Explore Arkansas: Top Adventures and History
Geographically, Arkansas straddles the space between the pancake flatlands of the Mississippi Delta and the US Interior Highlands, an upland region that spreads across four states. However, the hybrid character of this state is revealed in more than its topography.
Culturally, Arkansas encompasses both the South and the Midwest. This is a state known for vocal faith and a rejection of perceived elitism; it’s also a place where an overwhelmingly warm sense of hospitality is typically extended to guests, often manifesting deep reserves of folk culture at unexpectedly delightful moments.
Mountain Biking in Northwest Arkansas
You can gain a lot of adventure mileage from two wheels in the Natural State. Three Arkansas cities – Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Hot Springs – have earned the Ride Center designation from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). Northwest Arkansas was the first IMBA Regional Ride Center in the country, reflecting the area’s mountain biking excellence.
This world-class mountain biking destination combines two crucial qualities: four seasons of long swathes of moderate weather, especially in the fall, and a plethora of mountains. The Arkansas mountain ranges are particularly well-suited for mountain biking trails with lots of shady leaf cover and convenient access from larger towns. For instance, Lake Leatherwood in Eureka Springs is a municipal park boasting a dedicated, top-tier mountain biking infrastructure.
Float Down the Buffalo River
On the topic of user-friendly Arkansas adventures, a float down the Buffalo National River should not be overlooked. This river, which is the nation’s first designated national river, winds through the state’s vibrant heart, navigating high canyon walls and sandy beaches that lead to grassy campsites, perfect for sleeping under the stars.
Your float trip on the Buffalo can be both adventurous and leisurely, offering options for every level of comfort. Therefore, it’s wise to contact the right outdoor center before planning your expedition.
Learn About Little Rock Central High School
Located in the heart of the state capital, Little Rock Central High School is a still-functioning educational institution that, during the mid-20th century, was central to one of the Civil Rights movement’s most iconic confrontations.
In 1954, the Supreme Court mandated the integration of public schools. However, this effort was not implemented in segregated Arkansas until 1957, at this very school, when nine students were escorted past a hostile crowd by National Guard soldiers. Today, a National Park Service museum resides at the site, though the aftermath of integration saw many white families relocating or enrolling their children in private schools, marking only a chapter in the enduring legacy of segregation.
Soak Up the Pretty in Petit Jean
Petit Jean State Park, the oldest state park in Arkansas, is noted for its stunning natural beauty, showcasing an array of iconic state landscapes, including canyons, forests, and rolling hills.
Eight official trails penetrate the lush heart of the park, with favorites like Seven Hollows, which weaves through a series of forested canyons, and Bear Cave, remarkable for its enormous, captivating sandstone boulders (despite technically not being a cave). If you’re aiming for a picturesque view to share with loved ones, catch a sunrise from the 1120ft-high peak of Petit Jean Mountain, overlooking the scenic Arkansas River Valley.
Jam Out in Mountain View
Situated in the center of the state, Mountain View serves as a crossroads for the folk traditions of the Ozarks. The European settlers in this area were adept at living off the land, away from urban centers of power and wealth. Consequently, they thrived, nurturing a distinctive Ozark folk culture that is prominently reflected in their music.
To immerse yourself in this musical heritage, visit Ozark Folk Center State Park, where lively shows occur regularly. Alternatively, explore Mountain View’s town square, host to weekly jam sessions featuring talented local musicians. It’s also important to note that Mountain View is a great spot for outdoor adventures, such as zip-lining and canopy experiences at Loco Ropes.
Have a Soak in Hot Springs
Arkansas is home to two significant federal firsts: the first national river and the first federally protected space, Hot Springs National Park. The hot springs, which gained official park status in the early 20th century, transformed the small town of Hot Springs into one of the wealthiest cities in the nation, fueled by public baths and casinos.
Notably, gangsters like Al Capone frequented the Hot Springs circuit during Prohibition. The financial prosperity derived from mass tourism financed the construction of beautiful early-20th-century architectural landmarks in the bustling downtown area. Nowadays, visitors can stay in some of these therapeutic spas, providing a wonderful way to relax after a day of hiking.
Relive the 1990s in Little Rock
Regardless of public opinion, Bill Clinton undeniably shaped the American political landscape in the 1990s; remember, he served as the governor of Arkansas before ascending to the presidency.
In Little Rock, the William J Clinton Presidential Center acts as a time capsule of the ’90s, featuring around 80 million documents. Visitors can peruse presidential itineraries dating back to discussions about war in the former Yugoslavia, making it an enlightening experience. Additionally, the center functions as a children’s museum, with a striking modern architectural design that overlooks the river.
Experience Art at Crystal Bridges
Bentonville, known as the birthplace of Walmart, continues to thrive as its corporate headquarters. Consequently, this quaint town in the hills is not only slightly affluent but also offers diversity, supported by the presence of subsidiary employees from around the globe.
The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is surprisingly stunning, housing a collection that rivals those found in cities five times Bentonville’s size. Architecturally, the museum features an interconnected series of gallery spaces linked by soaring bridges, giving the impression of floating islands of creativity set amidst the Ozarks.
Lose Yourself on the Historic Loop
Eureka Springs is an enchanting town where leather-clad motorcycle riders coexist alongside artisans selling healing crystals and handcrafted jewelry from a century-old converted storage barn. This picturesque settlement boasts a wealth of historic buildings, making a self-guided tour of the Historic Loop a rewarding experience. You not only gain knowledge but also walk through one of the most eclectic small towns in the South.
