Take This Hidden Gems Road Trip When You Want To See Some Little-Known Places In Arkansas

Arkansas is full of hidden gems. There are so many that it can be hard to keep track of them all, or, worse, overlook a few. Don’t worry, though, that’s where we come in. We took the liberty of mapping out a route to some of the best little-known places and hidden gems in Arkansas. From breathtaking natural wonders to one-of-a-kind attractions, this hidden gem road trip leads to some of Arkansas’ best-kept secrets!

The 591-mile route we’ve mapped out will take about 11.5 hours to complete.

If you don’t have 11.5 hours to devote to a road trip, don’t fret. Simply alter the route to suit your needs. To make changes to the map, click ">

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1. Board Camp Crystal Mine (Mena)

Diamonds aren’t all you can dig for in Arkansas! Crystal mines are not that uncommon here in Arkansas, but at Board Camp Crystal Mine, you can dig for real crystals – and you get to keep any that you find. Digging for crystals is one of the most fun things to do in Arkansas, after all, that's one of the reasons we're known as The Natural State! For more info, visit their website.

2. South Arkansas Arboretum (El Dorado)

The South Arkansas Arboretum is owned by the local school system but ran as a state park for many years. Though just 12 acres, the site is brimming with beautiful flowers and greenery, including plants native to Arkansas as well as exotic species, such as flowering camellias and azaleas. Marked, paved walking trails wind through the arboretum, making it easy to navigate. For more info, visit their website.

The town of El Dorado is a great town to spend some time exploring. Here are some of our favorite things to do in El Dorado.

3. Esse Purse Museum and Store (Little Rock)

One of only two purse museums in the world, Esse Purse Museum and Store is one of the most unique hidden gems in Arkansas. Through its immense collection of handbags, the museum tells the story of the evolution of 20th-century American women. It also includes a shop, which sells high-quality handbags as well as handmade jewelry and accessories. For more info, visit their website.

4. Pam’s Grotto Waterfall (Hagarville)

This little hidden gem in Arkansas is nestled in the middle of the Ozarks. Luckily, though, it couldn’t be easier to reach. A 0.8-mile out-and-back trail leads straight to the idyllic cascade. Check out our previous article for more information about Pam's Grotto Waterfall.

5. Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery (Springdale)

Situated in a peaceful valley in Northwest Arkansas, Sassafras Springs Winery and Vineyard is renowned for its award-winning wines and storybook setting. Stop by for a full-on wine tasting or a casual bite in a picturesque setting. For more info, visit their website.

6. Pivot Rock Park (Eureka Springs)

Nature lovers, you're going to want to move this to the top of your Arkansas bucket list. Set among the beautiful mountain scenery of the Ozarks, Pivot Rock Park is filled with unique rock formations, including a natural bridge. The bizarre rocks aren’t the park’s only claim to fame, though. According to legend, the Jesse James Gang used the park as a hideout. For more info, click here.

7. Old Spanish Treasure Cave (Sulphur Springs)

Old Spanish Treasure Cave might be one of the state’s lesser-known caves, but that doesn’t make it any less fascinating. As the name implies, it’s allegedly home to a hidden treasure, buried long ago by Spanish Conquistadors. Today, you can take a guided tour and learn all about the cave’s history and legends. For more info, click here.

So, did you know about these hidden gems in Arkansas? Have you ever visited any of them? Did we miss your favorite secret spot? Let us know in the comments below!

This is just a portion of the hidden gems in Arkansas. Check out our previous article highlighting even more unique adventures in Arkansas.