Arkansas has adopted the Natural State slogan because of its rolling mountains, scenic lakes and rushing rivers, but it also has a number of historic sites. Many of its most popular attractions are in the northwest quadrant, so this article starts in Little Rock and travels clockwise through this portion of the state, outlining a 5-8 day itinerary, which can easily be combined with a trip to nearby Branson.
Little Rock
Even though the Clintons now live in New York City, they have brought activity and attention to the area. The Clinton Presidential Library and Park, recently opened to the public, sits at the lip of the Arkansas River.
Central High School is a reminder of our divided past. Nine African-American students were escorted by military forces in 1957 into the school, finally testing the Supreme Court decision requiring classroom integration.
The Old State House Museum houses a museum of state history and is known as the site of President Clintons election night celebrations in 1992 and 1996. The Old Mill, across the Arkansas River in North Little Rock, is famous for being the site of the opening scene in Gone With the Wind.
Fort Smith
Judge Isaac C. Parker made the Fort Smith National Historic Site in his 21-year stint as the Hanging Judge. Two recreated walk-in jail sites and the remains of two military posts offer glimpses into the areas dangerous frontier foundations. The gallows, recreated for modern visitation, was capable of hanging more than six men at a time.
The Boston Mountain Scenic Loop near Fayetteville is a terrific introduction to the fantastic vistas of the Ozark Mountains. Take a scenic ride on the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad over three high trestles and through the highest pass between the Rockies and Appalachians aboard vintage passenger cars.
Fayetteville/Rogers/Lowell
In Fayetteville tours an
Travel north to the Rogers-Lowell area. War Eagle Cavern, Beaver Lake, and the Ozarks themselves are three spectacular reasons that Arkansas is known as the Natural State. The cavern features a rim stone dam, underground stream, stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a gift shop. Beaver Lakes 28,000 acres offer every water activity imaginable, including scuba diving.
Eureka Springs
This village nestled in the Ozarks became popular in the late 1800s because the healing powers of its natural springs led to the development of spa resorts. Today the area is packed with antique and craft shops and boutiques, set in Victorian architecture along narrow, winding streets. The Great Passion Play here is the nations most attended outdoor drama.
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