Top Destinations for a Weekend Getaway in Arkansas

Guests visiting this city in Pike County can relax in the cool waters at Diamond Springs Water Park. A trip to Lake Greeson provides the perfect opportunity to fish for black bass, catfish, crappie, and bream. Kids will enjoy the playground here. There are also various hiking trails to explore.

Travelers can relax during the weekend at this city's many spas. Quapaw Baths & Spa provides quality massages and mineral baths. For drinks and tasty meals, visit the Ohio Club, the state's oldest bar. If you like, stick around after dinner for a night show at the club.

If you're looking seeking gorgeous natural surrounding and fresh air, try Mountain Pine. Scuba diving at Lake Ouachita, one of America's cleanest lakes, is also amazing. For catfish and other tasty dishes, head to Ward's Crawfish Hole, 12 miles north of Hot Springs.

This city in Arkansas charms visitors with its beautiful art, and there's plenty of shopping opportunities downtown. At Lake Leatherwood, there's a park and garden perfect for picnicking. And you can't miss the enormous Christ of the Ozarks statue.

The largest city in Stone County, Mountain View, is home to Ozark Folk Center State Park. Here, guests listen to folk music, watch traditional mountain dances, view a variety of crafts, and taste different dishes. There are caves and trails waiting to be explored at Blanchard Springs Caverns.

This museum in Bentonville, a must-see, features the works of artists such as Benjamin West, Gilbert Stuart, and Theodore Robinson.

Visit this casino in West Memphis for a weekend of gaming with your friends. The entertainment is unlimited, with more than 400 greyhound races taking place here per year.

Stroll downtown and browse through the vendors' many offerings, such as flowers, gifts, and decorations. There's also a weekend farmers' market from April to November.

Learn about the region's bathhouse era and unwind in the beautifully decorated relaxation areas at the Fordyce Visitor Center. There's also a gym on the top floor.

During weekend getaways in Arkansas in summer (late April-late June), light clothing would be appropriate. For the colder months (late November–late February), pack heavier clothes. You'll also want to bring your hiking gear if you plan to hike in the Ozarks.

Fishing enthusiasts heading to Lake Greason should bring hooks, line, bait, spears, and nets – though you may be limited by baggage regulations if you're flying. If you're just starting, consider taking a digital fishing guide.

If you're looking forward to getting active, you may want to bring the appropriate gear. For instance, if you're heading to Lake Ouachita, think about packing scuba gear. You could also rent gear locally.

Among other electronic gadgets, cameras are indispensable on Arkansas weekend getaway. Capture the special moments with your family to show people back home.

If you're planning on driving during your Arkansas getaway, remember to bring your license. Self-driving adventures let you see a different side of the state, and you don't have to be limited by public transportation schedules or pay for taxis.