Ahhhh, 'tis the season to be jolly! Winter in Arkansas is a magical time of year. Our small towns from Eureka Springs to Paris to Batesville come alive with explosions of lights as well as seasonal festivals. Moreover, it’s the time of year when folks who don’t mind the weather, bravely explore the Natural State without the extra crowds. Whether you’re searching for a festive Christmas town, fun outdoor activities, or even a rustic cabin to hibernate for the season, we’ve got it all here in Arkansas. Here are 12 of the best things to do in Arkansas in winter that will prepare you for one incredible holiday season.
Holiday Events In Arkansas
One thing about Arkansas is that we cut no corners when it comes to celebrating the holiday season. No matter what town you visit, it's guaranteed that there is a magical event that features lots of festive fun for the entire family. And the best part is many of these holiday traditions are FREE! So, if you're searching for some fun family things to do in Arkansas this winter, here are a few of our favorites:
1. Christmas Light Display: Finney’s Christmas Wonderland
Location: Crossett, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to drive through, but donations are welcomed. Other fees vary by attraction.
Not all holiday light displays are created equally. In fact, Finney’s Christmas Light Wonderland is one of the best in America. With over 1 million dazzling lights, hundreds of inflatables, as well as countless festive displays, this award-winning drive-thru event has been a holiday tradition for Arkansans for over 35 years. The light extravaganza begins the day after Thanksgiving and continues through the end of the year. It's the one family friendly event that belongs on your holiday list.
2. Tree Lighting: Illuminate - Conway Tree Lighting
Location: Conway, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to watch. Other fees vary by attraction.
At 65 feet tall, the largest Christmas tree is located in Little Rock, but the 54-foot tree in Conway is just as impressive. The event perfectly named Illuminate kicks off on November 26 at 6 p.m. at Rogers Plaza. Featuring a holiday train, carnival rides, games, arts and crafts, pictures with Santa and more, this holiday tradition attracts thousands of locals and visitors alike. If you're searching for a kid friendly event this winter season, Illuminate is one that you can't miss.
3. Enchanting Holiday Lights: Garvan Woodland Gardens
Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Adults $20, kids 4-12 is $10, and toddlers under 3 are free. Members are free.
By a long shot, one of the prettiest light displays is located at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs. No wonder it's a favorite winter wonderland for many Arkansans. Stroll through the enchanting gardens that are dripping with over 5 million lights and marvel at the dragons and towering holiday characters, while you enjoy the musical light show. Starting on November 18 through the end of the year, be sure to plan your visit to experience one of the most spectacular Christmas displays in Arkansas.
4. Holiday Lantern Festival: GloWild at Little Rock Zoo
Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: General admission is $20. Members $17. Kids 2 and under are free.
Every year at the Little Rock Zoo, folks bundle up for this one-of-a-kind display in Arkansas. GloWild is a Chinese lantern festival that is truly magical. The stunning illuminated lanterns are truly a sight to behold, and you'll love seeing all your favorite animals glowing at this sensory, immersive event. In addition to the lanterns, there will be holiday lights, a train and carousel ride as well as live entertainment. This is one of the best family friendly holiday events in Arkansas and you don’t want to miss it.
Christmas Towns In Arkansas
Eureka Springs might be one of the twinkliest towns in Arkansas, but to be honest, all our towns explode with twinkling lights during the winter months. Our town squares, riverbanks, and our historic homes are dripping with millions of pretty dazzling lights. And the beauty of it all is that visiting Christmas towns in Arkansas is the best free winter activity. So, without further delay, let's check out these enchanting holiday towns and marvel at these winter wonderlands.
5. Batesville
Location: Batesville, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to drive-thru and visit the town. Other fees vary by attraction.
When you host one of the biggest light displays in Arkansas, it's a no brainer that Batesville should be on the list of towns to visit during the winter season. Batesville’s White River Wonderland has been a tradition for families for many years. Riverwalk Park transforms into a winter wonderland of dazzling lights, and it's truly a sight to behold. Ride the Ferris wheel or Christmas train, enjoy carriage rides, ice skating, a parade, free movies, pictures with Santa, and so much more. With all these traditional holiday activities, it's easy to see why Batesville is the "Christmas Capital of Arkansas."
6. Paris
Location: Paris, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to visit the town. Other fees vary by attraction.
When searching for romantic things to do in Arkansas in winter, Paris should immediately come to mind. As the most romantic town in our state, you'll love all the seasonal joy that this charming town has to offer. Snuggle up next to your sweetheart on a horse and carriage ride or take a romantic stroll to see the replica of the Eiffel Tower. If you're a hopeless romantic, bring a lock and attach it to the locks of love fence to seal your love. I have no doubt that this is a romantic winter tradition that you will enjoy.
7. Fayetteville
Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to visit the town. Other fees vary by attraction.
Home of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville is a popular college town in our state. While the school attracts thousands of visitors each year, this town also comes alive during the holiday season with lots of festive activities. Dripping with over 500,000 twinkling LEDs, the historic Town Square transforms into an illuminated wonderland at the Lights of the Ozarks event. Folks can enjoy holiday music, food vendors, a parade, and so much more. It's a wonderful holiday tradition in Arkansas that spreads yuletide joy.
8. Bentonville
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to visit the town. Other fees vary by attraction.
Between the winter wonderland of lights, the Christmas parades and its decked-out store fronts, Bentonville is easily at the top of the list for best winter towns in northwest Arkansas. Take the kids to Lawrence Plaza ice skating rink to enjoy an evening of skating, then stop by a local coffee shop for hot cocoa and cookies. While in town, art lovers can stroll through the trails near the Crystal Bridge Museum to admire the art installations.
9. Searcy
Location: Searcy, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Free to visit the town. Other fees vary by attraction.
Everybody loves an old-fashioned Christmas celebration, and the town of Searcy is certainly doing it the best. Beginning in late November through the end of the year, this enchanting town celebrates the magic of the holiday. Folks can enjoy a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, story time with Santa, carriage rides, festive music, a parade, arts and crafts, holiday treats, hot cocoa, and everything in between. All season long, locals and visitors alike flock to experience the magic of the holidays at this old-fashioned Christmas town.
Outdoor Activities
Winter is the best time to explore the Natural State! Not only are the state parks less crowded, but there are some unique adventures that are better during the colder season. While some folks enjoy year-round adventures like boating, mountain biking, and fishing, here are some outdoor activities in Arkansas that you can only experience in the winter.
10. Historical Site: The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Memorial Park
Location: North Little Rock, Arkansas
Popularity: Popular
Price: Free
When it comes to winter outdoor activities, the Old Mill might not be on your list. But after a good snowfall, this iconic Arkansas attraction is the true definition of a winter wonderland. The snow-covered fairytale scenes are like something from a Hallmark movie. On a pretty winter day, stroll across the footbridges, admire the art installations as well as the replica of the mill for a unique outdoor adventure. Of course, you'll want to have your camera because the picturesque scenes are the perfect backdrop for photo ops.
11. Chase Frozen Waterfalls: The Glory Hole Falls
Location: Ozone, Arkansas
Popularity: Popular during the warmer months
Price: Free
From the Ozark Mountains to the Ouachitas, winter hiking is a great outdoor activity for folks who can brave the brisk weather. And of course, if you love chasing waterfalls, then there is no better time to take advantage of the less populated trails than during the winter months. Moreover, witnessing a frozen waterfall is a sight unlike any other. One of my favorites is the Glory Hole Falls and I believe it's a unique cascade that's worthy of your list.
12. Birdwatching Nature Activity: Trumpeter Swans at Magness Lake
Location: Heber Springs, Arkansas
Popularity: Popular with bird watchers and photographers
Price: Free
Every winter, bird watchers rejoice as the Trumpeter Swans flock to Magness Lake in Heber Springs. Starting in November and extending through February, hundreds of these majestic birds call Arkansas home. As the largest waterfowl in North America, these stunning creatures are a delight to watch. Moreover, bald eagles are known to frequent the area, so keep your eyes peeled for those magnificent birds of prey as well. If you ask me, you should witness this one-of-a-kind activity at least once. While you're in town, be sure to explore the historic downtown district of the charming town of Heber Springs.
Winter Getaways
Ok, I understand that not everyone loves brisk weather. When it’s cold outside, some folks are quite content hibernating all season long. If that sounds like you, then here are a few winter getaways in Arkansas perfect for snuggling with that special someone or to spend quality time with your family.
13. Snowy Cabin: Rimrock Cove Ranch
Location: Ponca, Arkansas
Popularity: Popular
Price: $169 plus tax per night for two people, $20 plus tax for each additional person. Two Night Minimum
When the weather is cold outside, cure your winter blues with a stay in a snowy cabin at Rimrock Cove Ranch. Located minutes from the Buffalo National River, this 180-acre secluded horse ranch is the perfect winter escape in Arkansas. Enjoy a 2-bedroom rustic cabin with a fireplace, a wrap-around porch, outdoor firepits, and a pond, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks. For outdoor adventure, explore the snow-covered trails on horseback, view the local Elk population, or chase icy waterfalls on the nearby trails. This cozy cabin is great for a family or for a romantic getaway.
14. Enchanting Getaway with Heated Pool: 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa
Location: Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Popularity: Extremely popular
Price: Average nightly rates range from $160 to $340
As the most enchanting Christmas hotel in Arkansas, the Crescent belongs at the top of your list. The hotel gets decked out for the holidays spreading yuletide joy to all its guests. But what makes it a great winter destination are all the seasonal amenities. Enjoy ice skating, a Christmas tree forest, rides, and more. For couples seeking some romance, take a dip in the outdoor heated pool or enjoy an indoor massage that will certainly get you in the mood. No matter if you're there with family or for a romantic escape, you'll find that the Crescent is one of the best winter getaways in Arkansas.
15. Mountain Top Lodge: Mount Magazine State Park
Location: Paris, Arkansas
Popularity: Popular
Price: Rates per night range from $125 to $200
Hot Springs National Park might be the most popular state park in Arkansas. And rightfully so, especially because of its thermal pools that are a cool year-round attraction. But during the colder months, folks flock to Mount Magazine State Park to enjoy the lodge perched atop the mountain. After a good snow, this beloved state park transforms into a winter dream. The breathtaking views from the lodge will leave you awestruck. Hike to the highest peak in Arkansas or simply unwind and bask in all that the lodge has to offer.
Whether you love spending winter in our small towns, exploring the great outdoors, or snuggling inside a cozy cabin, you'll find all those cold weather adventures here in the Natural State. These Arkansas winter activities will be the most fun you'll have all season. So, grab your family and let's kick off the winter months in the very best way!
What are your favorite winter activities in Arkansas? Did they make our list? Tell us in the comments below. And if you're searching for more fun things to do in Arkansas in winter, visit our website featuring lots of family friendly holiday attractions.
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