Arkansas

The Natural State

Where the Deep South meets the Pioneer West, you'll find Arkansas, a destination defined by natural beauty, cultural richness, and Southern warmth. Nicknamed The Natural State, Arkansas is a place where outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and historical significance come together in perfect harmony.

Renowned for its landscapes, Arkansas is home to 52 state parks, each offering opportunities to hike, fish, camp, and explore without the crowds or the high prices. Whether you’re picnicking in the pines or staying overnight in a cozy park cabin, the state’s parks are both accessible and unforgettable. Compared to the bayous of Louisiana or the river valleys of Mississippi, Arkansas delivers a more mountainous, forested outdoor experience, especially in the Ozarks.

The Crater of Diamonds State Park, in Arkansas, offers something no other state in North America can: the chance to dig for real diamonds, and keep what you find. This one-of-a-kind experience draws visitors from across the country and fits perfectly with the state’s adventurous, down-to-earth spirit.

Little Rock, the capital, blends culture and politics with a modern riverfront vibe. The Clinton Presidential Library stands as a key attraction, located in the River Market District, a bustling neighbourhood full of restaurants, shops, and museums. Right next door, you’ll find the headquarters of Heifer International, a global non-profit housed in an award-winning, eco-friendly building. While Louisiana’s New Orleans is known for its French Quarter and festive energy, Little Rock feels more personal and grassroots, offering thoughtful experiences over tourist bustle.

Head northwest into the Ozark Mountains, and you'll find Eureka Springs, a town filled with historic architecture, independent shops, and a vibrant arts scene. This artistic enclave is one of America's “Distinctive Dozen” communities, known for its eclectic charm and welcoming spirit. In contrast to the deep musical traditions of Mississippi’s Delta Blues, Arkansas’s creativity flows through its galleries, artisan boutiques, and small-town festivals.

For those seeking rest and relaxation, Hot Springs National Park, the first national park in the United States, invites visitors to soak in legendary thermal waters. The town of Hot Springs also features historic bathhouses, quirky museums, and scenic mountain trails. It's a perfect retreat for wellness and leisure, with a quieter, more nature-connected feel than the party scenes of Bourbon Street or riverboat casinos.

In the Arkansas Delta, blues history and Southern heritage come alive through music museums, civil rights landmarks, and authentic culinary traditions. Much like Mississippi, Arkansas has deep cultural roots, but here, you’ll often find them in smaller, more personal settings that feel like discovering a local secret.

Whether you're digging for diamonds, hiking through the Ozarks, or soaking in thermal springs, Arkansas travel offers something refreshingly different: real nature, real history, and real Southern hospitality.

Last Updated: 04/09/2025