12 Fantastic Weekend Getaways from Arkansas to Neighboring States for the Perfect Escape

Looking for the perfect Arkansas getaway? Whether you’re in Little Rock or Fayetteville, the neighboring states offer a variety of wonderful weekend getaways that are just a short drive away. From bustling cities to charming small towns, here are twelve fantastic destinations to explore.

Discover Cultural Gems: Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee

Both Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee, make for rich, cultural weekend getaways. Memphis is the “Home of the Blues”Immerse yourself in the city’s deep musical roots. Stroll down Beale Street, visit the historic Sun Studio, and don’t miss the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. A pilgrimage to Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home, adds a historical edge to your visit. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel offers an in-depth look at the pivotal moments of the civil rights movement.

When it comes to dining, Memphis is a foodie’s paradise. While barbecue is a staple, the city also offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Stroll through historic neighborhoods or take a short drive to Collierville for unique dining and shopping experiences. Sports fans will enjoy a Memphis Grizzlies game at the FedEx Forum.

Nashvilleoften mentioned “Music City”is another fantastic destination. The honky-tonks of Broadway, the historic Ryman Auditorium, and the Grand Ole Opry are essential stops for any music lover. The Country Music Hall of Fame offers a deep dive into the city’s musical past.

In addition to music, Nashville has a vibrant food scene. Grab a hot chicken at Hattie B’s or indulge in Southern barbecue. Explore vibrant neighborhoods like East Nashville and The Gulch to find boutiques, art galleries, and street art. Family-friendly attractions like the Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center offer fun for all ages.

Distances:

Destination	From Little Rock	From Fayetteville
Memphis	137 miles	319 miles
Nashville	348 miles	529 miles

Urban Delights: Oklahoma City and Kansas City

Oklahoma City, or OKCcombines culture and family fun. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the quirky Factory Obscura offer great cultural experiences. For outdoor enthusiasts, the playgrounds, water features and paddle boats at Scissortail Park are perfect for a day out. The Myriad Botanical Gardens offer beautiful views and places to relax.

Discover OKC’s western heritage at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Stockyard City, complete with live cattle auctions. Bricktown’s entertainment district offers bars, shops and dining options galore. Don’t miss an OKC Thunder game during NBA season.

Kansas City Located on the Kansas-Missouri border, it offers a Midwestern charm paired with urban excitement. History buffs will love the National World War I Museum and Memorial, while art lovers can explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Jazz fans will enjoy the American Jazz Museum. And of course, don’t miss the city’s famous barbecue at Joe’s or Arthur Bryant’s.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Kansas City’s vibrant neighborhoods and parks offer endless opportunities to explore, from boating and fishing to wilderness hiking.

Distances:

Destination	From Little Rock	From Fayetteville
Oklahoma City	340 miles	237 miles
Kansas City	426 miles	240 miles

Charming small towns: laurel and broken arch

If you are looking for small town charm, Laurel, Mississippi And Broken Bow, Oklahoma are perfect choices. Laurel, made famous by HGTV’s “Hometown”offers a serene atmosphere filled with historic downtown buildings, quaint shops, and excellent local eateries. The Lauren Rogers Museum of Art showcases impressive collections of American and European art. For a relaxing day, stroll through the city’s parks or take a tour of the renovation sites of homes featured in the show.

Broken bow is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, nestled in the Ouachita National Forest. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, making it ideal for hiking, fishing, and water sports at Broken Bow Lake. Nearby Beavers Bend State Park offers additional horseback riding opportunities and scenic views of the Mountain Fork River. Cozy cabins in Broken Bow offer a romantic and secluded escape, perfect for couples and families alike.

Distances:

Destination	From Little Rock	From Fayetteville
Laurel	346 miles	534 miles
Broken bow	167 miles	181 miles

Historic Wonders: St. Louis and Huntsville

The Gate arch in St. LouisMissouri, is an iconic landmark that represents America’s westward expansion. Drive to the top for spectacular views. History buffs can visit the St. Louis Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum for fascinating exhibits.

Families will love the Saint Louis Science Center and The Magic House Children’s Museum. The St. Louis Zoo is one of the best in the country and admission is free. Don’t miss a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game or a St. Louis Blues hockey game. For foodies, feasting on the St. Louis-style pizza and fried ravioli is a must.

Huntsville, Alabamaknown as “Rocket City”beckons with its U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Space enthusiasts will enjoy interactive exhibits and historical space artifacts. The Huntsville Botanical Garden offers a serene escape with themed gardens, including a butterfly house and a Japanese garden.

Explore the historic Huntsville Depot or stroll through the Twickenham Historic District for a taste of local history. Outdoor activities abound at Monte Sano State Park, with hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Local breweries and diverse culinary options complete the Huntsville experience.

Distances:

Destination	From Little Rock	From Fayetteville
St. Louis	349 miles	365 miles
Huntsville	351 miles	533 miles

Vibrant City Trips: Dallas and Tulsa

For those who crave an escape from the big city, Dallas, Texas is the perfect destination. Known for its vibrant culture and history, Dallas offers diverse shopping experiences at iconic locations like Neiman Marcus and the Dallas Galleria. History buffs can explore the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza and the Dallas Heritage Village.

Dallas also has an impressive art scene at the Dallas Museum of Art, which houses a wide range of collections. Sports fans can catch a Dallas Cowboys or Dallas Mavericks game. Delicious dining options, from casual Tex-Mex to upscale steakhouses, await foodies.

Tulsa, Oklahomaknown as the “Oil capital of the world”offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions. The Philbrook Museum of Art, with its formal gardens, and the Gilcrease Museum’s collections of North American art and culture are must-visits. The Woody Guthrie Center offers a deep dive into American music history.

The Gathering Place, a scenic riverfront park, offers activities like kayaking and biking. Explore Cherry Street and the Tulsa Arts District for unique shops, galleries, and delicious dining options.

Distances:

Destination	From Little Rock	From Fayetteville
Valleys	319 miles	335 miles
Tulsa	274 miles	113 miles

With such a wide range of destinations to choose from, these weekend getaways from Arkansas offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for urban excitement, cultural heritage, or peaceful, natural surroundings.

Chief editor bee The Oracle CE

I am from Malvern, Arkansas and I am an Innovative Media major. My minor is Sociology. I went from being a stagehand to a college student. I love to travel, make music, and skateboard.

My goal is to become a foreign correspondent and I am currently learning Russian.

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