 The perfect shoe to transition into spring, Pierre Dumas’ Alba, available at Embellish in Stuttgart, features a pleated leather upper with strategically placed cutouts. Even cuter? The diminutive zipper on the back. |
 In sweet navy-and-white-striped canvas, Gigi Favela’s chunky-heeled style offers touches of vintage glam and nautical influences. Find them at Solemates in Little Rock. |
 Spice up any spring dress with BCBGirl’s floral-print heels. The satin-covered shoe is adorned with painterly leaves and flowers, perfect for an afternoon wedding. Available at Warren’s Shoes in Little Rock, Rogers, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Texarkana and Paris. |
 There’s just the right amount of sparkle in Vaneli’s multi-colored snakeskin sling-backs, available at Solemates in Little Rock. The pleated leather is accented by touches of red patent for a little va-va-voom. |
Arkansas Wine Country
In the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, the towns of Altus, Ozark and Paris have become home to a lively group of local wineries, thanks to an ideal climate created by the mountains and river, as well as sandy, well-draining soil. Jacob Post and Johann Wiederkehr originally planted grapes here in 1880, and the two families remain vital forces in the winemaking industry today. Devote a weekend to tasting the best in Arkansas wine and stocking up your own cellar, as well as exploring the wonderful antiques shops that line the country roads and downtown squares.
Wineries
WineriesChateau aux Arc
8045 Champagne Dr., Hwy. 186, Altus, 479-468-4400, www.chateauauxarc.com
With no formal training in viticulture, Audrey House purchased 20 acres of land in 1998 and set her green thumb to work cultivating Arkansas’ first Chardonnay vineyard, originally planted in 1982, and exploring new grape varieties. She bottled her first wine in 2001, becoming the youngest vintner in the country. Today, the vineyard encompasses 50 acres with a wide array of grapes and a spectacular 5,400-square-foot tasting room.
Cowie Wine Cellars
101 N. Carbon City Rd., Paris, 479-963-3990, www.cowiewinecellars.com
Robert G. Cowie first began making wines in 1955 and opened Cowie Wine Cellars in 1967. Today, the cellars are open for tours and complimentary wine tastings are available. Shop for all the supplies any amateur vintner could need, or visit the Arkansas Historic Wine Museum onsite.
Mount Bethel Winery
5014 Mount Bethel, Altus, 479-468-2444, www.mountbethel.com
Owned and operated by descendants of the Post family, Eugene and Peggy Post, Mount Bethel Winery has been passed down for generations. Currently, they produce a variety of wines from Merlot and Cabernet to Muscadine and Blackberry and even port. Stop by for a tour and tasting.
Post Familie Vineyard and Winery
1700 St. Mary’s Mountain Rd., Altus, 800-275-8423, www.postfamilie.com
Founder Jacob Post sold his first bottles from his own cellar, and his grandson founded Post Winery at its present location after helping the state legislature legalize winegrowing after the repeal of Prohibition. Today, the fifth generation of the Post family continues creating wines, juices and jellies, with wine tastings, tours and a gift shop open to visitors.
Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
3324 Swiss Family Dr., Wiederkehr Village, 800-622-WINE, www.wiederkehrwines.com
When Johann Wiederkehr emigrated from Switzerland, he chose to settle in Altus because of its similarity to Europe’s winegrowing regions. The cellar he carved from the hillside still exists as the Weinkeller Restaurant, while his family uses the best new technology to continue to grow fantastic grapes and make great wines. Stop in for tours and tastings, and visit the Vintage 1880 Wine Shoppe to browse the selection of wines, as well as gourmet foods and wine accessories.
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Dining
CJ’s on the Square
1602 Franklin St., Altus, 479-468-0005
Open for dinner, this restaurant is known for great cuts of meat and made-from-scratch specialties, all served in a lovely location on the square.
Grapevine Restaurant
105 E. Walnut, Paris, 479-963-2413, www.thegrapevinerestaurant.com
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the family-owned Grapevine Restaurant serves great comfort food—everything from waffles and omelets to pasta, sandwiches and steaks, as well as homemade bread.
Kelts Pub
119 W. Main St., Altus, 479-468-2413
After a long day of wine tasting, what sounds better than a big, juicy burger or Reuben and a Guinness on tap in this cozy Irish pub?
Rivertowne BBQ
205 S. 3rd St., Ozark, 479-667-1808
You’ll enjoy the great barbecue and friendly service at this spot in Ozark, with large portions and plenty of sides.
Weinkeller Restaurant
3324 Swiss Family Dr., Wiederkehr Village, 800-622-WINE, www.wiederkehrwines.com
Located in the original wine cellar built by Johann Wiederkehr in 1880, the Weinkeller Restaurant serves Swiss and European specialties like delicious cheese fondue, pasta and schnitzel. Reservations are recommended, particularly for large groups and dinner.
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Last Look
Verna Cook Garvan dreamed of transforming her 210-acre property on Lake Hamilton into a world-class botanical garden, so in 1985 she donated her Hot Springs land under a trust agreement to the University of Arkansas School of Architecture. Upon her death in 1993, the department of landscape architecture began painstakingly documenting every plant species on the property and work began on the public garden’s infrastructure, with the garden opening in 2002 and the Anthony Chapel following in 2006.
Verna Cook Garvan dreamed of transforming her 210-acre property on Lake Hamilton into a world-class botanical garden, so in 1985 she donated her Hot Springs land under a trust agreement to the University of Arkansas School of Architecture. Upon her death in 1993, the department of landscape architecture began painstakingly documenting every plant species on the property and work began on the public garden’s infrastructure, with the garden opening in 2002 and the Anthony Chapel following in 2006. The Anthony Chapel was designed by Jennings + McKee Architects of Fayetteville in the style of E. Fay Jones’ Thorncrown Chapel in Eureka Springs. Massive pine columns support its 57-foot ceiling, while the soaring windows take in the view of gardens, which are resplendent in seasonal flora, from colorful foliage in the fall to daffodils and tulips in the spring.
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Locally Made Jewelry
Ozark National Forest
We may not get too many inches of snow each season, but a wintry Arkansas landscape is certainly a sight to behold. This stunning photograph was taken in the Ozark National Forest, which covers 1.2 million acres in the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas. Established in 1908 by president Theodore Roosevelt, it encompasses the tallest mountain in the state, Mount Magazine, as well as other natural wonders like Blanchard Springs Caverns and more than 500 special of trees and woody plants.
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Crowley’s Ridge Parkway National Scenic Byway
Rising as much as 200 feet above the alluvial plain of the delta, Crowley’s Ridge is a geographic anomaly, and was an immediate draw to the area’s earliest settlers, including Benjamin Crowley, for whom the ridge is named. The Crowley’s Ridge Parkway National Scenic Byway winds its way through this beautiful, hilly terrain, characterized by forests, farmland and historic buildings and battlefields. Home to four state parks, the parkway combines natural splendor with the shopping and dining possibilities of a number of towns, including Helena-West Helena, Forrest City, Jonesboro, Paragould and Piggott.
Helena-West Helena
Carriage Square
726 Columbia St., 870-338-8099, www.carriagesquare.net, www.magnoliahillbnb.com
Encompassing an entire block of Helena’s historic district, Carriage Square includes two historic buildings and an amazing garden. The Solomon House is the perfect spot for special events downstairs, while the upstairs is devoted to shopping for fine antiques. Around the corner, you’ll find the carefully restored Magnolia Hill Bed and Breakfast, with the beautiful Victorian Gardens connecting the two.
Cotton & Kudzu
413 Cherry St., 870-338-8339
In a spacious downtown storefront, Cotton & Kudzu houses 14 different merchants’ booths, offering everything from hand-smocked baby clothes and local art to cute storage options and bath and body products, as well as antiques. They even have a section devoted to Delta-made food and gifts.
Delta Cultural Center
141 Cherry St., 870-338-4350, www.deltaculturalcenter.com
Dedicated to preserving the history of the Arkansas delta through events, the Delta Cultural Center offers educational programs and exhibits on subjects as diverse as Helena’s music scene, the Civil War in the delta and the great floods of the Mississippi River. The Delta Sounds exhibit explores blues, gospel and rockabilly, and each day “Sunshine” Sonny Payne broadcasts King Biscuit Time, the longest running daily blues radio show in the United States, from a specially built radio studio inside. Don’t miss the gift shop, which is filled with great books and music.
Delta Gypsy Caravan
509 Cherry St., 870-816-6466
Gifts of every kind fill the cozily appointed and constantly changing Delta Gypsy Caravan. We love their huge selection of colorful purses and luggage, along with monogrammed gifts and housewares, barware, stationery and bath products from names like Elizabeth W. Locally made pottery is joined by chic serving pieces and crystal, creating a delightful mosaic of styles.
The Edwardian Inn
317 Biscoe, 870-338-9155, www.edwardianinn.com
Built in 1904, this 12-room inn was completely restored and opened as a bed and breakfast in 1983. Stellar hospitality in stunning historic surroundings is their specialty, as each room is beautifully appointed in antiques.
The Pillow-Thompson House
718 Perry St., 870-338-8535, www.pccua.edu/pillowthompson
Built in 1896 and designed by architect George Barber, the Pillow-Thompson house was donated to the Phillips Community College Foundation and went through an extensive restoration through a joint effort with the University of Arkansas in order to offer visitors a look at an unparalleled example of Queen Anne architecture. It’s open for tours Wednesday through Saturday and is available for event rentals as well.
River Road
115 Cherry St., 870-338-3003
Lunch and dinner are both a must at this elegant space, defined by its exposed brick walls and Helena-related memorabilia. Plate lunches are available daily, along with sandwiches and salads, with an extensive dinner menu and wine list in the evening.
Forrest City
Chez Weenie
624 E. Garland St., 870-633-8100, www.chez-weenie.com
With room after room of fun gifts and home décor inside a 100-year-old home, Chez Weenie has much to choose from, including James Hayes glass, holiday decorations, hand-made pottery, candles from The Thymes and Kobo, cookbooks and gourmet foods. During our visit, new additions were being made to their selection of handbags and wallets from Big Buddha and Hobo.
Mallards Grill
4478 Hwy. 70 W, 870-581-2545
Steaks are the specialty at this dinner spot, open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, but you’ll want to sample the burgers, salads and fish as well.
St. Francis County Museum
603 Front St., 870-261-1744, www.sfcmuseum.org
Located inside the Rush-Gates Home, the St. Francis County Museum preserves the rich history of eastern Arkansas. With exhibits on Crowley’s Ridge, agricultural history and Native American culture, the 7,000-square-foot home also contains historical photographs, fossils, documents and more.
Jonesboro
Camden & Co. Jewelers
2704 Alexander Dr., 870-932-6456, www.camdenandcompany.com
A great atmosphere starts at the door at Camden & Co., with its pink walls and leopard carpet. This vibrant setting can’t outshine the jewelry from names like Doris Panos, JB Star and Kwiat.
Enhancements
1903 Grant Ave., 870-972-8551, www.enhancementsboutique.com
You’ll be set from head to toe after just one visit to Enhancements, where you can browse apparel from Joseph Ribkoff and Karen Kane, jewelry and accessories, and cosmetics from Aveda, Borghese and Ahava.
J. Christopher Toys
2801 S. Caraway Rd., 870-933-8726, www.jchristophertoys.com
Filled with awesome toys for all ages, J. Christopher offers birthday and wish lists to make shopping even easier. From arts and crafts to cars and trucks to dolls and science labs, they have absolutely everything your kiddos crave.
Lower Deck & Cooking Now
1320 Stadium Blvd., 870-802-4040, 870-935-7171
Two great stores in one location offer the best for outfitting your home and kitchen in style. Home décor, china and silver are met with French Bull casual dishware, gourmet foods and coffees and top-notch cookware.
Pagan’s Jewelry
624 Southwest Dr., 870-932-6256, www.pagansjewelry.com
A trusted name since 1927, Pagan’s Jewelry offers beautiful diamonds from Hearts On Fire, custom-designed pieces, watches and much more, including luxurious gifts, all in an upscale setting.
Patty Cakes
2235 S. Caraway Rd., 870-932-3351
Dress your little ones in style with the latest looks from Patty Cakes, where they offer baby and children’s clothing in a number of exclusive lines.
Swank
3410 E. Johnson Ave., 870-336-1620
Cutting-edge style and pieces for every taste and budget, along with names like Bassett Furniture, are helping Swank stand out as the go-to furniture and accessories boutique.
Steamroller Blues
2614 E. Nettleton Ave., 870-935-9456
Stylish ladies of all ages will find just the thing at Steamroller Blues, whether it’s swimwear in the summer, adorable coats in the winter, or premium denim and chic shoes and accessories all year round.
Wenfield’s
600 Southwest Dr., 870-933-2019
Although you can find a wide variety of items at Wenfield’s, including crystal and china, beauty products by Caudalie and Niven Morgan, baby gifts and accessories, they’re all unified by their elegance and style and beautifully displayed in the store’s light and airy environment.
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Back Porch: The Old State House
The oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi, Arkansas’ Old State House is most recognizable as the setting of President Bill Clinton’s two election-night celebrations, and today it houses a multimedia museum of Arkansas history. A National Historic Landmark, the Greek Revival structure was commissioned by Territorial Governor John Pope and designed by architect Gideon Shryock. Although it wasn’t completed until 1842, the first general assembly was held there in 1836, and it remained the state capitol until 1911, enduring occupation by Union Troops, a famous knife fight and nearly constant repairs before the decision to build the new capitol was made.
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A Diamond A Day
Local Lookers
 Korto Momolu Little Rock-based Korto Momolu, who was born in Liberia, has been making a splash on television’s Project Runway this fall, and her sleek, polished designs are flying off the racks at Box Turtle. This silvery gray halter dress is embellished with animal-print details and a fun bubble skirt. |
 Jamileh Kamran Jamileh Kamran has been designing one-of-a-kind couture ensembles through her Little Rock studio for many years, even designing an inaugural ball gown for Hillary Clinton and opening her own school for budding fashion designers. This silk dress is embellished with the New York skyline around the hem for a stunning graphic effect and is paired with a swing jacket of silk and velvet. |
 Trisha Timmerman We hate to play favorites, but we couldn’t resist sharing At Home staffer Trisha Timmerman’s own line, called Vestito. Her cute dresses, tops and jackets have been the talk of the office, thanks to their clean lines and pretty fabrics. Check it out at Box Turtle! |
 Missy Lipps Designer Missy Lipps, whose work is also available at Box Turtle, deconstructs existing pieces of clothing and recycles them into new, fresh pieces, complete with appliqués and other embellishments. |
 Erin Lorenzen Designer Erin Lorenzen is committed to utilizing as much recycled material as possible, often re-working vintage dresses into completely unique creations, complete with patchwork and purposefully crooked seams. Available at Box Turtle. |
Back Porch: The Arlington Hotel
The architectural center of Hot Springs’ historic downtown, the Arlington Hotel has hosted politicians, entertainers, gangsters and grand balls since its inception in 1875. Now in its third structure, built in 1924, it features the original in-house bathhouse, distinctive twin towers and spacious verandas running the length of the building. Just outside the front doors lies all the natural beauty of Hot Springs National Park, which was made a federal reservation in 1832 by President Andrew Jackson to preserve the amazing natural springs, making it in essence the first national park, pre-dating Yellowstone by 40 years.
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