Explore The Best Of Arkansas And Missouri With Our Travel Guide

Explore The Best Of Arkansas And Missouri With Our Travel Guide

If you are planning a trip to Arkansas and Missouri, get ready to be wowed by the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of these two states. From the Ozark Mountains to the Mississippi River, and from the bustling cities to the quaint towns, there is something for everyone in this region.

Top Attractions in Arkansas and Missouri

Start your journey by visiting some of the top attractions in these two states. In Arkansas, make sure to explore the Hot Springs National Park, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and the Ozark National Forest. In Missouri, don’t miss the Gateway Arch, the Silver Dollar City theme park, and the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum.

Hidden Gems to Discover

If you want to get off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems, head to places like Eureka Springs in Arkansas, a charming Victorian town nestled in the Ozarks, or Hermann in Missouri, a picturesque wine country with German heritage. You can also explore the Buffalo National River in Arkansas, a pristine waterway with stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities.

Food Scene to Savor

No trip to Arkansas and Missouri is complete without indulging in the local food scene. From BBQ and fried chicken to farm-to-table cuisine and craft beer, you will find a wide variety of delicious dishes and drinks. Some of the must-try places include Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis, Lambert’s Cafe in Sikeston, and The Hive in Bentonville.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Travelers

If you are traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money without compromising on the experience. Look for free or low-cost activities like hiking, biking, and visiting museums on certain days. Stay in affordable accommodations like hostels, camping sites, or vacation rentals. Eat at local diners or food trucks instead of fancy restaurants. And use public transportation or carpooling instead of renting a car.

Outdoor Adventures to Thrill

For outdoor enthusiasts, Arkansas and Missouri offer a plethora of adventures to thrill. You can hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain in Little Rock, go kayaking on the Current River in Missouri, or zip line through the Ozarks in Branson. You can also bike the Katy Trail in Missouri, a 240-mile trail that runs along the Missouri River, or go fishing in the White River in Arkansas, a world-class trout stream.

Historical Landmarks to Explore

Both Arkansas and Missouri have a rich history that is reflected in their landmarks and monuments. You can visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where nine African-American students made history in 1957, or the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, where the first major Civil War battle in the west took place in 1861. You can also explore the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which commemorates the forced relocation of Native Americans in the 19th century.

Family-Friendly Activities to Enjoy

Traveling with kids? No problem. Arkansas and Missouri have plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. You can visit the Magic Springs Theme and Water Park in Hot Springs, the Silver Dollar City amusement park in Branson, or the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri. You can also take a ride on the Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat or the Branson Scenic Railway, or go spelunking in the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Arkansas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences to Try

If you are looking for unique and unusual experiences, Arkansas and Missouri won’t disappoint. You can visit the Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, a stunning glass chapel surrounded by forests and gardens. You can also go on a ghost tour in the Crescent Hotel, a haunted hotel with a colorful history. Or you can take a hot air balloon ride over the Ozarks or the Missouri countryside for a bird’s-eye view.

Natural Wonders to Marvel

From the towering bluffs to the underground caves, Arkansas and Missouri are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. You can explore the Blanchard Springs Caverns in Arkansas, a network of limestone caves with crystal formations and underground streams. You can also hike to the top of the Taum Sauk Mountain in Missouri, the highest point in the state, or float down the Buffalo River in Arkansas, a scenic waterway with limestone cliffs and waterfalls.

Vibrant Nightlife to Experience

When the sun goes down, Arkansas and Missouri come alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. You can dance the night away at the Electric Cowboy in Little Rock, the Howl at the Moon in Kansas City, or the Club Casino in St. Louis. You can also enjoy live music, comedy shows, and theater performances at venues like the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, or the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City.

Local Markets to Shop

If you want to shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce, head to the farmers’ markets and flea markets in Arkansas and Missouri. You can browse the Hillcrest Farmers Market in Little Rock, the Bentonville Farmers Market in Bentonville, or the Springfield Farmers Market in Springfield. You can also hunt for treasures at the War Eagle Mill Craft Fair in Arkansas, the Silver Dollar City Harvest Festival in Missouri, or the First Friday Art Walk in Springfield.

Beaches and Mountains to Relax

Whether you prefer the sandy beaches or the rugged mountains, Arkansas and Missouri have plenty of options to relax and unwind. You can soak up the sun at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, a popular vacation spot with boating, swimming, and fishing. You can also hike to the Hawksbill Crag in Arkansas, a scenic overlook with panoramic views of the Ozarks, or camp at the Big Piney Creek in Arkansas, a secluded spot with waterfalls and swimming holes.

Cultural Immersion to Discover

If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Arkansas and Missouri offer plenty of opportunities to do so. You can learn about the Native American heritage at the Cherokee Heritage Center in Oklahoma, or the African-American history at the Scott Joplin House State Historic Site in Missouri. You can also attend the Ozark Folk Festival in Arkansas, the Missouri State Fair in Missouri, or the Arkansas State Fair in Little Rock for a taste of the local traditions and customs.

Art and Music Scene to Enjoy

Arkansas and Missouri have a thriving art and music scene that is worth exploring. You can visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, a world-class museum with a stunning architecture and a rich collection of artworks. You can also attend the Ozark Mountain Music Festival in Eureka Springs, the Jazz St. Louis Festival in St. Louis, or the Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival in Columbia for a dose of live music and entertainment.

Walking Tours to Take

If you want to see the sights on foot and learn about the history and culture of Arkansas and Missouri, take a walking tour. You can stroll through the River Market District in Little Rock, the Soulard Neighborhood in St. Louis, or the Central West End in Kansas City for a glimpse of the local life and architecture. You can also join a guided tour of the Civil War battlefields, the historic homes, or the downtown areas for a deeper understanding of the past and present.

Architectural Marvels to Admire

Finally, Arkansas and Missouri boast some impressive architectural marvels that are worth admiring. You can visit the Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs, the Old State House Museum in Little Rock, or the Gateway Arch in St. Louis for a glimpse of the unique designs and styles. You can also explore the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, or the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City for a blend of art, culture, and innovation.

Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Arkansas and Missouri have something for you. Use our travel guide to plan your next trip and discover the best of these two states.