It’s impossible not to love fall in Arkansas. After the summer heat dissipates, we’re rewarded with pleasant weather and a changing of the leaves that’s not to be missed. Fall is one of our favorite times of year to get out and explore the great destinations Arkansas has to offer. Here are 5 of our favorite things to do around the Natural State.
1. Talimena Scenic Byway – There’s nothing like hitting the open road just to enjoy the scenery. This 54-mile drive stretches between Mena, Arkansas and Talihina, Oklahoma. You’ll pass through the Ouachita National Forest, going up Rich Mountain, and then through Queen Wilhelmina State Park before hitting the Oklahoma border. When the trees are showing off their gorgeous fall foliage, the views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways just can’t be beat!
2. Food Truck Festival – Who wouldn’t travel for food? Luckily for me, downtown Little Rock is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the farm. I look forward to the Main Street Food Truck Festival every year. I love to see what dishes these talented chefs have created to showcase the beautiful ingredients grown and raised by local farmers.
3. Crystal Bridges Museum – Crystal Bridges will make my list any time of year! It’s such an inspiring place, celebrating American art and culture. This fall, the Chihuly exhibit is being presented in the Ozark woods. Even if you’ve seen Dave Chihuly’s work before, experiencing it in this beautiful setting is something else!
4. Hiking at Petit Jean – The real joy of fall is the cool, crisp air and colorful leaves, and I think the season is best experienced on foot. Petit Jean State Park offers trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Take in the sweeping vistas from one of the many overlooks in the park. And, if you can handle the hike, you won’t want to miss the breathtaking Cedar Falls.
5. Music in Mountain View – Spend one day in Mountain View and you’ll understand why it’s often called the Bluegrass Capital of the World. You’ll hear sweet gospel music or lightning-fast bluegrass licks almost any day of the week, as long as the weather’s nice. The music scene may be a draw for out of town visitors, but locals have been gathering around music in the courthouse square for decades.
To explore other travel destinations in Arkansas, visit www.arkansas.com.
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