These Historic Towns in Arkansas Are Worth Exploring
Many of the small towns in Arkansas boast a deep historical heritage, offering a rich testament to the enduring spirit of the American pioneer. Inspired by the natural beauty and abundant wildlife all around them, settlers moved into the untamed wilderness, determined to raise families and build lasting communities. As you stroll through their charming historic districts, you will find remnants of the past almost everywhere you look. Whether walking down a cobblestone street, gazing at a historic Victorian home, or even sitting in a rocking chair in an old-fashioned town square, these locales serve as a window to the past. Their stories remind us of the valuable qualities of everyday living, where faith, family, and fortitude are the seeds that will one day bear fruit for future generations. For visitors who will allow it, visiting these small towns isn't just a sightseeing tour; it can also be a journey through time.
Eureka Springs
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a place where nature and history meet. The community began in 1879 as a place to enjoy the healing waters of Basin Springs, and its popularity exploded soon after its founding as more visitors arrived every day. Today, the historic downtown district enjoys a Victorian ambiance with cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. The Eureka Springs Historical Museum offers exciting exhibits of the town's beginnings. The community's commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in every corner, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.
Visitors will want to explore the many scenic hiking trails meandering through the lush green forests rising in every direction. The Thorncrown Chapel is a breathtaking architectural gem where visitors can enjoy a serene space to connect with nature. The iconic Crescent Hotel sits overlooking the town, offering a unique glimpse into the small town's past (there are even nightly ghost tours). For a relaxing moment, enjoy the spas at the Palace Hotel and Bath House, where visitors can still soak their troubles away just as they have since it first opened in 1901.
For a unique shopping experience, check out Eureka Thyme, a local boutique on Spring Street that offers handcrafted goods and souvenirs that capture the essence of the Ozarks. Cap off the day with a savory meal at Grotto Wood Fired Grill and Wine Cave, a restaurant housed in a historic building, where every bite blends the natural beauty with a dash of small-town charm.
Van Buren
Van Buren is a charming city named after the 8th president of the United States, Martin Van Buren. Once a crucial stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, Van Buren boasts a historic Main Street filled with six blocks of Victorian turn-of-the-century architecture. Many of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and visitors will find the residents more than willing to share the stories they contain. One perfect example is the King Opera House, a legend that has stood for over a hundred years. The old Train Depot houses the visitor's center along with exhibits about the town. The iconic Drennan-Scott House is a historic site that is a must-see and should not be missed.
When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Van Buren doesn't disappoint. Try Frank's Italian Restaurant or the Pasta Grill for a hearty meal. Both restaurants highlight Old-World Italian flavors in a casual ambiance, perfect for a romantic interlude or a celebration with friends. If you need a place for a beer and burger, the Vault 1905 Grill is definitely "the" place in town.
El Dorado
Originally a booming oil town in the early 20th century, El Dorado bore the distinction of being the "Heart of the Oil Belt." The historic downtown area still boasts beautifully preserved buildings that tell the tale of a prosperous past, where many area residents earned their fortunes on the abundant natural resources sitting in the ground beneath them.
The Newton House Museum is a beautiful example of an antebellum home and is open to the public. Wander through the South Arkansas Arboretum, where lush greenery and vibrant blooms create a serene, pleasant atmosphere. There are abundant fishing opportunities on the Ouachita River for those seeking a tranquil escape. Moro Bay State Park, one of the best fishing spots in south Arkansas, is less than thirty minutes away.
The downtown area is built around the Union County Courthouse in a historic square. There are numerous shops, galleries, and boutiques to wander through. Many visitors have found Fayrays an intimate dining venue with excellent food and drinks.
Calico Rock
Calico Rock has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The town gets its name from the colorful striped rocks that line the nearby bluffs, creating a beautiful backdrop that adds to the area's natural beauty. Visitors can step back as they explore the historic district, where well-preserved structures from the late 1800s showcase the town's significance as a trading hub supporting early settlers. The best place to start a historic tour is Peppersauce Bottoms, a ghost town of 23 buildings east of the historic district. The Calico Rock Museum and Visitor Center provides a fascinating glimpse into the town's past with many beautiful exhibits.
Juniper's Back Door Restaurant is a local favorite known for its homestyle New Orleans cooking and friendly atmosphere. The Printing Press Cafe, or Between The Buns, provides a more casual setting, offering delicious burgers, sandwiches, and a range of craft beers.
Powhatan
This small town in northeast Arkansas holds significant historical importance as an integral part of the state's heritage. Established in the 19th century, Powhatan was a crucial river port along the Black River, facilitating trade and transportation in the region. The town boasts a wealth of preserved historic structures, including the Powhatan Courthouse, a Greek Revival-style building constructed in 1888 that overlooks the river. The Ficklin-Imboden House is a beautiful early log structure dating to some of the state's earliest residents.
The Powhatan Historic State Park, situated on the town's outskirts, offers visitors a glimpse into Arkansas's past, showcasing the town's role in commerce and community life. The Living History Museum features many artifacts and exhibits, providing a captivating journey back in time. For a great breakfast, try Renee's Cafe in the nearby town of Black Rock.
Camden
Camden holds historical significance as an early trading port on the Ouachita River in the early 1800s and for years later for its pivotal role during the Civil War. As a strategic Confederate stronghold, it was the site of numerous intense clashes of the Red River Campaign, including the Battle of Poison Spring in 1864. Today, visitors can explore the Poison Spring State Park as they walk along trails and read historical markers that offer insights into the battles waged there. After the war, Camden became a thriving river port for steamboats hauling cotton and lumber down to the Mississippi River.
The town has numerous antebellum homes, including the McCollum-Chidester House. Built-in 1847, this Greek Revival-style mansion stands as a testament to the town's rich Southern heritage, and today, it serves as a museum. Visitors will want to explore the grounds and see where bullet holes and enemy cannon fire battered the buildings. Another example of Civil War history is the Powell-Dietrich home, which was used as a field hospital for Union and Confederate wounded during the battles.
Camden's Main Street Historic District also showcases well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While many storefronts now house galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, a definite historical ambiance is evident in this small rural town. If you need a place to eat, the Postmasters Grill is an upscale restaurant in the old 1896 Post Office. The restaurant has excellent food and beautiful cocktails and is the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic evening with someone you love.
Hot Springs
The historic downtown district of Hot Springs gained its claim to fame as a haven for visitors desiring to refresh in the mineral springs flowing from the hills. The establishment of Bathhouse Row in the early 1900s solidified the city's reputation as the "American Spa," attracting luminaries like Babe Ruth, Al Capone, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Today, the Bathhouse Row National Historic Landmark preserves the architectural legacy of this golden era, allowing visitors to stroll along the elegant bathhouses and soak in the same therapeutic waters that have been cherished for centuries. The Fordyce bathhouse is a beautiful museum with displays from Hot Springs's golden years. While only two of the original eight bathhouses still offer services, the district attracts countless visitors yearly.
The Downtown district is also a National Park, with countless trails branching off in every direction. Hikers will want to explore the Goat Rock Trail, a moderately strenuous hike that offers a great view of the city while snaking its way through the pristine Ozark National Forest. Try the Pancake Shop for monster pancakes and sage sausage patties for breakfast. Don't bother making reservations because the restaurant doesn't take them. You won't have any trouble finding the place. Just look for the crowd gathered around the sidewalk waiting for a table.
Arkansas has many small towns that have preserved their rich historical heritage. These communities glimpse the fortitude and faith of early pioneers who forged new lives on the rugged American frontier. Exploring historic sites and places is an excellent way to learn about their legacy of life. At the same time, many visitors to the state tend to remember the pristine natural beauty surrounding them, but the deep history of these quaint communities should not be overlooked. The valuable lessons they offer can guide us in the future.
