Top 14 Attractions and Activities in Trumann, Arkansas

Situated in Poinsett County, Arkansas, the town of Trumann is positioned along Interstate 555 in the northeastern region of the state, conveniently located between Little Rock, Jonesboro, and West Memphis.

With a population exceeding 7,000, anyone seeking small-town charm will find satisfaction in Trumann. Moreover, a wide array of historical, cultural, and artistic attractions can be easily accessed in the larger nearby cities.

Due to its ideal interstate location, there are numerous accommodation options available, and most attractions are found within the town or just a short drive away.

1. The Old Community House

Situated at the intersection of Main and Poinsett Streets in scenic downtown Trumann, the Old Community House was established in the late 1920s by Singer Manufacturing Company as a recreational venue for the townspeople, many of whom were employed there.

While the community house today does not host the volume of annual events it once did, it remains a popular space featuring meeting and conference rooms as well as an indoor basketball court.

Set amidst the town’s charming historic downtown, it provides an excellent setting for a leisurely afternoon stroll; consider visiting to explore its grounds.

2. Trumann Museum

For such a small town, the Trumann Museum offers a remarkably comprehensive collection of historical artifacts pertaining to the resilient pioneers who settled the region during its time as part of the Arkansas Territory.

The exhibits range from historic photographs to archaic housewares and agricultural tools, providing a glimpse into the past. Additionally, the museum chronicles the famous annual barbecues sponsored by Singer that drew locals by the many on summer days long ago.

The Museum is conveniently located on Main Street, within walking distance of the Old Community House, making it easy to visit both sites in one outing.

3. Checkerboard Fine Gifts

Purchasing keepsakes to commemorate your journey can be an enjoyable part of any vacation; however, identifying unique items with character in a market dominated by national retailers can be challenging.

Located on Highway 463 in Trumann, Checkerboard Fine Gifts stands out as a sought-after destination for such distinctive items. They also have a program specifically designed for individuals who may not know what to purchase for their significant others, ensuring they avoid common mistakes.

With a varied selection of high-quality items and gift wrapping services, visiting this shop could be quite fruitful if you’re in search of something particularly special.

4. Craighead Forest Park

Located on South Culberhouse Road in Jonesboro, Craighead Forest Park is easily accessible and is situated near additional local attractions. Its free admission makes it an excellent option for those wishing to experience nature, engage in physical activity, and conserve travel expenses.

The park has recently undergone renovations to improve its grounds, pathways, and bridges, and it features exercise stations for those seeking to stay active.

A small lake within the park is stocked with fish, making it ideal for teaching children the art of fishing. Additionally, there is a playground and opportunities to feed ducks, ensuring that visitors will find an array of activities to enjoy.

5. ASU Museum

The ASU Museum, located within the Dean B. Ellis Library at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, boasts the most extensive collection of artifacts, displays, and exhibits relevant to the culture, history, art, and natural aspects of northeast Arkansas.

Admission is free, and alongside permanent exhibits, the museum often hosts traveling displays from other institutions. Throughout the year, it offers educational workshops, courses, and recreational activities suitable for both children and adults.

College campuses typically feature numerous interesting activities and events, making them worthwhile destinations to explore, especially during weekends.

6. Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center

The Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center is likely to be a memorable destination for anyone visiting, especially families traveling with children.

It is advisable to visit the visitor center prior to exploring the outdoor areas, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s flora, fauna, and geology, enhancing your experience.

The center features well-marked trails of varying difficulties that lead to interpretive zones, which are equipped with informative signs and recommended activities.

This center is located on East Lawson Road in Jonesboro; allocate several hours to fully appreciate its offerings.

7. Bradbury Art Museum

While Jonesboro may not be a major urban center, it boasts an impressive array of artistic, historical, and cultural venues such as the Bradbury Art Museum, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Unlike many art institutions, it does not maintain a permanent collection, which lends it a unique quality as visitors can experience different facets of the art world on each trip.

The displays largely feature contemporary art, and admission is free. Previous exhibitions have included works from globally renowned artists like Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol.

The museum is situated on Olympic Drive; it is advisable to check their website for any updates before planning your visit.

8. Skirmish at Jonesboro

During the Civil War, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas were fiercely contested by Union and Confederate forces, whose commanders recognized these states as strategically important. Consequently, it is no surprise that numerous well-known battles occurred in the region.

The Skirmish at Jonesboro site is positioned near the historic town square and is marked by a memorial dedicated to soldiers who fell during World War I.

It is free to visit, and the entrance is adorned with impressive silver arches resembling swords, offering a dramatic approach to the site.

Although it’s typically a brief visit, this site serves as an intriguing location of commemoration deserving exploration.

9. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Situated approximately 20 minutes north of downtown Memphis, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park encompasses over 2,500 acres of hardwood forest, cypress swamp, and marshlands adjacent to the Mississippi River.

In addition to its role in protecting crucial river-forest ecosystems, the park provides visitors with year-round outdoor recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and wildlife photography.

The park’s scenic bluffs offer avid hikers nearly unobstructed views of the river and its opposite bank. For those wishing to extend their stay, there are several cabins accommodating up to six individuals comfortably available for rent.

10. Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Located just a few miles east of Manila, the Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Similar to the state park, it encompasses thousands of acres, primarily consisting of shallow lakes and lowland hardwood forests that attract migratory waterfowl during their seasonal transitions from north to south.

Although its primary function is as a protected area for waterfowl, hunting and fishing are permitted within the refuge during specific times of the year.

For detailed information, it is best to consult their website prior to planning your excursion.

11. Sun Studio

Sun Studio in Memphis holds the prestigious title of the location where a young Elvis Presley recorded his first song; it is often referred to as ‘The Birthplace of Rock & Roll.’

Notably, other iconic venues also claim this title, but Sun Studio’s history of supporting rising talents like Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash speaks volumes about its influence.

Located on Union Avenue, the studio offers tours during the day while still functioning as a professional recording studio at night.

Participating in a guided tour is recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance of this renowned establishment.

12. National Civil Rights Museum and Lorraine Motel

Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in Memphis in 1968 immortalized him as a martyr and heralded a new chapter in the civil rights movement that significantly influenced the nation for nearly fifty years.

These events unfolded at the Lorraine Motel, where King was residing prior to a planned speech aimed at striking sanitation workers scheduled for the following day.

The motel has since been transformed into a global museum dedicated to preserving the history of the movement and educating visitors who journey from afar to experience this poignant historical landmark.

It is situated on Mulberry Street, and guided tours are available for those interested.

13. Graceland

Even for those who do not possess memorabilia related to Elvis Presley, a visit to Graceland is an experience not to be overlooked; it intertwines significant elements of history, mythology, music, celebrity, and heartache in a manner unique to this site.

The grounds have recently received renovations and now feature an automobile museum, a restaurant, and on-site retail shops.

Utilizing the iPad audio guides is advisable if you are not part of a guided tour, as there is a plethora of experiences to explore that could easily fill an entire day.

14. Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Memphis has long been synonymous with soul music, much like it is with the blues and rock & roll. There is an inherent magic in the delta region that fosters remarkable musical creativity.

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music represents one of the city’s most comprehensive collections dedicated to this genre.

The exhibits highlight esteemed artists such as Aretha Franklin, Ike and Tina Turner, and the legendary James Brown, establishing its significance on any cultural itinerary.

Collections feature photographs, personal stories, album cover art, and iconic costumes, alongside a myriad of intriguing and little-known facts about these influential performers.