9 Unforgettable Places in Arkansas That Everyone Must Visit This Winter

There’s no denying it; Arkansas in the winter is awesome. No matter how cold or unseasonably warm it gets, there’s always something to do or to see. The parks around the Natural State are worth a visit, and there are a number of opportunities to learn about history or try out a new skill. Don’t just sit around the house this winter; get out and explore the best winter places in Arkansas. Not sure where to start? Keep reading for some of our top recommendations.

1. Star City

A great place to visit in Arkansas in the winter, Cane Creek State Park is brimming with opportunities for outdoor fun. The park is located where the Coastal Plain meets the Mississippi Delta, which means it boasts a unique topography that’s ideal for a winter adventure. In addition to hiking, park-goers can enjoy biking, kayaking, fishing, and birding.

2. Bentonville

Bentonville's Lawrence Plaza changes from a summertime splash zone to one of the best places to visit in Arkansas in winter, and it is all thanks to a fun-filled ice skating rink every holiday season. The ice rink will be available for families to spin, twirl, and fall throughout the winter season.

3. Rogers

Winter is the perfect time to explore Hobbs State Park and Conservation Area, the largest of all Arkansas state parks. With over 12,000 acres, it’s brimming with opportunities for adventure. A few of the park’s perks include a 54-mile trail system with hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding trails, primitive campsites, and regulated hunting. Rogers is also home to the Arkansas Public Theater. Another great reason to brave the cold, the theater puts on a variety of performances.

4. Maumelle

The Maumelle Performing Arts Center is a great place to spend a cold winter day in Arkansas. The center puts on a variety of shows, so there is something for everyone.

5. Springdale

Escape the cold with an impromptu history lesson at the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History. In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum hosts a variety of programs and special events. Also in Springdale is the Springdale Public Library, which hosts its own fair share of interesting exhibits as well as lectures and film screenings.

6. Newport

Jacksonport State Park hosts a number of workshops that will keep you from falling into the winter boredom routine. In the past, park workshops have included: The Winter Bird Feeding and Spring Butterfly Gardening Workshop and the Healing Herbal Teas Workshop. Admission varies per workshop. For more information and a current event schedule, visit the Jacksonport State Park website.

7. Little Rock

There's a lot going on in the capital city during winter in Arkansas. You will want to check out destinations like Pinnacle Mountain State Park and the Wildwood Park for the Arts. Both destinations feature attractions and activities that may just make you fall in love with this season of the year.

8. Heber Springs

Heber Springs has something very special that arrives during the holidays and stays until the middle of winter. Beautiful trumpeter swans flock annually to Magness Lake and remain from December until February.

9. Russellville

Each winter season, Lake Dardanelle State Park offers winter lake cruises throughout January and February. The tours are an opportune chance for all to see America's national symbol, the Bald Eagle, as well as a number of other beautifully inspiring birds such as snow geese, ducks, and American White Pelicans.

What do you like to do when the cold weather sets in? How do you prevent cabin fever? What’s your favorite place for an Arkansas winter vacation? Let me know!

There’s more to Arkansas in the winter than heaps of snow and blistering temperatures. Winter also brings with it plenty of opportunities for Christmas-related fun. Festive celebrations are held throughout the state, but when it comes to the best places to visit in Arkansas in December, these Christmas towns in Arkansas can’t be beat. And if you need any cold-weather gear for your upcoming winter adventures, check out some of our favorites.