8 Picture-Perfect Towns In Arkansas
The state of Arkansas is known as "The Natural State," and its small towns play a significant role in earning this title. From the cotton-rich Delta region in the southeast to the rolling Ozarks Mountains and forests in the north and west, these communities are blessed with beauty, rich histories, and strong family ties. Life here is slower-paced, reflecting the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal destination for rest away from the bustle of city life. For those looking to capture stunning photos, there are plenty of picture-perfect opportunities waiting for you. Explore the eight most picturesque towns in Arkansas that are definitely worth slowing down for.
Jasper
Jasper is a charming town located in Newton County, which has recently become popular among tourists due to the state's decision to reintroduce elk into the nearby Buffalo River Valley. The town boasts hundreds of miles of trails and serves as a perfect getaway spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp, hike, or explore the breathtaking beauty of the Ozark National Forest. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Arkansas Grand Canyon or indulge in canoeing or fishing along the Buffalo River. The trail to the most photographed rock in the state, Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag), is a good 2-3 hour hike, but the effort is definitely worth it once you experience the spectacular view.
The downtown area of Jasper is built around a town square bustling with activity from various shops and restaurants. Whether it is the numerous rocking chairs dotting the sidewalks or the beautiful bronze statue of "Newt the Elk" honoring the local elk herd, this community offers a relaxed and laid-back ambiance. Be sure to explore the Ozark Cafe for an outstanding burger or the Cliffhouse Restaurant on Highway 7 for a more upscale menu with a breathtaking scenic view.
Eureka Springs
This small town sits in Carroll County, approximately forty-five minutes away from Fayetteville. It is famous for its Victorian historic downtown and is also known for its natural hot springs. In recent years, the community has become a sanctuary for creative artists, with several galleries and unique shops catering to the many visitors who frequent the region. The Stanton Gallery/Madison's Garden is a perfect example of a local venue that supports the endeavors of regional artists.
While many visitors come to attend the nearby Passion Play on select nights during the summer, there are numerous other places to explore. The Crescent Hotel sits overlooking the town, and If the turn-of-the-century architecture isn't enough, the haunted halls of the building are worth wandering through. For a reflective moment, the Thorncrown Chapel sits tucked away in the woods and offers glorious photos with its towering glass panes.
If you decide to relax, the Palace Bath House is a restored 1901 boutique hotel with a full-service spa and mineral bath. The town has become a foodie lover's paradise, with a wide range of restaurants. Try the Grotto Wood Fired Grill and Wine Cave or Le Stick Nouveau for upscale menu choices or the Main Street Cafe or Myrtie Mae's for an outstanding breakfast.
Lake Village
Lake Village is a thriving community near the Mississippi River and Lake Chicot. It is the country's largest oxbow lake and offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Several state-record fish have been caught here, including largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. If you're a bird-watching enthusiast, you might want to visit Lake Chicot State Park, which is only seven miles to the northeast. The park enjoys its location on one of the major flyways in the country, making it an ideal location to observe various bird species.
History enthusiasts will find the Lakeport Plantation fascinating. It is a fully-restored antebellum home and grounds that dates back to 1859. The plantation retains much of its original architecture and has fascinating exhibits curated by Arkansas State University. Additionally, the Ditch Bayou Battlefield is a historic Civil War site worth visiting.
If you want a place to browse for a fine piece of art, try Guachoya Art Center or find a unique gift at the Village Marketplace or Dee's Treasure Chest. The best place to eat is LJ's Cafe and Bait Shop. Don't let the appearance of the building fool you. It has excellent food and is a favorite of residents. If you prefer fast food, numerous choices are along the Great River Road on US 65.
Mountain View
If you love folk and bluegrass music, then Mountain View is the place you want to visit. This rural community prides itself as the "Folk Music Capital of the World," featuring several music festivals each year. The downtown town square is centered around the local courthouse, offering live music every Friday and Saturday evening, so there is plenty of banjo picking and fiddle-playing wafting through the pines.
You can explore various shops, galleries, and restaurants, such as the Main Street Flea Market and Antiques or the Arkansas Craft Gallery. At the Stone County Museum, learn about the early settlers who lived in the Ozark Hills, raising families in the mountain wilderness. To experience southern cuisine, you can try PJ's Rainbow Cafe, famous for its chicken fried steak covered in white gravy and the numerous paintings and photos of Elvis Presley hanging from the walls.
The town sits in the Ozark National Forest and has several hiking trails that are perfect for exploring. The Mirror Lake Trail is an easy walk to a pristine turquoise lake, while the Steele Falls Trail is a more moderate hike to a beautiful cascading waterfall that shouldn't be missed.
Bella Vista
This retirement community is near the Missouri border in the far northwest part of Arkansas. Although Bella Vista is often overlooked by travelers visiting Branson, Missouri, there are many hidden gems to discover here. If you're a golf enthusiast, you'll be pleased to know that there are over 27 golf courses available in the area, most of which are public venues.
Additionally, the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail offers a beautiful walk through the Ozark wilderness, complete with a suspension bridge and a stunning waterfall. The two-mile hike features some of the most picturesque spots, making it an ideal location for taking lovely portraits of your family and friends. Don't forget to visit the Mildred B Cooper Memorial Chapel, which is another great spot for taking postcard-worthy pictures.
The Old Spanish Treasure Cave is open on weekends and offers tours of the deep caverns where the Spanish Conquistadors are said to have buried their treasures. JJ's Grill is an excellent choice for a mouthwatering burger and brew with live music. If you prefer a more family-friendly experience, try El Pueblito for homemade Mexican food.
Magnolia
This small town is a part of Columbia County in the southwest section of the state. The community began as an agricultural center of commerce, producing cotton as the primary crop until oil was discovered in the 1930s. Today, the community celebrates its rich history with downtown murals scattered throughout the downtown square. Every year, the town enjoys the Magnolia Blossom Festival with a World Championship Steak Cookoff that draws top grillers from around the country. The competition is an event that you don't want to miss just to experience the smell of charcoal wafting through the air.
Logoly State Park offers 370 acres of natural habitat with several trails through an old-growth forest, which means lots of chances to view wildlife. Lake Columbia is a few miles west of the town and is perfect for an afternoon of fishing or even a casual family picnic. There are several restaurants to explore on the square, including the JavaPrimo Coffee House (serving lots more than just coffee) and Mulekick for excellent pizza and beer.
Van Buren
Van Buren is a town located in the Ft. Smith metropolitan area and is one of the oldest communities in the state of Arkansas. The town was first settled in 1818 and started to grow as Arkansas became a territory the following year. Initially known as Phillips Landing, the community adopted the name Van Buren after the appointment of Martin Van Buren as Secretary of State and future President of the United States. A post office was opened in 1831, and the town has continued to flourish ever since. The downtown district boasts a variety of Victorian architecture, making it a charming and vibrant place to visit.
History lovers will enjoy touring the Drennan-Scott House, or the King Opera House, which continues to provide performances just as it has for over a hundred years. Several antique stores downtown offer an eclectic collection of old memorabilia, furniture, and treasures, including Van Buren Vintage Market or Belle Star Antiques. With the Lee Creek Reservoir Recreation Area nearby, plenty of outdoor activities can be had. The Cemetery Loop Trail is an easy hike that meanders through an abandoned cemetery, past an old homestead, and towards a bluff overlooking the lake.
Rogers
If you're looking for a picture-perfect moment to remember, head over to the War Eagle Grist Mill, located just ten minutes east of Rogers. This working mill provides tours, has a charming gift shop and restaurant, and is a peaceful and immaculate place that you won't want to leave. The optimal time to take photos is during autumn when the leaves change colors, and the shades of the fall foliage create a striking contrast to the red mill.
The Hobbs State Park Recreation Area is a day-use site with numerous hiking trails to explore, and Beaver Lake is one of the best spots for fishing in the state. Within the park are the Monument Trails, designed for innovative mountain biking and showcasing the raw, natural beauty of the Ozark wilderness. If you love backwoods biking, make sure to check them out.
For history students, the Rogers Historical Museum offers interactive displays of early settlers to the Ozarks, and the Daisy Airgun Museum has collectibles and artifacts from the BB guns many older adults played with as kids. The corridor from Bentonville to Fayetteville is booming with more residents moving to the area every year, so there are plenty of well-known restaurants for anything your tastebuds might crave. However, for local cuisine, try Smokin' Joe's BBQ or The Rail for good eats and a beer or two.
Arkansas is home to many charming small towns that offer breathtaking natural beauty and rich histories to explore. Whether you are seeking a picturesque moment in front of an old grist mill or simply want to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing on a bass-filled lake, there are plenty of memorable activities to engage in. The people of these delightful communities are warm and welcoming, with a deep love for each other and a strong commitment to preserving their simple, rural way of life. If you decide to visit, be prepared to fall in love with the place, as chances are high that you will want to return again and again.
