Top 15 Arkansas Resorts for an Unforgettable Getaway

Often overlooked by numerous visitors to the United States, Arkansas is a state that astounds and pleases those who venture there. Known as “The Natural State,” it provides a remarkable outdoor experience for those eager to explore. From hiking and white-water rafting to captivating natural hot springs and diamond mining fields, the breathtaking landscapes of the Ozark Mountains, serene lakes, and quaint small towns beckon travelers to undertake an unforgettable adventure.

From the lively art scene in Fayetteville to the scenic trails in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas presents an ideal amalgamation of outdoor excitement, cultural treasures, and the warm hospitality characteristic of the South, captivating visitors at every opportunity. Whether you choose to stay in a luxury cabin surrounded by nature or a sophisticated urban resort, Arkansas offers a wide array of accommodations and activities to suit everyone.

Below are our selections for the best resorts in Arkansas:

1. Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa

Operating as a family-owned business, the prestigious Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa rests beneath the expansive Hickory Nut Mountain along the shores of Lake Ouachita.

Featuring comfortable and opulent cabins that offer outstanding lake views, along with a comprehensive range of resort amenities such as boat rentals, a delightful Lodge Restaurant, and three swimming pools, both couples and families can relish in days exploring the natural beauty before retreating to their inviting accommodations.

Outdoor enthusiasts can select from picturesque hiking and biking trails, while the nearby town of Mount Ida, recognized as the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World, is just a short drive away.

Website: http://www.mountainharborresort.com/

2. Lake Forest Luxury Log Cabins

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Situated amidst 14 acres of woodland in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs Lake Forest Luxury Log Cabins presents an excellent choice for a relaxing and enjoyable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

In close proximity to the beautiful Beaver Lake, the cabins feature a traditional rustic façade with a luxurious and inviting interior, making them an ideal retreat for unwinding after a day of engaging activities such as horseback riding, boating, and fishing.

Take advantage of the wood-burning fireplace during winter months, enjoy the jacuzzi during warmer evenings, and take a refreshing swim in the resort’s adequately sized outdoor pool.

Website: https://www.lakeforestcabins.com/

3. Little Rock Marriott

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Stylish urban accommodations abound at the Little Rock Marriott, conveniently located in the center of Downtown Little Rock. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the Little Rock Marriott allows guests to fully experience the city’s highlights right at their doorstep while assuring a return to their elegant room or suite at day’s end.

Guests balancing work with leisure will appreciate the well-appointed workspaces and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, while culinary enthusiasts will enjoy the diverse dining options available, particularly the newly conceptualized Heritage Grille Steak and Fin Restaurant.

Website: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/litpb-little-rock-marriott/

4. Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Bay

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Embrace a laid-back lifestyle at the Wyndham Resort located by the scenic Greers Ferry Lake in Fairfield Bay. This resort encompasses all fundamental elements for a thrilling family getaway, complete with outdoor recreational activities right outside your Ozark Mountain-themed accommodation.

If you prefer to stay close to your home away from home, Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Bay offers a vast array of onsite amenities, including eight swimming pools (four designated for children), alongside facilities for tennis, basketball, mini-golf, volleyball, and shuffleboard.

Website: https://www.clubwyndham.com/cw/resorts/wyndham-fairfield-bay.page

5. Lookout Point Lakeside Inn

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For a touch of romantic nostalgia in Arkansas, Lookout Point Lakeside Inn stands out as an enchanting option. Nestled in Hot Springs and surrounded by the tranquil Ouachita Mountains with stunning views over Lake Hamilton, this charming inn offers a “sanctuary for both body and soul.” With features such as private whirlpools, cozy fireplaces, waterfalls, and hammocks, relaxation is effortlessly achieved.

Anticipate large, hearty breakfasts—which may be served in your room or on the patio accompanied by the gentle sound of the waterfall—and do not miss the “Innkeepers Reception” in the afternoon, where daily servings of delectable homemade desserts and complimentary wine or tea await.

Website: http://lookoutpointinn.com/

6. 21c Museum Hotel

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Acknowledged as the No.1 “Hot New Hotel in The United States” by TripAdvisor, the 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville serves as a unique fusion of luxury accommodations, art gallery, and contemporary restaurant.

Guests do not need to visit the onsite gallery (although it is highly recommended) to experience the artistic charm of the resort—each room is a luxurious yet comfortable masterpiece. With high ceilings, custom-designed furnishings, and Malin + Goetz toiletries, departing can prove challenging.

One particular feature that may entice guests to leave their tranquil quarters is the onsite dining establishment, The Hive, led by the award-winning executive chef and FOOD + WINE’s “The People’s Best New Chef Midwest,” Matthew McClure, offering an exquisite culinary experience.

Website: https://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/bentonville/

7. Clarion Resort on The Lake

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Choosing to stay at the Clarion Resort on The Lake places you at the epicenter of Hot Springs activities. Positioned on Lake Hamilton and surrounded by the splendid backdrop of the Ouachita Mountains, the resort offers not only an outdoor pool and an excellent onsite restaurant but also guaranteed lake-view rooms, enhancing its allure.

Moreover, the resort serves as an ideal base for exploring numerous sightseeing opportunities and activities available in the Hot Springs region. Notable attractions include Oaklawn Racing and Gaming, Magic Springs Theme Park, Hot Springs National Park, and the National Park Aquarium, ensuring guests can unwind at the resort after a fulfilling day.

Website: http://www.hotspringsclarion.com/

8. The Cinnamon Valley

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Reconnect with nature at The Cinnamon Valley Resort, located in the serene Ozark Mountains. This resort offers nine luxury cabins, each uniquely named and styled, complete with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.

The traditional, rustic appearance of the cabins may evoke a sense of a treehouse, but inside, guests discover an entirely luxurious experience. Features such as private settings, wood-burning fireplaces, and exclusive hot tubs elevate the comfort levels in this beautiful resort.

Website: http://thecinnamonvalley.com/

9. Sugar Ridge Resort

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Positioned between the natural beauty of Beaver Lake and the historic town of Eureka Springs, Sugar Ridge Resort stands out as one of Arkansas’s premier romantic getaway locations.

Boasting over 75 acres of land with opportunities for walking, hiking, and lake access, guests can relish the breathtaking sunsets over Beaver Lake from the jacuzzi on their luxurious cabin’s deck. Indulge in in-room massages for a truly soothing experience.

Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the chance to observe various state wildlife up close, including playful raccoons and myriad bird species, such as the majestic Bald Eagle.

Website: http://sugarridgeresort.com/

10. The Burgundy Hotel

This stylish, modern establishment is West Little Rock’s first boutique hotel, known as The Burgundy, and it has rapidly become a favored choice among both business and leisure travelers.

Conveniently located near all major attractions and businesses in Little Rock, The Burgundy has transformed into a culinary hotspot thanks to the onsite restaurant, Table 28. Guests can reserve a table or opt for room service from Table 28’s delightful menu.

For those who wish to balance indulgence with fitness, the hotel offers an onsite fitness suite as well as a complimentary one-day pass to 10 Fitness, Little Rock’s premier fitness establishment.

Website: http://www.theburgundyhotel.com/

11. Whispering Hills Cabins

Find refuge in the peaceful Whispering Hills Cabins, situated along the shores of Beaver Lake. These simple, cozy cabins provide breathtaking lake views, making this an ideal escape from the stresses of daily life; amenities such as spacious beds and Jacuzzis ensure that you depart feeling rejuvenated.

If you choose to leave the warmth of your wood-burning fireplace to explore the stunning surroundings, an array of activities awaits, including fishing, boating, hiking, and swimming.

Website: http://beaverlakecabins.com/

12. Arlington Resort, Hotel & Spa

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Boasting the title of the largest hotel in Arkansas, the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa has welcomed guests since its inception in 1875. Its lavish lobby, Venetian Dining Room, and Grand Ballroom echo the glamour of historical luxury travel.

Numerous notable figures have graced the Arlington with their presence, and for those seeking accommodations with a touch of history, the “Historic Suites,” including the Ronald Reagan Suite and the Al Capone Suite, provide a unique experience.

Website: http://www.arlingtonhotel.com/

13. The Lodge at Mount Magazine

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Set along the southern edge of Mount Magazine, the Lodge at Mount Magazine offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Petit Jean River Valley below, establishing it as one of Arkansas’s premium resorts for witnessing both sunrises and sunsets.

Each luxury cabin features an indoor hot tub and a deck that provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding landscape, including the impressive Blue Mountain in the distance.

Not only do the cabins provide remarkable views, but the aptly named “Skycrest Restaurant” is strategically positioned to serve as a picturesque setting for enjoying delicious, classic Southern cuisine.

Website: http://www.mountmagazinestatepark.com/lodge-cabins/lodge.aspx

14. DeGray Lake Resort State Park

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Nestled within the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and sprawled over 13,000 acres of land, DeGray Lake Resort State Park is Arkansas’s only resort state park. Renowned for its stunning, crystal-clear waters, DeGray Lake offers an extensive range of water-related activities.

The resort itself is top-notch, featuring nearly 100 guest rooms equipped with every modern convenience necessary for a restful stay. Additional amenities include an outdoor heated pool, bicycle rentals, a gift shop, and the onsite restaurant, The Shoreline.

Website: http://www.degray.com/

15. Grand Central Hotel & Spa

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For an authentic historical lodging experience, consider the Grand Central Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs. Originally constructed in 1880 as the town’s stagecoach terminal, it was almost entirely destroyed by fire but was later reconstructed as Eureka Springs’ first fire-resistant building.

Today, the Hotel & Spa skillfully merges its rich heritage and Victorian-style rooms with modern amenities, such as hot tubs and flat-screen televisions, alongside a strong commitment to exceptional customer service. For those craving more than just history, the hotel’s restaurant, The Grand Taverne, features some of the finest local cuisine in the state.

Website: https://www.eurekagrandcentral.com/