Arkansas Adventures: 10 Must-See Spots, Secret Gems & Where to Stay

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Why Visit Arkansas?

Arkansas isn’t just about razorbacks and Bill Clinton. It’s a dazzling mix of scenic mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, quirky towns, and Insta-worthy hidden gems. Whether you're road-tripping through the Ozarks or chasing waterfalls (yes, TLC, I’m ignoring your advice), Arkansas deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Arkansas

1. Hot Springs National Park

Soak your stress away in the natural hot springs or snap pics of the historic Bathhouse Row. Bonus tip — book a spa day at Quapaw Baths & Spa and emerge like a new human.

Pro tip: Secure your rental car easily with Economy Bookings for those winding mountain roads.

2. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

This free museum is tucked into the forest and offers masterpieces, sculpture trails, and an actual Frank Lloyd Wright house. Culture with a side of nature? Yes, please.

Travel hack: Use WayAway for cash back on flights and hotel bookings.

3. Buffalo National River

Kayak, float, or hike your way through one of America’s few remaining undammed rivers. Pack a waterproof phone case — you’ll want pics.

Need a local guide? WeGoTrip has self-guided tours to level up your adventure.

4. Thorncrown Chapel

Hidden in Eureka Springs’ forest, this glass-and-wood chapel looks like it belongs in a fairytale. A must-see for architecture lovers and hopeless romantics.

Getting there: Use Kiwi Taxi for private, affordable transfers.

5. The Walmart Museum

Yep, it's a thing. Visit the original Walmart store in Bentonville and relive retro retail nostalgia.

Grab a scooter from BikesBooking and zip around town in style.

6. Devil’s Den State Park

If you like caves, rugged hiking, and wildflowers galore, this one’s for you. Take the Yellow Rock Trail for sweeping valley views.

Protect your tech and bags while you hike with Radical Storage.

7. Garvan Woodland Gardens

A 210-acre botanical garden on Lake Hamilton, perfect for those Pinterest-perfect flower selfies.

Book a car or transfer with GetTransfer for a stress-free visit.

8. Mount Magazine State Park

Arkansas’ highest point with epic hiking, hang gliding, and lodge stays overlooking the Petit Jean River Valley.

Stay connected with an Airalo eSIM for instant travel data.

9. Blanchard Springs Caverns

Take a guided underground tour of these jaw-dropping limestone caves — it’s like Narnia with a better lighting setup.

Save on entrance tickets using Tiqets.

10. Eureka Springs Historic District

Wander through quirky shops, haunted hotels, and Victorian homes. If you’re lucky, you might spot a ghost or two.

Stay overnight: Snag great hotel deals at Hotellook.

Hidden Gems in Arkansas

• The Thorncrown Labyrinth — a meditative walking path near Thorncrown Chapel.
  
  

• Lake Ouachita Islands — rent a kayak with LocalRent and island-hop.
  
  

• Ozark Folk Center — live mountain music and old-school crafts.
  
  

Where to Stay

• Mountain Harbor Resort — lakefront cabins and killer sunset views.
  
  

• 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville — sleep among contemporary art.
  
  

• Lookout Point Lakeside Inn — dreamy boutique escape in Hot Springs.
  
  

Bonus: Check out flight prices with Aviasales and package them up with Trip.com deals.

Pro Travel Essentials

• Stay worry-free with VisitorsCoverage Travel Insurance
  
  

• Book car rentals on the fly
  
  

• Pack light and store luggage with Radical Storage
  
  

• Score up to 7% off cruises and boat rentals with SeaRadar
  
  

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