So, you’re planning a girls’ trip in Arkansas? You’ve made a fantastic choice! Forget the crowded coasts and overpriced cities. Arkansas is your getaway that has it all. We’re talking natural springs, world-class art, river adventures, and towns so charming you’ll want to stay forever.
Arkansas offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture you just can’t find anywhere else. Here is your guide to the very best spots for an amazing getaway.
Hot Springs: For Spa & Total Relaxation
If your dream trip involves pajamas all day and serious pampering, Hot Springs is your place. This city is built around naturally steaming thermal waters, and history is everywhere on famous Bathhouse Row.
You can book a traditional bath experience or, for a more modern take, soak in the beautiful mineral pools at Quapaw Baths & Spa. For the full historic experience, book a room at The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa. You can literally take the elevator downstairs in your robe for a massage!
But relaxation in Hot Springs has a fun side, too. You can explore the hiking trails right in Hot Springs National Park and then grab lunch and a craft beer at the Superior Bathhouse Brewery. It’s the only brewery inside a U.S. national park! This blend of rest and mild adventure makes it a perfect, rejuvenating start to any girls’ trip in Arkansas.
Eureka Springs: For Quirky Charm & Mountain Beauty
Is your group all about unique vibes and stunning photos? Then you will fall in love with Eureka Springs. This town is a maze of winding streets, Victorian houses, and steep staircases carved right into the Ozark Mountains. You can spend a whole day getting lost in the eclectic downtown, browsing cute boutiques and art galleries.
For an adrenaline rush, book a ziplining tour above the treetops or rent a pontoon boat on the crystal-clear Beaver Lake. Your stay should be at the historic Crescent Hotel. It’s elegantly spooky and offers amazing views. Don’t miss a visit to the breathtaking Thorncrown Chapel, a glass chapel hidden in the woods that feels utterly peaceful.
Bentonville: For Art, Culture & Trendy Bites
For a more sophisticated and modern getaway, Bentonville is a surprising powerhouse. This is where world-class culture meets small-town charm.
The must-see is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The museum itself is a stunning architectural wonder, and the art collection is incredible. Best of all, general admission is totally free! You can spend hours wandering the galleries and the beautiful outdoor trails.
Afterward, explore the downtown square for trendy coffee shops and fantastic restaurants. The town is also very bike-friendly, so renting a fleet of cruisers is a great way to get around. Bentonville proves that a girls’ trip in Arkansas can be as culturally rich as it is relaxing.
Buffalo National River: For Outdoor Adventure
If your crew lives for hiking boots and scenic views, the Buffalo National River is your paradise. This is the place to disconnect and immerse yourselves in the raw beauty of the Ozarks. Rent a cozy cabin together near the river for the ultimate group bonding.
Your main mission should be hiking to Hawksbill Crag, also called Whitaker Point. This iconic rock outcrop provides one of the most famous and beautiful photo backdrops in the state.
During warmer months, you must spend a day on the water. Rent kayaks or canoes and float down the serene, emerald-green river.
Little Rock: For an Easy Urban Getaway
Want the energy of a city without the hassle? Little Rock delivers a fantastic urban experience that’s easy to navigate. Start in the lively River Market District, where you can find great food, shops, and often live music. It’s a perfect spot for a group dinner or just wandering.
For a dose of history and a stunning photo op, visit the Old Mill in North Little Rock. It’s a picturesque, historic grist mill that looks like it’s from a fairy tale. Little Rock gives you the convenience of city amenities with a relaxed, Southern pace that’s ideal for a low-stress getaway with friends.
Mountain View: For Folk Music & Simple Joys
For a truly unique and charming twist, head to Mountain View. This town is the heart and soul of traditional folk music in the Ozarks. The music is literally everywhere. You can hear it drifting from porches on the town square, especially on weekends when local musicians gather for impromptu jam sessions.
Visit the Ozark Folk Center State Park to see live demonstrations of crafts and enjoy nightly concerts. The vibe here is rustic, authentic, and wonderfully slow. It’s about listening to good music, trying a new craft, and enjoying the simple pleasure of each other’s company in a beautiful setting.
Final Thoughts
No matter what your group loves, Arkansas has a perfect spot waiting for you. Each destination offers its own special kind of magic to make your time together unforgettable. So gather your best friends, start planning, and get ready to make incredible memories on your girls’ trip in Arkansas.