
Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
1. Hot Springs National Park
America's oldest thermal resort offers hot springs, historic bathhouses, and unique geothermal features.
- Geothermal Wonders: Explore hot springs with temperatures ranging from 140°F to 147°F.
- Historic Bathhouses: Visit the beautifully preserved Fordyce and Buckstaff Bathhouses for a relaxing spa experience.
- Hiking Trails: Discover various hiking trails, including the Hot Springs Mountain Tower trail, offering panoramic views of the city.
2. Petit Jean State Park
Enjoy camping, hiking, and scenic beauty at this picturesque state park with a historic lodge.
- Scenic Beauty: Experience breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley from Mather Lodge.
- Hiking Trails: Explore over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Seven Hollows Trail.
- Historic Lodge: Stay at the historic Mather Lodge, built in the 1930s with beautiful stone architecture.
3. Fayetteville
Visit the vibrant city of Fayetteville known for its thriving arts scene and University of Arkansas.
- Arts Scene: Explore various art galleries, performance venues, and artists' studios.
- University of Arkansas: Take a campus tour or attend a sporting event at the Razorback Stadium.
- Square at Fayetteville: Relax in the historic downtown area, known as the Square, featuring unique shops and eateries.
4. Mount Magazine State Park
Experience Arkansas's highest peak with scenic vistas, hiking trails, and a historic lodge.
- Scenic Vistas: Take in breathtaking views of the Petit Jean River Valley from the highest point in Arkansas.
- Hiking Trails: Explore over 40 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Whitaker Point Trail.
- Historic Lodge: Stay at the historic Lodge Café and Cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
5. Ozark National Forest
Explore the largest national forest in Arkansas with beautiful lakes, streams, and diverse wildlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Ozark Mountains, home to a variety of flora and fauna.
- Lakes and Streams: Discover over 100 lakes and streams perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming.
- Hiking Trails: Explore numerous hiking trails, including the Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail.
6. Eureka Springs
Discover charming Victorian architecture, unique shops, and scenic beauty in this mountain town.
- Victorian Architecture: Stroll through the historic district filled with beautifully restored Victorian homes.
- Scenic Beauty: Experience breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains from Thorncrown Chapel and Christ of the Ozarks statue.
- Unique Shops: Shop for antiques, art, and locally made crafts in unique boutiques.
7. Silver Mine Tours
Visit Eureka Springs' historic silver mines and learn about the town's rich mining history.
- Mining History: Discover the history of the silver mines that played a significant role in Eureka Springs' development.
- Underground Tours: Explore the underground tunnels and chambers at Onyx Mine or the Historic Silver Dollar City Mine Tour.
- Gemstone Mining: Participate in gemstone mining activities for a unique hands-on experience.
8. Bentonville
Visit the home of Walmart and explore its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and culinary offerings.
- Arts Scene: Check out Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or the A+ Art & Design District.
- Outdoor Recreation: Hike, bike, or explore at the Razorback Greenway or Devil's Den State Park.
- Culinary Offerings: Savor local and regional cuisine at restaurants like The Hive and Tavern on the Square.
9. Buffalo National River
Experience the undeveloped beauty of Arkansas's first national river with scenic views and abundant wildlife.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains and the Buffalo River.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot various wildlife species, such as deer, turkey, and bald eagles.
- Hiking Trails: Explore over 150 miles of hiking trails along the Buffalo River.
10. Thunderbird Lodge and Museum
Learn about mid-century modern design at Frank Lloyd Wright's Thunderbird Lodge and Museum.
- Mid-Century Modern Design: Explore the unique architecture of Thunderbird Lodge, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
- Historic Artifacts: View historic artifacts from Hollywood stars who visited the lodge in its heyday.
- Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the lodge's history and architecture.
11. Fort Smith National Historic Site
Visit the historic site of Fort Smith, a former U.S. Army post and judicial center, with exhibits and guided tours.
- Historic Significance: Learn about the site's role in the Old West, Indian Territory, and U.S. expansion.
- Exhibits and Tours: View exhibits on Fort Smith's history and take a guided tour of the historic buildings.
- Authentic Courtroom: Visit the authentic courtroom where some of the West's most notorious outlaws were tried.
12. Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Step back in time at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum with vintage trolleys and exhibits.
- Vintage Trolleys: Ride on restored vintage trolleys from the early 1900s.
- Exhibits and Restoration Workshops: View exhibits about trolley history and visit restoration workshops in action.
- Special Events: Attend special events like the Polar Express Train Ride during the holiday season.
13. Fayetteville's Walton Arts Center
Experience world-class performing arts at Fayetteville's Walton Arts Center.
- Performing Arts: Attend performances by renowned artists in theater, dance, music, and more.
- Education Programs: Participate in educational programs, such as workshops and classes for all ages.
- Facilities and Accessibility: Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities with accessible seating options and services for patrons with disabilities.
14. Lake Ouachita State Park
Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping at Lake Ouachita State Park.
- Water Activities: Engage in various water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Camping: Camp at one of the park's 95 campsites or rent a cabin for a cozy stay.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Ouachita, Arkansas's largest and crystal-clear lake.
15. Hotel Ottenheimer
Stay in a historic hotel in downtown Hot Springs with unique rooms and antique furnishings.
- Historic Hotel: Experience the charm of this historic hotel built in 1892.
- Unique Rooms: Choose from themed rooms, such as the Gatsby or Marilyn Monroe suites.
- Antique Furnishings: Admire the antique furnishings and artwork throughout the hotel.