7 Towns in Arkansas with Vibrant Downtown Areas
The landlocked state of Arkansas sits at the junction between the southeastern states of Tennessee and Mississippi and the western states of Oklahoma and Texas. It was first part of French Louisiana before becoming apart of the U.S. through the Louisiana purchase and then joining as a state in 1836. Today, the state's natural beauty is reflected in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains and the many natural springs in the state, which in turn means there are many picturesque small towns to explore. These small towns don't just have beautiful landmarks, they also have idyllic downtown areas that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening. In these downtown areas, you'll find historic buildings, museums about gangsters, mountain landscapes, hot springs and much more. Here are 7 Arkansas small towns with vibrant downtown areas.
El Dorado
This town became big during the oil boom when oil was discovered close to the city in 1921. This created a massive boost in population for El Dorado, which is reflected in the early 20th-century buildings in the downtown area. By visiting its downtown area, you can see many of these buildings up close, including the 1928 Union County Courthouse. You can also check out the Oil Heritage Park, which features sculptures, artifacts, and plaques that describe its history as an oil boom town. For shoppers, there are many cute locally-owned stores to check out, including Southern Threads Boutique, the Sports Alley, The Pottery House, and The 1988 bookstore. For good places to dine, visit one of the many bistros in town, such as Barefoot Bistro or Boomtown Bistro.
Van Buren
Named after the then Secretary of State and future President Martin Van Buren, this small town is a quaint place nestled close to the Ozark Mountains. Due to this long history dating back to the 1800s, Van Buren has an excellent historic district within its Main Street for you to explore. Within its six blocks, you can explore the Crawford County Bank Anheuser Busch Brewery and Crawford County Courthouse. You can gain a deeper appreciation for the history of Van Buren at the River Valley Museum of History located within the Old Frisco Depot. Art lovers will also appreciate the small town since it hosts Arts on Man, a 17,000-square-foot facility with a pottery studio, culinary kitchen, art galleries, outdoor sculpture garden, and more. Lastly, there are several different styles of food you can try out downtown, such as Asian food at Ninja Japanese Express or traditional American fare at Colton's Steak House & Grill.
Batesville
Batesville is one of the oldest towns in Arkansas, with the first log cabin set up in the area in 1804. A post office was added in 1820, and the town itself earned its name from James Woodson Bates, the first Arkansas territorial delegate. Today, Batesville is home to Lyon College, and it has a picturesque main street area that you can explore. Of note is the Melba Theater, first constructed in 1875 as an opera house, along with the 1924 Wade Building and the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce built in the style of the 1828 brick home of John Ringgold. Beyond historic buildings, there are several stores to shop at, including Thompson's Jewelry Store, Clara Jane & Jax Baby Boutique, and Bellabird Boutique. For spots to eat, try Bruno's Pizzeria or BIG's of Batesville. There's plenty to explore in this historic town.
Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs was first settled in the late 1870s when Dr. Alvah Jackson published his findings on the mineral waters in the region, which he believed had medicinal value. Today, this quaint resort town has many attractions for visitors to explore. On Main Street, you can learn about the town's origins at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum or see some of the gorgeous Victorian-style architecture at spots like the Palace Hotel & Bath House. You can also see the spot where the town was founded at Basin Spring Park. Downtown Eureka Springs is no slacker when it comes to great food, with restaurants ranging from Eureka Grill to Red's Pizzeria and much more. Lastly, there are many intriguing shops to see, including The Ladybug Emporium, Razorback Gift Shops, and Magpie.
Paris
While many travelers might prefer the French city of Paris, Arkansas is no slacker when it comes to great sites and experiences. The town still honors its namesake with a 25-foot Eiffel Tower model with a water fountain base, which makes for a great stop to snap a selfie. While you're at the Eiffel Tower Park, stop by the Love Lock Fence. Couples visit here to place a padlock on the fence, symbolizing their love. Paris is also a great spot for a day of downtown shopping at places such as JA Outfitters, Little Shoppes on the Square, Stirling Soap Co., Warren's Shoes, and Anissa's Variety Store. While you're there, don't forget to try to grab some coffee at the locally owned 22 Brew or True Grit Grounds: Coffee & Tea.
Jasper
Nestled by the Little Buffalo River and the Ozark Mountains, Jasper is an idyllic town that's perfect for a weekend getaway. It sits in Newton County, which is known as the Elk Capital of Arkansas. The downtown area is a relaxing place featuring the Newton County Courthouse built in Art Deco style and many small businesses such as Paisley Sister, Yeager's Junction Quik Stop, Bubba's Buffalo River Store, and more. Right next to Yeager's Junction Quik Stop, you can get to the Little Buffalo River at Bradley Park for great fishing or relaxation. The town also hosts the Bradley House Museum, which has many human and geological artifacts from the larger county. While you're in town, don't forget to explore some of the scenic hiking trails, such as Round Top Mountain.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs live up to its name with naturally occurring hot springs that go up to 143 degrees Fahrenheit. It is home to the first national park in America: Hot Springs National Park. Due to this popular destination, the town has a bustling downtown area with all sorts of museums, shops, and restaurants. You can learn more about the spring water at the Mountain Valley Spring Water Museum & Visitors Center. In addition to the springs, the area was renowned for gangster activity in the 1920s, which you can learn about at the Gangster Museum of America. Hot Springs also hosts the Historic Baseball Trail, Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum, and the Maxwell Blade Theatre of Magic. There are several great restaurants in the area, such as the Colonial Pancake House and Picante's Mexican Grill.
With so many attractions, you'll definitely want to stay awhile in these small Arkansas towns. Without leaving the downtown area, you can visit county museums, go fishing, see hot springs, or get a taste of local art and cuisine. Whether you are looking for a resort town like Eureka Springs, a boom town like El Dorado, or a hidden mountain town gem like Jasper, Arkansas is an ideal spot to visit. Make sure to pick up a souvenir from one of the local businesses when you go there so you'll have something to remember about your trip this year.
