Five Awesome Day Trips: Arkansas

The natural beauty of Arkansas can be experienced in each of the diverse travel regions from the Gulf Coast plains to the Ozark Mountains. The major cities and charming small towns offer many points of interest, including world-class museums, historic sites, and diverse cultural attractions. There are also many uniquely Arkansas things to do from Little Rock to Eureka Springs. Cheer for the Razorbacks in Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas and a great downtown full of unique shops and an outstanding culinary scene. Enjoy the beauty of the Ozarks from the vantage point of the Buffalo River as it meanders for 135 miles through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. Our day trips direct you from Little Rock to wonderful destinations in every direction. 

Here are five great day trips destinations across the Natural State: 

Courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

Heber Springs (The Outdoors)

The lake town of Heber Springs, located about 60 miles north of Little Rock, has plenty to offer. The area is perfect for those in love with all things outdoors. Greers Ferry Lake is one the most popular outdoor destinations. The man-made lake at the foot of beautiful Round Mountain was formed by Greers Ferry Dam, a project of the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Nine marinas provide boat rental services, and the lake is so big it never feels crowded. The Little Red River flows from the dam, and a trout hatchery at Collins Creek ensures great fishing year-round. If you didn’t bring fishing gear, not to worry; there are several local fishing guides that can assist, including Triple F Outfitters. Historic downtown Heber Springs includes a stately courthouse, antique shops, a restored theater, and Spring Park, with its mineral springs that attracted the town’s original settlers.

Hot Springs (Parks & Recreation)

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains 55 miles from Little Rock, Hot Springs is a charming town full of things to do. It is well-known for the historic bathhouses and natural hot springs that attract visitors year-round to Hot Springs National Park. Learn about and experience the tradition of the “American Spa” of the 20th Century in the nine historic bathhouses. Take a ranger-led tour of the Fordyce Bathhouse, the most luxurious on bathhouse row. In addition to the springs, the park features more than 30 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, hot water cascades, picnic areas, and campsites. To get the lay of the land, head to the newly renovated Hot Springs Mountain Tower. The tower’s upper open-air observation deck is at an elevation of 1,256 feet above sea level. From there, visitors get a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, including the entire park and a portion of the Ouachita Mountains.

Courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

Marianna (Food & Beverage)

This day trip takes you 99 miles east of Little Rock to the tiny town of Marianna. The town has become a surprising foodie tourist destination due to the accolades given to an unassuming barbecue joint. Jones Bar-B-Q Diner owner, James Jones, was awarded an America’s Classics award from the James Beard Foundation in 2012. It also said to be one of the nation’s oldest restaurants owned by an African-American family. There is no website or online ordering, the trick is making sure to arrive early enough. They open at 7 am and close when the barbecue runs out, which can be as early as 10 am! Get your pulled pork by the pound or in a sandwich and enjoy delicious simplicity.

Mountain View (Caves & Caverns)

Take a trip north, about 100 miles from Little Rock, to the quaint town of Mountain View. This beautiful getaway in the hills of the Ozark Mountains is famous for the preservation of folk and traditional music. The Arkansas Folk Festival was founded here in the early 1960s, and the Ozark Folk Center State Park maintains the Ozark heritage in music, crafts, culture, and history. The state’s largest craft cooperative, the Arkansas Craft Guild, is also headquartered in the historic downtown area and has a gallery there. Nearby, Blanchard Springs Caverns gives you a chance to take a trip underground to explore the science and history of caves in the area. Tour guides take you on an elevator beneath the surface and through the caverns.

Murfreesboro (Tours & Experiences)

About 100 miles southwest of Little Rock in the town of Murfreesboro, you will find Crater of Diamonds State Park. This unique park is one of the only places in the world where the public can hunt for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. Visitors can search a 37-acre field, the gem-rich eroded surface of an ancient volcano, and any rock or mineral you find is yours to keep! Start your day at the visitor center to learn about diamonds and the other rocks and minerals found here and the best ways to search for them. Park staff provide complimentary identification of your finds and present diamond mining demonstrations and other interpretive programs. More than 33,100 diamonds have been found by visitors since 1972— maybe you’ll be among the lucky ones!

**Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hours at attractions may be limited and/or temporarily closed. Make sure to check the websites and add to your list for future travels!