The Happiness Function

Arkansas is a land of bubbling hot springs and hidden diamonds, and it’s full of incredible things to do. You can explore downtown Little Rock for some city life or visit several national and state parks. You really can’t go wrong with a trip to this Southern state.

Arkansas is one of our favorite states to explore. Here are some of the best things to do.

Spend a Day at Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park is a must-visit attraction. In 1832, it became the first piece of land the U.S. government chose to preserve for recreational purposes. National parks didn’t officially exist until 1872, when Yellowstone National Park became the first. This goes to show how unique Hot Springs National Park is.

As for what to do at Hot Springs National Park, your first stop must be to visit a hot spring. This beautiful area is home to two bathhouses, the Buckstaff Bathhouse and the Quapaw Bathhouse, which are bubbling with natural hot spring water you can soak in.

While at this lovely national park, you can also hike on the Sunset Trail, climb to the top of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, or enjoy the Hot Springs Mountain Scenic Drive. I highly recommend trying the water, too.

Search for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park

Diamonds are considered one of the most precious gemstones and one of the most expensive. At Arkansas’s Crater of Diamonds State Park, you can head out into nature and search for diamonds on your own. If you find one, you can keep it! No wonder it’s one of the best things to do in Arkansas.

If you’re wondering about your diamond-finding odds, they’re pretty decent. Since the park’s opening in 1972, more than 35,000 diamonds have been found on the property. With 37 acres to scour, you better get looking!

If you’d like to hone your diamond-digging craft before you head out, stop by the visitor center. There, you can learn all about the geology of the area (and how diamonds are formed), as well as the best techniques for diamond mining.

As if the diamonds weren’t enough on their own, the park is also home to many other precious gemstones, rocks, and minerals. Keep your eyes peeled for amethyst, quartz, jasper, and agate.

Say Hello to Big Cats at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

With tigers, lions, cougars, bobcats, and more, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a haven for abused and abandoned big cats. During their 30 years in business, this refuge has helped over 500 animals live happier, healthier lives.

There are a surprising number of tours at this wildlife refuge. With general admission, you’ll get an hour-long tour on an open-air tram, where you can glimpse these big cats living their best lives. If you’d like to upgrade, you can take the Carnivore Caravan Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at how Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge takes care of these massive animals.

Head Underground into Blanchard Springs Caverns

Located in the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest, Blanchard Springs Caverns, is an epic underground landscape. This living cave — which means it’s still changing and growing — is three stories tall, so there’s a lot to explore.

Unlike many cave systems in the U.S., you can explore parts of Blanchard Springs Caverns without a tour. Take to the underground trails, like the accessible Dripstone Trail or the 1.2-mile Discovery Trail, for incredible views underground.

If you’d prefer a guided tour of Blanchard Springs Caverns, you can do that too. Your guide will take you on fun cave twists and turns while explaining the science behind the natural phenomenon.

Climb to the Highest Point at Mount Magazine State Park

After traveling to the depths of Arkansas at Blanchard Springs Caverns, why not make your way up to the highest point in the state? Mount Magazine State Park is home to Signal Hill, which is 2,753 feet tall.

Even though it’s the tallest peak in Arkansas, it’s surprisingly easy to make your way to the summit. This 1.8-mile Signal Hill trail is doable for most people with hiking experience.

Take Time To Explore Little Rock

If you’re hoping to visit the trendiest neighborhood in the city, head to Little Rock’s River Market District. This section has nearly all of Little Rock’s best attractions, such as Riverfront Park. That’s on top of the fantastic food, shopping, and entertainment spots. Grab a bite at Ottenheimer Market Hall, stroll through the Saturday farmers market, or catch a show at the First Security Amphitheatre.

If you’re a nature lover (like us) and itching to add a little greenery to your Little Rock itinerary, check out Pinnacle Mountain State Park. With over 40 miles of hiking trails and even a couple of mountain biking trails, you’re sure to have a blast.

Make a Photo Stop at Thorncrown Chapel

Located in Eureka Springs, Thorncrown Chapel looks like it was built with nature in mind. With crisscrossing wooden beams and sparkling glass walls, the entire structure feels like a fairytale —especially with all the bright greenery surrounding it.

Even though it’s so stunning, Thorncrown Chapel will probably be a pretty quick stop. Snap a few pictures outside and a few more on the inside, and you’ve experienced the Instagram-worthy destination.

Tour Around Garvan Woodland Gardens

Garvan Woodland Gardens is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the state. This fabulous spot will leave you in awe of nature, from intricately trimmed bonsai trees to blooming tulips.

Garvan Woodland Gardens also has a nature-inspired chapel. Known as the Anthony Chapel, this beautiful building is similar to Thorncrown Chapel and just as stunning.

That said, the Anthony Chapel isn’t the only neat building on the property. There’s also a four-story treehouse called the Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House. Talk about making your childhood dreams come to life.

Go for a Hike at Petit Jean State Park

As the first state park in Arkansas, Petit Jean State Park should be at the top of your bucket list. With cascading waterfalls, unique rock formations, and lush trees, the park looks like it’s been plucked right off a postcard.

The best way to explore this gorgeous park is on a hike. The best hikes in Petit Jean State Park run the gamut from beginner to advanced. Trek 0.25-mile to the Rock House Cave, where you can see ancient petroglyphs. Gape in awe at the 95-foot tall Cedar Falls after hiking the steep two-mile trail. Or wind through rock crevices on the 0.25-mile Bear Cave Trail.

Spend a Day at Devil’s Den State Park

Located in Lee Creek Valley just outside of Fayetteville, Devil’s Den State Park is a local favorite. Technically, in the famed Ozarks, this park offers hiking, mountain biking, camping opportunities, and more.

Since hiking is arguably the most popular activity at Devil’s Den State Park, we’ve got a couple of recommendations for you. The Butterfield Lake Trail is great for an easy stroll with lovely views of Lake Devil and the CCC dam. The six-mile Fossil Flats Trail is known for mountain biking. Last but not least, there’s the moderate Yellow Rock Trail, known for having the best views in the entire park. It’s worth the trek.

Float Your Way Down the Buffalo River

Floating down the Buffalo River is one of the best things to do in Arkansas. This 125-mile-long waterway welcomes hundreds of floaters to its shores every summer. After all, can you picture a better way to escape the Southern heat?

As you settle down in your canoe, kayak, or raft, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous views — from the bright turquoise river to sheer cliff rock walls and towering trees.

While you can certainly plan a floating trip on your own, booking one with a tour company may be easier if you’re new to the state. If that sounds preferable, check out the Buffalo Outdoor Center or the Buffalo River Float Service tours.

Make Your Way to Sugarloaf Mountain

No matter the time of year, Sugarloaf Mountain is always stunning. Spring and summer bring bright green trees, fall brings fiery orange leaves, and winter looks like a scene out of Narnia.

To have the best experience at Sugarloaf Mountain, you’ll want to hit one of the beautiful hiking trails. Take it easy on the accessible Hidden Pond Trail, make your way around the base of the mountain on the Tonawanda Trail, or hike all the way to the top on the Summit Trail.

Enjoy Your Arkansas Getaway

From floating down picturesque rivers to exploring underground caves, Arkansas has many incredible things to do, especially for nature lovers. You can easily spend your entire Arkansas getaway outdoors, soaking up the sunshine and breathing in the fresh air.

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