10 Arkansas Road Trip Ideas for Your Next Adventure
If you want to explore nature, history, and fun attractions, Arkansas has a lot to offer. Whether you love hiking, museums, or just a relaxing scenic drive, you’ll find something that fits your style.
With the right road trip plan, you can see some of the best spots Arkansas has to offer and create memories that last. Grab your friends or family and get ready for an adventure through “The Natural State.”
1) Bentonville and Crystal Bridges Museum
Bentonville is a fun stop in Northwest Arkansas. It’s easy to get around, with many sights close together. You’ll find a mix of art, nature, and small-town charm.
The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is one of the main reasons people visit. Entry is free for most exhibits, and the building itself is impressive. The museum is surrounded by walking trails and outdoor sculptures.
You can bike or walk around town to see parks, murals, and cozy cafes. Bentonville Square has neat shops and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. Don’t miss the small museums and farmers’ market if you’re there on the right day.
Many visitors like to stay overnight so they can take their time exploring. There are family-friendly events and plenty of photo spots too. Keep an eye out for local events or festivals during your road trip.
2) Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is a cool place to visit on a road trip. It’s known for its unique hot springs and historic bathhouses. You can walk through Bathhouse Row and even try a traditional bath.
The park is small, but there’s a lot to do. Hike the short mountain trails for nice views of the area. The park also has scenic drives if you want to see more without much walking.
Downtown Hot Springs has a fun vibe with shops, restaurants, and the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. It’s the only brewery in a U.S. national park, and it uses water from the springs in its beer.
There’s a visitor center where you can learn about the history and geology. If you like nature and history, this stop feels pretty relaxing and different from other parks. Hot Springs is family-friendly and easy to explore in just a day or two.
3) Petit Jean State Park and Cedar Falls
If you want to see some of the best nature Arkansas has to offer, put Petit Jean State Park on your list. It’s about an hour from Little Rock and is one of the oldest state parks in Arkansas. The scenery here is simple but beautiful.
The park is full of interesting rock outcrops, steep bluffs, caves, and calm woods. There’s also a peaceful lake where you can relax, fish, or rent a paddle boat. If you like history, you’ll find a famous burial site with some cool stories behind it.
Cedar Falls is the star attraction in the park. This waterfall is easy to reach by hiking the popular Cedar Falls Trail. The walk is not too hard, but it does have a few rough spots, so bring good shoes.
Once you reach Cedar Falls, you’ll see why it’s a favorite. The water falls over 90 feet into a clear pool. It’s a great spot for a photo or just to enjoy the view. The area is family-friendly and perfect for a day outdoors.
4) Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs
If you’re driving through northwest Arkansas, make sure you stop at Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs. This unique glass chapel sits among tall trees and feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. The structure is almost entirely made of glass and wood, letting natural light fill the space.
You’ll find Thorncrown Chapel just off the main highway, but once you’re there, it feels hidden away. The setting is quiet and calm, with plenty of time to look around or sit for a moment. Many folks visit to take photos, admire the design, or simply enjoy a moment of silence.
Visitors are welcome throughout the week, but check to see if there are events or weddings planned. The walk from the parking lot isn’t too far or hard. Even if you only spend a short time, Thorncrown Chapel makes a big impression.
Eureka Springs has other things to see too, so you can make a day of exploring. Thorncrown Chapel is an easy highlight for any Arkansas road trip.
5) Crater of Diamonds State Park
If you want to try something different on your road trip, stop at Crater of Diamonds State Park. This is the only public diamond mine in the United States. You can actually dig for real diamonds and keep anything you find.
The park has a 37-acre field where you can search for gems. Most people just use simple tools or even their hands. Be ready to get a little dirty, since digging can get pretty messy.
Besides hunting for diamonds, the park has walking trails like the Little Missouri River Trail. You can enjoy a short, easy hike through the woods. On hotter days, cool off at the Diamond Springs Water Park nearby.
If you want to take it slow, check out some local shops and small attractions around the area too. This spot makes for a fun stop, especially if you like hunting for treasures or spending time outside.
Remember to bring sunscreen, water, and maybe a change of clothes. Whether or not you find a diamond, you’ll have a unique story to tell.
6) Buffalo National River hiking
If you like hiking with great scenery, Buffalo National River is the place to go. The trails here range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. You will find bluffs, rivers, forests, and lots of spots to stop and take pictures.
One of the most popular spots is the Ponca to Kyle’s Landing area. You can hike up to Hemmed-In Hollow, which has the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians. Another cool trail is the Goat Trail to Big Bluff, where you get some awesome views above the river.
There are also shorter trails like the Beaver Jim Villines Homestead Trail near Ponca. It’s a good spot if you want a relaxing walk and a bit of history. Don’t forget to bring water and good shoes. The trails can be rocky and steep in some areas, but the views are worth it.
7) Historic Arkansas Road Trip from Hope to Fort Smith
Start your trip in Hope, a small town known for its friendly vibe and for being the birthplace of President Bill Clinton. You can tour the Clinton Birthplace Home and learn about his early life. Grab some snacks downtown before heading out.
Drive northwest toward Hot Springs. Take a stroll through Hot Springs National Park, and if you like, try a classic thermal bath. The historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row are a unique stop.
Head north to the Belle Grove Historic District in Fort Smith. This area has well-kept Victorian homes and offers guided walking tours in some seasons. The Fort Smith National Historic Site tells stories about the Wild West and the region’s frontier days.
Along the way, you’ll pass small towns where you can stop for local food or shop for antiques. This route is great if you enjoy history and want an easy pace. The drive covers both natural beauty and interesting stories from the past.
8) Pig Trail Scenic Drive on Hwy 23
Take a ride on the Pig Trail Scenic Byway along Highway 23. This 19-mile route cuts through the Ozark National Forest, giving you lots of green trees and peaceful views. The road is famous for its twists, turns, and hilly stretches.
If you enjoy a fun drive with a bit of adventure, you’ll like this one. Motorcyclists and car drivers both love it. The Pig Trail is also close to the Mulberry River, which is nice for a quick stop.
There are a few pull-offs where you can take pictures or just enjoy the fresh air. Watch for Pig Trail Falls, a small waterfall right off the road. In spring and fall, the scenery is especially pretty.
Good places to start your drive include Ozark or Brashears. You can finish the route in less than an hour, but you might want to stop and look around. Keep an eye out for wildlife and slow traffic on curves.
It’s a chill way to see some of Arkansas’s best nature without a long trip.
9) Mount Magazine Scenic Byway
If you enjoy mountain views, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway is a fun drive to add to your list. You’ll follow Arkansas Highway 309 from the small town of Paris all the way up to the highest point in the state, Mount Magazine.
As you climb, you’ll notice the air gets cooler and the forests seem to stretch on forever. There are plenty of lookout points to stop and snap a few photos or just enjoy the fresh air.
Don’t miss the Cove Lake Recreation Area along the way. It’s a nice spot to picnic, fish, or take a short walk. Mount Magazine State Park at the top has hiking trails, a visitor center, and even lodging if you want to stay longer.
The drive is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves change, but it’s a great road trip any time of year. Just remember, the road has some steep sections, so take your time and drive safely.
10) Lost Valley Trail near Ponca
If you want a fun hike with beautiful views, check out Lost Valley Trail near Ponca. This trail is around 2 to 2.4 miles round-trip, so it’s not too long and works great for families or beginners.
You’ll walk along Clark Creek, passing loads of rocks and pretty trees. There are natural bridges, caves, and even Eden Falls, a nice waterfall at the end of the trail.
Bring good shoes because some parts are rocky and can be a bit slippery. The caves and boulders offer a cool chance for some easy climbing and exploring.
Lost Valley Trail feels peaceful, with plenty of spots to stop and take pictures. You don’t need a whole day, just 2-3 hours to really enjoy it. If you like waterfalls, trees, and maybe a little adventure, this is a great stop on your Arkansas road trip.
Planning Your Arkansas Road Trip
Arkansas has a lot to offer, from scenic drives through the Ozarks to relaxing days in Hot Springs National Park. To make the most of your trip, think about when to visit and what to pack for the weather and activities.
Best Times of Year to Visit
Spring and fall are the top seasons for an Arkansas road trip. In spring (March to May), wildflowers bloom, and temperatures are mild, usually between 50°F and 75°F. Fall (late September to early November) brings cooler air and colorful leaves, especially in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.
Summer is hot and humid, with highs in the 80s and 90s (°F). If you like swimming, canoeing, or fishing, summer works. Just be ready for possible thunderstorms. Winter is the quietest time, but some spots like mountain roads or parks may be less accessible.
Peak times can mean bigger crowds at places like Hot Springs or Crystal Bridges Museum, so plan accordingly if you want a quieter experience.
Packing Tips for Arkansas Adventures
Pack for the outdoors. Start with lightweight layers if you’re traveling in spring or fall, because mornings and nights can be chilly but afternoons warm up fast. Bring a rain jacket or poncho, since showers are common. Don’t forget sturdy shoes or hiking boots—many top places have trails or uneven ground.
Include a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially if you’ll be in wooded areas or near rivers. In summer, bring extra water and breathable clothing. If you plan to canoe, swim, or fish, pack a swimsuit and water shoes. Most attractions are casual, so you don’t need to dress up much.
Must-Know Road Trip Tips
Arkansas has lots of beautiful drives, but it’s important to plan for a safe and fun trip. Making the most of your adventure means knowing the best sights to look for and how to stay prepared along the way.
Scenic Drives and Detours
Arkansas is full of routes with pretty views, like the Pig Trail Scenic Byway and Talimena Scenic Drive. These roads pass through forests, mountains, and even by waterfalls.
Keep an eye out for roadside stops like lookout points, state parks, and small cafes. Sometimes the best places aren’t on the main highway. Use a map app to spot alternative roads that let you see more of the natural beauty.
Bring a paper map, too, since cell service can get spotty in the Ozarks and Ouachitas. Consider making a list of spots you want to stop at before you head out. If you see a sign for something interesting, take the detour—it might become your favorite part of the trip.
Staying Safe on the Road
Before you go, check your vehicle’s oil, brakes, and tire pressure. Arkansas roads can be winding and remote, so make sure your car is ready for the drive.
Pack water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, just in case. Weather in Arkansas can change quickly, especially in spring. Bring rain gear and a flashlight. It’s smart to let someone know your route and expected arrival times, since some areas don’t have good cell service.
Watch for wildlife, especially at night. Deer and smaller animals often cross rural roads. Drive slower on mountain curves and be extra careful when it’s foggy or rainy. Always follow posted speed limits and watch for signs warning about sharp turns or steep grades.
