Long weekends are the best! But planning a long weekend can be a tedious task, especially when you live in Arkansas with so many incredible attractions. How do you choose which adventure to explore? No worries, we put together a list of some of the most fascinating things to do in Arkansas, and none of them require hiking boots. Well…maybe just one!

1. The Unexpected Art Project (Fort Smith)
The Unexpected/Facebook
The historical town of Fort Smith will keep you busy for an entire weekend. The stunning downtown area is laced with incredible curated murals from The Unexpected art project. Take a self-guided walking tour to explore the more than 30 amazing masterpieces. And while you’re in Fort Smith, step back in time and visit the Trolley Museum to ride one of the fully restored street trolleys in operation.
2. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (Fayetteville)
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks/Facebook
Fayetteville is one of the most charming towns in Arkansas. It is home to the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, a 44-acre garden that hosts different events and festivals throughout the year. A few of which include the International Festival, the Earth Day Festival, and the magical Firefly Fling event. Plan your weekend trip around one of these amazing events.
3. The Junk Ranch (Prairie Grove)
The Junk Ranch/Facebook
For a weekend filled with great food, live music, and lots and lots of hidden gems, drive to The Junk Ranch in Prairie Grove, Arkansas for the spring or fall event. This two-day event was selected as a favorite outdoor flea market and vintage show, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Check the website for upcoming dates as you will not want to miss this gigantic flea market bonanza.
4. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (Eureka Springs)
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge /Facebook
Eureka Springs is one of the most whimsical towns in Arkansas. It is filled with treehouses, hidden caverns, quirky castles, hobbit caves, and so much more. But it also has a wonderful wildlife refuge that is a safe haven for once abused or abandoned cats. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a 459-acre sanctuary for rescued big cats that include tigers, lions, leopards, and jaguars. You can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and spend the night at one of the animal themed lodges.

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5. Crater of Diamonds State Park (Murfreesboro)
Crater of Diamonds State Park/Facebook
Arkansas is known for its many hidden gems, but we literally have gemstones in the state. Crater of Diamonds Mine in Murfreesboro is the only active diamond mine in the United States, and it’s definitely worth visiting on a long weekend trip. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, bring snacks and water, and sunscreen. You can easily spend an entire day digging for treasures, and who knows, YOU might get lucky.
6. Festivals
Riverfest/Facebook
Spring is the time for festivals all over the country, and Arkansas is known for its many spring festivals. Festivals are packed with lots of fun-filled activities including parades, free concerts, 5K races, car shows, rides, games, and so much more. For a list of upcoming festivals visit the Arkansas event page.
7. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville)
Nelsen Phelps/Google
Arkansas is home to many museums, but the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville has the most striking art collection. Explore the architectural marvels on the 120-acre property, and then grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant.
8. Buffalo National River Park (Harrison)
Buffalo National River/Facebook
Arkansas has many iconic natural wonders, but the Buffalo National River is by far, one of its greatest treasures. This 153-mile river is worth a visit, even if you have been there a thousand times or more. You can go hiking, swimming, fishing, canoeing or kayaking, have a picnic or go horseback riding. The adventures are endless! So, when you have a long weekend, this is the perfect place to visit.

Well folks, are you ready to plan your weekend? These places are family friendly, so grab the kids and start planning today.

And for more adventure through Arkansas, here are a few more road trips perfect for long weekends.  

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