Surrounding States Of Arkansas

Surrounding States Of Arkansas

If you are looking for a place to explore the beauty of nature, immerse yourself in the local culture, and indulge in different cuisines, then you should consider visiting the surrounding states of Arkansas. These states have a lot to offer, from historical landmarks to adventure sports, from breathtaking mountains to stunning beaches. In this travel guide, we will cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

The surrounding states of Arkansas have a plethora of attractions that you shouldn’t miss. One of the most famous attractions is the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, which offers a stunning view of the city. You can also visit the Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the largest cave system in the world. In Texas, you can explore the Alamo, a historic site that played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution. In Oklahoma, you can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which showcases the history of the American West.

Hidden Gems

Aside from the top attractions, the surrounding states of Arkansas also have hidden gems waiting to be discovered. One of them is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri, where you can learn about the famous writer’s life. In Kentucky, you can visit the Cumberland Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the South,” which offers a spectacular view of the waterfall. In Louisiana, you can explore the Oak Alley Plantation, a historic estate that dates back to the 18th century. In Tennessee, you can visit the Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in the United States.

Food Scene

The surrounding states of Arkansas offer a diverse food scene that will satisfy your cravings. In Missouri, you can try the famous St. Louis-style pizza, which has a thin crust and is topped with Provel cheese. In Kentucky, you can indulge in the Kentucky Hot Brown, an open-faced sandwich with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. In Texas, you can taste the authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines Mexican and Texan flavors. In Oklahoma, you can try the chicken fried steak, a Southern specialty that is breaded and fried.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of things to see and do in the surrounding states of Arkansas. You can visit the free attractions, such as the St. Louis Zoo in Missouri, the National Corvette Museum in Kentucky, the Fort Worth Stockyards in Texas, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum in Oklahoma. You can also take advantage of the happy hour deals in the restaurants and bars, or explore the local markets and street food stalls.

Outdoor Adventures

The surrounding states of Arkansas are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In Missouri, you can go hiking in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, or explore the Mark Twain National Forest. In Kentucky, you can go horseback riding in the Mammoth Cave National Park, or kayaking in the Red River Gorge. In Texas, you can go camping in the Big Bend National Park, or hiking in the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. In Oklahoma, you can go fishing in the Lake Texoma, or rock climbing in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you are traveling with your family, there are plenty of activities that your kids will enjoy. In Missouri, you can visit the City Museum in St. Louis, which is a playground made of recycled materials. In Kentucky, you can go to the Kentucky Science Center in Louisville, which offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. In Texas, you can visit the Space Center Houston, which showcases the history of space exploration. In Oklahoma, you can go to the Tulsa Zoo, which houses over 400 species of animals.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you want to explore the lesser-known destinations, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences in the surrounding states of Arkansas. In Missouri, you can visit the Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which features a castle-like ruin and a natural bridge. In Kentucky, you can explore the abandoned ghost town of Dawson Springs, or visit the National Quilt Museum in Paducah. In Texas, you can go to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, where you can see mysterious lights in the sky. In Oklahoma, you can visit the Holy City of the Wichitas, a religious attraction that depicts the life of Jesus.

Natural Wonders

The surrounding states of Arkansas are blessed with natural wonders that will leave you in awe. In Missouri, you can visit the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, which features natural water slides and pools. In Kentucky, you can go to the Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which has a sandstone arch that spans 78 feet. In Texas, you can explore the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, which features a massive pink granite dome. In Oklahoma, you can visit the Turner Falls Park, which has a 77-foot waterfall and natural swimming pools.

Vibrant Nightlife

The surrounding states of Arkansas offer a vibrant nightlife scene that will keep you entertained until the early hours. In Missouri, you can go to the Power & Light District in Kansas City, which has a variety of bars and clubs. In Kentucky, you can visit the Bardstown Road in Louisville, which has a lively atmosphere and live music. In Texas, you can go to the Sixth Street in Austin, which is known for its live music and street performers. In Oklahoma, you can visit the Bricktown Entertainment District in Oklahoma City, which has a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Local Markets

If you want to experience the local culture, you should visit the local markets in the surrounding states of Arkansas. In Missouri, you can go to the City Market in Kansas City, which has a variety of fresh produce and artisanal products. In Kentucky, you can visit the Louisville Farmers Market, which offers a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. In Texas, you can go to the Houston Farmers Market, which has a variety of international cuisines. In Oklahoma, you can visit the Tulsa Farmers Market, which offers a variety of local products and crafts.

Cultural Immersion

The surrounding states of Arkansas offer a rich cultural heritage that you can immerse yourself in. In Missouri, you can visit the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, which showcases the history of the state. In Kentucky, you can go to the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, which celebrates the life of the famous boxer. In Texas, you can visit the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which features four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions. In Oklahoma, you can go to the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, which has a collection of American and European art.

Art and Music Scene

The surrounding states of Arkansas offer a vibrant art and music scene that you shouldn’t miss. In Missouri, you can visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, which has a collection of more than 35,000 pieces of art. In Kentucky, you can go to the Kentucky Opera in Louisville, which features world-class performances. In Texas, you can visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, which has a collection of more than 70,000 works of art. In Oklahoma, you can go to the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, which celebrates the life and legacy of the famous folk singer.

Walking Tours

If you want to explore the cities on foot, there are plenty of walking tours in the surrounding states of Arkansas. In Missouri, you can go on the Gateway Arch Riverfront Walking Tour in St. Louis, which takes you along the Mississippi River. In Kentucky, you can go on the Louisville Downtown Walking Tour, which takes you to the historic landmarks of the city. In Texas, you can go on the San Antonio River Walk Walking Tour, which takes you along the scenic river. In Oklahoma, you can go on the Bricktown Walking Tour in Oklahoma City, which takes you to the popular attractions of the district.

Architectural Marvels

The surrounding states of Arkansas have a variety of architectural marvels that will leave you amazed. In Missouri, you can visit the Union Station in St. Louis, which is a historic train station that has been restored to its former glory. In Kentucky, you can visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House in Lexington, which is a restored 19th-century house. In Texas, you can visit the Spanish Governor’s Palace in San Antonio, which is a restored 18th-century Spanish residence. In Oklahoma, you can visit the Philcade Building in Tulsa, which is a historic art deco building.

Historical Sites

The surrounding states of Arkansas have a rich history that you can explore by visiting the historical sites. In Missouri, you can visit the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, which was the site of a Civil War battle. In Kentucky, you can go to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, which features a replica of the cabin where the former president was born. In Texas, you can visit the Fort Worth Stock