10 Towns in Arkansas that Were Ranked Among US Favorites in 2024
Wandering through quiet forest trails, looking for wildlife in a pine-speckled mountain, swimming in a clear lake, and floating down a ramp are some things people enjoy doing in Arkansas — aptly called the Natural State. But that is half the story. The other half concerns cobblestoned streets, old brick buildings, beautiful churches, and heart-ravishing Victorian architecture. But what are the favored retreats? Starting with Eureka Springs, one of America’s prettiest towns, discover below ten towns in Arkansas that are ranked among U.S. favorites.
Eureka Springs
Often ranked among the prettiest towns in the United States, Eureka Springs is frequently on the lips of smitten vacationers. A delicious Victorian architecture, mineral springs believed to possess healing properties, nature at its most mesmerizing, and good food combine to earn Eureka Springs a spot among Arkansas towns ranked among U.S. favorites. Thinking of which spots to hit? There is the 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa, a luxury retreat that once served as a hospital for a quack doctor promising a cure for cancer. For a more modern experience, one can visit the Thorncrown Chapel, a glass-enclosed marvel of architecture. There is also the Quigley's Castle, arguably the strangest dwelling in the Ozarks. Speaking of the Ozarks, nature enthusiasts should check out Pivot Rock Park, a famous roadside attraction known for its weird rock formations. This is just the tip of what Eureka Springs offers, making it a must-visit for anyone in Arkansas.
Jasper
It is not a frequent sight to find a town square dotted with comfortable rocking chairs. Jasper, fortunately, bucks this trend. A first-time visitor will enjoy locking eyes with elk while relaxing in a rocking chair overlooking Ponca Creek, an exquisite space for observing the area’s fauna and flora. Located within the “Elk Capital of Arkansas,” Jasper is endearingly small and beautiful. One can get wet at the Buffalo River, pick a stylish souvenir at Bubba's Buffalo River Store, or grab a filling bite at one of the oldest restaurants in Arkansas, the Ozark Cafe. Located right on the town square, this historic cafe has been a feature of the town since 1909. To break a sweat, hit up the Round Top Mountain Trail, a lovely stretch that circles a landmark mountain of the same name; on its way, passing through towering bluffs, cool mountain streams, and sparkling waterfalls.
Ponca
A short drive from Jasper, Ponca is another town many call their favorite in Arkansas. One reason Ponca is famous is because it provides visitors the chance to mingle with herds of graceful Rocky Mountain elk, highly social animals with a keen sense of smell and sound. Those interested in the outdoors can get a kayak at Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging, ideal for floating down Ponca Creek amid tasty scenes in every direction. Alternatively, sniff some fresh air at the Lost Valley Trail, the most popular hike at Buffalo National River.
Back in town, the Big Buffalo Valley Historic District, also called the Boxley Valley Historic District, has buildings that date back more than 120 years. History buffs will feel the pioneer spirit in the area and marvel at sites such as the Beaver Jim Villines Homestead, built in 1882.
Mountain View
Mountain View is loved for its entertaining festivals, live music scene, small-town feel, and beautiful natural surroundings. The name itself: “Mountain View” — will pique the interest of any vacationer. That said, many people overlook its nickname, “The Folk Music Capital of the World.” Testament to this, one can come to experience the Arkansas Folk Festival, which debuted in the town six decades ago. It takes place on the third weekend of April and celebrates the area’s musical heritage. Those who miss out on the event can learn about traditional American folk music, herb gardening, and other pioneer crafts at the iconic Ozark Folk Center, America's only facility that preserves the heritage of the Ozarks mountain people. Other nearby outdoor venues include the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, the aptly named Mirror Lake, and City Park Stone Amphitheater, filled with scenic trails and piquant photo-op spots.
Marshall
Although famous for outdoor sites such as the Buffalo River and the exquisite Buffalo River trail, Marshall offers much more. Locals love an old-school drive-in movie theatre, the site of fantastic shows and yummy food. Kenda Drive-In Theater is one of a handful of drive-ins remaining in the Natural State — and the only one operating from January to December. History buffs, however, will want to spend some time at the Buffalo River Historic Jail & Museum, a nostalgic spot just one block off the Marshall Town Square. After taking in the town’s paved streets, one can head out to quiet forest trails at the pine-speckled Ozark - St. Francis National Forest, another Marshall favorite. One more secret: the South Mountain Scenic Overlook, set along Highway 65, is an excellent place to stop to inhale sumptuous views with a little espresso.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs offers something for everyone, from admiring art that fires the imagination to hiking picturesque trails, floating on the many clear and peaceful lakes around, and popping inside funky restaurants. Lake Ouachita, a short drive from downtown Hot Springs, is believed to have the clearest water in the entire state. Those interested have many opportunities, from scuba diving in the transparent waters to hiking in the adjacent Ouachita National Forest.
Closer to town, Hot Springs National Park, the smallest in the nation, features a historic row of early 20th-century bathhouses that are a delight to explore. There is the Garvan Woodland Gardens as well, just south of town, with its iconic Anthony Chapel. The chapel and the gardens provide sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, dotted with evergreens such as dogwood, hickory, oak, and pine. Consider spending the night at Hotel Hale in the heart of downtown Hot Springs, a cozy space loved for its old-timey feel.
Bella Vista
Bella Vista, Spanish for “beautiful view,” is another Arkansas treasure often ranked among U.S. favorites. It is not hard to see why. Bella Vista offers many golf courses, including the splendid Bella Vista Country Club, half a dozen clear lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails suitable for all levels. Sites such as the Cooper Memorial Chapel are big names in travel circles and should not be missed from any itinerary. It is the brainwork of architect E. Fay Jones, associated with the more famous Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs. At the deceptively small Bella Vista Historical Museum, visitors can walk through the town’s checkered history, especially from when Lake Bella Vista was established in 1917 to when it emerged as a well-known summer resort a few years later. Other outdoor venues include Sugar Creek, Sugar Bluffs Cave, and the Danger Will Robinson Trail.
Heber Springs
Heber Springs, a seemingly dainty town of just about 7,000 residents, scores big on aesthetic appeal, especially natural beauty and awesome architecture. An eye-catching courthouse in the middle of the town square was constructed when Woodrow Wilson was the president of the United States. It offers a historic backdrop perfect to begin one’s Arkansas adventure. That said, it is truly visible why this town is a U.S. favorite when visitors wander outdoors. For example, adventurers can float down Greers Ferry Lake, sink their toes at the aptly named Sandy Beach, marvel at the quiet grandeur of Sugarloaf Mountain, or get wet at Bridal Veil Falls. The falls are a top spot, unique for how they fall in tiers over a smooth rock, creating a lovely, misty appearance that resembles a bridal veil. After the outdoors, have some of the best soup in the area at Pizza Pie-Zazz on Wilburn Road, which is best enjoyed after a day of adventure.
Roland
Secreted north of Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Roland is a cute little town with a ton going in its favor. There is a country feel to the town and a homey appeal that first-time visitors will find endearing. One can explore the Arkansas River Trail, enjoy water activities at Lake Maumelle—famous for its many sailing regattas—or admire the beautiful daffodils at Moss Mountain Farm, a 650-acre garden retreat on the banks of the Arkansas River. History enthusiasts will love The Little Italy Heritage Museum, which highlights the rich history of Central Arkansas’s only Italian community. Crown a fun-filled day with refreshing local fruit wines at River Bottom Winery, a delightful spot with live music on certain days, and a welcoming outdoor patio.
Mountain Home
Mountain Home’s oasis-like setting is to die for, framed by Norfork and Bull Shoals lakes, sites that lend a rustic charm to an already beautiful spot. A quiet, slow-paced town ideal for winding down and relaxing, this Arkansas gem deserves a place among U.S. favorites. Start with melt-in-the-mouth alligator bites at Cooyons, a locally owned establishment known for freshness and authenticity. After this, amble through the town, popping inside stores such as Remember Me Quilt Shop, an exceptional place to shop for all things quilts. Outdoorspeople have different tasks, such as visiting the many fishing resorts along the tranquil White River. One can also tee off in Mountain Home at the Big Creek Golf & Country Club, which is immaculately laid out with beautiful views and enthusiastic staff. Lastly, many people do not know about Amon's Lake — a heartbeat from downtown Mountain Home, a nice place to relax and fish.
The Takeaway
Verdant valleys, a realm of pines and parks, rushing rivers, and peaceful lakes — are some features a first-time visitor will love about Arkansas. If natural beauty counts for something, this Southern state is up there with America’s best. Dotting this vast expanse is a cornucopia of several incredibly beautiful, small, and endearing towns. These towns can serve as ideal settings from which one can sample the state’s offerings. If you are looking for the jewels in the crown, check out spots such as Eureka Springs, Jasper, and Mountain Home. Each is handsomely framed by natural and commercial attractions, curating a setting any painter would want to put down on canvas.
