5 Places in Arkansas I Wouldn’t Take My Worst Enemy

Admit it, there are certain popular attractions in Arkansas that some of us choose to skip, no matter what. It could be that crowded restaurant filled with out-of-towners serving less-than-authentic food that you can find anywhere. Perhaps it’s a multi-level sports bar with numerous activities that overstimulate your senses. Or, what about hiking for 10 miles across rugged terrain only to be disappointed that there is no mind-blowing reward waiting for you?

Tourist traps are everywhere, and Arkansas is no different. Whether you’re visiting or you live here, these are my picks for the tourist traps in Arkansas that might not be worth the hassle — you be the judge!

1. Crater of Diamonds State Park, Murfreesboro

Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only destination in the world that allows the public to dig for diamonds. That's the cool factor! While the park itself isn’t a bad place to visit, I don’t like the idea of digging all day for gemstones, especially during the warmer months. Sure, this one-of-a-kind activity can be thrilling — spending hours playing in the dirt, anticipating that find — but the chances of landing that rare stone are slim to none. We have numerous jewelers in Arkansas that sell these precious gems, and for my sanity, it’s best that I support our local businesses. 

Crater of Diamonds has a fun waterpark, Diamond Springs Water Park, that’s perfect for the entire family. So, if you’re not digging for diamonds, plan a trip to make a splash during the summer months. Even better, camp overnight, explore the hiking trails, go fishing, or sign up for one of the park’s informative interpretive programs. In my humble opinion, this sounds like a better way to truly explore Crater of Diamonds State Park. 

2. Dave & Buster’s, Little Rock

Fun Fact: One of the co-founders of Dave & Buster’s, the late James "Buster" Corley, operated a bar in Little Rock named "Buster's." He met his partner, the late David "Dave" Corriveau, right here in Arkansas and opened up the first D&B in Dallas, Texas, in 1982. This beloved arcade chain has been creating joy for many families for years.

Occasionally, I do allow my inner child to make an appearance, playing video games and air hockey, but I just don’t enjoy overcrowded venues with too much stimulation. Perhaps if my worst enemies were kids, I would take them to Dave & Busters and let them run free, so I could spend my entire evening eating appetizers at the bar while savoring a couple of adult cocktails.   

3. Christ of the Ozarks, Eureka Springs

If you’ve ever visited Eureka Springs, more than likely, you’ve seen the Jesus statue standing tall amongst the trees in the mountains. While some locals dread this 67-foot structure, it’s a popular spot for tourists passing through Eureka Springs, our favorite mountain town in Arkansas. The statue is free to visit, but unless paired with the other attractions on the same campus, there isn’t much to do except snapping selfies with Jesus — bless their hearts.

Other nearby attractions include the Great Passion Play, the Holy Land Tour, museums, and more, so you could easily spend several hours seeing everything. Would I take my worst enemy here? Probably not. I would skip this venue to explore the small town of Eureka Springs instead.   

4. Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum, Hot Springs

Is it just me, or do you also think wax figures are a bit creepy? Between the human-like statues with dead eyes, the dim lighting, and that eerie feeling that I’m being watched, I don’t find the experience pleasant at all. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum in Hot Springs. In fact, since 1967, this quirky museum has been entertaining thousands of folks visiting the area, and I would recommend it at least once.

Plus, it’s one of those nostalgic attractions in Hot Springs, Arkansas, that has kept its charm even after all these years. But I would rather not feel uneasy, even if it means aggravating my worst enemy in the process.    

5. Gurdon Spook Lights, Gurdon

Question: Is a three-mile hike through the woods at night across unmaintained rugged terrain for a slim chance of glimpsing a spooky floating light along abandoned railroad tracks really worth the hassle? If you answered yes, then I will introduce you to my worst enemy, and you guys can have fun on this adventure together chasing the mysterious Gurdon Lights. I will gladly sit this one out, or better yet, trek the strenuous hiking trail in Hagarville to see the Arkansas Sphinx. At least I am guaranteed to witness a unique phenomenon in the wilderness. 

Naturally, we don't like the same things, and it's great that there are many fun attractions in Arkansas for our entertainment. I don't think it's a bad idea to experience these places at least once, even if it means taking your worst enemy to them. The trade-off might just be worth it.

If you’re new to the area or plan on visiting soon, here are some of our favorite road trip ideas in Arkansas guaranteed to make you fall in love with our state. Or consider checking out the official Arkansas Tourism website for more places to visit.