Here’s Arkansas’s Top Outdoor Attraction… And You’ll Definitely Want To Do It

The Natural State is a fantastic place for outdoor attractions. Our state is a full of gorgeous places and things to do; of those numerous fabulous outdoor attractions, one of the highest-rated is Garvan Woodland Gardens. It’s not hard to see why folks love it so much. Garvan Woodland Gardens is a magical 210-acre botanical garden located about six miles from Hot Springs National Park. Not only is it a great place to take pictures, most of its trails are handicap accessible, and the sheer volume and diversity of the things that can be found there make it truly exceptional. It’s nestled in the spectacular Ouachitas and you can catch views of Lake Hamilton from the canopy bridge - yes, you read that right. There’s a canopy bridge.

The Millsap Canopy Bridge spans 120 feet and stands two stories above the forest floor. From it you’ll see Singing Springs Gorge with its pools, cascades, and beautiful foliage, including rhododendrons donated by the Ozark Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society.

Speaking of bridges, you’ll find a number of them on the property, and every single one is pretty as a picture.

You’ll find falls and cascades along the trails.

From the peacocks roaming the grounds to the ducks on the water and the koi beneath it, the gardens are full of life.

Daffodil Hill comes to life in the early spring. 235 varieties of Narcissus grow there.

The tulips are real showstoppers.

Look at how inviting the trail is!

The whole Anthony Chapel Complex is absolutely gorgeous.

Similar to E. Fay Jones’s work on Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs and Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel in Bella Vista, Anthony Chapel was actually designed by University of Arkansas alumni. It was named one of the coolest places to get married by Buzzfeed.

The chapel complex includes four one-of-a-kind structures and a meditation garden, the Millsap Bride’s Hall, Anthony Chapel, Evans

Anthony Chapel

Grooms Quarters, Anthony Family Carillon and the Evans Celebration Garden.

The grounds are simply spectacular, all the way through.

The gardens are managed by the University of Arkansas and made possible by the philanthropist Verna Cook Garvan. There are so many things to see there that a comprehensive list would be page after page of magical images. This is just a small taste of all the magic you’ll find there.

Check out this super fun video, and visit their website for more information.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3QwFCrKjd8