7 romantic getaways in Arkansas

Whatever type of couple you are, you will surely find something that tickles your fancy in Arkansas. For couples who love to embrace the outdoors, you can hike, bike, and walk to caves and trails in the Ozark and Ouachita mountain ranges. Aqua fanatics can flock to the many crystal lakes and rivers for boating, fishing, and water sports. Nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful parks and botanical gardens, and culture and art aficionados will adore the world-class museums, galleries and festivals. Ready to get loved up in The Natural State? Here are some of the romantic getaways in Arkansas.

7 romantic getaways in Arkansas

1. Hot Springs

Hot Springs National Park is where people come to rest and recuperate. An array of springs supply naturally heated water for thermal baths. With historic bathhouses and beautiful boutique inns, Hot Springs is a charming destination for loved-up couples who want to enjoy wonderful wellness experiences. When you are finished splashing around, you can visit Tiny Town to see the model trains, take a walk in the breathtaking Woodland Gardens are breathtaking, and then explore the wax museum.

2. Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is tucked away in the Ozark Mountains. This is the only town in the country with its entire downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Strolling around, you’ll see a mix of Queen Anne and Second Empire styling as well as Romanesque and Italianate architecture. If you like to get out into nature, you can also go horseback riding, canoeing on the White River, ziplining, and fishing.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA - July 5, 2021: Historic downtown Eureka Springs, AR, with boutique shops and famous buildings.

3. El Dorado

El Dorado has a rich history as an oil “boom-town” of the 1920s. Today, the restored downtown is filled with beautifully renovated 1930s-style buildings and many historic buildings on the National Register, including the 1928 Union County Courthouse. You’ll find lots of shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues in the historic heart of the town. El Dorado is also home to the stunning South Arkansas Arboretum, which has exotic species of flowering plants and plants native to the Arkansas West Coastal Plain.

4. Little Rock

The capital of Arkansas has lots of big-city amenities with a hometown feel. One of the best ways to explore all that Little has to offer is to take a historic streetcar trolley to the River Market District, where you’ll find lots of food, entertainment, and nightlife. Then, head to the Creative Corridor to explore the galleries and art studios for a day. Next, head to North Little Rock’s historic Argenta District for a beautiful walk. Up the romance factor by booking a table at the Brave New Restaurant, voted as one of the most romantic eateries in Central Arkansas.

romantic getaways in Arkansas

5. Ozark

Surrounded by mountains, rivers, forests and lakes, Ozark is one of the most picturesque towns in Arkansas. Charming shops fill the town square selling everything from antiques to gifts and other local arts and crafts. If you love street art, keep an eye out for murals that add a wonderful splash of colour and culture to the town and showcase local artists. You can enjoy great fishing opportunities and other water-based leisure activities on the Arkansas River and Lake Ozark.

romantic getaways in Arkansas

6. Beaver Lake

A dam across the White River formed the man-made reservoir of Beaver Lake. It is located in the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas. With 487 miles of sparkling shoreline, it is one of the most romantic getaways in Arkansas. This beautifully clear water lake is a popular recreation destination for camping, fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, paddling, and picnicking.

romantic getaways in Arkansas

7. Bentonville

Bentonville is a modern town with a rich history. It has a small-town feel and an eclectic community. As a result, the place has a cool, hip, artsy vibe and a laid-back atmosphere. Mountain bikers and hikers will love hitting the tracks and trails in the hills of the Ozark Mountains. Culture lovers should check out the incredible Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

Bentonville, AR—April 11, 2019; old red and white ford truck that belonged to Sam Walton parked in front of first Walmart store which now serves as a corporate museum near the Arkansas headquarters

Melanie May

Melanie is an intrepid solo traveller, endlessly curious about people, places and food. She is a fan of slow travel and loves exploring the world by mouth, discovering a culture through its food. Having backpacked her way around the world she turned her wanderlust into a career and is now a full-time travel writer.

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