The Best Small Towns In The Ozarks For A Weekend Retreat
Are you in need of a weekend getaway? Look no further than the small towns of the Ozarks. You'll find a perfect mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences in this scenic region, which covers parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Known for its lush forests, tranquil rivers and streams, and charming towns, the Ozarks have something for everyone. Whether you're into floating down a river, exploring historical museums, or relaxing in a natural hot spring, the communities listed below provide an unforgettable escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a hidden gem in northern Arkansas, known for its Victorian architecture and stunning natural springs. The town is surrounded by lush forests and scenic hills and has a rich history as a popular spa resort from the late 1800s. Today, the downtown district is filled with turn-of-the-century Victorian buildings, housing many eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
The Thorncrown Chapel is located nearby, offering a peaceful place for moments of reflection and solitude. You can also stroll through the Blue Spring Heritage Center, with its wondrous displays of flowers, crops, and healing herbs of the Ozarks. If you like, stay at the Victorian Crescent Hotel, which overlooks the city, or relax your troubles away in the Palace Hotel and Bath House. More adventurous outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, or fishing in Lake Leatherwood City Park.
Eureka Springs has become a food lovers' paradise in recent years with several rising-star restaurants. The Grotto Wood Fire Grill and Wine Cave, and Le Stick Noveau are fine-dining establishments perfect for a romantic meal. At the same time, the Local Flavor Cafe is a favorite casual eatery frequented by locals and tourists alike. If you can, don't miss the Ozark Folk Festival, which is held in November and celebrates the region's rich musical heritage with live performances and craft displays.
Branson, Missouri
Branson is famous for its live entertainment shows, Silver Dollar City amusement park, Titanic Museum, and over-the-top southern hospitality. Families will find enough activities at this tourist haven to keep themselves busy during the weekend. However, be prepared because the area is quite popular and can get crowded, especially during summer.
The Branson Scenic Railway offers a picturesque tour through the Ozark foothills, while Table Rock Lake is an excellent place for camping, boating, and fishing. With several shopping outlets, like Branson Landing or the iconic Main Street District, there is an abundance of local businesses to explore.
If you visit, stop by Billy Gail's Cafe, a local eatery known for its breakfast and lunch specialties. If you're a fan of oversized pancakes and want to experience the local flavors of the Ozarks, this charming café is a must-visit. For a charming and cozy spot to enjoy coffee and pastries, check out the Sugar Leaf Bakery, Cafe, and Espresso in the Grand Village Shops.
Mountain View, Arkansas
Mountain View sits in the Ozark National Forest and is known as the "Folk Music Capital of the World." The community has embraced the mountain way of life with live demonstrations and regular music sessions at the Ozark Folk Center. The Arkansas Folk Festival, held each April, features music, crafts, and excellent food, showcasing the town's cultural heritage.
The nearby Blanchard Springs Caverns provide an underground adventure with stunning rock formations and tours. Sylamore Creek and the White River converge at a scenic meeting point north of town, where anglers will find plenty of Trout, Bass, and Crappie for the taking.
PJ's Rainbow Cafe is a local downtown eatery that has been serving homemade pies and Southern country-style meals for nearly 90 years. Angler's Restaurant is a sweet treasure on the White River north of town in Allison. For those seeking a secluded spot to relax and enjoy the Ozark mountains, many beautiful cabins can be rented for the weekend.
Grove, Oklahoma
Grove, Oklahoma, sits near the beautiful Grand Lake O' the Cherokees and offers an idyllic setting for a weekend getaway. This charming town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, featuring over 1,300 miles of picturesque shoreline, perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports. Visitors can enjoy serene moments at Har-Ber Village, an open-air museum that transports guests back in time with its collection of historic buildings and artifacts.
Grove boasts a vibrant local culture and a friendly community that welcomes visitors. The popular Pelican Festival, which celebrates the annual migration of the American White Pelicans, includes festivities of live music, arts and crafts, and delicious local food. Visitors will want to stroll through Grove's downtown area to experience the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that defines this small town. Nearby Monkey Island offers several challenging golf courses, including 27 holes of championship-caliber play at the Shangri-La Resort.
Doc's Bar and Grill is an upscale restaurant, and Raggedy's is a local cafe with daily specials. Both are worth exploring as you discover the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation for an unforgettable weekend getaway in Grove.
Harrison, Arkansas
Harrison is located in northern Arkansas, about halfway between the capital of Little Rock and Branson, Missouri. The Boone County community has a population of 13,338 and serves as the gateway to the Buffalo National River. The National Park Service protects the river habitat, helping to preserve its unspoiled beauty and clear waters. Every year, visitors enjoy floating down the river, fishing, hiking, and camping at several sites along the banks.
The Arkansas Hot Air Ballon State Championship comes to the town in September. This free event offers great music, food, and balloon rides. The Crawdad Days Festival in May is another popular festival celebrating the community's connection to the Buffalo River.
One of the best places to shop for nostalgic antiques is Rust, Dust, and Wanderlust, as well as the Back Then, Right Now Flea Market. Devito's is an Italian restaurant that makes its own sauces, ravioli, breads, and pies from scratch. If you are looking for a serene place to soak in the natural beauty of the Ozarks, Harrison, Arkansas, should be considered.
Hermann, Missouri
Hermann is a charming German community located in the central part of the state and is considered the heart and soul of the state's wine industry. The area's vineyards offer several wine tours and tasting rooms visitors can enjoy. Couples looking for a quiet place to reconnect will enjoy the Old World atmosphere and dining options. Be sure to visit every October for the regional winefest, a yearly festival that attracts tourists from across the state.
In addition, the Katy Trail is nearby, offering plenty of opportunities to walk or bike through easy and gentle terrain. Graham Cave State Park is half an hour away and ideal for camping or fishing. Hermann has an excellent historic district, filled with several small boutiques and local restaurants, perfect for an afternoon of browsing. 4th Street Pizza is a local favorite because of its hand-tossed and made-from-scratch pizza. Fernweh Distillery provides great local spirits and food with daily tastings.
Salem, Missouri
Salem is a gateway to the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, making it a haven for canoeing, fishing, and swimming enthusiasts. Montauk State Park, located just outside Salem, is renowned for its trout fishing and scenic campgrounds, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Each year, the Rose Holland Trout Derby draws anglers for a weekend of fishing fun and competition.
Even though the town itself has only 4,208 residents, it boasts a historic downtown and an old residential area with over 65 historic buildings. Unique shops and eateries, such as JB Malones or The Red Barn BBQ, occupy many of the old buildings. If you love history, try the Dent County Museum, which is housed in the old Elmer House and is open for tours upon request.
Whether exploring the great outdoors or enjoying the small-town charm, Salem provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend in the Ozarks.
Final Thoughts
These seven towns in the Ozarks offer a blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and vibrant events, making them the perfect destinations for a memorable weekend getaway. Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy cultural festivities, or relax in a picturesque setting, the Ozarks have something special for everyone. Be sure to sample the local cuisine and build some memories when you go.
