Top 15 Attractions and Activities in De Queen, Arkansas

Located in southwest Arkansas’ Sevier County near Oklahoma, De Queen is a small community of approximately 7,000 residents, surrounded by numerous lakes, rivers, and national parks that attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers throughout the year for activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife photography.

Despite its rural setting, De Queen is conveniently located near larger urban centers like Van Buren, Little Rock, and Texarkana. Additionally, cities like Dallas, Texas, and Shreveport, Louisiana, are within a one to two-day travel range, making them appealing side trip options.

The following are notable activities to experience in and around De Queen, Arkansas.

1. DeSoto Bluff Trail

Arkansas is abundant in natural beauty, and for those seeking to enjoy the outdoors while engaging in physical activity without the burden of extensive travel, the DeSoto Bluff Trail in nearby Arkadelphia presents an excellent option.

The trail is of moderate difficulty but can become slippery and hazardous post-rainfall.

The sweeping view of the river below is unforgettable; however, caution is advised near the edges. The trailhead can be accessed from North 10th Street, which offers ample parking spaces along with historical markers throughout the path.

2. Clark County Historical Museum

The Missouri Pacific Railroad significantly influenced the development of the De Queen area. The Clark County Historical Museum, located in the train depot at South 5th Street in Arkadelphia, houses one of the region’s most comprehensive collections of historical artifacts related to southwest Arkansas and its railroads.

Admission is free, and visitors can explore exhibits, photographs, personal narratives, and memorabilia spanning the pioneer and Indian Territory eras over a century ago.

As the museum operates on a limited schedule, it is advisable to consult their website or contact them prior to a visit. Plan to spend an hour or two immersing yourself in their remarkable collection.

3. Donald W. Reynolds Science Center & Planetarium

The campus of Henderson State University in Arkadelphia serves as a valuable community resource, and those inclined towards astronomical exploration should prioritize a visit to the Donald W. Reynolds Science Center and Planetarium.

The center offers engaging and enlightening experiences for inquisitive individuals of all ages, especially appealing during inclement weather.

Many programs are designed with children in mind, and the admission fee is modest relative to the breadth of experiences available. The main entrance is accessible from Henderson Street, and visitor parking is plentiful.

4. Perot Theatre

Situated at the intersection of 3rd and Main Streets in Texarkana, the Perot Theatre, established in 1924, underwent a comprehensive restoration in the 1980s that returned it to its original grandeur.

This historic venue has served as a community landmark and is named after H. Ross Perot, the prominent businessman and presidential candidate.

The theatre hosts an array of movies and live performances. Due to its intimate size, it offers a cozy atmosphere compared to more recently constructed larger venues. The diverse programming, including films and live shows, caters to varied interests, and ticket prices are generally quite affordable.

5. Discovery Place Interactive Museum

While many museums cater primarily to adults, Discovery Place Interactive Museum in Texarkana offers a perfect environment for children seeking to explore. Spending a few hours here can reward the young ones for their patience during previous outings.

The museum features numerous interactive exhibits, captivating children as they learn about science, history, and the natural world.

A standout attraction is the Tesla-inspired electricity demonstration, which has garnered rave reviews from visitors; notably, adults also find the experience enjoyable. It is conveniently located on Pine Street in Texarkana.

6. Museum of Regional History

The Museum of Regional History in Texarkana presents a diverse assortment of exhibits encompassing women’s issues, military conflicts, pioneer and Native American history and culture, as well as music.

Founded in 1971, the museum occupies a former insurance office building, constructed nearly 90 years prior.

Among the most popular exhibits are those featuring Caddo Indian artifacts and pottery, alongside pioneer-era weapons, garments, and tools utilized by European settlers nearly two centuries ago.

A notable highlight includes a piano that once belonged to Scott Joplin, encouraging visitors to plan to spend about an hour if time permits.

7. State Line Post Office and Federal Building

It is said that the post office located on the border between Texas and Arkansas ranks as the second most photographed in the nation.

While the veracity of this claim may be up for debate, the State Line Post Office and Federal Building in Texarkana stands as a unique aspect of local history worthy of exploration.

The nearby downtown area features numerous historic buildings, providing visitors a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

This post office is situated on North State Line Avenue and is conveniently close to other attractions in the town.

8. Crater of Diamonds

For those in search of a distinct adventure and do not mind a short drive, a visit to Crater of Diamonds in Murfreesboro offers an excellent opportunity to spend an exciting day.

The admission fee is reasonable, especially given the potential to discover diamonds. For those without tools or prior experience, rest assured, mining is accessible, and tools are available for rent or purchase on-site.

There is also a waterpark adjacent to the diamond field operating in summer, along with a gift shop available for visitors. Please note that motorized or electric tools are prohibited.

9. Beavers Bend State Park

Southwest Arkansas’ proximity to bordering states allows for excellent day-trip possibilities. Nearby, in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park boasts abundant natural beauty, facilities, and activities, making it a prime location for day or weekend excursions.

During summer, popular activities include camping, zip-lining, fishing, and boating, with a likelihood of observing wildlife such as deer, owls, and foxes, particularly during the low-light hours of early morning and dusk.

Past visitors have noted that the park’s grounds and lake waters are exceptionally clean.

10. Ace of Clubs House

Though often referred to as the Draughon-Moore House, the Ace of Clubs House in Texarkana offers a more captivating name.

Constructed in the 1880s in Victorian architecture, the house earned its name when the original owner purportedly won the funds to purchase the property and construct the home through a card game in which the ace of clubs was the victorious card.

Known for its unique spired tower, grand spiral staircase, and octagonal central area, this historic home offers guided tours and features furnishings, art, and decorative items that were considered luxurious at the time.

11. Forest Heritage Center

For those planning to visit Beavers Bend State Park, a brief detour to the Forest Heritage Center could provide a refreshing change of pace.

The museum houses a permanent collection of tools, weapons, literature, and historical documents pertaining to the pioneering and homesteading periods, showcasing the experiences of European settlers as well as the Native American communities that thrived there before.

Throughout the museum, large dioramas with informative plaques provide captivating insights that are particularly appealing to children, who will marvel at their detailed and lifelike representations.

12. 1894 Gallery

Located within the historic City Market building on Olive Street in Texarkana, the 1894 Gallery features one of the most comprehensive collections of Southern art in the region, showcasing paintings, wood carvings, bronze sculptures, and handcrafted glass pieces.

The former grocery warehouse has been renovated to provide an open, modern space suitable for a gallery, including a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique artisan items, largely created by local and regional artists. This venue serves as a splendid complement to outdoor experiences.