Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In Arkansas
Melanie Johnson
Author
Now that we’re at the tail end of winter, it’s time to get ready for spring. And what better way to do so than to give you, our beloved readers, an ultimate guide to spring attractions in Arkansas? From meadows of wildflowers to fields of tulips to serene botanical gardens, and more, we’ve got something for the nature lover in you. So, come with us and discover the 15 things to do in Arkansas in spring.
Flower Blooms In Arkansas
We absolutely love the beauty of spring as the flowers begin to bloom. The pollinators are busy at work and the crisp, fragrant breeze is always a welcoming reminder of the season. During this time of year, you can find wildflowers blooming from the Ozark Mountains all the way to the Ouachitas. However, don’t overlook our flower farms or small towns to witness the most vibrant blooms during springtime. Best of all, you can pick some flowers to take home, too. Check out these places where you can witness flower blooms in Arkansas.
1. Sacred Hollow Farm
What better way to spend a lovely spring day than frolicking in wildflower fields while making your own bouquet. If this sounds like an ideal afternoon to you, then head to Sacred Hollow Farm in Lowell. This charming u-pick farm is easily the happiest place in NWA. Bring your special someone, your mom or your girlfriends and enjoy a day amongst the colorful wildflowers. The new season is yet to be announced but expect it to kick off in May. Be sure to subscribe to the Sacred Hollow Farm website for updates.
2. True Colors Farm by PerspectAbility
Tulip lovers rejoice! True Colors Farm comes alive with the most colorful display of tulips in all of Northwest Arkansas. With over 100,000 vibrant blooms, this u-pick farm is one of our favorite places on our list. For a small fee, you can pick as many tulips as your heart desires. No opening date has been announced but mark your calendars for mid-April and check the True Color Farms Facebook page for updates. This is one spring activity in Arkansas that you don't want to miss!
3. The Charming Town of Wilson
When it comes to charming towns in Arkansas, Wilson in the Delta might be at the top of our list. With a walkable downtown lined with adorable boutiques, locally owned restaurants, lovely gardens, and more, this quintessential town is a must-visit no matter the season. However, during spring, you'll see blooming wildflowers throughout the town. Not to mention the lovely tulip gardens featuring over 65,000 blooms. If you haven't taken a trip to Wilson lately, spring is the best time. Be sure to stop by the Grange for a bite to eat or to grab a bouquet to take home with you.
Botanical Gardens In Arkansas
Don’t let the spring season go by without a trip to one of the botanical gardens in Arkansas. With hiking trails, natural landscapes, serene gardens, water and art installations, these oases are perfect for a day trip especially during spring break when the kids are out of school. So, pack lunch and let’s explore these slices of spring heaven.
4. Garvan Woodland Gardens
We couldn't complete our ultimate spring guide without including Garvan Woodland Gardens that's tucked inside Hot Springs National Park. This gorgeous 210-acre oasis is an enchanting destination that features fields of tulips, daffodils, waterfalls, multiple gardens, and so much more. Its stunning landscapes make a great backdrop for springtime photos, so you'll want to make sure that you have your camera in hand. By far, visiting the gardens is one of the best things to do in Arkansas in spring. Plus, you can also take advantage of the other attractions in Hot Springs.
5. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Festivals, 12 tranquil themed gardens, art installations, walking trails, a butterfly house, and lakeside meadows, are what you'll find at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Boasting a wide variety of flowers including tulips, coneflower, hibiscus, zinnias, and more, the gardens are simply lovely during spring. We recommend that you plan your visit around one of the spring festivals. The kids will especially love the Earth Day Festival in April, where there will be arts and crafts, games, music, and more. There's no better way to celebrate the beauty of spring.
Parks To Visit In Arkansas This Spring
If you’re searching for free things to do in Arkansas in spring, then the state parks are the best destinations for outdoor activities. Some are even great for weekend getaways. You can go hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, or even horseback riding inside a few of the parks. While they are jam-packed with year-round adventure, spring is one of the best seasons to visit. And these are the parks that are full of Arkansas spring activities that are great for you and your family.
6. Petit Jean State Park
If you're searching for a state park to take the kids to while they're on spring break, Petit Jean State Park is at the top of our list. The park is jam-packed with family-friendly amenities that include swimming pools, playgrounds, pavilions, a tennis court, and a basketball court. Not to mention there is a 100-acre fishing lake where you can go kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, and more. What's more, there are hiking trails with interesting caves and rock formations, as well as Cedar Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Arkansas. By far, this is one of the best state parks in Arkansas to visit during the spring.
7. Pinnacle Mountain State Park
While Petit Jean is jam-packed with adventure, Pinnacle Mountain State Park has some hidden gems within. One of which is a gorgeous emerald quarry. Rent a pedal boat from the visitor center and spend a couple of hours enjoying the serene haven. And when you're done, stroll through the tranquil arboretum and learn about the native trees and wildlife of Arkansas. Of course, you can also hike to the summit of the mountain and witness the most stunning views in Arkansas. No matter your adventure, Pinnacle Mountain State Park belongs on your list this spring.
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8. Crater of Diamonds State Park
Most folks know Crater of Diamonds as the only public diamond mine in America, but did you know that it's home to Diamond Springs Water Park? The aquatic playground boasts a wading pool, spray geysers, animated waterspouts, water slides, waterfalls, and so much more. It's typically open on Memorial Day weekend but do check the Arkansas State Park website for updates. Another reason to visit the park this spring is for the upcoming 2024 eclipse. It's in the path of totality, which means you'll have one of the best seats in the house during the event.
Spring Hikes In Arkansas
Of course, Arkansas state parks are the best places to go hiking in springtime, but there are so many other options as well. One you may not consider is a stroll through the Crystal Bridges Museum hiking trails. As one of the best spring hikes in Arkansas, it belongs on your list. Read on to find out more about the trails as well as other spring hikes in the Natural State that you don’t want to miss.
9. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Arguably the best museum in America, Crystal Bridges, is a destination on its own. Not only will you witness incredible artwork, but the museum is surrounded with stunning hiking trails and gardens that are great for a day of springtime exploring. Discover local wildflowers, waterfalls, flowing streams, and more, as you trek through the natural landscapes. It's a fun attraction that the entire family can enjoy. And while you're in the area, be sure to check out Bentonville and all that it has to offer.
10. Buffalo National River
If you're a true outdoor enthusiast, then the Buffalo National River is a great destination to welcome the spring. This 95,000-acre sanctuary with its 135-mile-long river is truly one of the most enchanting places in Arkansas. The outdoor opportunities are endless as you can explore the Ozark landscapes by hiking the trails or by floating on the river. And spring is the perfect time as the weather is nice and the water levels are typically rising back to normal. Stargazers can enjoy camping underneath the twinkling night skies. And of course, there is lush greenery, lovely blooms, and plenty of wildlife to see during the spring.
11. Mirror Lake Trail at Blanchard Springs Caverns
Best known for its million-year-old caves, Blanchard Springs Caverns is one of the most incredible natural wonders in Arkansas. However, the caves aren't the only reason to visit. Mirror Lake, one of the clearest lakes in Arkansas, is equally as worthy, especially during spring. There's an easy 1-mile trail that meanders through the forest featuring breathtaking scene of the waterfall, an old stone mill, and natural Ozark landscapes. The hike might be short, but it's truly rewarding. And when you're done, we recommend heading to nearby Mountain View to check out some of the cool things to do in the town.
12. H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area
Head off the beaten path to Charleston to frolic through fields of blazing star and other wildflowers at the Flanagan Prairie Natural Area. This natural prairie is a haven for many species of native plants and wildlife. Moreover, you can enjoy the sweet sounds of nature while you're fully immersed in this unique ecosystem. A refreshing spring hike through the prairie fields will melt all your worries away.
Spring Picnic Spots In Arkansas
When the weather warms up, one of my favorite things to do in spring is to have a picnic. There is something so charming about sitting in nature enjoying the melodious sounds with a delicious snack. If you agree, and you’re thinking about spring picnic spots in Arkansas, here are a few that I recommend.
13. Terra Studios
As one of Northwest Arkansas' best hidden gems, you can see why Terra Studios made our list. Surrounded by serene gardens, art installations, well-manicured landscapes, and more, this whimsical art studio is a great destination for a spring picnic. Best of all, each year, the studio hosts its annual Spring Break Palooza festival in late March, featuring live music, food trucks, as well as fun and games for the entire family. You don't want to miss it!
14. Blue Spring Heritage Center
There are so many reasons to visit Blue Spring Heritage Center in Eureka Springs. First, history buffs will love that it's a national historic site and part of the Native American Trail of Tears route. Second, it boasts hiking trails, a museum, old historic relics, as well as the bluest lagoon in Arkansas. Not to mention the serene gardens brimming with pretty flowers that are found throughout the 33-acre sanctuary. You can easily see why we recommend this stunning place for a spring picnic.
15. Wildwood Park for the Arts
When you think about springtime fun, Little Rock might not be the first destination that comes to mind. However, the bustling town has some hidden places that you won't believe. One in particular is Wildwood Park for the Arts. Inside you'll find a swan lake, multiple gardens, walking trails, art installations, and so much more. It's by far one of the best places to have a picnic in central Arkansas. So, pack a lunch, grab your favorite book, and immerse yourself in nature inside this gorgeous Little Rock sanctuary.
Well, what do you think about our ultimate spring guide? Which of these spring activities do you plan on exploring this year? Do you believe we missed a destination on our list of things to do in Arkansas in Spring? If so, tell us in the comments.
Also, before you get started on your springtime adventure in Arkansas, be sure to pack enough road trip snacks for you and your family. Having the best snacks will make your springtime trips easy breezy! Happy spring y’all!!!
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