The Best Small Towns in Arkansas for a Weekend Retreat
Endowed with beauty, rich history, and an outlandish supply of scenic landscapes, Arkansas is renowned for being tagged the Natural State. It houses many big towns like Fayetteville and Little Rock, which attract a lot of attention, but it is also sprinkled with small, charming towns.
These small towns have modest populations, rural feel, and diverse histories, making them ideal destinations for retirees and tourists. Here are the nine best towns in Arkansas for your retirement and holiday destinations.
Van Buren
If you're looking for a town bedeviled with charm and rich history, you need to check out Van Buren, Arkansas. Once known as the major hub for steamboat trade and later named after the Eighth President of the United States of America, this town has an alluring elegance that you just cannot resist.
The Van Buren Municipal Park and Arkansas River Trail are great outdoor spots for fun activities with yourself or the entire family. Drennen Scott House is a historical attraction for visitors, while Fort Smith Park, 10 minutes away, is another fun place to spend your free time. The Best Western Van Buren Inn is an accommodation hotspot with some of the most comfortable rooms. For a feel of the town's esteemed vibrant culture, be sure to attend the Van Buren Fall Festival held every October.
Batesville
Batesville ranks as one of the sweetest places in Arkansas to rest from the stress of everyday life.
Batesville's beauty is splendidly displayed in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The White River is another hotspot for enjoying the town’s beauty while engaging in watersport activities. You can also visit the Old Independence Regional Museum. Lovers of good books will find Independence County Library fascinating. Maxfield Park encourages boating and watersport activities.
If you get hungry, you can visit Bigs Of Batesville. Hampton Inn Batesville is an excellent accommodation option.
Mountain View
With a population of over 2,900 people, Mountain View offers some of the best vacation and retirement experiences. Popularly known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World," Mountain View is blessed with a beautiful natural environment and musical heritage.
Visit the Mountain View Historic District to get a glimpse into the town's history. Enjoy the outdoors at the Ozark Folk Center State Park, or take a hike at The Syllamo Trailhead.
The Arkansas Guild Crafts and Gallery is a great place to enjoy local art. You may also like to attend the Mountain View Folk Festival, held every April. The Dogwood Motel has a reputation for comfort that will make you want to stay all year long.
Magnolia
Magnolia is a relaxed town in the rolling hills of southern Arkansas. It has a beautiful atmosphere and wonderful scenery, which is evident in nearby Lake Columbia. Golf lovers can visit Magnolia Country Club.
You may check out the downtown area, which is filled with historic landmarks like the Magnolia Historic District and the Columbia County Courthouse. Here, you can experience the town's rich history.
If you visit the Magnolia Blossom Festival in May, you will enjoy great music, local food, and the comfort of the historic Magnolia Inn.
Jasper
Known as the "Gem of the Ozarks," Jasper is also set in the Ozark Mountains, which means access to some of the best outdoor adventures. Jasper is overlaid with scenic views that add to tourists' unforgettable experiences.
A visit to Buffalo National River offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, hiking, and fishing. Other scenic spots, such as the Arkansas Grand Canyon, Buffalo River Canoes, and Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, let you enjoy the beauty of the natural environment. The Gordon, Riverview Motel, and Little Buffalo Terrace provide comfort for visitors, with great hospitality and food on display.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs is a town with over 38,000 residents and is filled with breathtaking trails and scenic views. Visitors can see its adorable landscape by visiting Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita Mountains. You may love to visit Tiny Town, a world where everything is small. You can also walk the Grand Promenade trail.
The Garvan Woodland Gardens and Hot Springs Mountain Tower are popular tourist attractions. You can soak in the natural hot springs while you enjoy the comfort of the Hot Springs Village Inn.
El Dorado
With a vibrant culture, world-class architecture, and the best entertainment, El Dorado is one of the state’s favorite tourist spots. Based in the heart of southern Arkansas and popularly known as the "City of Oil" due to its rich oil history, this town is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of life.
Looking at its thriving downtown area, filled with landmarks like the El Dorado Historic District and the Union County Courthouse, you would see the town's picturesque nature. Grab a keepsake or two at Mina Rea's Antiques & Embroidery or Everybody's Antiques. The South Arkansas Arboretum and Oil Heritage Park are great places for relaxation, picnics, and afternoon strolls.
The Newton House Museum showcases exhibits about the rich history of the town. For a comfortable place to stay, be sure to check out the historic El Dorado Inn and the Hampton Inn.
Bella Vista
If you're looking for a charming town with a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking views, you need to check out Bella Vista. It is famously known as the "Golf Capital of the Ozarks."
What sets Bella Vista apart is the peaceful and serene environment of places like Bella Vista Lake and Tanyard Creek. Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is the choice of place for couples to have their wedding ceremonies and vow renewals.
The Cedar Lodge Arkansas Resort is a cozy place to stay. If you are around in October, try to attend the Bella Vista Fall Festival.
Mena
Mena is known as the Gateway to the Outchitas, as it is situated in the Ouachita Mountains. It is home to some of the most beautiful scenic trails, artworks, and amazing people.
The stunning natural scenery in the Ouachita Mountains and surrounding forests offers opportunities for outdoor activities and photography. Bethesda Lake and Janssen Park are beautiful attractions. You may go on a scenic drive to Talimena National Scenic Byway. Mena Art Gallery is the go-to site for some of the best art in town. The Sun Country Inn and Sassafras Inn are great places to stay comfortable during your visit.
Enjoy a stress-free time basking in nature at some of the best towns in Arkansas. Here, you can learn about the town's history and beautiful natural landscape and create long-lasting memories. Mena and Hot Springs are examples of the best small towns in Arkansas that you can visit for a vacation or consider for retirement.
