In a state so totally full of attractions, it’s inevitable that some of them get overlooked. We discuss attractions here in the Natural State all the time, and today we’ve got a list of exceptional ones that deserve some attention. The 13 attractions on the list below range from state parks to overlooked roadside attractions, and you’re going to want to add every single one to your Natural State bucket list.
13. Rush Ghost Town
If you’re down for some exploring out in the wilds of the Natural State, you’re going to love the Rush Ghost Town. Though it was once one of the largest cities in Arkansas and world-renowned for zinc mining, the town was abandoned to fade into the forest, and there’s nothing like admiring those abandoned buildings, imagining those streets bustling with activity.
You can find the Rush ghost town near the town of Yellville.
12. William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands Boardwalk
If you’re looking for a natural oasis in Arkansas’s largest city, look no further than the wetlands that lie near the Arkansas River. The William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands Boardwalk is a great way to connect with the natural roots and conservation efforts of the Natural State.
The William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands Boardwalk is located at 1200 President Clinton Avenue in Little Rock.
11. Natural Bridge of Arkansas
The Natural Bridge of Arkansas isn’t just an incredible natural wonder, it’s also one of the coolest tourist destinations in the Natural State. Along the trail to the natural bridge, you’re going to find a cool moonshiner’s cabin, a covered wagon, and more natural beauty than you can shake a stick at.
The Natural Bridge of Arkansas is located at 1120 Natural Bridge Road near Clinton.
10. The Delta Resort & Spa
Please note, The Delta Resort and Spa has permanently closed.
For all your spa, skeet shooting, and general relaxation needs, you should try the Delta Resort & Spa. It’s located in a tiny town, next to some of the best duck hunting in the world, and whether you go out or stay in, you’re going to love this little known resort.
The Delta Resort & Spa is located at 8624 Bucksducks Road in Tillar.
9. Moro Bay State Park
Moro Bay State Park allows visitors to explore cypress groves from the slow waters of Moro Bay. Their camping areas are being overhauled currently, but will be reopened in time for some early fall camping. There’s nothing like seeing the forest from that angle, and Moro Bay is vastly underrated as a fishing and kayaking destination.
Moro Bay State Park is located at 6071 Highway 600 South near Jersey.
8. Hot Springs Mountain Tower
For a view of the Ouachitas like you’ve never seen them before, you need to go to the tower that well, literally towers over Hot Springs. You can see a full 360 degrees from up there, and it’s well worth the trip. Bathhouse Row draws the most attention in the area, and there are a slew of attractions in Hot Springs, but Hot Springs Mountain Tower deserves your time and attention too.
Hot Springs Mountain Tower is located at 401 Hot Springs Mountain Drive in Hot Springs.
7. Christ of the Ozarks
Despite its less-than-flattering nicknames, Christ of the Ozarks is one of the tallest uncrucified Christ in the whole world. You should definitely take a little time to go visit this marvel, but please don’t call it "Our Milk Carton of the Ozarks" to its face. Jesus can hear you, you know.
Christ of the Ozarks is located at 937 Passion Play Road in Eureka Springs.
6. Downtown Jonesboro
If you’re looking for shopping, food, fun, and culture, you’ll want to head on over to one of Arkansas’s most underrated large-ish cities. Jonesboro is a jewel of the upper Delta, and it’s an up-and-coming city you’ll want to visit.
5. Daisy State Park
Daisy State Park is located in the foothills in the Ouachitas, on the shores of the gorgeous and underrated Lake Greeson. From camping to fishing to exploring the trails, a whole heap of fun with a double dose of adventure await you at this small state park.
Daisy State Park is located at 103 East Park Road in Kirby.
4. Louisiana Purchase State Park
You’ll want to wait until a hard freeze kills all the mosquitoes to visit this unique state park. The boardwalk allows you to traverse a swamp without stepping into a set of waders to do so, and it’s well worth the trip just for that. Combined with the cool history of the monument hiding in the swamp, it’s definitely a must-see.
Louisiana Purchase State Park is located on AR-362 in Holly Grove.
3. Queen Wilhelmina State Park
Queen Wilhelmina State Park is one of the most scenic state parks in the Natural State, but it tends to get overlooked in favor of Mount Magazine and Petit Jean. The underrated nature of this state park, however, means that those views are wide open, without a throng of people to obstruct them.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located at 3877 AR-88 near Mena.
2. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Perhaps because it isn’t as expansive as Garvan Woodland Gardens, the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks can tend to get overlooked. The truth is, though, with a dozen themed gardens and a butterfly house, there’s plenty of fun to be had on these gorgeous grounds.
The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is located at 4703 North Crossover Road in Fayetteville.
1. Monster Mart
Bigfoot believers, be aware. There’s a place you can go to learn all about the Natural State’s very own cryptozoological creature, the Boggy Creek, or Fouke Monster. There’s a museum inside the often overlooked Monster Mart, and merchandise for you to purchase as well.
Monster Mart is located at 104 US-71 in Fouke.
For more underrated attractions in the Natural State, check out this list. You may also want to check out this list of attractions to visit instead of more touristy attractions.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!