Date:  February 28, 2025  |   Art Direction: Illustrations by Bailey Dougan  |  

Get ahead of those summer bucket lists with ideas around Arkansas—including recommendations from the state’s travel maven herself, Sarah Heer (aka @ArkieTravels)

MEET SARAH HEER
Sarah Heer is the award-winning founder and chief creator of Arkie Travels (@arkietravels), an Instagram account and travel blog showcasing all there is to love about The Natural State.

HOMETOWN
Bryant

HOME BASE
Benton

FAVORITE APP
tikTok

FOLLOWERS
330,000+ Across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube

ROAD TRIP PLAYLIST
WHATEVER STATION WILL COME IN WHEN I’M OFF THE BEATEN PATH!

Follow Sarah at Instagram.com/arkietravels

If you have little ones keen to learn about concepts such as geology, electricity, and outer space, head to Mid-America Science Museum (midamericamuseum.org) in Hot Springs. “This museum should be at the top of everyone’s Arkansas bucket list!” Sarah says. “I remember taking field trips here as a kid, and I love seeing the evolution of the experience alongside some of the more nostalgic activities. Summer is the perfect time to go see the outdoor activities, like the Skywalk, and be on the lookout for prehistoric creatures in the DinoTrek.”

With 14 libraries across Little Rock and beyond, Central Arkansas Library System (cals.org) is the area’s go-to for bookworms young and old. Escape the heat with a trip to your local branch to curl up with a beloved bestseller and check their online calendar for ongoing special events, such as cooking classes, book clubs, toddler storytime, and so much more. “I’m a huge fan of books in all shapes, sizes, and categories, both fiction and nonfiction,” Sarah says. “My mom passed her love of books on to me, and we still enjoy sharing titles with each other. My favorite thing about the Main Library in the River Market (which will reopen later this year) is that they have soundproof office spaces, which are perfect for podcast recording.”

Located outside Eureka Springs, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (turpentinecreek.org) has provided sanctuary for rescued big cats (and other wildlife!) for three decades. The 459-acre facility is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, meaning you can trust that the animals in its care are treated ethically and with the highest standards. “Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge holds such a special place in my heart because I’m a cat lady, but also because their rescue efforts have helped over 500 animals,” Sarah says. “And if you’re into cats like I am, you can even stay on property in one of their Safari Suites, Tree Houses, or Glamping Tents—or sign up for a private Carnivore Caravan Tour.”

Music lovers, mark your calendars now for upcoming concerts at the Walmart AMP (amptickets.com) in Rogers. Fans of country stars Thomas Rhett (playing the AMP on June 5), Luke Bryan (June 19), and Jason Aldean (July 18) should look into booking accommodations now to make a weekend of exploring everything the region has to offer. Also keep an eye on the AMP’s sister venue, Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, for special events, which are Sarah’s favorites. “From show-themed cocktail classes, to local artist gallery showings, to Winter Nights in December with giant snow globes, there’s fun for all ages. It’s well worth the trip if you’re not local to Northwest Arkansas,” she says.

One of Sarah’s favorites is the state’s own Wine Country in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley. “Head to Altus for the day to enjoy free or low-cost tastings at beautiful wineries, and take a stroll through the grapes for an Insta-worthy photo,” she says. Check out Mount Bethel Winery, Post Winery, or Wiederkehr Wine Cellars, then head to another one of Sarah’s must-trys: Alligator Rays, a New Orleans-themed restaurant with real Louisiana roots. “This Cajun-inspired hidden gem will have your tastebuds singing! My favorites are the Oysters Orleans and the Mardi Gras Seafood Pasta,” she says.

Get your hands dirty and you might just get lucky at Crater of Diamonds State Park (arkansasstateparks.com), one of the country’s few diamond-bearing sites accessible to the public. “Have I ever found a diamond at Crater of Diamonds State Park? No, but I keep going back!” Sarah laughs. “I hear the best time to find one is right after a rain, and you can spot them just sitting on top of the dirt.” She also recommends checking out the trail on the backside of the park. “You can even bring your tent or RV and camp there.”

Crowley’s Ridge is a geological formation rising from the flat, low landscape of Northeast Arkansas, and Crowley’s Ridge State Park (arkansasstateparks.com), located in Paragould, is a perfect jumping off point to explore this unique part of the state. Sarah recommends seeking out the swinging bridge on Dancing Rabbit Trail, taking a pedal boat safari ($12 per ticket), and enjoying the swimming beach. “There are also several trails that offer a look at the ecology of Crowley’s Ridge, including a peaceful boardwalk around the lake,” she says. “And if you happen to catch it when the historic pump is on, you’ll see a beautiful waterfall down the hillside.”

Looking for an adventure off the beaten path? Sarah recommends chasing Waterfalls in Johnson County. “Just head to Clarksville and put ‘waterfall’ in your map app. You’re going to love what pops up!” she says. “There are hikes for every ability, and some waterfalls are even visible from the road.” A few of her favorites include Wanderlust Falls, Haw Creek Falls, and High Bank Twin Falls. While in the area, Sarah says not to miss Oark General Store, an Arkansas treasure and the state’s oldest general store. “They’re known for their burgers, and the pie is divine.” Click here to view Johnson County’s official waterfall guide.

5 MORE TO EXPLORE

Hoots BBQ
McGehee | 870.222.1234
See why everyone in the Delta and beyond is talking about the barbecue nachos at this roadside restaurant

Hope Watermelon Fest
Hope | hopewatermelonfest.com
In August, join in on a Hempstead County tradition that’s been going strong for almost five decades

Spudnut Shoppe
El Dorado | 870.863.9914
Get your hands on a South Arkansas delicacy: doughnuts made from potato flour

Historic Washington State Park
Washington | arkansasstateparks.com
Learn about the cultural and architectural history of this pioneer town in Southwest Arkansas

Johnny Cash Boyhood Home
Dyess | dyesscash.astate.edu
Pay homage to the legendary Man in Black while learning how the region shaped the musician’s life

Illustrations by Bailey Dougan, Photo by Lucy Baehr and courtesy of Sarah Heer