When people think of places to visit in the U.S, popular states like California, New York, or Florida typically come to their minds. However there is a lesser-visited state that is full of hidden gems – Arkansas! This state is actually nicknamed “the Natural State” due to its abundance of forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys. Not only does Arkansas have beautiful nature, but also historical sites and magnificent architecture. Find out the most beautiful places in Arkansas!
1. Whitaker Point (or Hawksbill Crag)
Co Rd 5, Kingston, AR 72742
Tucked in the Ozark National Forest, Whitaker Point is a short 1.5 mile hike that leads to an incredibly rewarding view! The overlook offers a scenic view of lush mountains, and tops the list as one of the most beautiful places in Arkansas. I recommend either visiting at sunrise or sunset and bringing a picnic to enjoy the view. Check out my guide on hiking Whitaker Point and find out everything to expect.
2. Glory Hole Falls
Ozone, AR 72854
Also located within the Ozark National Forest, Glory Hole Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls I’ve ever visited! You can park on the side of the road, and there’s a sign for the trailhead. This 1.8 mile trail is well marked, and it is all downhill to the waterfall (which unfortunately means it’s uphill on the way out). To get down to the actual waterfall, you’ll need to climb down a steeper path, but it is very doable. Visit after rainfall, and you’ll find the waterfall gushing.
3. Triple Falls (or Twin Falls)
Camp Orr Rd, Harrison, AR 72601
Depending on when you visit, you could see either two or three waterfalls – – hence the two names! I was fortunate to visit after a rainy week and got to see Triple Falls! This waterfall is located within Camp Orr, a Boys Scout Camp, but anyone is welcome to visit. Drive down a winding road and you’ll find the start of the trail to the waterfall. The trail is incredibly easy and very short (0.3 miles).
4. Kings River Falls Natural Area
1543 Madison 3500, Witter, AR 72776
Kings River Falls Trail features cascading waterfalls at the end of the trail! This natural area is also a refreshing swimming hole on a sunny day. The trail is incredibly scenic, and you’ll find beautiful viewpoints along the river on the way to the waterfall – definitely an Arkansas gem!
5. Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel
504 Memorial Dr, Bella Vista, AR 72714
Tucked away in the woods in Northwest Arkansas, the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is a stunning sight to see! It is open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM for the public unless there’s special services scheduled such as weddings, vow renewals, etc.
6. Tanyard Creek Nature Trail
Nature Trail Ln, Bella Vista, AR 72715
Located a mile away from the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail is a very popular scenic walk that features a beautiful waterfall and a suspension bridge. It is a 2 mile circuit, and there’s plenty of spots for swimming, fishing, and nature photography. I recommend visiting on the weekday if possible as the parking lot could get filled up as this is a heavily trafficked trail.
7. St. Catherine’s at Bell Gable
2140 N Stone Chapel Ln, Fayetteville, AR 72704
When I first came across this chapel online, I couldn’t believe my eyes! This chapel is a piece of Europe found just minutes away from downtown Fayetteville. The chapel is open for the public to visit on most Sundays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, but check their Facebook page for other open house schedules. What a beautiful place in Arkansas!
8. War Eagle Mill
11045 War Eagle Rd, Rogers, AR 72756
Check out this historical mill while you’re in Northwest Arkansas! It is a fully operational mill selling flour, cornmeal, pancake and biscuit mixes, preserves, and more! There’s also a restaurant on the premise that serves dishes made from War Eagle Mill products!
9. Blue Springs Heritage Center
1537 Co Rd 210, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
This attraction near Eureka Springs features crystal blue waters in a botanic garden setting. I think this is a beautiful spot, but the admission price is quite hefty ($13.75/adult) with very little to do.
10. Thorncrown Chapel
The Thorncrown Chapel is an award winning, architectural wonder that contains 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass. Critics have called Thorncrown Chapel “one of the finest religious spaces of modern times.” Over 7 million people have visited since the chapel opened in 1980. It is free to visit and there’s plenty of parking available.
11. Downtown Eureka Springs
5-19 Spring St, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Downtown Eureka Springs is full of quirky shops, cafes, restaurants, and it is a popular tourist attraction in Arkansas. It’s fun to walk around the winding streets, shop, and eat your way through this historic district. One of my favorite buildings here is the Flatiron Flat as pictured!
12. Garvan Woodland Gardens
550 Arkridge Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913
Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical garden featuring several speciality gardens, a treehouse, and scenic overlooks. It is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, so be sure to visit Hot Springs National Park while you’re in the area. It is a great way to spend an afternoon. Admission is $15/adult.
13. Anthony Chapel
550 Arkridge Rd, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913
Located on the grounds of the Garvan Woodland Gardens, the beautifully designed Anthony Chapel is one of my favorite places in Arkansas. The interior is absolutely breathtaking. It’s easy to see why this is a popular wedding venue! This chapel is free to visit, but check their website to see if there are any scheduled events prior to visiting.
14. Bathhouse Row
369 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Located in the heart of downtown Hot Springs, Bathhouse Row is a historic collection of bathhouses featuring beautiful Spanish revival architecture. Stroll along Central Ave and admire the unique design and decor of each of the eight buildings.
15. The Old Mill
3800 Lakeshore Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72116
Lastly on the list of the most beautiful places in Arkansas is a picturesque mill located in the capital city. If you’ve seen Gone with the Wind, then you might recognize this iconic mill from the opening scenes. This popular spot is a photographer’s favorite in Little Rock, and it is easy to see why! It is also free to visit.
Map of the Most Beautiful Places in Arkansas
