Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Beebe, Arkansas

The town of Beebe, Arkansas, is situated centrally within the state along Route 167, conveniently positioned between Little Rock and Jonesboro.

With a population exceeding 7,000, Beebe ranks as one of the largest municipalities in White County and serves as the site for a satellite campus of Arkansas State University.

Established in the 1870s, the town was named in honor of a railroad executive instrumental in routing a rail line through the area, thereby facilitating its economic development and growth.

With numerous prominent attractions just a few hours’ drive away, Beebe serves as an excellent base from which to explore the many offerings of the state.

Here are 15 recommended activities in and around Beebe.

1. Do Drop In Flea Market

Situated on West Center Street in Beebe, the Do Drop In Flea Market is not the only flea market locally, but it stands out as one of the most frequented.

The Do Drop In combines elements of an antique shop with those of a thrift store. With a diverse range of items available, it offers something for everyone—especially for those willing to invest time to discover hidden treasures.

They frequently announce promotions and specials on their Facebook page, so it is advisable to check online prior to visiting. Given their rapidly changing inventory, new items are likely to be available with each visit.

2. Jacksonville Museum of Military History

A lesser-known fact beyond central Arkansas is the occurrence of a significant explosion at a Titan II intercontinental ballistic missile site near Jacksonville in 1980.

The Jacksonville Museum of Military History possesses one of the region’s most comprehensive collections of historic artifacts, much of which relates to this nuclear missile incident.

The exhibits feature uniforms, equipment, and first-hand narratives of the accident that transpired during a tense period in history when the United States and Soviet Union faced the threat of nuclear conflict.

Located on Veterans Circle, the museum also showcases an F-105 fighter-bomber and a Vietnam-era helicopter.

3. Reed’s Bridge Battlefield

The region surrounding Beebe is steeped in Civil War history. For those intrigued by the War Between the States of the 1860s, Reed’s Bridge Battlefield warrants a visit lasting an hour or two.

Although there is no museum or visitor center available on site, numerous informational plaques are situated at significant locations, along with replicas of the earthen fortifications utilized by Union and Confederate troops.

The battle that occurred here may not be widely recognized beyond the area, but it was one of several crucial skirmishes in the contest for control of this strategic state.

4. Harding University

Situated on East Market Street in Searcy, Harding University is a Christian institution with a nearly century-long history. It attracts students from all U.S. states and numerous foreign countries.

Previous visitors have remarked on the amiable nature of the student body, as well as the campus’s beauty, cleanliness, and tranquility.

As is typical of many higher education institutions, Harding maintains an active calendar filled with campus events, including theater productions, art exhibitions, sporting activities, and guest lectures. If you find yourself in the vicinity, consider visiting or reviewing their events calendar online.

5. Do Some Fishing

With an abundance of rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs, Arkansas presents a veritable paradise for fishing enthusiasts. The Little Red and Arkansas Rivers surrounding Beebe are teeming with popular game fish, such as trout and smallmouth bass.

For those inexperienced in fishing in this area, it may be beneficial to engage the services of a guide to ensure an efficient and productive experience.

Beau’s Guide Service and Tailwater Fishing Company, located in Searcy, are two of the most esteemed local guide services, boasting years of expertise in connecting fishermen with favorable catches.

They offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day options, so it’s advisable to make contact with them or explore their offerings online to identify a package that aligns with your interests.

6. Searcy Art Gallery

The Searcy Art Gallery, located on East Race Avenue, showcases a variety of temporary art exhibitions throughout the year and is housed in the historic Black House.

This gallery is distinctive in that it lacks permanent exhibits, so it is prudent to review their online schedule before visiting to ensure there is an exhibition during your trip.

Even if your visit occurs during a period without an exhibit, a guided tour of the house and grounds can still provide a worthwhile experience.

The area surrounding the gallery represents one of Searcy’s oldest neighborhoods and provides an excellent setting for a leisurely stroll.

7. Hourglass Escape Rooms

Due to their affordability, suspenseful atmosphere, and independence from weather conditions, escape rooms represent a rapidly expanding segment of recreational options.

The objective of this activity is for participants to collaboratively solve challenging puzzles, decode ciphers, and uncover clues that will facilitate their escape—ideally ahead of rival groups.

Escape rooms encourage teamwork, healthy competition, and offer a uniquely thrilling experience.

Located on East Race Avenue in Searcy, Hourglass Escape Rooms provides multiple themed rooms, some of which are suitable for families with children.

8. Splash Zone Water Park

Summers in Arkansas are characteristically hot and humid; if you wish to avoid confining yourself indoors during June, July, and August, you will need to seek out appropriate summer activities, especially if you have children.

Situated on West Martin Street in Jacksonville, Splash Zone Water Park is a haven for children, featuring all the amenities typical of a water park, such as slides, diving pools, and splash buckets.

The facility is staffed by certified lifeguards, and for parents preferring to observe from a safe distance, there are numerous shaded lounge chair options available.

The park tends to become crowded on weekends during the summer, so for a more manageable experience, consider visiting during weekdays or early morning hours.

9. Arkansas State University Beebe Campus

For nearly a century, Arkansas State University has maintained a campus in Beebe. It is an excellent location to explore whether you are seeking a pleasant walking environment or engaging activities to occupy your time.

Like most college campuses, this university features a notable library and a student bookstore filled with unique Arkansas-themed products suitable as gifts. Beyond regular athletic events, the university hosts a variety of guest speakers, musical and theatrical performances, and educational courses for both students and community members.

To stay informed about their upcoming events, routinely checking their website is recommended.

10. Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge

During the annual autumn migration, Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge accommodates hundreds of thousands of waterfowl, which stop to rest and feed as they journey south in search of warmer climates.

Located along the Little Red River in White County, not far from Beebe, this wildlife refuge is accessible to visitors during specific periods of the year. Popular local recreational activities include fishing and hunting.

Spanning over 15,000 acres, it attracts numerous waterfowl species, so for a prime viewing opportunity, consult online resources to plan your visit accordingly.

11. Holland Bottoms Wildlife Area

Situated near Beebe between Cabot and Jacksonville, Holland Bottoms Wildlife Area is a favored locale for local sportsmen wishing to enjoy the great outdoors without extensive travel across the state.

Composed of vast expanses of hardwood forest, the wildlife area is conducive for hunting deer, squirrels, and turkeys, as well as offering excellent bass fishing in its lakes.

It is important to note that both fishing and hunting are strictly regulated, with designated open seasons, meaning hunting is not permitted year-round. Appropriate licensing and permits are also essential.

12. Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

Although Arkansas is a landlocked state, a museum in North Little Rock is dedicated to preserving the state’s maritime and naval heritage. The highlight of the museum is the USS Razorback, a World War II-era submarine that continued to serve well into the Vietnam War era.

Guided tours showcase the lives of the courageous seamen who spent extended periods at sea in the confined quarters of submarines, providing guests with a detailed perspective on naval life.

The museum is located on Riverfront Park Drive and offers reasonable admission prices.

13. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

In the 1950s, Little Rock was prominently featured in national discourse as government efforts to desegregate schools faced immediate and staunch opposition.

During those tumultuous days, the Governor of Arkansas deployed National Guard troops to block the now-famous ‘Little Rock Nine’ from entering the school.

While Little Rock Central High School continues to operate as an educational institution, it also functions as a national park with guided tours available for those interested in this important chapter of American history.

Tour fees are quite reasonable, but demand is high during peak periods, so early planning is advisable to secure a spot.

14. William J. Clinton Presidential Library

William Jefferson Clinton, arguably Arkansas’ most esteemed native, rose from modest origins to grace the national and international political arenas.

The William J. Clinton Presidential Library, situated along the Arkansas River in Little Rock, draws tens of thousands of annual visitors. The library is renowned for its exquisite design and is regarded as one of the most lavish presidential libraries in the nation.

Conveniently located near the University of Arkansas’ School of Law, where both Bill and Hillary Clinton earned their law degrees, it has been welcoming guests since 2004, and visitors should anticipate spending approximately an hour exploring its offerings.

15. Harding University Theatre

Harding University is well-regarded for its high-quality theatrical productions, exclusively featuring local talent.

The Pied Pipers theatre group is especially popular, specializing in productions tailored for younger audiences. During the summer months, they host a popular dinner theater, providing an enjoyable evening of good food and family-oriented entertainment at a reasonable price.

Additionally, they have a long-standing tradition of presenting spring and fall productions. While tickets are generally not free, they are affordably priced, with proceeds supporting their continued artistic endeavors.