9 Ideal Arkansas Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend In 2024
Aptly dubbed “the Natural State,” Arkansas boasts a varied and beautiful landscape, miles of lovely trails, and a climate that does not swing to unbearable extremes. For those seeking a peaceful weekend getaway, especially one that is nature-themed, this Southern State should be a top contender. If not floating down a river, one will be wandering through some pine-speckled forest one minute — and the next exploring a beautiful street marked by heart-warming architectural displays. If thinking of a 3-day weekend getaway in 2024, the following are the nine ideal Arkansas destinations a vacationer should start making plans with.
Eureka Springs
It is not difficult to appreciate why many publications believe Eureka Springs is the prettiest town in Arkansas — and among the prettiest in the nation. Nestled in the mountain-ridden northwest corner of Arkansas — just about 10 miles from Beaver Lake — Eureka Springs is like a dream. Noted for its Victorian-style architecture, the downtown area of Eureka Springs needs a good camera and enough time. Attractions here include the 122-year-old Palace Hotel & Bath House, the last of the original Eureka Springs bathhouses still in operation. There is the Onyx Cave as well, the oldest show cave in the Natural State. Check out Eureka Springs Crescent Hotel — if just for its chequered history. Do not miss Thorncrown Chapel, a glass-enclosed architectural masterpiece described as "one of the finest religious spaces of modern times." For a place to stay, Peabody House Historic Inn is a few steps from Main Street and offers private and cozy cottages.
Jasper
Known as the “Elk Capital of Arkansas,” Jasper is incredibly beautiful, small, and endearingly quaint. One can spend a weekend floating down the Buffalo River, foraging at several spots, including at the Jasper Pizza Company right on the square, and cruising on the Scenic Byway 7 — or some limbs of the Ozark Moonshine Run, which is among the most picturesque routes in Arkansas. The nearby Scenic Point Gift Shop has unique mementos worth bringing home for a keepsake. It is also a lovely spot to view the Arkansas version of the world-famous Grand Canyon. To be lost in nature’s warmth, one should consider camping at the Dogwood Springs Campground, a peaceful space with R.V. sites, cabins, tent sites, even a pool. Alternatively, the aptly named Enchanted Ozark Camp and Cabins, an Ozark Mountain wonderland that spans about 104 acres — provides off-the-beaten-path serenity. Just don't miss to enjoy a meal at Ozark Cafe, a well-known landmark that has been featured in several TV shows.
Ponca
A weekend spent mingling with herds of majestic Rocky Mountain elk, exploring some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Arkansas, including the Lost Valley Trail, or cruising on a fun-filled backroads adventure — should be the dream of every vacationer. Buffalo National River Wilderness - Ponca Unit, which is known to provide a scenic, heart-in-the-mouth experience, should be part of any itinerary. The trails here are well-maintained, the air fresh and playful, and the floating opportunities first-class. Boxley Valley Historic District, known to be exceptionally beautiful in fall, has lovely hiking trails worth exploring. It is also a perfect spot to mingle with herds of elk. Ponca Creek Lodge, loved for being quiet, cozy, and comfortable, will provide that romantic home-away-from-home experience.
Mountain View
The view of hills peeping over hills is among nature’s most romantic enactments. That is the reason a town called “Mountain View” will pique the interest of any vacationer. Home to less than 3,000 residents, this dainty stunner is aptly labeled the "Folk Music Capital of the World” — and for good reason. The music in the landscape gels with the music in the streets, curating an experience that any first-time visitor can die for. One can take part in the Arkansas Folk Festival, which takes place on the third weekend in April. The history of this carnival goes back more than 60 years. There is the Ozark Folk Center State Park as well, which features live bluegrass music, blacksmithing, and countless other local crafts. Mirror Lake, located minutes from town, provides numerous recreational opportunities. That said, no one should miss the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, with its caves, caverns, waterfalls, and lovely camping area. For a place to stay, a clean cabin at Mountain View RV Park & Guest Motel will exceed your expectations.
Marshall
For being close to the Buffalo River and the Buffalo River trail, exquisite spots for outdoor fun and adventure, Marshall deserves a spot among Arkansas destinations ideal for a 3-day weekend adventure. There is the pine-speckled Ozark - St. Francis National Forest, which has places to hike, camp, and fish; the bluff-lined Buffalo National River, South Mountain Scenic Overlook, where you can stretch your legs while waiting for a lovely sunset, Kenda Drive-In, a great place to watch a movie in a fantastic environment, and the Buffalo River Historic Jail & Museum, which chronicles the development of Searcy County, its epoch-making events, and its people. A hilltop stay at Bear Creek Log Cabins, a peaceful spot to enjoy some downtime, will make a Marshall vacation even more memorable.
Hot Springs
Think about the austere grandeur of the Ouachita Mountains, the famed thermal springs in the area, numbered at about 47, the nation’s oldest and smallest national park, and then some. The Spa City — as Hot Springs is called — can see a weekend end in a blip. Still, one has to squeeze time for Hot Springs National Park, a one-of-a-kind urban park that features a historic row of early 20th-century bathhouses; the Garvan Woodland Gardens south of town (and its iconic Anthony Chapel), the famous Northwoods Trails; a network of more than 30 scenic trails located a few minutes from downtown, and the many lakes in the area, including Lake Catherine, which offer numerous opportunities for some fun on the water. Hotel Hale, loved for its old-timey feel, is in the heart of downtown Hot Springs and, hence, can serve as a perfect base for one’s adventures.
Bella Vista
A buzzy town of about 31,000 residents, Bella Vista, is on U.S. Route 71 in the northwesternmost corner of the Natural State. A town originally planned as a summer recreation resort will meet the needs of most vacationers. The town’s name alone — Spanish for “Beautiful View” — is an attraction by itself. There is the chance to marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is the Cooper Memorial Chapel, one of the most picturesque wedding venues in Northwest Arkansas. One can step back in time at the Bella Vista Historical Museum, a deceivingly small space packed with historical artifacts. Besides, a weekend can be spent chasing cascades at Tanyard Creek Falls or Pinion Creek Falls, two of the most sought-after waterfalls in the area. Float down Sugar Creek, boat around Lake Norwood (or at the other six lakes close to town), before getting underground at Sugar Bluffs Cave, located at the top of the Danger Will Robinson Trail. To max out on what Bella Vista offers, the Greens One Vacation Homes, a quiet spot that boasts easy highway access, can be an excellent base.
Bentonville
Bentonville, the longtime home of Walmart’s founder Sam Walton, has a long line-up of interesting attractions to experience. Compton Gardens and Arboretum is a lovely area to hit scenic trails, either via a mountain bike or on foot. This place is right off the Razorback Greenway Bike Trail, another awe-inspiring stretch for outdoor fun and adventure. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, set on more than 100 acres of Ozark wilderness, features Norman Rockwell's famous illustration of Rosie the Riveter, which bears traces of Michelangelo’s painting of the prophet Isaiah as seen from the Sistine Chapel. While the Walmart Museum is set for re-opening in Spring 2025, one can still learn something about Sam Walton and his family at the Walmart Museum Heritage Lab. Other attractions that can fill up a weekend include the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, the floating boardwalks at Osage Park, and the Museum of Native American History. Stay at 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, located within walking distance of several weekend activities, including the Bentonville Farmers Market.
Little Rock
Arkansas capital is chockful of interesting stuff to see and do. Set along one of the longest rivers in the country, opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure are nearly limitless. But first, there is the Clinton Presidential Center, famous for housing one of the largest archival collections in presidential history. The River Market District is filled with music, sweet-tasting aromas, and dazzling sights. A filling meal at the Ottenheimer Market Hall should pave the way for attractions such as the Old Mill, which was featured in the movie “Gone With the Wind,” the longest pedestrian and cycling bridge in North America, and the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden. There is the chance to explore Pinnacles Mountain, hit the trails at Emerald Park, and explore the Quapaw Quarter, which is dotted with homes that date back more than 150 years. Stay at the Capital Hotel in downtown Little Rock, a convenient venue that provides a classic experience of comfort and ease.
The Takeaway
While the southeastern region of Arkansas features a landscape that is not as evocative, the rest of the state, especially Northwest Arkansas, looks like something picked straight out of a movie set. Hills rise over hills, lush dales cascade like rolling sand dunes, hot springs bubble from meandrous vents, and the air itself is fresh and playful — as if filled with child-like laughter. If thinking of a 3-day weekend vacation in Arkansas, the destinations highlighted here are exceptional. Just have your pick, some little cash, and a good camera.
