9 Prettiest Ozarks Towns to Visit in 2024
The grind pays the bills; however, an occasional break to a quiet, laid-back destination is sometimes what the body craves. You want to stroll cobblestoned streets that know nothing (or very little) about crowds and traffic, gaze at red-brick buildings that look plucked from the past, and enjoy home-style meals in cute, family-owned establishments. Occasionally, you want to reel in some largemouth bass, float down a river, or wander through quiet forest trails. Whatever your fantasy, many Ozark towns will meet most of them — if not all. But you will need to zoom in on the prettiest, especially because they provide the best vacation experience. Starting with Eureka Springs, discover below the 9 prettiest towns to visit in the Ozarks.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
It is no exaggeration that Eureka Springs could be the prettiest town in the South. Its layout is unique and eye-catching, especially concerning the rows and rows of Victorian architecture. High on the list is the iconic Crescent Hotel, a haunted property with a history that goes back over 130 years. Its old-timey feel makes it a fantastic place to eat and sleep, whether one is an enthusiast of paranormal experiences or not. Then there is Thorncrown Chapel, a heart-stirring masterpiece hidden among leafy oaks, pines, and maples and designed as a "place to think your best thoughts." None but the American Institute of Architects names it among the top ten buildings of the 20th century. Some have called it the best American building since 1980. Many cold springs bubble up to the surface in several city parks and gardens, including Basin Spring, one of the most notable. Just start it off with a filling breakfast at Mud Street Cafe, located next to the City Auditorium.
Jasper, Arkansas
According to one of several accounts, Jasper gets its name from the mellow color of the local stone, one of the twelve precious stones cited in the Biblical book of Revelation. Regardless of the origins of the town's name, however, the “Elk Capital of Arkansas” is small, charming, and picturesque. Its settlement history goes back to 1840 when it was established as a village along the Little Buffalo River. The Buffalo National River and the Ozark Highland Trail, two of the town’s many outdoor offerings — are prime spots for recreation. The former is among the last free-flowing waterways in the United States. Start with a thin-crust pizza at the Jasper Pizza Company, a casual space that has been serving traditional, wood-fired pizzas since 1979. If you are into natural beauty, you will have to explore the Scenic Byway 7, particularly in the fall, when the entire stretch bursts into a heart-melting symphony of color. To make your visit even more memorable, get a souvenir at the nearby Scenic Point Gift Shop before sliding into a rustic cabin at the Enchanted Ozark Camp and Cabin.
Branson, Missouri
Branson wears many hats, although Americans mostly know it as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World.'’ One of the reasons Branson was catapulted into national fame was the publication of "The Shepherd of the Hills” in 1907 by Harold Bell Wright. The tale of life in the Ozarks, with touches of Edenic serenity, was enough to open the floodgate to seasoned tourists and wanderlust adventurers hitherto unaware of the area’s natural beauty. Today, Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead Tours take first-time visitors to the original home of the main characters in Harold Bell Wright's masterpiece, including Old Matt's cabin, now on the National Register of Historic Places. Other tour highlights include Inspiration Point, Morgan Chapel Church, and the handsomely restored Uncle Ik's Post Office. Inspiration Point is an unrivaled scenic overlook and, by far, the town's premiere sightseeing structure. That said, do not miss Silver Dollar City, one of the best theme parks in the world.
Mountain View, Arkansas
The sound of music, whether from a string, an organ, or the good, old human voice, will make any space pretty. Mountain View — some already know — has been called the Folk Music Capital of the World. But the reason Mountain View is on this list is right there in the name. “Your Place in the Mountains” is a digest of serene riverbanks, quiet mountain trails, the White River (a fantastic spot to reel in a catch), and starlit skies. Tap your feet to the sound of live music, especially on the historic courthouse stage — every Friday and Saturday night from April through to September. There is the historic Pickin’ Park as well, a fun spot for a spontaneous picking party. If food is high on your list, Zareens, P J’s Rainbow Cafe (right on Main Street), Eureka, a favorite happy hour spot, and Queens House, for those into Chinese cuisine — are all stand-out options. Just don't miss the Ozark Folk Center State Park, arguably the only park in the region dedicated to preserving the Ozark folk tradition.
Van Buren, Arkansas
Rivertowns — from Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, to Natchez, Mississippi — are often among the most beautiful anywhere. Van Buren, a cute, slow-paced gem that reclines on the Arkansas River, is no exception. It was named for Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States and one of the founders of the Democratic Party. One can get waterborne at the Arkansas River, enjoy a quiet time at Peer Park, or catch a mood-lifting show at the King Opera House. This handsomely restored 19th-century opera house once played host to such talented artists as Jenny Lind, William Jennings Bryan, and Bob Burns. If healthy smoothies are up your alley, the Tropical Smoothie Cafe is the go-to spot.
Kimberling City, Missouri
Kimberling City is an inviting town that sits on an area of mind-calming natural beauty with plenty of attractions. The gorgeous Table Rock Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, is among the town’s most defining attractions. One can swim, hit up the trails along the lake, or bob about on a boat. Partly because of the lake, the area around Kimberling City is rustic and peaceful and, hence, an excellent getaway for those seeking to spend some downtime. Start at the aptly named Simply Baked By Chandler, especially if you are into delicious pies, scones, or cinnamon rolls. Alternatively, Go to Goofy Goose Lakeside Bar & Grill, walk to the back bar area, and wash down delicious food with a nice, cold drink as you enjoy a beautiful view of the lake. Then there is the Show Place Collectibles, which sells all kinds of knickknacks in different odds and ends.
Lakeview, Arkansas
The name alone is enough giveaway. This cute little eye candy rests on the beautiful banks of Bull Shoals Lake, famous for its spotted bass populations. It is also the largest body of water in the state of Arkansas. As expected, therefore, a first-time visitor will enjoy a delightful range of outdoor adventure activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing. One can rent a pontoon at Lakeview Cove Marina and spend the entire day floating on the water. The White River, famous for its trout fishing, flows south of Lakeview. Lakeview Campground, nestled in the woods along Bull Shoals, is among the most picturesque campgrounds in the Ozarks. Start at Beacon Point, especially if addicted to home-style dishes served hot and fresh.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Bella Vista is Spanish for “beautiful view,” something one notices immediately after setting foot in the town. A rider’s paradise, Bella Vista offers several trails, some of which are among the most scenic in the Ozarks. There is the Back 40 trail system, for instance, which is filled with eye-swaying spots after almost every yard. Access it from the Lake Ann Trailhead, named for one of the largest all-sports lakes in and around Bella Vista. You will never know the kind of beauty glass can create — until you set eyes on the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, an architectural wonder inside the woods designed to look like a part of the surrounding forest. The trick is to start with a bite of catfish at JJ’s Grill Bella Vista, loved for its casual atmosphere and moderate-level music.
Lowell, Arkansas
Lowell, which blends the quaintness of a small town with the friendliness of a close-knit community, sits on the Razorback Regional Greenway, 40 miles of paved trails showcasing the best that Northwest Arkansas offers. Aside from this scenic cycling and walking trail, Lowell offers a slew of other attractions and fun spots. Satisfy your pent-up craving for sushi at Fuku, topping it off with Thai Boba Tea. However, if seeking the energy jolt associated with a morning cup of coffee, 7 Brew Coffee has many sugar-free choices and can set the tone for a memorable, fun-filled day. Outdoor enthusiasts have the Ward Nail Park, a 72-acre space that often hosts the annual Mudtown Days celebration. What’s more? Nothing out of the blue. Just have a good laugh at The Grove Entertainment Complex, one of Northwest Arkansas’s most sought-after entertainment venues.
The Takeaway
You don’t hear it often, but the Ozarks is a beautiful vacation destination many Americans should be paying close attention to. Think of a landscape where lush valleys morph into rolling hills, clear rivers and brooks feed tranquil lakes, and pine-speckled mountains hide quiet forest trails. The trick is to identify a beautiful town and set it as a base from which to experience what the region offers. You can pick Eureka Springs, loved for its Victorian Architecture; Branson, home to one of the best theme parks in the world — or Lowell — which reclines on the Razorback Regional Greenway.
