8 Towns in The Ozarks with Vibrant Downtown Areas

The Ozarks are a beautiful highland region spanning across southern Missouri, northern Arkansas, and northeastern Oklahoma characterized by natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural traditions. If you have ever seen the famous TV series, Ozark, then you are likely eager to see what the region looks like beyond the drama. From bustling historic districts to quaint small-town charm, these downtowns offer something truly special: a peek at Ozark living. Keep reading to discover eight towns with dynamic downtowns that should be on your radar.

Eureka Springs, AR

Eureka Springs' downtown is steeped in character. Basin Spring Park is the town's centerpiece, and one can tour the Crescent Hotel, which is rumored to house ghosts. They have numerous things to see and explore in this historic district, which is lined with Main Street and Spring Street, featuring local eateries and quirky boutiques. More than all these shops and art galleries, Eureka Springs houses St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, a beautiful old church with unique architecture. The Intrigue Theater also provides a different kind of entertainment-they hold magic and illusion shows. Just blocks away from the downtown is Eureka Springs Historical Museum, which works to preserve local history and artifacts.

Branson, MO

Branson may be known for its entertainment strip, but its downtown area is filled with wonder. Along Lake Taneycomo is the Branson Landing. The historic Downtown Branson is home to Dick's 5 & 10, a vintage store filled with souvenirs to antique candies, and the Branson Scenic Railway, which departs its downtown station for scenic rides of the Ozarks. Meanwhile, the Branson Centennial Museum gives insight into the town's history, and the Farmhouse Restaurant features local Ozark food. Nearby is Silver Dollar City, a 61-acre amusement park that features rollercoasters and themed rides for the entire family to enjoy all day long.

Mountain View, AR

Mountain View is considered the "Folk Music Capital of the World," and its downtown area definitely supports that. The Ozark Folk Center is a major attraction, which houses the traditional crafts of Ozark along with live music performances. Downtown also contains the Stone County Courthouse, surrounded by locally-owned shops and cafes. Music jams tend to break out spontaneously in the town square, providing visitors with a glimpse of the region's rich musical heritage. Of equal musical note is a visit to the Arkansas Craft Guild, which showcases regional artisans. The Ironworks Gallery gives a glimpse into hand-forged ironwork and sculpture.

West Plains, MO

West Plains provides a classic downtown experience with a courthouse square at the center. Its downtown is filled with plenty for visitors to do, including the West Plains Opera House. It also contains the Harlin Museum, which features local history and art. The town hosts several outdoor summer festivals downtown to make summer a fun time for residents and tourists alike. The Heart of the Ozarks Fair floods the downtown area during summer months with carnival rides and agricultural exhibits. The Avenue Theatre, a historic landmark, has shows regularly, while just off of the square is Ozark Pizza, a local favorite serving up wood-fired pizza. There are also plenty of breweries to enjoy, including Wages Brewing Company.

Harrison, AR

Downtown Harrison is steeped in history. The Historic Lyric Theater is a venue for concerts and events where the Ozark Arts Council has month-long exhibits, week-end music venues, and other events of interest. This is perfect for the artist searching for inspiration. Downtown Harrison also displays a series of murals showing the town's history. Only blocks away from the square is the Boone County Heritage Museum, which shows the history of this region. Very near is the Maplewood Cemetery, with 19th-century gravestones and designs. On Saturdays, people go to the square to enjoy the Farmer's Market.

Rolla, MO

The downtown of Rolla is a center for local culture, with historic anchors such as the Phelps County Courthouse for onlookers to explore. Original shops, coffee houses, and restaurants line Rolla Downtown, which remains the heartbeat that brings visitors and locals back for more. Not far from the courthouse, a replica of Stonehenge on the Missouri S&T campus gives this otherwise classic downtown an unexpected twist. Local theatre can be found at the Cedar Street Playhouse, while the Ozark Actors Theatre offers first-class productions in their downtown location year-round that are perfect for families to get together and enjoy.

Camdenton, MO

Camdenton is a city located on the Lake of the Ozarks, within driving distance of the historic castle ruins and trails comprising Ha Ha Tonka State Park. A few restaurants located in its downtown area include El Caporal Mexican Restaurant and RJ's Family Restaurant. Nearby Bridal Cave is a stunning natural cave offering tours led by guides through its limestone passageways. To those who appreciate the arts, Camdenton also has The Faye May Creative Arts LLC, an eclectic art studio with pottery and paintings from a local artist. For lively entertainment, the annual Dogwood Festival is another event people make their way to this town for live entertainment and community parades.

Hardy, AR

Hardy's little downtown is dripping in history. Your main points of interest in this area would be the Hardy Historic District. Here, visitors can eat, shop and play starting at The Hard History Museum. Visitors can get a first-look at the town's first bank safe and printing press and after, grab a bite to eat at Artasia’s Twilight Apothecary and Main Street Bistro or Spring River Draft House & Grill. It's also next to Spring River, where you could go out into the countryside for a place such as Many Islands Camp and Canoe Rental. Nearby, Loberg Park offers a tranquil retreat with walking trails and picnic areas on the river. Among the Ozarks, Hardy stands apart with its carefree atmosphere and historical landmarks.

Discover the Charm of the Ozarks' Vibrant Towns

The Ozarks may be best known for their outdoor allure, but these towns tell another story of the region, full of history, culture, and teeming downtowns. From quirky motels to first-class performance venues, these towns offer their own experiences, marrying Ozarks beauty with city vibrancy. History buffs, music lovers, or just looking for a getaway with beautiful scenery, these eight towns will show you the best the Ozarks have to offer.