There is much to love about Arkansas, right? I can’t get enough of the quirky small-town festivals that happen every year. Arkansans take a lot of pride in these events, as they reflect long standing traditions that make Arkansas the charming state that it is. Some folks love the mouthwatering country cookin’, while others enjoy the endless outdoor adventures in the state. Regardless of what you adore the most about living in Arkansas, one thing’s for certain: It’s one of the best states in the country. So, let’s celebrate life in Arkansas with pride and joy. Here are 11 photos of Arkansas that you can relate to, and some will trigger your fondest memories. Be sure to tell us which ones you like the best!

1. Spending summers at a local swimming hole.

Yes, if there is a lake or creek in our area, we will swim in it. Arkansas is a landlocked state, but that doesn't stop us from enjoying fun in the water. Swimming holes are what Arkansas childhood dreams are made of.

2. We are responsible for Walmart.

Love it or hate it, Walmart is ours and it ain't going anywhere. If you don't know, the first Walmart opened in Rogers, Arkansas on July 2, 1962. Today, there are approximately 10,500 stores worldwide, so this retail giant has far exceeded its humble Arkansas beginnings.

3. Dogpatch USA

Boomers and Gen-Xers will remember this beloved theme park in Northwest Arkansas. Dogpatch was a family friendly amusement park built on a trout farm, featuring horseback riding, paddle boating, waterslides, roller coasters, and more. For folks who've been, this crumbling sign will certainly trigger some nostalgic memories.

4. Chocolate Gravy - don't knock it until you try it.

If we're eating breakfast in a small town restaurant and they have biscuits and chocolate gravy on the menu, then we know we're in for a real treat. In Arkansas, we don't mind mixing dessert and breakfast together.

5. Flippin or any small town with weird "names.

When someone breaks the law in this small town in Arkansas, all they need to do is call the "flippin" police. Flippin ain't the only Arkansas town with a funny name. How about Goobertown, Booger Hollow, Bald Knob, or Toad Suck, do I need to go on?

6. The Fouke Monster Mart

Arkansas has its own Bigfoot legend. The Fouke Monster aka the Boggy Creek Monster, a 7-foot ape-like beast was reportedly spotted in the town of Fouke in the 1970s. And of course, the very recognizable store is filled with all kinds of stuff about this creepy lore. Have you spotted this monster?

7. A handwritten sign in a small town restaurant.

If we walk into any small town restaurant that doesn't accept credit or debit cards, then we know we're about to feast on some good ol' down-home country cookin'. It will be the best food that our money can buy. Cash rules everything in our charming small towns.

8. Quirky small-town festivals.

You can't tell him nothing because this confident goat was strutting its stuff at the one-of-a-kind Goat Festival in Perryville, just 40 miles north of Little Rock. Our quirky festivals are just part of the traditions that we love about our great state. Almost every Arkansan has been to one of these festivals at least once.

9. Yarnell Ice Cream

"Down-Home Goodness" is what you'll get in every bite of Yarnell Ice Cream. A staple in Arkansas since 1932, your grandparents enjoyed the same yummy recipe that we love today.

10. The Glory Hole Waterfall - Yes, the name is correct!

I don't know who decided on the name for this unique waterfall in Arkansas. Perhaps a moonshiner who explored this part of the Ozarks, who might have had one too many sips. Either way, this waterfall is the most recognizable natural wonder in our state, and it belongs on everybody's bucket list.

11. The Razorback Hog Call.

Woooooooooo. Pig. Sooie! Woooooooooo. Pig. Sooie! Woooooooooo. Pig. Sooie! Razorbacks! You've made this call at least once.

Bonus: No list about Arkansas is complete without including fried catfish.

Arkansans live, breathe, dream about, and feast on fried catfish...it runs through our veins. This delicious fried goodness can be found in just about every town you visit in Arkansas. Be sure to get a side of fried okra or fried pickles to complete the meal.

So, what did you think about our list of 11 photos that show what it's like living in Arkansas? Did we get it right? If not, what would you add to the list? Sound off in the comment section below! And if you would like to read more fun facts about the state, check out our previous article on some quirky things about Arkansas that might surprise you.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/quirky-facts-ar/

Also, if you're not from Arkansas and would like to visit the incredible state, here are some of the best things to do in Arkansas that you will love.