7 Arkansas Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

What’s your favorite thing to do in Arkansas during the winter months? If you’re like some of us, chances are, you wanna hibernate all season long. But what fun is that when there is so much to do in the Natural State? In the colder months, many of our attractions come to life in a magical way. They’re cooler during the winter and you should experience them for yourself. So, here are 7 winter day trips in Arkansas that you’ll absolutely love.

Garvan Woodland Gardens, 550 Arkridge Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913, USA

Garvan Woodland Gardens/Facebook

Hot Springs is a great destination for a day trip as there are tons to see and do. And one of the best places to visit in the winter is Garvan Woodland Gardens. While the botanical garden is gorgeous all year round, during the colder season, it transforms into an illuminated, magical winter wonderland. And you never know what mystical creatures will be hiding in plain sight.

Glory Hole Falls, Ozone, AR 72854, USA

Dustin Petriello/Google

The best time to chase waterfalls is in the winter, when the weather is much cooler outside. And one of the most popular waterfalls in Arkansas is the Glory Hole. But nothing is better than seeing this unique waterfall frozen solid in the winter months. It’s truly a sight to behold. The 2-mile out-and-back hike is worth every step. Since it’s located in the Ozarks, there are many other frozen cascades that you can chase as well.

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Mount Magazine State Park, 577 Lodge Dr, Paris, AR 72855, USA

The State Parks of Arkansas/Facebook

Nothing beats a view from the highest point in the state. And Mount Magazine State Park has the best views in Arkansas. During the colder season, the breathtaking vistas are to die for. The park transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland that’s perfect for a day trip. Enjoy hiking the frozen trails or bask in the wintery, picturesque views of the Ozark as well as the Ouachita National Forests.

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Little Rock Zoo - Little Rock

Little Rock Zoo/Facebook

You might overlook the zoo when it’s cold outside. But think again, because Little Rock Zoo comes alive during the winter months. In fact, one of the biggest lantern festivals in Arkansas is held at the zoo each year. The little ones will love seeing the illuminated animals as well as the other resident animals at the zoo. There are lions, tigers, and bears, OH MY, waiting for you to visit. It’s a great place for a fun family-friendly day trip.

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Magness Lake, Arkansas 72543, USA

Noel Pennington/Flickr

It’s not often that you see the majestic Trumpeter Swans in Arkansas, so it's a treat when they make their way down to Heber Springs during the winter months. Starting in late November through February, plan a trip to Magness Lake to observe these gorgeous creatures. It will be one of the most thrilling bird watching experiences you’ll have in Arkansas.

The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park, 3800 Lakeshore Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72116, USA

The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park/Facebook

There is a saying that the best things in life are free, and the Old Mill is one of the free attractions in Arkansas that is gorgeous all year round. Of course, the mill is beautiful when it’s surrounded by vibrant blooms, but there is something magical about the snow-covered stone mill. Bundle up and stroll through the historic and iconic landmark and admire the beautiful winter wonderland. Be sure to take some pics as it’s not every day you’ll experience winter’s magic at the Old Mill.

Crescent Hotel and Spa, 75 Prospect Ave, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, USA

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa/Facebook

Arkansas isn’t known for getting a lot of snow, but when it does, it’s certainly a sight to behold. And there is no better place to enjoy a crisp winter day than to ice skate at the Crescent Hotel and Spa. As one of the few ice skating rinks in Arkansas, the Crescent Ice Park is a must-visit for the family. And on Saturdays, you can enjoy games, a fire-pit, treats, hot chocolate, and more. For a small fee, it’s open to the public, and it's free for guests of the hotel.

Blanchard Springs Caverns, 704 Blanchard Springs Road, Fifty-Six, AR 72533, USA

Arkansas State Tourism/Facebook

Yes, the title said 7, but we gotta include underground exploration on a winter day trip in the Natural State. And of course, Blanchard Springs Caverns is the best way to see the underground in Arkansas. Not to mention that the caves are 58 degrees all year long, so it’s a great place to escape when the weather is brutally cold outside. Plan a tour and then head over to the Mirror Lake Trail and witness one of the prettiest waterfalls in Arkansas.

Please note: Blanchard Springs is temporarily closed right now, but do check the website for reopening dates.

So, which of these winter day trips in Arkansas would you like to explore? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 

And if you prefer to hibernate in the winter, Ponca is the perfect place for a winter getaway in Arkansas.