Arkansas is full of small towns. Most of us call those places home, and we’re proud of every single one. We’ve talked about small towns here before, and we’re going to keep talking about them because they’re the jewels of the Natural State. Here you’ll find 14 small towns that are mighty when it comes to incredible, unique monuments, restaurants, and legends. You’ll find 14 surprises, and you may even call one of them home.
Gurdon is famous for its light. Not any old light, but a light that mysteriously disappears and reappears. The light has been doing this for generations, long before electricity was common in the region. Legend says it’s the ghost of a railroad worker who lost his life and his head to a railway accident. The light is allegedly the man carrying his lamp around, looking for his missing head.
Beaver used to be home to a theme park called Dinosaur World. Now it’s home to the abandoned dinosaurs that remained after the theme park closed. It’s really an incredible place to drive by, and the photo opportunities are one-of-a-kind.
Probably not best to try to break in and get close ups, though, as the land is privately owned and you'll be chased off.
Only about 745 people live in Altus, and the people are vastly outnumbered by grapes. There are several amazing wineries there. The vineyards are spectacular to look at, and there’s nothing quite like drinking wine made in your home state.
Fewer than 3,000 people live in Lake Village, and they’re outnumbered by something too—namely, they’re outnumbered by fish. Lake Village is so named because it’s near gorgeous Lake Chicot, the largest oxbow lake in North America. Lake Chicot is a famous destination for fishermen from all over.
Located at the intersection of I-49 and I-40, you may recognize the small town of Alma from its position as a good place to pick up a meal or fill up on gas between Fayetteville and Little Rock. What you may not know about this town is that it’s also the Spinach Capital of the World. Alma has paid homage to this vegetable by commissioning a statue of Popeye for their downtown area and painting their water tower like a can of spinach.
If you don’t know what Bauxite is, I’ll tell you. It’s two things: it’s an ore used to make aluminum, and it’s a tiny town in Saline County, Arkansas named after that ore. One of the most memorable features of this tiny town is its Bauxite Museum. They’re you’ll find the interesting Bauxite Teeth, which happened when the excess fluoride required to smelt bauxite into aluminum found its way into the water supply. The teeth are truly creepy. They’re ugly, they’re brown, and you’ll want to see them.
The small south Arkansas town of Emerson is very fond of the purple hull pea. Well, you might imagine they would be, as they are Arkansans, but I mean Emerson is really fond of the purple hull pea. Their park is named for it, and they have a Purple Hull Pea Festival every year.
The Beatles stopped over in the small town of Walnut Ridge in 1964. They may have been only changing planes, but it doesn’t matter. Their visit stuck with the citizens of Walnut Ridge. Today you’ll find a statue that shows the Beatles crossing Abbey Road, and a festival called Beatles at the Ridge that’s held every September.
Ozark is a small town located on the Arkansas River. It’s scenic, alright, but the number one draw is the fantastic barbecue place called Rivertowne Barbecue. People come from all over to eat this delicious slow-cooked meat, and it’s well worth the drive.
Paris is a charming little town set in the Ouachita Mountains, and its proximity to the highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine, makes it a popular place to visit. An additional draw of Paris is how much fun it’s having with its name. In downtown Paris you’ll find a fountain that features a scale model of the Eiffel Tower.
The north central town of Salem is small, but it’s also the headquarters of North Arkansas Electric Cooperative, and this business is the reason for Salem’s coolest feature. In front of the headquarters you’ll find a larger-than-life statue of a lineman climbing a pole. It’s dedicated to the eight linemen who’ve lost their lives on the job with NAEC.
Carthage is a tiny town, and it’s got the creepiest tree in Arkansas. Though some locals will tell you that the tree was sick and needed to be burned out and bricked up to prevent it disturbing the graves at the cemetery, others will tell you the legend of the tree surgeon. It’s said that if you removed the bricks, you’d find the decomposing corpse of a tree surgeon, buried in the place he loved best.
Berryville is pretty close to the resort town of Eureka Springs, and it’s an adorable little place. One of the biggest draws to this little town is Snake World, which displays snakes from all over the world and serves as an educational center about the serpentine reptiles.
East Calico Rock, also called the Peppersauce Ghost Town, is the only authentic ghost town totally within the city limits of an existing town. The place is undeniably interesting, and maybe just a tad eerie. The tour contains 20 unique old buildings that show what books can’t about the way towns live and die.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The Up-and-Coming City in Arkansas That’s Perfectly Sized
Jonesboro, Arkansas is a small city that has so much to offer. More and more people are calling it home, but it still offers a small town feel to residents and visitors alike.
Jonesboro, Arkansas is calling your name! This small city in the northeastern corner of The Natural State is up-and-coming and is the perfect size for both residents and visitors. With a population of around 80,000, this city offers plenty to do without being overwhelmingly large, and the locals are friendly, pleasant, welcoming, and happy.
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Long inhabited by indigenous people including the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw who used this space just west of the Mississippi River and between the St. Francis and White Rivers to hunt, gather, and later farm, the Jonesboro area is full of flat open areas and wooded hills. The first white settlers were French and Spanish traders and fur trappers who traded with these Native American groups. The settlement of Jonesboro was founded in 1859 when the county around it, Craighead County, was established.
The town continued to grow as the nineteenth century continued and soon, Jonesboro had a courthouse, a school district, and a train station, and Arkansas State University - a school with an enrollment of nearly 17,000 students each year today - was founded in 1909.
Nature lovers love Jonesboro. Craighead Forest Park is a city-owned, 692-acre park with a 60-acre fishing lake plus dozens of trails and opportunities for camping, bird watching, picnicking, and more. Like the city itself, it's located on Crowley's Ridge and offers great views of the surrounding areas. Adjacent to the park, Crowley's Ridge Nature Center educates visitors about the natural history and wildlife of this region.
The ASU Museum can help you to continue to learn about northeastern Arkansas. It has over 21,000 square feet of exhibits about the natural history, human history, and cultural history of this part of the state and nation - and there's no admission fee charged to visit it. The Bradbury Art Museum is another museum in the area; it's also free and is full of intriguing contemporary art in a wide variety of mediums.
Visitors who wish to explore the area by car will enjoy a drive on Crowley's Ridge Parkway which runs north and south and through the city of Jonesboro. It was designated as the first National Scenic Byway in the state of Arkansas in 1998.
Anyone visiting downtown Jonesboro will find a wide range of shops and restaurants. One of the most interesting places to visit for a meal in town is Native Brew Works. This micro-brewery may be located in a dry county, but it has a private club permit and it can therefore serve alcohol under certain restrictions, and it also serves great food! If you're a non-drinker, there are plenty of other excellent dining options in Jonesboro, too. Ben Yay's Gumbo Shop is popular and satisfying for people seeking local Mississippi River-inspired cuisine, Omar's Uptown is a well-rated steakhouse, and Pastaria 49 is the best spot in town if you're craving freshly-made Italian dishes.
Jonesboro, Arkansas is a lovely small city that is a great place for a getaway - and it's also a wonderful place to live. It is safe and quiet, and it feels like a small town despite its larger size. You'll love this little city in northeastern Arkansas. Plan a visit today and see for yourself.
