School starts soon and we don’t have much left in the way of summer weekends, so it’s about time to make the most of them, don’t you think? You're in luck, because we've compiled a list of perfect places where you can get away from it all. Whether your perfect getaway weekend means unique shops, luxurious spa treatments, scenic vistas, or incredible museums, there’s something on this list for you. You don’t need to drive all the way to the ocean to have a great time, you can stay right here in Arkansas and have the BEST time.
1. Explore Arkansas's most unique town in Eureka Springs.
Eureka Springs has a reputation for the being the quirkiest little town in Arkansas and one of the best small towns in the U.S. In Eureka Springs you’ll find haunted hotels, charming inns, fantastic food, interesting shops, and a sixty-seven foot tall art deco Jesus to watch over you while you take it all in.
2. Look off the top of the state at Mount Magazine State Park.
You can gaze off the top of the world from the overlooks on Mount Magazine. Okay, actually you can only gaze off the top of Arkansas, but that’s still pretty impressive, right? This mountain is the highest point in the Natural State, and with its gorgeous views, incredible lodge, and nearby pristine Cove Lake, you can count on an amazing time all weekend long.
3. Have a spawesome weekend in Hot Springs.
From the place where the forty-seven natural hot springs come up from the ground to the bathhouses where they come into the tub, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax in Hot Springs. There are great spots for shopping, tons of unique eateries, and even a track where you can play the ponies. It’s the best place in the state for a totally spawesome weekend.
4. Take in traditional culture and breathtaking beauty in Mountain View.
Mountain View is the Folk Music Capital of the World and home to Ozark Folk Center State Park, where you can listen to traditional mountain music while learning traditional mountain dances. After you’ve taken in all the music and traditional culture that you can handle, you can head to nearby Blanchard Springs Caverns and overload your senses with natural wonder.
5. Dig for treasure in Murfreesboro.
In Murfreesboro you’ll find something unlike anything else in the world—a diamond mine that’s open to the public, where you can keep what you find. Crater of Diamonds State Park is the big draw here, but don’t forget to check out Ka Do Ha Indian Village and learn a little bit about Native American culture while digging for arrowheads.
6. Explore Arkansas's oldest state park on Petit Jean Mountain.
Petit Jean State Park is Arkansas’s first state park, and is responsible for the creation of our state park system. On the trails there you’ll find waterfalls, caves, incredible rock formations, and absolutely stunning overlooks.
7. Find tons of history and loads of modern fun in Little Rock.
In the Natural State’s capital city, you’ll find tons of history to discover, along with the finest dining in the state. In Little Rock you’ll find museums, monuments, nightlife, a zoo, and a gorgeously developed riverfront.
8. Curl up in a cabin at Mount Nebo State Park.
If you’re looking to stay in a rustic cabin for the weekend, look no further than Mount Nebo State Park. You’ll find amazing things along the trails there, including Sunrise and Sunset points, and structures built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
9. Enjoy the arts and stunning historic downtowns in Northwest Arkansas. (Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Rogers)
Whether you’re enjoying the cool shops on Fayetteville’s Dickson Street, taking in art at Bentonville’s Crystal Bridges, or enjoying an afternoon exploring historic downtown Rogers, you’ll never get bored or run out of things to do in good old NWA. These cities are really just a few minutes from each other, and it would be easy to take a three day weekend and allow yourself a day per city.
If you're more in the mood for a road trip, try this one.
If you're looking for places you can go on one tank of gas, this is the article for you.
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