The 25 Best Small Towns to Visit in Arkansas: A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems in The Natural State
Arkansas offers a charming collection of small towns that capture the essence of Southern hospitality and natural beauty. These hidden gems provide visitors with unique experiences, from historic downtown squares to scenic mountain vistas.
These 25 carefully selected small towns represent the most enriching destinations across Arkansas, each offering distinct cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and local flavors that make them worth exploring.
From the Ozark Mountains to the Mississippi Delta, these communities showcase the diverse landscapes and traditions that define The Natural State.
Here are the 25 best towns to retire in Arkansas:
1. Eureka Springs
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs captivates visitors with its Victorian architecture and winding hillside streets. The entire downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The town’s natural springs attracted settlers in the 1800s who believed in their healing properties. Today, visitors can still see many of the historic spring sites throughout the city.
Christ of the Ozarks statue stands 67 feet tall and ranks among Arkansas’s most visited attractions. The town also features the Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural marvel built primarily of glass and wood.
Local artists populate the downtown area with galleries, boutiques, and craft shops. The 1886 Crescent Hotel, known as “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” offers both luxury accommodations and popular ghost tours.
The town’s narrow streets host frequent festivals, art walks, and music events throughout the year. Eureka Springs also serves as a popular wedding destination, with multiple historic chapels and venues.
2. Hot Springs
Hot Springs sits in the Ouachita Mountains, drawing visitors to its historic downtown and natural thermal springs. The city’s name comes from the 47 springs that emerge from Hot Springs Mountain at 143°F.
Hot Springs National Park, established in 1921, preserves both the natural springs and the grand bathhouses along Central Avenue. Eight historic bathhouses line “Bathhouse Row,” with the Fordyce Bathhouse now serving as a museum.
The city offers unique attractions beyond its springs. The Gangster Museum of America chronicles the town’s connection to notorious figures like Al Capone, while the Hot Springs Mountain Tower provides panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains.
Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, and boat tours on nearby Lake Hamilton. The downtown area features local shops, restaurants, and art galleries housed in preserved Victorian buildings.
Magic Springs Theme and Water Park provides family entertainment with roller coasters and water slides. The Arkansas Alligator Farm, established in 1902, displays native wildlife and offers educational programs.
3. Mountain View
Mountain View serves as Arkansas’s folk music capital, hosting regular performances at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. The town’s courthouse square comes alive with impromptu jam sessions where local musicians gather to play traditional instruments.
This charming town of 3,000 residents sits in the Ozark Mountains, offering scenic views and outdoor activities. Blanchard Springs Caverns draws visitors to explore its stunning limestone formations and underground streams.
The town preserves its cultural heritage through craft demonstrations at the Ozark Folk Center, where artisans showcase traditional skills like pottery, blacksmithing, and weaving.
Local shops around the courthouse square sell handmade crafts, musical instruments, and regional foods. The downtown area maintains its historic character with well-preserved buildings from the early 1900s.
Spring and fall bring festivals celebrating mountain music and crafts, drawing thousands of visitors to experience authentic Ozark culture.
4. Bentonville
Bentonville stands as a thriving cultural hub in Northwest Arkansas, home to the world-renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The museum features an extensive collection of American masterpieces spanning five centuries.
The town serves as the global headquarters of Walmart, founded by Sam Walton. The Walmart Museum, located in the historic downtown square, chronicles the company’s journey from a small five-and-dime store to a retail giant.
Bentonville’s downtown area features a vibrant food scene with numerous restaurants and cafes. The 8th Street Market, a community-focused food hub, showcases local vendors and culinary innovation.
Cycling enthusiasts flock to Bentonville for its extensive network of mountain biking trails. The Oz Trails system offers over 140 miles of paths through the Ozark countryside.
The Momentary, a contemporary art space housed in a former cheese factory, brings modern exhibitions and performances to the community. The venue regularly hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
5. Fayetteville
Fayetteville, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, stands as a vibrant college town with a population of approximately 95,000. The city serves as home to the University of Arkansas, with its iconic Old Main building anchoring the historic campus.
The Downtown Square features local boutiques, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Visitors can explore the Farmers’ Market on the square from April through November, offering fresh produce and handcrafted goods.
The renowned Dickson Street entertainment district pulses with live music venues, craft breweries, and eclectic eateries. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the 40-mile Razorback Regional Greenway trail system or explore Lake Fayetteville’s hiking paths.
The Clinton House Museum, the first home of Bill and Hillary Clinton, provides a glimpse into political history. The Arkansas Air and Military Museum showcases vintage aircraft and aviation artifacts in its distinctive wooden hangar.
6. Siloam Springs
Siloam Springs sits in the scenic Ozark foothills of northwest Arkansas, known for its historic downtown district and natural springs. The city’s namesake springs once attracted visitors seeking healing waters in the late 1800s.
The downtown area features well-preserved architecture from the early 1900s, with locally owned shops and restaurants lining Broadway Street. City Park offers access to Sager Creek, which winds through the heart of town.
John Brown University, a private Christian college founded in 1919, brings a vibrant academic atmosphere to this community of 17,000 residents. The campus architecture blends traditional red brick buildings with modern facilities.
The Siloam Springs Farmers Market operates from April through October, providing fresh local produce and handcrafted goods. Twin Springs Park preserves one of the original spring sites, offering walking paths and quiet spots for reflection.
Local events like the Dogwood Festival in April and Light Up Siloam in December bring the community together throughout the year.
7. El Dorado
El Dorado stands as a testament to Arkansas’s oil boom history, with its beautifully preserved 1920s architecture downtown. The city’s Union Square district features stunning Art Deco buildings and hosts regular community events.
The South Arkansas Arts Center provides cultural enrichment through art exhibitions, theater productions, and educational programs. The Murphy Arts District adds modern entertainment venues while preserving the town’s historic charm.
Visitors can explore the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources to learn about the region’s oil industry heritage. The museum features interactive exhibits and outdoor displays of vintage equipment.
El Dorado’s Main Street hosts seasonal festivals, including the MusicFest in October and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Local restaurants serve Southern cuisine, while boutique shops offer unique shopping experiences in historic buildings.
The town’s renovated Rialto Theater, built in 1929, remains a centerpiece of entertainment, screening films and hosting live performances in its restored Art Deco setting.
8. Hardy
Hardy sits along the Spring River in northern Arkansas, offering a charming blend of natural beauty and historic appeal. The town’s historic district features well-preserved buildings from the early 1900s.
Main Street maintains its vintage charm with antique shops, local restaurants, and boutiques housed in original structures. The town attracts collectors and history enthusiasts year-round.
The Spring River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Local outfitters offer equipment rentals and guided trips during peak seasons.
Music fans gather at the Har-Ber Village for live performances of folk and country music. The venue hosts regular events celebrating the region’s musical heritage.
Local bed and breakfasts occupy restored Victorian homes, giving visitors an authentic taste of early 20th-century Arkansas life. The Dr. Thompson House Museum showcases period furnishings and artifacts from Hardy’s past.
9. Batesville
Batesville stands as Arkansas’s second-oldest city, nestled along the White River in Independence County. The historic downtown district features well-preserved Victorian architecture and local shops housed in buildings dating back to the 1800s.
The city’s Main Street hosts several annual festivals, including the White River Water Carnival in September. Visitors can explore the Old Independence Regional Museum to learn about the area’s rich pioneer history.
Lyon College, a private liberal arts institution founded in 1872, adds a cultural dimension to this charming small town. The campus’s Scottish heritage is celebrated through unique traditions and events throughout the year.
The Batesville Community Center and Aquatics Park provides modern recreational facilities for both residents and tourists. Nearby Kennedy Park offers scenic walking trails and picnic spots along the White River.
Local restaurants serve classic Southern dishes, with several establishments specializing in catfish caught fresh from the White River. The town’s Pocket Park features live music performances during summer evenings.
10. Russellville
Nestled in the Arkansas River Valley, Russellville serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation at Lake Dardanelle State Park. The town’s population of around 30,000 creates a perfect balance between small-town charm and modern amenities.
Arkansas Tech University brings youthful energy to Russellville’s historic downtown, where local shops and restaurants line Main Street. The Russellville Depot, built in 1916, stands as a preserved reminder of the town’s railroad heritage.
Mount Nebo State Park, just 15 minutes from downtown, offers hiking trails and sweeping views of the river valley. Visitors can enjoy camping, mountain biking, and hang gliding at this scenic destination.
Downtown’s Art Walk features local artists and musicians on the first Friday of each month. The Russellville Aquatic Center provides year-round swimming and water activities for families.
Local festivals celebrate the region’s culture, including the annual Main Street Fall Festival and the Russellville Chili Cook-off. The town’s proximity to the Ozark National Forest makes it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
11. Conway
Conway sits just 30 miles north of Little Rock, combining small-town charm with the energy of a college town. Home to three colleges, including the University of Central Arkansas, the city maintains a youthful and vibrant atmosphere.
The downtown district features locally-owned shops, restaurants, and the historic Conway Theater. Visitors can explore unique boutiques and enjoy diverse dining options along Oak and Front Streets.
Toad Suck Park offers outdoor recreation along the Arkansas River, with camping facilities and scenic walking trails. The park hosts the annual Toad Suck Daze festival, attracting thousands of visitors each spring.
Art enthusiasts appreciate the Baum Gallery at UCA, which showcases rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The Conway Symphony Orchestra performs regular concerts at the Reynolds Performance Hall.
Lake Conway provides excellent fishing opportunities, spanning 6,700 acres with abundant bass and crappie. The surrounding area features picnic spots and boat launches for easy lake access.
12. Harrison
Harrison sits in the heart of the Ozarks, serving as a gateway to the Buffalo National River. The town’s historic downtown square features well-preserved architecture from the early 1900s.
The Lyric Theater, built in 1929, stands as a cultural centerpiece and hosts live performances throughout the year. Local shops and restaurants line the streets, offering authentic Arkansas cuisine and handcrafted goods.
Bear Creek Springs Park provides a peaceful retreat with walking trails and picnic areas. The Boone County Heritage Museum chronicles the region’s history through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Lake Harrison offers outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The town’s farmers market brings fresh local produce and artisanal products to residents and visitors every Saturday morning from spring through fall.
Tyler Bend Recreation Area, just outside Harrison, provides access to the Buffalo National River’s pristine waters and hiking trails.
13. Helena-West Helena
Helena-West Helena sits along the Mississippi River in eastern Arkansas, offering visitors a glimpse into Delta culture and Civil War history. The town emerged from the 2006 consolidation of Helena and West Helena.
The historic Cherry Street district features well-preserved Victorian architecture and local shops. The Delta Cultural Center showcases the region’s rich musical heritage and the history of blues music in the Arkansas Delta.
Civil War enthusiasts can explore Battery C Park and Freedom Park, which commemorate the 1863 Battle of Helena. These sites provide interpretive exhibits about this significant Civil War engagement.
The town hosts the annual King Biscuit Blues Festival each October, drawing thousands of music fans. This celebrated event features both legendary performers and emerging artists on multiple stages throughout downtown.
Visitors can stroll along the Mississippi River levee walking trail for scenic views of the mighty river. The trail connects to several historic markers and monuments that tell the story of river commerce.
14. Rogers
Rogers sits in Northwest Arkansas’s Benton County, blending small-town charm with modern amenities. The historic downtown district features preserved brick buildings from the early 1900s, housing unique shops and local restaurants.
The Rogers Historical Museum showcases the area’s rich heritage through interactive exhibits and restored historical structures. The Daisy Airgun Museum celebrates the town’s manufacturing legacy as the original home of Daisy BB guns.
Lake Atalanta Park offers outdoor recreation with hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas spread across 236 acres. The Railyard Bike Park attracts cycling enthusiasts with its professional-grade facilities and varied skill courses.
Rogers hosts several annual events, including the Frisco Festival, which celebrates the city’s railroad history. The Ozark Highlands Nature Center provides educational programs about local wildlife and conservation.
The city’s location near Interstate 49 makes it easily accessible while maintaining its small-town atmosphere. The Rogers Farmers Market connects local growers with residents, operating from spring through fall.
15. Jonesboro
Jonesboro stands as northeast Arkansas’s largest city, serving as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and retail. The city’s population of approximately 80,000 creates a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
Arkansas State University calls Jonesboro home, bringing vibrant cultural events and sporting activities to the community. The campus’s Fowler Center regularly hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions.
Craighead Forest Park offers 692 acres of outdoor recreation, featuring hiking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic areas. The park’s well-maintained facilities attract nature enthusiasts year-round.
Downtown Jonesboro showcases local history through its preserved architecture and Forum Theater. The area hosts regular community events, farmers markets, and festivals that celebrate the region’s heritage.
The Mall at Turtle Creek and numerous shopping centers provide retail therapy options, while local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine and international flavors.
16. Van Buren
Van Buren sits along the Arkansas River, just minutes from Fort Smith. This historic town boasts a beautifully preserved Main Street district with Victorian-era architecture dating back to the 1800s.
The King Opera House anchors the downtown area, hosting regular performances and cultural events in a stunning 19th-century venue. Local shops and restaurants occupy the restored storefronts along Main Street.
The Old Frisco Station serves as a railroad museum, showcasing Van Buren’s importance as a historic railway stop. Train enthusiasts can even take scenic rides on the Arkansas-Missouri Railroad.
The Crawford County Courthouse adds to the town’s historic charm with its distinctive clock tower and classic architecture. Visitors can explore multiple antique stores and boutiques while experiencing small-town hospitality.
Art galleries and local eateries provide plenty of options for entertainment and dining. The town’s annual festivals celebrate everything from local heritage to seasonal produce.
17. Texarkana
Texarkana straddles the Arkansas-Texas border, offering visitors a unique two-state experience. The city’s name combines Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana, reflecting its position near all three states.
The historic State Line Post Office and Federal Building sits directly on the state border, serving as both a functioning post office and a popular tourist photo spot. This landmark stands as the only federal building in the United States that spans two states.
Downtown Texarkana features the Perot Theatre, an ornate 1924 performing arts venue that hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year. The theater underwent extensive restoration to preserve its original architectural beauty.
The Museum of Regional History showcases artifacts from the Four States Area, including exhibits on Native American culture, railroads, and early settlement. Visitors can explore the evolution of this border town through interactive displays and historical collections.
Spring Lake Park provides a peaceful retreat with walking trails, picnic areas, and a small lake. The park hosts community events and offers recreational facilities for families.
18. Marianna
Located in Lee County, Marianna offers a glimpse into Arkansas’s rich agricultural heritage. The town sits in the heart of the Mississippi Delta region, where cotton and soybeans dominate the landscape.
The historic downtown district features well-preserved buildings from the early 1900s, including the Lee County Courthouse, which stands as a testament to classical revival architecture.
Bear Creek Lake, just outside town, draws outdoor enthusiasts for fishing and boating. The lake’s clear waters hold abundant bass, catfish, and crappie.
Mississippi River State Park lies nearby, providing opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot various bird species, including woodpeckers and waterfowl.
Local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine, with several establishments specializing in Delta-style barbecue and soul food. The annual Marianna Autumn Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural roots with food, music, and community activities.
19. Fort Smith
Fort Smith combines historical significance with modern attractions in a compact, visitor-friendly package. The city’s rich frontier heritage comes alive at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, where visitors can explore the original fort and courthouse.
Miss Laura’s Social Club, the first former bordello listed on the National Register of Historic Places, now serves as the city’s visitor center. The restored Victorian mansion offers guided tours that showcase local history.
The Fort Smith Museum of History houses artifacts spanning more than 150 years of regional development. Exhibits highlight the city’s role in western expansion and law enforcement on the frontier.
The Trolley Museum preserves vintage streetcars and offers rides along the waterfront. Belle Grove Historic District features well-preserved Victorian architecture with over 20 homes dating back to the late 1800s.
Downtown Fort Smith features murals created by international artists through The Unexpected art project. These striking works transform building facades into outdoor galleries.
20. Paragould
Paragould anchors the northeastern corner of Arkansas as Greene County’s vibrant seat. The town’s name uniquely combines the surnames of competing railroad executives J.W. Paramore and Jay Gould.
Historic Downtown Paragould features beautiful brick buildings from the early 1900s, housing local shops, restaurants, and the restored Collins Theatre. The Collins Theatre continues to host live performances and classic movie screenings.
The Labor Day Picnic draws thousands of visitors each September with carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment. This multi-day festival has been a cherished local tradition since 1887.
Crowley’s Ridge State Park sits just 8 miles west of town, offering hiking trails, fishing lakes, and rustic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
The Paragould Community Center provides year-round recreation with its indoor pool, basketball courts, and fitness facilities. Local parks like Reynolds Park and Labor Park offer additional outdoor activities for residents and visitors.
21. Camden
Camden sits along the Ouachita River in south Arkansas, offering visitors a blend of historic charm and natural beauty. The town played a significant role during World War II as the site of the Shumaker Naval Ammunition Depot.
The McCollum-Chidester House, built in 1847, serves as a museum showcasing period furnishings and local history. This preserved antebellum home demonstrates the architectural style common during Camden’s early days.
The Camden Downtown Historic District features well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants while admiring the historic architecture.
The Ouachita River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic walks along its banks. The nearby White Oak Lake State Park offers additional outdoor recreation options.
The town hosts the Camden Daffodil Festival each spring, celebrating the blooming flowers with arts, crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment.
22. DeWitt
DeWitt, located in Arkansas County, serves as a gateway to some of the state’s premier duck hunting grounds. The town of approximately 3,000 residents sits in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway.
The Grand Prairie Museum preserves the region’s rich agricultural heritage, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of rice farming and waterfowl hunting in the area.
During autumn and winter, DeWitt transforms into a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Hunters from across the country visit to experience world-class duck hunting in the surrounding flooded timber and rice fields.
The downtown area features historic buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine, with rice-based dishes reflecting the area’s agricultural roots.
Visitors can explore nearby Bayou Meto Wildlife Management Area, which spans over 33,000 acres and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and seasonal hunting.
23. Stuttgart
Stuttgart sits in the heart of Arkansas’s rice country and proudly holds the title of “Rice and Duck Capital of the World.” The town hosts the annual World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest each November, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe.
The Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie preserves the region’s agricultural heritage, showcasing antique farm equipment and exhibits about rice farming. Visitors can explore the town’s connection to waterfowl hunting and rice cultivation through interactive displays.
Mack’s Prairie Wings attracts outdoor enthusiasts as one of the largest waterfowl hunting outfitters in the United States. The store serves as a major destination for duck hunters preparing for their next adventure.
Stuttgart’s downtown area features historic buildings from the early 1900s, including the restored Riceland Hotel. Local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine, with rice dishes naturally taking center stage on many menus.
24. Hope
Located in Hempstead County, Hope gained fame as the birthplace of President Bill Clinton. The small town of 10,000 residents preserves its presidential connection at the Hope Visitor Center and Museum, housed in the restored train depot.
Hope celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Watermelon Festival each August. Local farms have produced record-breaking watermelons, with some specimens weighing over 200 pounds.
The historic downtown district features preserved buildings from the early 1900s, including the Hope City Hall. Local restaurants serve authentic Southern cuisine, while antique shops offer unique treasures.
Train enthusiasts can watch active rail lines from the downtown area, as Hope remains a functioning railroad town. The town’s restored Amtrak station provides passenger service along the Texas Eagle route.
The Paul W. Klipsch Museum honors the audio pioneer who founded Klipsch Audio Technologies in Hope. Visitors can learn about the history of speaker design and audio innovation.
25. Magnolia
Magnolia sits in southwest Arkansas’s Columbia County, where it serves as both the county seat and home to Southern Arkansas University. The city’s historic downtown square features charming local shops and restaurants centered around a classic courthouse.
Each May, the Magnolia Blossom Festival draws thousands of visitors with its world championship steak cook-off, craft vendors, and vibrant parade. The festival coincides with peak blooming season for the city’s namesake magnolia trees.
Southern Arkansas University adds youthful energy to this small town of roughly 11,000 residents. The campus provides cultural events, Division II sports, and the peaceful 60-acre Murphy Pond recreation area.
Lake Columbia lies just minutes away, offering fishing, boating and camping opportunities. The 3,000-acre lake has earned a reputation among anglers for its large bass and crappie populations.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
Arkansas’s small towns preserve rich cultural traditions and significant historical sites, from Civil War battlefields to pioneering museums that showcase Native American heritage and early American settlement.
Unique Museums and Landmarks
The Delta Cultural Center in Helena-West Helena spotlights the region’s blues heritage through interactive exhibits and live radio broadcasts. Visitors can explore artifacts from legendary musicians who shaped the Delta blues.
The Historic Washington State Park features more than 30 authentically restored structures from the 19th century. The park’s blacksmith shop still operates with period-accurate techniques and tools.
Mount Magazine State Park’s Visitor Center houses exhibits on Native American history and the area’s unique geological formations. The center showcases artifacts found during archaeological digs.
Historical Architecture and Buildings
The Victorian-era Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs stands as one of America’s most distinctive historic hotels, built in 1886. Its limestone walls and period furnishings transport visitors to the grand spa era.
The Queen Anne-style Clayton House in Fort Smith represents 19th-century architectural splendor. Its preserved rooms display original furniture and decorative arts from the 1880s.
Rogers’ downtown district features well-preserved commercial buildings from the early 1900s. The Victory Theater and the Lane Hotel showcase classic main street architecture with detailed brick facades and ornate cornices.
The 1872 Potts Inn Museum in Pottsville demonstrates traditional log cabin construction methods. Its hand-hewn timber frame and authentic period rooms illustrate pioneer life.
Natural Attractions
Arkansas’s small towns offer access to stunning natural wonders, from pristine hiking trails to protected wildlife habitats that showcase the state’s diverse ecosystems.
Scenic Parks and Trails
Mount Magazine State Park near Paris features Arkansas’s highest point at 2,753 feet, offering spectacular views of the Ozark Mountains. The park maintains 14 miles of hiking and biking trails for visitors of all skill levels.
Devil’s Den State Park in West Fork preserves unique rock formations and caves within its 2,500 acres. The park’s Yellow Rock Trail leads to dramatic overlooks of the Lee Creek Valley.
Mount Nebo State Park outside Dardanelle provides 14 miles of trails with sweeping views of the Arkansas River Valley. The Rim Trail circles the entire mountain, making it perfect for sunrise and sunset walks.
Wildlife and Conservation Areas
The Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge near Lockesburg protects 27,500 acres of bottomland hardwood forest. Visitors can spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and over 250 bird species throughout the year.
Lake Catherine State Park near Hot Springs harbors diverse wildlife along its shoreline trails. The park’s guided nature programs teach visitors about local flora and fauna.
The Tyler Bend area of Buffalo National River near Marshall serves as a prime location for elk viewing. The best times for wildlife observation are dawn and dusk during spring and fall seasons.
