I was pleasantly surprised by my first visit to Arkansas, and each trip since has uncovered even more gems. If you’re looking for an affordable, crowd-free destination, these six family-friendly and perfect Arkansas road trip cities are a must-visit.
First up: Bentonville, home to the Walton family and several of the state’s billionaires.
1. Bentonville
Bentonville is a city that blends art, architecture, and history into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, this lovely Arkansas destination has something for everyone.
A Cultural Gem: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
One of Bentonville’s biggest draws is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. This world-class museum boasts an incredible collection of American masterpieces featuring works by Warhol, Chihuly, Wiley (my favorite!), and Rockwell.
Beyond the art, the museum is set on 120 acres of stunning parkland, with scenic walking trails that make for a perfect afternoon stroll. Be sure to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright house, a beautifully preserved architectural gem available for tours.
Where to Stay: 21c Museum Hotel
Book a room at the 21c Museum Hotel for a truly unique stay. This boutique hotel is not just a place to sleep—it doubles as an art museum, featuring nearly 100 contemporary art installations scattered throughout the property. Every turn offers a new artistic surprise, making it an immersive experience.
Where to Eat in Bentonville
Start your day with breakfast at The Hive, conveniently inside the 21c Museum Hotel. The restaurant serves up delicious, elevated Southern-inspired dishes that will fuel your adventures.
Make a reservation at The Preacher’s Son (closed on Sundays) for an unforgettable dinner. Housed in a beautifully restored Gothic Revival church, this restaurant offers a refined yet cozy dining experience.
Begin your meal with the creamy burrata, and don’t leave without indulging in the panna cotta for dessert.
A Must-See: The Walmart Museum
Bentonville is famously known as the birthplace of Walmart, and The Walmart Museum is a fascinating stop for history lovers and curious travelers alike. The museum offers a nostalgic journey through the retail giant’s history, featuring highlights like Sam Walton’s original office, his iconic old truck, and vintage Walmart advertisements and campaign buttons.
Before you leave, stop by The Spark Café, an old-fashioned soda fountain serving exclusive ice cream flavors like F-150 and Spark Cream—the perfect sweet treat to round out your visit.
2. Little Rock
No Arkansas road trip is complete without a stop in Little Rock, the state’s capital and a city filled with rich history, cultural landmarks, and delicious local eats.
A Presidential Experience: William J. Clinton Presidential Library
Start your visit at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library, a world-class museum dedicated to the 42nd president of the United States. The exhibits are well-curated and offer a fascinating look at Clinton’s presidency, policies, and personal artifacts.
Expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring, depending on how much time you dedicate to reading the exhibits. Before leaving, stop by the gift shop, packed with unique souvenirs, books, scarves, and collectibles.
A Powerful Piece of History: Little Rock Central High School
For a deeper dive into Civil Rights history, visit Little Rock Central High School, a National Historic Site that was the backdrop for the historic desegregation crisis of 1957. The museum may be small, but its impact is immense.
Take time to learn about the Little Rock Nine and prepare for an emotional journey through one of America’s most pivotal moments. The school’s stunning exterior adds to the experience and serves as a powerful reminder of history.
Scenic Strolls & Outdoor Adventures
Little Rock offers beautiful pedestrian bridges; one of the best is the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge. Also known as the Rock Island Bridge, this pedestrian-only path is part of the 14-mile Arkansas River Trail.
If you have a bike, ride across the bridge and soak in the gorgeous river and city skyline views.
Where to Eat in Little Rock
Little Rock’s food scene is diverse and delicious. A few of our favorite eateries are Camp Taco, Lost Forty Brewing, and Big Orange. Read our Little Rock Restaurant post to see these and more, including what you won’t want to miss from the menu.
Where to Stay: Camping in the City
If you’re traveling by RV or love camping, the Little Rock North Jct. I-40 KOA Journey campground is a fantastic place to stay. You’ll find modern amenities, like free WiFi, 72-channel cable, bike rentals, a fitness center, and even an ice cream parlor.
3. Eureka Springs
Eureka Springs is the place to be if you’re looking for a charming, history-filled stop on your Arkansas road trip. This Victorian-era mountain town is packed with quirky shops, stunning art, and a touch of the supernatural.
Downtown Eureka Springs: Art, Shopping & More
Eureka Springs’ downtown is a vibrant mix of culture and creativity. Spend the day browsing unique boutiques, exploring eclectic art galleries, and hunting for hidden gems. Don’t forget to check out:
- The staircase murals are perfect for an Insta-worthy snapshot.
- The interactive Eureka Springs Art Wall is a fun and ever-changing piece of public art.
Step Back in Time: The Historic 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa
A visit to Eureka Springs wouldn’t be complete without a stop (or stay) at the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. This iconic landmark is as elegant as it is eerie—Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures have named it America’s Most Haunted Hotel.
Beyond the ghostly legends, the hotel offers a cozy lobby, onsite dining, and breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying at the Crescent, explore downtown by walking downhill from the hotel—but take a taxi back up for just a few dollars. The town’s steep streets can be quite the workout!
A Monumental Sight: Christ of the Ozarks
Towering over the landscape, the Christ of the Ozarks statue is a must-see. The sheer size of the figure is breathtaking, and it draws visitors from around the world. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or just to admire the view, it’s a fascinating and photogenic stop.
Where to Eat & Drink in Eureka Springs
The eggs Benedict at Eureka Springs Coffee House is perfection, and the lattes are a great way to fuel up before a day of exploring.
For a romantic dinner, Ermilio’s serves up classic Italian comfort food in a cozy, welcoming setting. Whatever pasta you choose, you won’t be disappointed! Save room for the Italian wedding cake—it’s the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
4. Texarkana
Texarkana is one of the most unique cities in Arkansas, as it literally straddles the Texas-Arkansas state line. With its rich musical history, quirky photo ops, and mouthwatering BBQ, this border town makes for a fantastic road trip stop.
Downtown Texarkana: Where Two States Meet
Start your visit in the Texarkana Main Street District, where you can snap a picture standing in two states simultaneously. Downtown is also home to several ghost signs—faded, painted advertisements from decades past that add a touch of vintage charm to the cityscape.
A Tribute to the King of Ragtime: Scott Joplin
Texarkana proudly celebrates its connection to Scott Joplin, the legendary composer known as the “King of Ragtime.”His famous piece, Maple Leaf Rag, remains one of the most recognizable piano tunes of all time.
Be sure to look for the Scott Joplin mural downtown, which reflects his incredible musical legacy. Fun fact: Joplin was awarded a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music.
Where to Eat and Stay in Texarkana
No road trip stop is complete without some incredible local food, and Naaman’s BBQ is a must-visit in Texarkana. This laid-back, spiffy joint serves up tender brisket, juicy pulled pork, and must-try cheesy corn.
For travelers camping or RVing, the Texarkana KOA Journey is a fantastic place to rest and recharge. This KOA is a solid overnight stop with super-fast WiFi, an inviting swimming pool, and deluxe cabins for those who prefer a little more comfort.
Bonus: The KOA is just a minute away from a travel plaza with a Denny’s, meaning Moons Over My Hammy is always within reach!
5. Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro may be tiny (population: 1,621), but it packs a punch when it comes to friendly faces, hidden gems, and great food.
Southern Charm & Shopping
We stopped by Caddo Antiques Gifts, and let me tell you—this place is a treasure hunter’s utopia. With its eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds, and unique gifts, I could’ve spent hours browsing through the aisles.
If you love hunting for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, make this a priority stop.
Where to Eat: Southern Dine
After shopping, we grabbed lunch at Southern Dine, where we felt right at home chatting with the locals. The Fried Bologna on Texas Toast was a delicious throwback to classic Southern comfort food, paired perfectly with green beans and mac & cheese.
They’ve added a salad bar option to the menu if you’re looking for lighter fare.
Digging for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park
Murfreesboro is best known for Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can search for diamonds in their original volcanic source. It’s one of the only public diamond mines in the world, and their policy is simple: finders, keepers!
We rented a wagon and digging tools and got to work sifting through the soil in hopes of uncovering a sparkling treasure. It was fun but exhausting—definitely an arm workout! While we didn’t find any diamonds, the thrill of the hunt made it worth every minute.
Cost: $15 per adult, $7 per child (ages 6—12)
Pro Tip: Bring waterproof gloves, sunscreen, and patience—this is serious digging! Need a snack to bring along for your long day of discovery? Scott’s Protein Balls are excellent and super easy to eat on the go.
6. Van Buren
Van Buren offers a beautiful blend of history, shopping, and small-town hospitality. This charming, walkable town has a sparse suburban feel but is rich in antique shops, local crafts, and historic landmarks.
Exploring Downtown Van Buren
Van Buren’s six-block historic district is a picture-perfect stroll through the late 1800s and early 1900s. Beautifully restored buildings house boutiques, Ozark crafts, antique shops, and artisan stores line the streets.
Main Street Mercantile should top your list of stores to explore.
Don’t Miss: The Old Frisco Depot, a stunning piece of railroad history, is a must-see for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Where to Eat: The Vault 1905 Sports Grill
For an excellent meal, head to The Vault 1905 Sports Grill. Housed in a historic bank building, this restaurant blends history with delicious food and a laid-back atmosphere. Expect juicy burgers, crispy wings, and great drinks—the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring.
Where to Stay: Comfort & Convenience
Van Buren has plenty of great chain hotels for a comfortable stay, including a Sonesta, Hampton Inn, and Best Western, to name a few.
If you happen to be RVing, Fort Smith-Alma RV Park, just a few minutes away from downtown Van Buren, was super affordable and really nice. Don’t miss the sunsets from the inground pool.
Van Buren Entertainment
If you love live performances, check out a show at the beautifully restored King Opera House, which has entertained audiences for over 100 years.
Stop by Kopper Kettle Candies for some of the best handmade chocolates in the state.
Bonus Experience: While I didn’t have time, the Arkansas-Missouri Railroad’s excursion train is high on my list for next time. It sounds like a relaxing, scenic way to take in the Ozarks!
Arkansas: A State Worth Exploring
Which one of these incredible gems would you want to visit first?
