Date: February 29, 2024 | Photography: Rett Peek and courtesy of vendors |
Adventure awaits in Arkansas and beyond! Read on for destinations you’ll want to add to this season’s bucket list | A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
What better way to spend the season than enjoying all The Natural State has to offer? Visit Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa (mountainharborresort.com) for a stay on Arkansas’s largest lake, Lake Ouachita. Founded and family-owned since 1955, Mountain Harbor has served as the backdrop for generations of fun, from boating, swimming, and water sports and simply relaxing with an amazing view.
Of the five rentals that make up The Hangout Properties (hangoutpropertiesllc.com) near the Caddo River and Lake Greeson, four of them— Whitewater, Modern, Farmhouse, and Reserve—are perfect for multi-family gatherings and getaways for more than a dozen. Meanwhile, the Honeybee cabin is suited to a couples weekend. All are within easy distance of kayak and canoe outfitters, hiking locales, and so much more.
If you’re looking to explore a little farther from home, take a trip to Mississippi (visitmississippi.org/camping). The Magnolia State is one of the most densely forested states, with plenty of hiking trails winding through its numerous national and state parks. Even more surprising adventures abound, from the hidden waterfalls of Tishomingo State Park in North Mississippi to the untouched wilderness of Horn Island off the Gulf Coast.
The Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk at Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs offers exploration with a beautiful treetop view.
Take the Kiddos
In Hot Springs, Mid-America Science Museum (midamericamuseum.org) has been a learning resource for Arkansas children since opening in 1979. Its interactive exhibits explore the world of dinosaurs, the principles of motion, the physics of light, Arkansas fossils, and, of course, the popular Tesla coil. This summer, check out the museum’s weekly day camps for ages 6 to 12 years old, and Science Saturdays, which offer different—and free—science activities every weekend.
El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District (eldomad.com) is a must-visit for families. Check out the MAD Playscape, a two-acre, state-of-the-art playground with equipment suited for all ages. On a hot day, kids can cool off in the splash pad, and it’s all at no charge. Save the date for Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour on May 11, and check the MAD schedule for more summer fun, such as MAD Movie Mondays, a farmers market, and live music.
Riley Green plays April 27 at the Walmart AMP.
Listen to the Music
Get into the groove with concerts at the Walmart AMP (amptickets.com), Northwest Arkansas’s premiere outdoor venue. Located in Rogers, the AMP plays host to an unbeatable lineup spanning every genre and generation. For example, the summer schedule kicks off with rockers Greta Van Fleet on May 1 followed shortly after by ’90s country duo Brooks & Dunn on May 10. Hootie & The Blowfish, New Kids On The Block, and The Doobie Brothers each take the stage later in the season. Note that the venue is now a cashless facility and has policies regarding bags, blankets, and lawn chairs, so check the website to know before you go.
Photos by Dero Sanford courtesy of Mid-America Science Museum and courtesy of Walton Arts Center
