These Towns in The Ozarks Come Alive in Winter

When one thinks of the Ozarks, the image of dewy summers and boat rides across vast lakes, as depicted in the popular show Ozarks, may often come to mind. However, safe to say that the winters in these mountains are just as adventurous and away from the gritty, ominous image of the place in the show. The lake covers approximately 54,000 surface acres and is great for fishing enthusiasts to catch bass, crappie, and other species of fish. Apart from this, so many avenues open up for winter activities in the surrounding towns, like classic ice skating, winter hiking, or cozy experiences of glamping. The stunning landscapes in these states are blanketed under white snow without temperatures dropping uncomfortably. These Ozark towns are ideal for exploring an array of natural wonders, partaking in relaxing experiences, adventures, and much more.

Osage Beach, Missouri

Osage Beach is one of the largest man-made water bodies in the heart of Lake of the Ozarks. The temperatures at Osage Beach during winter drop substantially, but visitors' hearts will warm up upon discovering the Bagnell Dam. It is a huge sight to be seen by American buffs and families alike. The whole strip on the dam is full of fun activities such as shopping, visiting the Shawnee Bluff Winery, having fun at the Lake Escape Room, and enjoying music at the Lake Ozark Live Stage. The Mardi Gras pub crawl happens every year in February, which is a fantastic way to end the night!

Another great place you can visit is the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, which is ideal for a quiet, peaceful hike on one's own or with family. Weirdly enough, there is also the Lee C Airport within the state park, but the park is way too big to hinder any peace with airplane noises! Additionally, there is the Lake Arts Council at Osage Beach. It organizes various year-round events to give opportunities for local residents who are musicians, photographers, singers, and actors, making art thrive in this community.

Jasper, Arkansas

Located on the foothills of the Ozarks, this tiny southwestern town is a haven for winters. The temperature is cool and variable, with a mix of snow-rain and alternately warm and cold periods. When the first freeze starts in mid-October, visitors can explore the majestic mountain views and the pretty teal color of the Little Buffalo River by hiking on various trails in Jasper National Park. As the snow increases through the winter months until April, several avenues in the park open up for you to swoosh down the snow-capped slopes if you are a skiing enthusiast. Another activity that surprisingly increases during winter is fishing since the fish here become more active during winter. Travelers can sit around the spots at Bradley Park, which sits right on the Little Buffalo River, and catch some crappies.

Hermann, Missouri

Hermann is the type of destination with historic small-town vibes and quite a few wineries. Although some wineries are closed during winter, you can still visit places like the Hermannhof winery, which is part of Dierberg's mini-Hermann empire. Copper Mule Distillery is another option that offers bourbon tastings and tours. 

Hermann also boasts of a new art gallery now called The Gallery. It is a 2000 sq ft space that hosts four three-month exhibitions and is free and open to the public. Another attraction here is the Black Canvas Gallery and Studio, where guests can view regional contemporary fine arts by several artists, local and national.  Beyond this, the studio offers visitors an experience to paint their acrylic masterpieces; even kids can go wild with their creativity. It is a perfect one-of-a-kind Hermann souvenir. 

For someone who likes being outside, even in winter, taking a hike to Grand Bluff Conservation Area is a lovely activity. It shows a great pastoral view of the Missouri River, the floodplain, and towering bluffs of dolomite rocks. When you are ready to take a break, walk into the cozy Espresso Laine or Stomp n Ground Espresso bar for a variety of specialty coffees and pastries!

Carthage, Missouri

Carthage is a winter wonderland where the locals celebrate the holidays with full pomp. The downtown is converted to something called Winter Wonderland Village. They organize several events like The Holiday Shopping Crawl, Candy Cane Hunt, Family Fun Night, and Movie Night. This is where you can ice skate for $5, meet Santa, shop around boutique shops like Carthage Olive Oil Company or Garde Manger, and even book a private party for your group. After working up an appetite after skating or curling, refuel at The Pie Safe and several other food trucks around the festivities. The light tunnel in the winter village takes you straight to the Christmas tree, which is a great selfie point. 

Apart from the holiday celebrations, the Downtown Historic District is a destination in itself. If you happen to be a history and architect fiend, you can come across many Romanesque and Italian revival-style buildings. Among these, the Jasper County Courthouse is the most impressive and worth a visit. While you are in Carthage, you can also visit Sparkle in the Park and the light display at Congregation of Mother Redemptrix. 

Hot Springs, Arkansas

As the name goes, Hot Springs is popular for its namesake attraction and has been for several hundred years. Being in one of the thermal springs is one of the best things to do in winter here. Located in the Hot Springs National Park, the water from these springs is available at all the spa treatments, such as the Bathhouse Row, and even in a craft brewery at Superior Bathhouse Brewery. While strolling the row, tourists can also taste the fresh water at several jug fountains at different locations.

Suppose you want to stay warm by staying active while on a trip. In that case, the national park has over 25 miles of hiking trails that lead to scenic views, especially Spring Mountain Tower, from where hikers can see a clear aerial view of downtown Hotsprings and the surrounding Ouachita National Park. Lucky folks may also witness a wintering bald eagle! Mountain biking is also a great way to enjoy trails such as Northwoods trails, where the rivers are less crowded and at an appropriate water level.

Another great way to spend winters at Hotsprings is to visit Oaklawn Racing and Gaming, which is the only place you can see live thoroughbred racing in the state. Moreover, winter is the prime time to see these races since they begin in the winter months!

The majestic mountain ranges of the Ozarks become something even more magical in the winter.  Whether travelers are in the Ozarks for the holidays or maybe just want to cuddle up with family and friends on a cozy vacation and roam around, then these towns are the tickets. With attractions and amenities to suit any variety of travelers,  any of the aforementioned towns will more than deliver an excellent winter excursion.