Why would you spend your vacation in Arkansas when Las Vegas, New York and Los Angeles are all available? If for nothing else, come for the natural beauty the adequately named ‘Nature State’ has to offer. Visitors will certainly have a great time driving, hiking or strolling by over 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,700 miles of streams and rivers - ideal spots to also go fishing in! If scenery really is your thing, then Arkansas is also home to 6 national park sites, 2.5 million acres of national forests, 7 national scenic byways, 3 state scenic byways, and 50 state parks! This is not including the many museums, galleries, theme parks and historic buildings Arkansas boasts. Book now and see what all the fuss is about!
Where to stay
Now that you have made it to Arkansas, you will want to know the best place to stay. Luckily the state is full of holiday rentals to meet your desires from bed and breakfasts with real southern hospitality, to apartments in picturesque locations. Find them in the heart of charming cities or located amongst some of the finest landscapes the United Stated has to offer. Those seeking a romantic getaway with their other half can choose a private apartment nestled away on a rolling hilltop. Bed and breakfasts can be found in equally scenic areas as well as in large cities and small communities, and are placed in modern buildings and restored Victorian mansions. Keep an eye out for accommodation with a swimming pool or beautiful gardens.
Fun Facts
- The only active diamond mine in the United States is located in Arkansas!
- Arkansas must be pronounced as “Arkansaw”. It is illegal to pronounce it in any other way when in the state!
- If you are visiting Fayetteville and bringing your pet then beware! It is illegal for dogs to bark after 6:00 p.m. in the city!
- It is legal to shoot bears in Arkansas. If you want to wake a sleeping bear for a photograph, then prepare to spend a night in the cells!
- Riddle's Elephant Sanctuary accept elephants regardless of their species, gender, or disposition, and is the only internationally recognized sanctuary of its kind!
Things to see and do in Arkansas
So, it has been established that if natural beauty is what you are looking for in a vacation, then Arkansas is the place to go. Realistically you may not be able to view every picturesque landscape in one trip. Just make sure you see the best. Start with Hot Springs National Park, the oldest federal reserve in the United States. For over 200 years, the area have been a prime location for those looking to treat rheumatism and other ailments. Ozark – St. Francis National Forest is another splendid area which is home to 23 developed campgrounds, 9 swimming areas, 395 miles of hiking trails, and 370 miles of streams for fishing. Visitors can also choose from the Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park, Pinnacle Mountain State Park and Pea Ridge National Military Park.The ‘Nature State’ has more to offer than stunning landscapes so those looking for a more diverse trip need not worry! Cultural institutions are widespread across Arkansas. In terms of museum, guests can visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Arkansas' Museum of Science & History and the Historic Arkansas Museum. Historic buildings are equally as interesting and include the Old State House and the Little Rock Central High School.
Sometimes on vacation all you want is a little fun. Arkansas is another pleaser here! Magic Springs and Crystal Falls is an amusement and water park and boasts a selection of roller coasters, thrill rides and family rides. The Little Rock Zoo is a nice place to visit and houses more than 725 animals. Sport lovers can enjoy a game of baseball at Dickey-Stephens Park or American football at the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. For something a little different, head to the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo.