, architecture lovers, and anyone curious about America’s spa culture
    • Admission: Free
    • Location: 369 Central Avenue, Hot Springs National Park
    • Pro tip: Start here before exploring other bathhouses on the row – the exhibits provide context that makes the entire district more meaningful

    It’s the rare visitor center that’s actually more interesting than most museums, proving that sometimes the best stories are hidden in plain sight on a bustling downtown street.

    8. Anthony Chapel – A Glass Cathedral in Nature’s Cathedral

    Anthony Chapel - A Glass Cathedral in Nature's Cathedral

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    Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens is where architecture meets nature in the most breathtaking way possible – imagine saying “I do” in a glass cathedral surrounded by 210 acres of botanical paradise on Lake Hamilton. This stunning modern chapel, with its soaring glass walls and steel framework, creates an almost ethereal experience that’ll have you questioning whether you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

    The chapel’s transparent design means you’re simultaneously indoors and immersed in the natural beauty of the woodland gardens, making it perfect for weddings, quiet contemplation, or simply marveling at innovative architecture. Beyond the chapel, explore the extensive garden trails featuring native Arkansas plants, seasonal blooms, and scenic lake views.

    • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours to explore chapel and gardens
    • Perfect for: Couples, photography enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and peaceful souls
    • Admission: Around $15-20 for adults
    • Location: 550 Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit during spring or fall for optimal garden colors, and bring your camera for those Instagram-worthy shots

    Whether you’re planning a romantic proposal or just need to restore your faith in beautiful spaces, Anthony Chapel proves that sometimes the most moving experiences happen when human creativity harmonizes perfectly with Mother Nature.

    9. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

    Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

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    Step into a pivotal chapter of American civil rights history at Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where the brave Little Rock Nine changed the course of education forever in 1957. This National Park Service site preserves the campus where nine African American students courageously integrated the previously all-white school, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in America’s ongoing journey toward equality.

    The experience centers around the National Park Visitor Center, located diagonally across from the still-active high school. Here you’ll find compelling exhibits, historic photographs, and interactive displays that bring this dramatic story to life. The center’s film presentation and ranger-led programs provide deep insights into the events that unfolded here, while guided tours offer a closer look at the school’s exterior and surrounding area.

    • Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
    • Perfect For: History enthusiasts, families with older children, students, and anyone interested in civil rights
    • Admission: Free
    • Location: 2120 Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, Little Rock, AR
    • Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays during school hours to see the active campus in action, and don’t miss the ranger talks for deeper historical context

    This site masterfully transforms a difficult chapter of American history into an inspiring testament to courage and progress that will leave you both educated and moved.

    10. William J. Clinton Presidential Library

    William J. Clinton Presidential Library

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    Step into the presidential spotlight at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library, where Arkansas’ most famous son gets the presidential treatment he deserves – and you get front-row seats to history. This sleek, modern library perched on the Arkansas River banks in Little Rock isn’t just about dusty documents; it’s an interactive journey through the 1990s that’ll make you nostalgic for dial-up internet and flip phones.

    The library showcases Clinton’s presidency through engaging exhibits, including a full-scale replica of the Oval Office where you can pretend to make world-changing decisions (though please don’t actually sign anything). Interactive displays cover everything from policy achievements to that saxophone moment on late-night TV, while the beautiful riverside location offers stunning views and peaceful walking trails.

    • Visit Duration: 2-3 hours for the full experience
    • Perfect For: History buffs, families with older kids, political junkies, and anyone curious about recent American history
    • Admission: Around $10 for adults, $6 for seniors/students, kids under 6 free
    • Location: 1200 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock
    • Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the museum store for unique presidential souvenirs

    Whether you’re Team Clinton or just appreciate good storytelling, this library proves that presidential history doesn’t have to be boring – it just needs the right stage.

    11. Bathhouse Row: Step Into Hot Springs History

    Bathhouse Row: Step Into Hot Springs History

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    Bathhouse Row is where Arkansas shows off its therapeutic side – a stunning collection of eight historic bathhouses that once made Hot Springs the “American Spa” destination for health-seekers and wellness enthusiasts in the early 1900s.

    Today, you can explore these beautifully preserved Art Deco and Victorian buildings, with some still offering traditional thermal baths and modern spa services. The Fordyce Bathhouse serves as an excellent visitor center and museum, giving you a peek into the golden age of “taking the waters.” Don’t miss the chance to actually experience a thermal bath at Quapaw Baths & Spa – it’s like stepping into a warm, mineral-rich time machine.

    • Time needed: 2-3 hours for touring, full day if you indulge in spa treatments
    • Perfect for: History buffs, couples seeking relaxation, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone curious about America’s spa heritage
    • Cost: Museum visit free, thermal baths $25-60+
    • Location: Central Avenue, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
    • Pro tip: Visit the museum first to understand the history, then treat yourself to an actual thermal bath – weekday mornings are less crowded

    It’s not every day you can literally soak in the same healing waters that attracted everyone from Al Capone to Babe Ruth!

    12. Christ of the Ozarks

    Christ of the Ozarks

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    Standing tall at 67 feet, Christ of the Ozarks is Arkansas’s answer to Rio’s Christ the Redeemer – though admittedly with more Southern charm and fewer Brazilian soccer fans. This impressive 7-story statue of Jesus has been watching over Eureka Springs since 1967, offering visitors both spiritual reflection and some seriously Instagram-worthy views of the Ozark Mountains.

    Located on the grounds of The Great Passion Play, this concrete colossus is visible from miles away and makes for a surprisingly moving experience. The statue itself is free to view and photograph, though you’ll want to stick around for the world-famous Passion Play if you’re visiting during season (May through October).

    • Visit Duration: 30-45 minutes for photos and reflection
    • Perfect For: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique roadside attraction
    • Cost: Free to view the statue; Passion Play tickets start around $25
    • Location: 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, AR
    • Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the most dramatic lighting and fewer crowds

    Whether you’re seeking spiritual inspiration or just want to check off Arkansas’s most famous religious landmark, Christ of the Ozarks delivers an unexpectedly powerful experience that’s uniquely American.

    13. Southland Casino Hotel – Gaming Paradise in West Memphis

    Southland Casino Hotel - Gaming Paradise in West Memphis

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    Southland Casino Hotel stands as the Mid-South’s premier gaming destination, boasting the region’s largest and newest casino floor that stretches an impressive two-and-a-half football fields in length. This entertainment powerhouse offers everything from 2,400 slot machines to live table games, plus dining options that’ll keep your energy up between lucky streaks.

    The massive gaming floor creates an electric atmosphere where both seasoned gamblers and curious newcomers can find their perfect game. Beyond the casino action, the hotel provides comfortable accommodations and multiple restaurants, making it ideal for weekend getaways or extended gaming adventures.

    • Ideal visit duration: 4-8 hours for gaming, overnight stay recommended
    • Perfect for: Adults 21+, couples seeking nightlife, gaming enthusiasts
    • Entry: Free admission (gambling budget varies)
    • Location: 1550 N Ingram Blvd, West Memphis, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit weekdays for less crowded gaming floors and take advantage of player rewards programs

    Whether you’re feeling lucky or just want to experience Arkansas’s most exciting casino atmosphere, Southland delivers the thrills that make for unforgettable memories.

    14. Pinnacle Mountain State Park

    Pinnacle Mountain State Park

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    Looking for an outdoor adventure that combines breathtaking views with Arkansas’s natural beauty? Pinnacle Mountain State Park is your ticket to hiking heaven, where a challenging climb rewards you with panoramic vistas that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.

    This 2,356-acre wonderland offers multiple hiking trails, from the moderate West Summit Trail to the more challenging East Summit Trail that leads to the iconic cone-shaped peak. The park also features excellent fishing spots along the Arkansas River, educational programs at the visitor center, and peaceful nature trails perfect for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

    • Time needed: 3-5 hours for the full hiking experience
    • Perfect for: Hikers, families with older kids, nature photographers, and adventure seekers
    • Cost: Free admission and parking
    • Location: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, Roland, AR
    • Pro tip: Start early morning to avoid crowds and heat, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking boots for the rocky summit trail

    Whether you’re conquering the summit or simply enjoying the scenic river views, Pinnacle Mountain delivers that perfect blend of challenge and reward that makes Arkansas’s natural playground truly unforgettable.

    15. Blanchard Springs Caverns

    Blanchard Springs Caverns

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    Blanchard Springs Caverns is Arkansas’s crown jewel of underground wonders, where Mother Nature shows off her artistic skills with stunning limestone formations that’ll make you forget all about those boring office meetings above ground. This living cave system in the Ozark National Forest offers guided tours through cathedral-sized rooms filled with flowstone draperies, massive columns, and delicate formations that took millions of years to perfect – talk about patience!

    The caverns maintain a cool 58°F year-round, making it perfect for escaping Arkansas’s sweltering summers or chilly winters. You’ll choose between the Dripstone Trail (easier, 1.2 miles) or the Discovery Trail (more challenging, 1.75 miles), both offering jaw-dropping views of underground lakes and towering stalagmites.

    • Duration: 1-2 hours for guided tours
    • Perfect for: Families with kids 6+, couples, adventure seekers, anyone who loves natural wonders
    • Admission: Adults $12-15, Children $8-10 (varies by tour)
    • Location: 704 Blanchard Springs Road, Fifty Six, AR
    • Pro tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket – cave floors can be slippery and it’s chilly down there!

    This underground masterpiece proves that the best adventures often happen when you’re willing to go beneath the surface – literally.

    16. The Walmart Museum

    The Walmart Museum

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    Step into the corporate cathedral of capitalism at The Walmart Museum in Bentonville, where the humble beginnings of America’s retail giant unfold in surprisingly engaging displays. This isn’t your typical dusty museum – it’s a fascinating journey through the entrepreneurial spirit that transformed a small five-and-dime store into a global empire.

    Housed in the original Walton’s 5-10 store on the historic Bentonville town square, the museum showcases Sam Walton’s office replica, vintage merchandise, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of revolutionary retail practices. You’ll discover how a simple philosophy of “We Sell for Less” changed shopping forever, complete with original artifacts and engaging multimedia presentations.

    • Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
    • Perfect For: Business enthusiasts, families, and anyone curious about American retail history
    • Admission: Free
    • Location: 105 N Main Street, Bentonville, AR
    • Pro Tip: Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds and combine with nearby Crystal Bridges Art Museum for a full cultural day

    Whether you’re a Walmart skeptic or supporter, this museum offers an unexpectedly compelling glimpse into the mind of retail innovation that shaped modern American shopping habits.

    17. Intrigue Theater

    Intrigue Theater

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    Step into the mesmerizing world of Intrigue Theater in Eureka Springs, where nationally acclaimed magicians Sean-Paul and Juliana Fay deliver mind-bending illusions that will leave you questioning reality itself. This intimate venue has been captivating audiences for over 15 years, featuring performers who have graced stages on Penn & Teller Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, and America’s Got Talent.

    The theater offers an up-close magical experience unlike any Vegas show, with interactive performances that engage the entire audience. The cozy setting means every seat provides an excellent view of the spectacular illusions, mentalism, and comedy that blend seamlessly throughout each show.

    • Duration: Shows typically run 90 minutes
    • Perfect for: Families with children 8+, couples seeking unique entertainment, magic enthusiasts
    • Ticket prices: Around $25-35 per person
    • Location: Downtown Eureka Springs historic district
    • Pro tip: Book advance tickets as shows often sell out, and arrive early to grab the best seats

    Whether you’re a skeptic or believer, Intrigue Theater offers an unforgettable evening that proves magic is very much alive in the heart of Arkansas.

    18. Petit Jean State Park

    Petit Jean State Park

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    Petit Jean State Park isn’t just Arkansas’s first state park – it’s the crown jewel that started it all back in 1923, and one look at those spectacular mountain vistas will tell you exactly why. Perched atop Petit Jean Mountain, this natural wonderland serves up a buffet of outdoor adventures that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.

    The park’s star attraction is Cedar Falls, a 95-foot waterfall that’s basically nature’s own shower curtain, plus hiking trails that range from leisurely strolls to leg-burning climbs. You can explore ancient Native American cave paintings, stay overnight in the historic lodge, or test your courage on the scenic overlooks that’ll have you questioning why you’re afraid of heights.

    Here’s what you need to know:

    • Time needed: Full day (6-8 hours) to see the highlights
    • Perfect for: Families, hikers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys not being stuck in traffic
    • Cost: Park entry is free; lodge and camping fees vary
    • Location: 1285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit during fall for spectacular colors, but arrive early on weekends to snag the best parking spots

    Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just chasing away city stress, Petit Jean State Park delivers that perfect blend of adventure and tranquility that makes Arkansas’s natural beauty absolutely unforgettable.

    19. Hot Springs Mountain Tower

    Hot Springs Mountain Tower

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    Standing tall at 216 feet, Hot Springs Mountain Tower offers Arkansas’s most spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Ouachita Mountains – think of it as nature’s skyscraper with a much better view and zero office meetings. This observatory, which celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2018, transforms the charming city of Hot Springs into a miniature wonderland spread out below your feet.

    The panoramic vistas from the top are absolutely breathtaking, especially during fall when the mountains explode in autumn colors that would make Instagram jealous. On clear days, you can see for miles across the rolling hills and thermal springs that put this area on the map.

    • Visit duration: 45-60 minutes
    • Perfect for: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys stunning views
    • Admission: Around $8-12 for adults, children typically half price
    • Location: 401 Hot Springs Mountain Drive, Hot Springs, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit during sunset for magical golden hour photos, but arrive early during peak seasons to avoid crowds

    Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just someone who appreciates jaw-dropping scenery, Hot Springs Mountain Tower delivers an unforgettable Arkansas experience that’s worth every step up.

    20. Lake Catherine State Park

    Lake Catherine State Park

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    Lake Catherine State Park is Arkansas’s hidden gem where nature lovers can escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying some of the state’s most scenic hiking trails and pristine lake waters. This 2,180-acre park offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation, though visitors should be prepared for Arkansas’s notorious humidity, especially during summer months.

    The park features excellent hiking trails that wind through dense forests and along the beautiful Lake Catherine shoreline, plus opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The park’s crown jewel is its crystal-clear lake, perfect for swimming and water sports, while the well-maintained trails offer varying difficulty levels suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

    • Ideal visit duration: Half-day to full weekend
    • Perfect for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, couples seeking nature retreats
    • Entry fee: Free (camping and some activities may have fees)
    • Location: 1200 Catherine Park Road, Hot Springs, AR
    • Pro tip: Visit during early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak humidity, and bring plenty of water and insect repellent

    Lake Catherine State Park proves that sometimes the best adventures happen when you’re slightly sweaty and completely disconnected from Wi-Fi.

    21. Museum of Native American History

    Museum of Native American History

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    Step into America’s fascinating origin story at the Museum of Native American History, where you’ll journey through centuries of indigenous culture and discover what life was truly like before European settlers arrived. This thoughtfully curated museum offers an authentic glimpse into the rich traditions, artifacts, and daily lives of America’s first inhabitants through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

    The museum features an impressive collection of Native American artifacts, traditional clothing, tools, and artwork spanning multiple tribes and time periods. You’ll explore recreated village scenes, learn about ancient hunting techniques, and gain deeper understanding of diverse tribal cultures that shaped the continent.

    Practical Information:

    • Visit Duration: 2-3 hours for a thorough experience
    • Perfect For: Families with children, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about American heritage
    • Admission: Around $8-12 for adults, discounts for children and seniors
    • Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
    • Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more contemplative experience and don’t miss the hands-on activities section

    This hidden gem transforms a simple museum visit into a meaningful cultural journey that will leave you with profound appreciation for America’s indigenous heritage.

    And there you have it – 21 amazing things to do in Arkansas that prove this underrated gem deserves a spot on your travel bucket list! From hunting for diamonds like a modern-day prospector to soaking in therapeutic hot springs like royalty, Arkansas offers experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else. Whether you spent your days exploring world-class museums, hiking through stunning state parks, or channeling your inner geologist in underground caverns, you’ve discovered that the Natural State is full of surprises. So go ahead, start planning your Arkansas adventure – your Instagram feed (and your soul) will thank you for discovering one of America’s best-kept travel secrets!

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