Experience the Best of Arkansas: A 7-Day Road Trip Through Natural Beauty, History & Adventure
Arkansas is an ideal destination for families looking for adventure, relaxation, and meaningful experiences in the great outdoors. This 7-day road trip itinerary is packed with activities that cater to all ages, making it perfect for parents traveling with kids, multi-generational trips, or families seeking quality time together in nature.
From digging for real diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park (a thrill for kids and adults alike!) to kayaking on the Buffalo National River, this trip ensures everyone stays engaged and entertained. Families can take in breathtaking waterfalls at Petit Jean State Park, explore interactive museums in Little Rock, and even relax in historic thermal baths in Hot Springs - offering a mix of education, exploration, and fun.
Arrive in Little Rock & Explore
Fly into Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT)
Top Things to Do in Little Rock
- Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic SiteA key landmark in Civil Rights history.
- Walk or bike the Big Dam BridgeThe longest pedestrian and cycling bridge in North America.
- Take a Riverwalk Stroll in the River Market DistrictGreat restaurants, live music, and a scenic setting.
- Dinner at The Root CafeA local favorite known for fresh, farm-to-table Southern dishes.
Overnight in Little Rock.
Hot Springs National Park - Relax & Explore
Drive from Little Rock to Hot Springs (1 hour)
Top Things to Do in Hot Springs
- Relax in the Thermal WatersVisit Buckstaff or Quapaw Bathhouse for a soak in the historic spa town.
- Walk Bathhouse RowSee beautiful 19th-century bathhouses and learn about the town's history.
- Drive to the Hot Springs Mountain TowerGet panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains.
- Hike the West Mountain or Sunset TrailShort, scenic trails with stunning forest views.
Overnight in Hot Springs.
Crater of Diamonds State Park - Dig for Gems!
Drive from Hot Springs to Murfreesboro (1.5 hours)
Top Things to Do
- Dig for Real Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State ParkOne of the only diamond-producing sites in the world where the public can search for gems.
- Kayak or Swim in Lake GreesonA beautiful spot to cool off.
- Grab a bite at Em's CafeA classic small-town diner.
Drive to Petit Jean State Park (2 hours) & Overnight.
Stay at Mather Lodge in Petit Jean State Park.
Petit Jean State Park - Stunning Waterfalls & Hikes
Arkansas's first state park is a must-visit for nature lovers!
Top Things to Do
- Hike to Cedar FallsA spectacular 95-foot waterfall, one of Arkansas' most famous sights.
- Explore the Seven Hollows TrailA scenic loop trail with unique rock formations.
- See the Petit Jean OverlookIncredible sunset views over the Arkansas River Valley.
Spend the night in Petit Jean State Park or nearby.
Mount Magazine - The Highest Point in Arkansas
Drive from Petit Jean to Mount Magazine (2 hours)
Top Things to Do
- Hike the Signal Hill TrailA short trail to the highest point in the state at 2,753 feet!
- Drive the Scenic BywayTake in stunning mountain views.
- Watch for Bald Eagles and Hang GlidersMount Magazine is known for both!
- Enjoy dinner at The Lodge at Mount MagazineA great place to relax with a view.
Overnight at Mount Magazine Lodge.
Buffalo National River - Kayaking & Caves
Drive from Mount Magazine to Buffalo National River (2.5 hours)
Top Things to Do
- Kayak or Canoe on the Buffalo RiverOne of the most scenic river floats in the U.S.!
- Explore Lost Valley Trail & Eden FallsA beautiful trail with waterfalls and caves.
- Watch for Elk in Boxley Valleythe best place to see wild elk in Arkansas!
Spend overnight in a riverside cabin near the Buffalo River.
Return to Little Rock & Depart
Drive back to Little Rock (2.5 hours)
Optional Stops Along the Way
- Visit the Arkansas Museum of Natural ResourcesA fun stop for history and fossils.
- Stop at Pinnacle Mountain State ParkA great last hike before heading home.
Fly home from Little Rock.
Ready to plan your Arkansas trip?
Dave will build a custom itinerary and find the best options for your budget and travel style.
Tell Me About Your TripHeader photo: Justin Meissen, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.