Top 14 Attractions and Activities in Jacksonville, Arkansas

Situated in the Pulaski County of central Arkansas, Jacksonville is located on the fringe of Little Rock and had a population of just under 30,000 according to the most recent census.

The city derived its name from Nicholas Jackson, a local figure who bequeathed the land to a now-defunct railroad following his passing; from the original railway depot, the town expanded in both area and population.

In the 1940s, the region housed a significant munitions factory alongside several aluminum processing industries, which were crucial to the wartime efforts during that period.

Presented below are 14 noteworthy activities to engage in while visiting Jacksonville and its surroundings.

1. Jacksonville Museum of Military History

With its backdrop of significant munitions and aluminum facilities that supported the economy for several decades, Jacksonville boasts a rich military heritage, and the Jacksonville Museum of Military History is the ideal venue for an immersive exploration of this legacy.

Beyond its displays, exhibits, and various artifacts, the museum maintains a vast archive, featuring the region’s most comprehensive collection of historical documents and materials that trace back nearly a century.

Numerous items in the museum were donated by local residents, and one of the standout exhibits highlights the Titan II Nuclear missiles.

The museum is situated on Veterans Circle in Jacksonville.

2. Reed’s Bridge Battlefield

During the Civil War, Little Rock was the scene of intense conflict; it became a frequent battleground for Union and Confederate forces as they traversed en route to various military campaigns.

Reed’s Bridge Battlefield consists of three distinct fields where significant engagements transpired. In many historically important areas, there are informational plaques, displays, and memorials providing visitors with deeper insights into the events that unfolded.

The battlefield encompasses several replica cannons and fortifications, offering an authentic glimpse into the harsh realities faced by soldiers during that era.

It is conveniently located off Arkansas Route 161.

3. Holland Bottoms Wildlife Area

Situated between the communities of Cabot and Jacksonville, the Holland Bottoms Wildlife Area is a popular site for both hunting and fishing activities.

Prior to participating in these activities, it is advisable to consult their website for specific restrictions, regulations, and applicable fees. If you decide to visit, you will encounter some of the finest bass fishing, as well as opportunities for squirrel and deer hunting within the region.

The expansive park features thousands of acres of woodlands, which provide optimal wildlife habitat. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission manages the area to ensure its preservation for future generations, with regular patrols in place, hence, adhering to the rules is essential.

4. Splash Zone Water Park

Central Arkansas is characterized by its hot and humid summers, making the Splash Zone Water Park a perfect destination for cooling off.

Tailored primarily for families, the park is replete with slides, diving boards, splash pads, dump-buckets, and shallow pools.

There are numerous seating areas for guardians to comfortably observe their children, with most including relaxing lounge chairs accompanied by umbrellas for sun protection.

The park ensures safety with a staff of lifeguards and maintains reasonable admission rates.

5. Paradise Park

Located on the southern edge of the expansive Little Rock Air Force Base, Paradise Park is often underrated by both residents and visitors.

Despite its minimalist offerings, this simplicity adds to its charm; you will encounter picturesque views of the lake and the nearby dam, regardless of the time of your visit.

The park’s elevation is approximately 300 feet, and adjacent to the dam, the steep plunge to the water is quite striking.

It serves as an ideal location for a leisurely morning or afternoon walk or simply relaxing with a book.

6. AGFF Shooting Sports Complex

Even for those apprehensive about firearms and uncertain of their operation, a visit to the AGFF Shooting Sports Complex can offer an engaging experience for an hour or two.

The complex is accessible to local marksmen seeking to enhance their shooting proficiency in a secure and professional setting. Frequently hosting competitive shooting events, it serves as a remarkable venue to observe accomplished marksmen—both male and female—exhibiting impressive firearm skills.

The complex is staffed with professionals who prioritize safety and is accommodating to beginners, provided they are accompanied by a knowledgeable gun owner or instructor.

7. Me & McGee Market

Situated near Jacksonville and Little Rock, Me and McGee Market is a family-operated outdoor market that emphasizes locally produced products by farmers, entrepreneurs, and artisans.

They offer an impressive selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with a diverse range of dairy products, honey, wellness items, and prepared goods such as pickles, salsa, and tomato sauce.

The market is an excellent venue to find unique gifts and sample items that may not be widely available elsewhere. As the majority of the money spent remains within the community, your patronage supports the local economy and the livelihoods of families.

8. Roundtop Filling Station

It is quite rare for gasoline filling stations to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places; however, there are two located in the small town of Sherwood, Arkansas, which is in close proximity to Jacksonville.

These uniquely shaped stations were once associated with the Pierce Oil Company, a division of the former Standard Oil Company following its antitrust breakup.

Although the station no longer dispenses fuel, the mushroom-shaped building has been well preserved and is accessible for visits.

Capturing photographs here is worthwhile, as it represents one of the region’s most distinctive attractions.

9. Rail & Sprue Hobbies

The Rail and Sprue Hobby Shop in Jacksonville is a must-visit destination for railroad enthusiasts and small model train hobbyists.

Despite its modest size, the shop offers an impressive assortment of items, and the knowledgeable staff is unlikely to be stumped by any inquiries you may have regarding trains. The owner is typically present, ready to assist.

Even if you are not an avid train enthusiast, you will be captivated by the exquisite detail and craftsmanship involved in creating miniature replicas of functional trains and depots.

The shop is conveniently located on John Harden Drive in Jacksonville, so feel free to stop by and engage with the staff.

10. Central Arkansas Escape Rooms

If you have yet to experience the excitement of an escape room, it is worth considering while you’re in the Jacksonville area.

Central Arkansas Escape Rooms are professionally overseen to provide guests with an immersive experience alongside six other friends or family members.

Your team will need to apply critical thinking to decipher codes and solve puzzles that lead to your escape; you may find it surprisingly engaging, even knowing it’s a simulated game.

Various rooms are available, each featuring unique themes, allowing you to select the one that piques your interest the most.

11. Plantation Agriculture Museum

Agriculture has long been a cornerstone of Arkansas’s economy. The Plantation Agriculture Museum features a variety of exhibits highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage.

Historically, cotton has emerged as one of the state’s most significant crops, transported by rail to various destinations across the nation, and utilized in countless household products.

Located along Arkansas Route 161 in Scott, the museum primarily focuses on the 1830s, a pivotal period marking Arkansas’s attainment of statehood.

For a significant portion of its existence, the museum building served as a seed warehouse.

12. Toltec Mounds Archaeological State Park

As one of Arkansas’s largest and tallest manmade structures, the Toltec Mounds Archaeological State Park dates back over a millennium. Its proximity to Jacksonville makes it an excellent venue for spending a few hours learning about the region’s rich Native American heritage.

Archaeologists ascertain that the mounds primarily served ceremonial purposes and were situated near the heart of a once-thriving community that was eventually vacated.

Located on Toltec Mounds Road in Scott, Arkansas, the site is under the management of Arkansas State Parks, continually offering valuable insights into its former inhabitants.

13. Altitude Trampoline Park

With a staggering 200 trampolines, Altitude Trampoline Park provides an exhilarating environment for children looking to expend their energy.

The majority of the park’s trampolines connect seamlessly; there are designated areas for younger children to ensure their safety among the larger jumpers.

In addition to trampolines, the park features dodgeball and basketball courts, as well as an expansive foam pit that is particularly popular.

Overall, it serves as an enjoyable, cost-effective option for allowing children to enjoy themselves.

14. Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Situated to the west of Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain State Park has been designated as a protected area since the late 1970s, being among the first parks established in close proximity to a major urban center.

In addition to offering an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, the park fulfills educational and conservation roles. Depending on your timing, you may have the opportunity to engage in various activities hosted throughout the year.

Comprising nearly 2,000 acres, the park serves as a habitat for a diverse array of local wildlife. Visiting during early mornings or late afternoons increases your chances of encountering the area’s fauna.