Although Hots Springs National Park is the most popular place to visit in Arkansas, here are nine lesser-known and underrated vacation spots you shouldn’t miss seeing if your next destination is Arkansas:
Old Mill
Although it looks just like an old working grist mill, the Old Mill in North Little Rock is actually a commissioned work of art that can be seen during the opening credits of the famous movie “Gone with the Wind”. The Old Mill is reportedly the only remaining “standing” structure left from the film. It is also one of the most photographed attractions in Arkansas, surrounded by lovely flower gardens and a public park. The Old Mill is located within T.R. Memorial Park on Lakeshore Drive in Little Rock and is open to the public from 8:00 am until dusk.
Wattle Hollow Retreat
North Arkansas is home to Wattle Hollow Retreat, a 40-acre property located near Devil’s Den State Park. Developed by Joy and Merlin Fox, Wattle Hollow Retreat was originally designed to be a back-to-nature retreat for the couple. Today, Joy Fox has transformed the Wattle Hollow Retreat into a haven for people wanting to explore the holistic benefits of meditation, yoga, and similar self-healing activities by holding retreats throughout the year.
Pivot Rock
Millions of years ago, raging seas covering the U.S. carved out remarkable rock formations that still remain today. One of those must-see formations is Pivot Rock in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Discovered in the late 1880s, Pivot Rock is such an amazing curiosity that it has been included in Ripley’s Believe or Not books over five times. You can find Pivot Rock about halfway down a short nature trail in Pivot Rock Park. The trail leads to a paved sidewalk and a walkable limestone stairway that provides a full view of Pivot Rock.
Buffalo River
Located in the southern region of the Ozark Mountains, the Buffalo River meanders over 130 miles through the most forested area of the Ozarks, which is protected by the National Parks Service. Visitors can hike all year round along the Buffalo River, take a fun ride on water floats or mountain bikes, or see Arkansas elk, eagles, and deer wandering in their natural habitat. There is also a ghost town and caves to explore for the more adventurous vacationer checking out the Buffalo River area.
Lakes of Cosmic Cavern
According to cave divers, the Lakes of Cosmic Cavern may be bottomless since no cave diver has yet to reach the bottom of the lakes. Nearly 100 years ago, people running the Lakes of Cosmic Cavern stocked the south lake with a variety of trout. However, the trout now populating the lake are blind and grayish-white in color, the result of evolving in a dark, cavernous environment. The Lakes of Cosmic Cavern are located in northwest Arkansas near Berryville. Walking cave tours that last a little over an hour are available regardless of the season.
Longbow Resort
Reservations are necessary to stay at Longbow Resort in the Ozarks. Nestled in the mountains as a group of luxury cabins, Longbow Resort offers gorgeous scenery, waterfalls that can be viewed from certain cabins, biking, ATV tours, and hiking on several trails. There is also a large pond where you can fish or watch Canadian Geese and Blue Heron soaring over the pristine water. It is recommended to book reservations at least six months in advance of a planned vacation at Longbow Resort.
Garvan Woodland Gardens
The botanical garden owned and operated by the University of Arkansas, Garvan Woodland Gardens is tucked into the Ouachita Mountains in Hot Springs, Ar. The mission of the Garvan Woodland Gardens is to provide visitors with a flora and fauna-rich place to learn about nature and the unique Ouachita environment. Several acres of pine canopy protect the plants and animals living in the gardens and a flowing stream defines the forested shoreline.
Loco Ropes
Kids will especially love visiting Loco Ropes near Mountain View, AR, where you can zip-line above the treetops on three different courses. You should be aware of the minimum height and weight requirements for ziplining. For example, to take the Treetop Adventure Zipline, you must be at least 43 inches tall. Anyone riding the Tower Adventures Zipline must weigh at least 30 pounds. Make sure to book in advance for inclusion in training sessions before ziplining.
Glory Hole Falls
Glory Hole Falls in Newton County, Arkansas is a spectacular waterfall emerging from a large stream that flows onto and through the ceiling of a cave. Following heavy rains, the waterfall is even more breathtaking as it plunges down from the cave’s overhanging ceiling. The trail to Glory Hole Falls begins off Highway 16, about four miles east of Fallsville, AR. Signs will help you find the trailhead and trail leading to the waterfall area.