19 Magical Winter Activities in Arkansas You Can’t Miss

Winter in Arkansas offers a wealth of enchanting activities that combine the state’s natural beauty with unique seasonal experiences. Whether you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, explore the great outdoors, or simply enjoy a cozy retreat, there’s no shortage of magical winter activities in Arkansas. Below, we dive into some of the most fascinating things to do during the winter season in The Natural State.

Experience the festivities of the Arkansas holiday

Nothing captures the magic of winter in Arkansas quite like the array of holiday lights and festive events. One notable location is Garvan Woodland GardensKnown for its dazzling light displays, every corner of the state offers its own unique twist on Christmas decorations, creating a visual treat wherever you go. Batesville, celebrated as the Christmas Capital of Arkansas, is particularly notable for its dazzling lights and festive atmosphere.

If you’d like to add a personal touch to your holiday traditions, consider: cut down a Christmas tree yourself. Several Christmas tree farms across the state invite families to select and cut their own trees, making for a memorable outing. Additionally, the small town of Des Arc hosts the largest Christmas Warehouse Sale in the South, known as Christmas in the warehouseThe event features an extensive collection of Christmas decorations, so you can find everything you need to decorate your home.

Holiday fairs play a major role in Arkansas’ winter charm. Typically starting in November, these fairs offer a great opportunity to soak up the holiday spirit while checking off items on your gift list. Meanwhile, for those looking to end their holiday season with a scenic adventure, the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad offers special trains, such as the Children’s Christmas Train and the Holiday Express Train, which provide a magical family experience.

Outdoor winter adventures

Arkansas’ mild winters are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. One activity you should definitely try is hiking, which offers a different kind of beauty when the foliage is sparse and the views become clearer. Some great places to go are winter hikes to bluffs and lookouts. If the temperatures drop low enough, seeing a frozen waterfall adds an extra layer of awe.

For a special wildlife experience, visit Magness Lake near Heber Springs and see the trumpeter swans that make Arkansas their southernmost winter home. Another birding highlight is searching for bald eagles. These majestic birds migrate from the north and add a regal touch to Arkansas’ winter landscape, with several state parks offering eagle-watching tours.

For those who prefer activities with a touch of adventure and culture, it is a good idea to look for diamonds in the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Winter is an ideal time for this activity, as the cooler weather makes digging more comfortable. You can use your own tools or rent equipment at the park, and whatever you find, you keep!

Cozy indoor experiences

While there are plenty of outdoor activities, sometimes the best winter experience is staying warm indoors. Arkansas is home to several fascinating museums that cater to a variety of interests. In Little Rock, the Clinton Presidential Library and the Esse Handbag Museum offer enriching visits. If you are in Northwest Arkansas, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary offer impressive collections that you can explore at your leisure.

Another wonderful winter activity is bathing in the warm thermal waters of Hot Springs. Buckstaff Bathhouse And Quapaw Bathhouse in Hot Springs National Park still offer the traditional spa experience, allowing you to soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters. For an exceptional retreat, consider staying in a cozy cabin with a fireplace in the Ozark MountainsImagine sitting by the fire and looking out over the serene winter landscape – the perfect getaway.

Theater lovers will find Arkansas’ winter season filled with excellent performances. In Little Rock, the repertory theater is known as The Rep and the Robinson Center Music Hall, which hosts Broadway shows, offer top-notch entertainment. Also in Northwest Arkansas are Theater Squared and the Walton Arts Center, both of which offer a variety of engaging productions.

Unique Winter Events in Arkansas

The state of Arkansas also hosts several unique winter events that are worth putting on your calendar. Attending a Razorback basketball game at Bud Walton Arena is an exciting experience, even for those who aren’t die-hard sports fans. The electric atmosphere and enthusiastic crowd make for a memorable outing.

Embrace the romance of the season each February by sending a love letter from Romance, Arkansas. The city’s post office specially handstamps each letter sent, making it a cherished keepsake. For music lovers, the Ozark Mountain Music Festival in Eureka Springs offers a four-day celebration of folk, bluegrass and Americana, with performances on intimate indoor stages.

If you’re in the mood for a little retro fun, consider going ice skating at Lawrence Square in Bentonville. Open from late November through early February, this 7,000-foot outdoor rink transforms the plaza from a summer splash pool into an icy playground.

Finally, nothing says winter like sampling hearty, iconic Arkansas food. The colder months offer a great opportunity to visit famous local eateries and sample regional delicacies. This gastronomic tour adds an extra layer of flavor to your Arkansas winter adventures.

These captivating activities make winter in Arkansas full of wonder and joy. Embrace the season with these unique experiences and create lasting memories in The Natural State.