Discover Arkansas – The Perfect Arts and Culture Getaway

If there is one thing Arkansans are best known for, it’s their devotion and love of arts and culture, perfectly fusing its historical past with modern-day creative practices.  

Whether you’re keen to explore its architectural gems, such as the Thorncrown Chapel in the forest, or take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of the state’s natural hot springs, there’s a cultural venue or exhibit here for everyone. If you’re looking for a creative vacation away with your friends and family, join us as we reveal the highlights of Arkansas’s best arts and cultural destinations. 

Eureka Springs, Arkansas 

Kickstarting our tour of Arkansas’ best arts and culture-themed attractions finds us heading to the picturesque city of Eureka Springs. Rich in a diverse array of vibrant architecture, the historic downtown area is home to funky shops and art galleries and even includes a vintage train and tram ride experience.  

However, our first port of call is an architectural masterpiece nestled in a woodland sanctuary in the heart of the Ozarks. Free to enter, Thorncrown Chapel is a fantastic structure made from a wooden lattice design, perched on top of over 100 tons of native stone and colored flagstone. The views of Thorncrown Chapel are as awe-inspiring from the outside as it is from within, and its organic design genuinely looks like it was created by Mother Nature herself. 

Our second must-see location in Eureka Springs takes street art to a whole new level – literally. Created as a joint collaboration with a master muralist and the Eureka Springs High School Art Club, the connecting stairway between Center Street and North Main has become a visual work of art, aptly named the ‘Rainbow Stairs.’ A photography hotspot, particularly for weddings, the mural depicts a colorful rainbow tree rising in front of a cascading waterfall that descends the staircase. 

Stroll around the colorful streets of this popular city in the Ozark Mountains and get a delightful night’s sleep each night at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. 

Hot Springs, Arkansas 

Next on our shortlist of top arts and culture destinations in Arkansas finds us heading to the city of Hot Springs on the fringes of the Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs National Park. Known for its Native American history and the rumored therapeutic properties of its natural hot springs, Hot Springs is also a cultural hotbed of music and film.  

Hot Springs excels in hosting festivals and is home to a range of specialist music galas and venues that hold concerts throughout the year. Yet, perhaps Hot Springs is best known for presenting one of the oldest documentary film festivals in the United States. Typically held every October, the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival has become a highly respected platform for nonfiction storytelling, promoting engagement and broadening an audience’s perspective. 

Another top Hot Springs attraction to visit when you’re in town has to be the Quapaw Baths & Spa, named after the Native American tribe that lived on the land. Embracing the region’s healing qualities, the Quapaw Baths & Spa is ideal for a replenishing soak in the natural spring water before enjoying a steam cave session and a soothing massage.  The Buckstaff Baths also offers a relaxing and tranquil experience for those looking to soothe their worries.

Enjoy this marvelous city’s unique attractions and wellness-inspired qualities before getting a cozy night’s sleep at the Best Western Winners Circle in Hot Springs, Arkansas. 

Little Rock, Arkansas 

Our final stop on our tour of Arkansas’s best arts and culture getaway attractions sees us heading to the state capital of Little Rock. Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, Little Rock has a wealth of history behind it and a distinct focus on its cultural heritage and, in particular, its popular River Market District. 

Despite Little Rock being home to several art galleries and historic museums, our first recommended institution is the impressive Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. The museum has an inspiring collection of visual, performing arts, and educational-focused experiences and has over 14,000 display pieces in its permanent collection. Originally created by the Fine Arts Club over 100 years ago, the museum is a testament to Arkansas arts and culture over the years. 

For those looking for an interesting insight into the life and times of a 20th-century American woman, our following recommendation is ideal, as Little Rock is also home to the ESSE Purse Museum. Seen as a visual display of the evolving trends of handbags and accessories, this incredible museum is packed full of nostalgia. Continuing to set the trends for future handbags and contents, the ESSE Purse Museum also has a remarkable shop selling unusual handbags, quirky jewelry, and scarves to take home with you. 

Explore the sights and sounds of the Natural State’s biggest city and ensure you get a restful night’s sleep every night by booking your stay at the Best Western Plus JFK Inn and Suites in North Little Rock, Arkansas.