This article is about best things to do in Arkansas. The state bordering Mississippi River has a lot of things to offer when it comes at spending a vacation. The charm of the place attracts you towards it and offer loads of free fun entertainment. This place is a treasure of mountains, dense forests, fast streaming rivers and thus it is nicknamed as “The Natural State”. If you are concerned about budget, it is not an issue here. There are various of free things to do in Arkansas. Whether you are with your kids, friends, partner or even if you are alone, this place will definitely keep you entertained as long as you are here. To experience different shades of nature, this is a must visit place. While we recommend you some of the best things to do in Arkansas, you just pack your bag for here.
Best Things to do in Arkansas:
1.) Arkansas River Rafting Through Browns Canyon
One of the best things to do in Arkansas is river rafting through Browns Canyon. It is located in the center of the Colorado Rocky Mountains where the river makes its way through a traveler’s paradise. Starting from the beautiful Arkansas Valley with remarkable 14,000 ft high, to the foot of the Royal Gorge, the Arkansas gives it all. This 6 hour-long trip comprises of clear, crystal water crashing through the Granite Gorge, along with a river guide and complete rafting equipment such rain gear, and personal flotation and safety device. Lunch is also included in this full day adventure.
2.) Pacaya Volcano and Hot Springs Tour
Touring Pacaya Volcano and Hot Springs is, among other marvelous things to do in Arkansas. Be a part of this full day tour and go up in one of Guatemala´s 33 volcanoes. Pacaya Volcano, which remains active, offers a magnificent show allow you to witness the thrilling view(from a safe distance). After exploring volcanoes, prepare yourself to relax in Hot Springs.
3.) Eureka Trolley
This is quite an old time trolley service which runs four routes throughout the greater Eureka Springs. Each of this trip is about 20 to 30 minutes long, providing a different point of view on life in this mountain town. For reservations and running times, check website or give them a call. This is going to be one of the most awesome things to do in Arkansas.
4.) Southland Park Gaming and Racing
For more fun and adventurous things to do in Arkansas, visit this Southland Park, where you can have an excellent and wonderful time with your friends and family. You can play a variety of games or can try your luck in gambling. The food served here is quite good. The staff is also quite helpful and decent. A great place to have a good fun time.
5.) Big Dam Bridge
This is one of the most beautiful places to go for a walk. It is quite pretty and clean and the place is ideal for cycling. Walking across the Big Dam Bridge is an event with plenty of scenic view. A nice place to get some fresh air.
6.) Two Rivers
A great place to include in your list of things to do in Arkansas. Take your kids for a walk or bike ride. Thus, it is one of the most fun things to do in Arkansas with kids. You will surely adore this place as it is beautiful, peaceful, and the scenery is mesmerizing. You can also have a picnic here, workout, Rollerblade, etc. Its easy to reach here as its 5 minutes off highway.
7.) Promised Land Zoo
You can find hundreds of rare and endangered animal species living here, who are from around the world. Here you will experience Foot Safari, Parakeet Paradise, Live Animal Shows, Petting Zoo Area. Plus you can see daily bottle feeding of rare animals. You also get to cherish exclusive encounter with animals. For animal lovers, it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Arkansas.
8.) Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
Located in Altus, it is one of the oldest and largest winery and vineyard in middle America. It is considered to be among the most notable vinery for tasting. Along side which is a restaurant where you can have some evening time snacks. So, if you are into wine, you belong to this place. Going to the place is one of the most amazing things to do in Arkansas.
9.) Lake Ouachita
Lake Ouachita is well famous for its water quality, size and fishing. With a huge coastline, it is held back by a huge hydroelectric dam. The surrounding forest is beautiful and everything is retained in its natural form. This beautiful lake offers many amenities. You can hire Cabin and Houseboat for exploring this lake. The place is near to Hot Springs, so you can easily plan a day trip. A perfect place to add to your list of things to do in Arkansas.
10.) Ozark Mountain Ziplines
Ozark mountain Ziplines in Eureka Springs is a must place to have in your bucket list of things to do in Arkansas. If you want to have fun with thrill, then Zip lining is your cup of tea. Here you will be taught and guided by experts and they will help you overcome your fear of zip lining. The guide will help you and make it easier for you to do this activity, so go ahead and fight your fear.
11.) King Biscuit Blues Festival
Every year, in the month of October, a number of tourists and locals visit King Biscuit Blues Festival. Here you can witness world class blues musicians and more than 100,000 fans having a blast here. This festival is held in downtown Helena for 3 days and nights. You can find home-cooked soul food and BBQ at different food stalls. This is really going to be one of the most fantastic things to do in Arkansas.
12.) Beale Street Music Festival
You may have heard of Coachella, New Orleans, Jazz Fest and Bonnaroo. But this less known Memphis’ Beale Street Music Festival presents one of the country’s best lineups of old school blues artists, underground rockers. You are going to love the festival for sure. It is one of the most awesome things to do in Arkansas with friends.
13.) Memphis in May
Every weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) of May, you can be a part of either the Beale St Music Festival, the Barbecue competition or the grand finale sunset symphony. The month of may has a lot to offer to visitors.
14.) Stone House
The Stone House is a perfect place to add to things to do in Arkansas. It has all the things to make your evening perfect. You can have lots of wine to choose from and a menu which focuses on honey, olive, cheese, bread, and charcuterie with live music, plus a cute courtyard.
15.) Fresh
This beautiful cafe expertise in farm to table cuisine, excellently baked goods and a pleasant service. You can have sandwiches stuffed with shaved ham and served on freshly baked French toast or can go for vegan ranging from salads to tossed pasta.