Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Searcy, Arkansas

Situated northeast of Little Rock on Route 167, Searcy serves as the county seat of White County, Arkansas. Originally named Sulphur Springs, the town was renamed Searcy in the late 1830s, shortly after the establishment of the county it now inhabits.

Due to its relative isolation, Searcy and its surrounding landscapes are home to some of the region’s most renowned rivers, lakes, mountains, and forests, making it an attractive destination for sports enthusiasts, bird-watchers, and nature admirers alike.

Additionally, the town’s proximity to Little Rock affords visitors the chance to engage with the city’s artistic, historical, and cultural attractions, all located within an hour’s drive.

1. Pioneer Village

Understanding the history of an area can enhance your visit. For those exploring Searcy, Pioneer Village offers a compelling glimpse into its historic legacy.

This site functions as both a museum and a historical homestead, providing an engaging perspective into the lives of resilient families who settled the region over a century ago.

Entry is complimentary, and alongside its intriguing exhibits and displays, visitors can discover various unique local products for purchase, such as honey, blankets, and artisanal crafts.

2. Harding University

Visiting Harding University’s campus offers a unique experience free from the typical college rowdiness often found in other universities across the nation.

This Christian institution has a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly environment.

Furthermore, college campuses typically feature well-maintained grounds, charming tree-lined areas, and extensive paved pathways, often hosting engaging events and workshops at no cost.

Located on East Market Avenue, it’s worth taking the time to explore.

3. Searcy Art Gallery

The Searcy Art Gallery serves as an excellent destination for aspiring artists, art enthusiasts, or anyone seeking inspiration to create their own artistic works.

Housed in a historic residence, the gallery frequently updates its exhibits, thus ensuring a fresh experience with each visit.

If the gallery happens to be between exhibitions or closed, guided tours of the house are available and offer insightful perspectives into the local history.

Located on East Race Avenue, it is advised to check their website prior to your visit for current display information.

4. Tailwater Fishing Company

For avid anglers, discovering new fishing spots can be an unparalleled experience. Arkansas’ Little Red River stands out as one of the region’s premier trout streams; those desiring a guided fishing excursion should consider Tailwater Fishing Company.

They offer expert guidance and necessary equipment for producing successful fishing outcomes, though a fishing license is required regardless of residency status.

Their facility can be found on West Center Avenue in Searcy.

5. Hourglass Escape Rooms

Escape rooms have proliferated across rural America, making them easily accessible in most locales.

For those unfamiliar with escape rooms, consider dedicating a few hours at Hourglass Escape Rooms to become acquainted with this innovative recreational activity.

These engaging challenges stimulate mental faculties, cultivate a sense of suspense, and encourage teamwork among participants.

The objective is to interpret clues and locate hidden objects, enabling your team to escape ahead of rival teams or evade fictional threats like hungry zombies.

6. Harding University Theatre

Prior to visiting Harding University, it is advisable to review the theater’s schedule online to identify events that might appeal to you and your companions.

The venue hosts a diverse range of presentations, including plays, musical performances, and lectures. Notably, their seasonal variety shows in the fall, spring, and Easter are typically performed in the Benson Auditorium.

Additionally, they feature numerous productions tailored for children’s audiences, ensuring a family-friendly environment in line with the university’s mission.

During summer months, a dinner theater experience is also available.

7. Old Hippy Antiques

The saying goes that old hippies never fade away, much like beloved tie-dye shirts that have endured many washes.

If you are in Searcy and wish to explore some vintage treasures, a visit to Old Hippy Antiques is an excellent choice.

As with many antique shops, true gems tend to be discovered by those equipped with patience and a keen eye. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to guide you and address any inquiries you might have, increasing your chances of finding that unique item you’ve been seeking.

8. Rialto Theater

Conveniently situated in downtown Searcy at the intersection of Race and Spring Streets, the Rialto Theater pays homage to the art-deco movement that flourished in the early 20th century.

This historic venue was constructed in the 1920s and has undergone several renovations, making it a prime example of period architecture within the region.

Despite its vintage design, the venue continues to host contemporary performances, providing a unique blend of past and present.

Keep an eye out for the iconic neon marquee, a nostalgic touch that transports visitors back in time.

9. Camp Nelson Confederate Cemetery

During the period of the Civil War, Arkansas and its neighboring state Missouri played crucial roles in the conflict between Union and Confederate forces.

Both factions frequently occupied Arkansas, resulting in numerous battles across the state.

Camp Nelson Confederate Cemetery, located in nearby Cabot, serves as the final resting place for approximately 1,500 Confederate soldiers who perished in the vicinity. This site is essential for history enthusiasts and amateur historians alike.

Set amidst a serene landscape of trees, the cemetery is freely accessible for visitors. While the gravestone inscriptions may be challenging to decipher, wandering through the grounds remains a rewarding experience.

10. Greers Ferry Lake

Nestled in the foothills of the picturesque Ozark Mountains, Greers Ferry Lake encompasses nearly 40,000 acres of water teeming with wildlife and stunning scenery.

This lake was established in the 1960s following the completion of the Greers Ferry Dam at a substantial cost of nearly $50 million.

The surrounding terrain features impressive bluffs and dramatic rocky outcroppings, many of which are accessible for hiking and climbing—ideal for photography and enjoying unobstructed vistas.

Notable recreational activities at the lake include swimming, camping, fishing, and boating.

11. Sandy Beach

Located in the nearby town of Heber Springs, Sandy Beach features one of the longest stretches of lakefront in the region, making it a popular summertime destination.

While the park can be overcrowded during peak times, visitors have remarked on its cleanliness and organization.

Weekday visits are recommended for a more tranquil experience. The park also includes numerous hiking trails and forested areas suitable for leisurely strolls.

Sandy Beach lies on the eastern shore of Greers Ferry Lake, within walking distance of various shops and restaurants.

12. Joyland Skating Center

During the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter, the weather in Searcy can become rather uncomfortable. Therefore, identifying enjoyable indoor activities is essential, especially for family travelers.

Joyland Skating Center, situated on South Second Street in Cabot, provides a suitable venue for such indoor recreation.

As the sole roller skating rink in the area, it offers all the standard amenities you would expect. Rental skates are available in all sizes.

The center features an excellent sound system and concessions, making it a popular venue for birthday celebrations and other special occasions.

13. Cabot City Park

City parks serve as ideal locations for escaping the hustle and bustle, enjoying the great outdoors, and doing so without a significant financial investment.

Cabot City Park, located on Richie Road, offers visitors a variety of facilities and activities aimed at promoting physical fitness.

The community center encompasses swimming pools, a tennis court, and a walking track.

As with many parks and community centers, they frequently provide educational classes for both children and adults, so it is advisable to consult their website for upcoming offerings.

14. Splash Zone Water Park

Families visiting central Arkansas during the oppressively hot summer months will find the Splash Zone Water Park in Jacksonville an inviting retreat from the heat.

Equipped with various attractions like water slides, sprinklers, and dump-buckets, the park succeeds in providing enjoyable experiences for all ages. For parents preferring to spectate, numerous umbrella-covered lounge chairs are conveniently located nearby.

To avoid peak hour crowds, consider visiting on a weekday for a more enjoyable experience.

Given the range of activities offered, the admission fee is very reasonable.

15. Jacksonville Museum of Military History

Just a short drive from Searcy, Jacksonville features a Museum of Military History that offers both fun and educational experiences.

Showcasing an impressive array of exhibits, displays, and military equipment, the museum includes a real helicopter and an F-105 Thunderchief, a Vietnam-era fighter-bomber capable of reaching speeds close to 1,500 miles per hour at high elevations.

The museum’s extensive content covers the United States’ participation in wars and conflicts from the Civil War through to the Iraq and Afghanistan campaigns.

Additionally, an intriguing exhibit recounts a mishap involving a Titan II intercontinental ballistic missile that occurred in the 1960s, resulting in over 50 casualties.