The Best Small Towns in Arkansas to Chill Out In 2024
Although some sections of Arkansas are drab and will not make the eyes pop, many others will leave a first-time visitor completely awe-struck. Keep in mind that Arkansas hosts two mountain ranges, diamond-filled craters, and millions of acres of protected forest, where rivers snake through, lakes gleam and glitter, and hot springs bubble about endlessly. If you are looking for a spot to relax and decompress, the following are the best small towns in Arkansas to chill out in 2024.
Eureka Springs
Because it is often ranked among the most beautiful small towns in the United States, no list of the best small towns to chill out in Arkansas can fail to mention Eureka Springs. As a heads-up, because parking can be a challenge, especially in downtown Eureka Springs, it is recommended to find a spot on North Main to park your four-footer — and explore this eye candy on foot or via a trolley. Trolleys go nearly everywhere all day. Gaskins Cabin serves killer steaks in a small-town family atmosphere while Local Flavor Cafe, famous for its grilled salmon, has a patio that overlooks the main drag. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest big cat sanctuaries in the United States, provides visitors the chance to chill out with leopards, tigers, and bears. If you can dash out of town a little, let it be to Cosmic Caverns, one of the prettiest, privately owned show caves in Arkansas.
Heber Spring
Southern Living ranks Heber Springs among the most charming towns to visit in the fall. This Arkansas treasure reclines next to Greers Ferry Lake, a playground for all kinds of water sports. Greers Ferry Lake also features spectacular views and picturesque hiking trails. One can catch a good show at Gem Theatre, stretch tired legs at Spring Park, or explore the Sulfur Creek Trail — amid the sounds of Blue Herons, the blowing of a soft breeze, and the rippling of the water across the rocks. At the Ruland Junction Train Museum, visitors will learn about trains and how they work. It is particularly recommended if tagging kids along. Although it is brand new Zeke & Lizzy's serves delicious crab cakes in a friendly atmosphere and has taken the town by storm.
Jasper
Although many come to Jasper to float down the Little Buffalo River, Jasper offers a first-time visitor several other seductions. A first-time visitor will have Round Top Mountain Trail to herself, a nice hike with an overlook that provides beautiful views of Jasper. Newton County Fair & Rodeo, minutes south of Jasper, is the site of the only rodeo in the town. The rodeo typically takes place in August. Arkansas Grand Canyon, a short drive from town, must not be experienced without a good camera. No words can possibly do this spellbinding spot justice. If hunger pangs begin to set in, one should work her way to Ozark Cafe and sample their highly-rated fried mushrooms. There is the Bradley House Museum as well, for those who want to catch a glimpse into Jasper’s history.
Mountain Home
“Home,” sang Elvis Presley, “is where the heart is.” How about chilling out in a town that has “home” as part of its name? At Rapp's Barren Brewing Company, one gets the chance to enjoy a filling pizza and to wash it down with some good beer. However, for those who love onion rings, The Back Forty is the place to be. It is situated on the edge of Mountain Home and has outdoor seating. One can hang out at Happy's Arcade, especially if tagging kids along, browse the excellent selection of good reads at Treat Yo Shelf Books — or catch a mood-lifting concert at Hickory Park. If craving some scenic hike, David’s Trail is along the shore of Norfolk Lake, a short drive from downtown Mountain Home.
Bull Shoals
Bull Shoals is a lovely, waterfront town with numerous places to chill out in. It sits on Bull Shoals Lake, famous for its white large-mouth and spotted bass populations. A first-time visitor can spend the entire day at White River State Park, a sought-after trout fishing spot with riverside campgrounds. This park provides heart-warming views of the White River and offers kayak and boat rentals at a reasonable price. Dam Site Park, right next to Bull Shoals Lake, is another fun spot for whiling away the time. That said, a first-time visitor must not miss Bull Shoals Caverns, which features almost every known variety of underground formations and a tiny underground lake. Connie's Cafe serves well-priced food, while 178 Club Restaurant is known for delectable parmesan-crusted walleye.
Roland
Roland, a tiny town of just about 1,000 residents, deserves a spot among the best small towns in Arkansas to chill out in 2024. This eye candy is just north of the trail-laden Pinnacle Mountain State Park, which dabbles up as Trails of Tears National Historic Site. The Arkansas River Trail, which connects up to 38 parks and six museums, is close to the town as well. Roland hosts the Alotian Golf Club, the best in the state — and one of the country’s finest. Smell the daffodils at Moss Mountain Farm, and crown the visit with some scrumptious mixed greens salad served with roasted chicken. Alternatively, fill the lungs with some crisp air at River Bottom Winery while listening to soothing music and sipping delicious wine.
Mountain View
If there is a town one will want to chill out in, it has to be one billed as the Folk Music Capital of the world. Ozark Folk Center State Park, open from mid-April to the tail end of October, is the only one of its kind in the nation that works to share the heritage and culture of the Ozark Mountain people. It is great to stroll through and sample the local handiwork and crafts. There is also a chance to rent a cabin and enjoy Southern cooking in the Skillet Restaurant, which is part of the park. On weekends, people gather at the courthouse lawn to enjoy live music, many of them in folding chairs. Blanchard Spring Caverns, considered one of the most beautiful in the country, is a short drive from town.
The Takeaway
Although the southeast half of Arkansas may not make one’s heart purr with excitement, other areas can make for exciting revelations. Northwest Arkansas, for example, is visually astounding. Expect to marvel at hills that hide caves, razor-thin ridges, a version of the world-famous Grand Canyon — and, of course, the Buffalo River, one of the rare undammed American rivers of any significance. If looking for a spot to chill out in Arkansas in 2024, your best options include Eureka Springs, Heber Springs, Jasper, and Mountain Home.
