If you’re looking for learning adventures this season, Arkansas offers a cornucopia of educational opportunities that are both informative and fun! From geology and science to art, history, and nature, these destinations offer outside the classroom activities that turn your family outing into a hands-on learning experience. Here at Arkansas Frontier blog, we are on a constant mission, searching out new learning adventures in the Natural State. Let’s dive into some Arkansas adventures!
35 Excellent Arkansas Learning Adventures
Some of these 35 epic adventures are old favorites, and some are newer or less well-known. We also believe in a hearty well-rounded education that emphasizes not only traditional subjects but life skills and physical education. Whether you’re digging for diamonds or uncovering Civil War history, these 35 adventures will inspire young learners of all ages and create memories for the whole family. Let’s jump in!
1. Crater of Diamonds State Park
Location: Murfreesboro, AR
Head to Crater of Diamonds to search for your own real diamonds! The park’s 37.5-acre plowed field is the only diamond-bearing site in the world open to the public, making it an exciting spot for amateur geologists. Plus, you’ll get to keep any gemstones you find! Join interpretive programs that offer tips on spotting diamonds and explain the region’s unique volcanic geology.
2. Mid-America Science Museum
Location: Hot Springs, AR
An oldie but goodie, the Mid-America Science Museum offers over 100 interactive exhibits that bring science to life. From the Marvelous Motion Gallery to the Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk, kids and adults alike explore principles of physics, biology, and earth sciences. Don’t miss the museum’s live science demonstrations and workshops, such as Sciencetots which is a literacy and science workshop for children under six. They also offer summer camps and Sensory Days for small children. Programs dig deeper into topics like energy, magnetism, and even robotics!
3. Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
Location: Little Rock, AR
Immerse yourself in art at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, home to a vast collection of visual art, including drawings, contemporary crafts, and rotating exhibitions. The museum offers art classes for kids of all ages including events like Wearable Art for Teens and Creative Saturdays which are currently focusing on crafts celebrating Native American Heritage Month.
Families can also enjoy theater performances that introduce children to live storytelling. If you’re looking for a cultural experience that includes both learning and creativity, this museum has it all. They also host Bright Nights where adults can enjoy gourmet snack samples and an adult drink while perusing that gallery and listening to live jazz—date night with pizazz!
4. Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center
Location: Little Rock, AR
The Central Arkansas Nature Center, located on the banks of the Arkansas River in Downtown Little Rock, offers a range of engaging exhibits and prepared presentations focused on Arkansas wildlife, conservation, and outdoor activities. Explore the habitats of native animals, try your hand at fishing in a stocked pond, or participate in Wild Tales Storytime and Fish Feeding every Wednesday!
They also frequently host live animal presentations that allow kids to see organisms up close and learn about Arkansas’s natural ecosystems. It’s an awesome spot for field trips!
5. Ozark Folk Center State Park
Location: Mountain View, AR
Step back in time at the Ozark Folk Center, where traditional crafts like blacksmithing, pottery, and weaving are alive and well. Watch artisans work in the Craft Village and join hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at age-old skills.
Enjoy live folk music performances and storytelling that highlight the Ozark region’s cultural heritage. The on-site Heritage Herb Garden showcases native plants and explains their traditional medicinal uses. Unfortunately, this park is only fully open from April to October, but they continue to host special programs, festivals, and craft shows throughout the year.
6. Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
Location: North Little Rock, AR
Explore naval history aboard the USS Razorback submarine, a vessel that served in World War II and other conflicts at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. Tour the USS Hoga which was used at Pearl Harbour. You’ll learn about submarine technology, naval history, and the lives of submariners.
Knowledgeable guides add to the experience with fascinating insights about each unit and their role in history. Located on the AR Riverfront in Little Rock, this learning adventure can easily be paired with a trip to the Central Arkansas Nature Center!
7. Garvan Woodland Gardens
Location: Hot Springs, AR
Wander through 210 acres of beautifully landscaped botanical gardens, including the kid-friendly Evans Children’s Adventure Garden. Interactive exhibits, such as the koi pond and the treehouse, engage young nature lovers and teach them about plant life, ecology, and sustainability. It’s a beautiful spot for families to learn and explore together with the benefits of fresh air and dirty fingers.
For more adventures in the area, check out “Ultimate Guide to Downtown Hot Springs.”
8. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Location: Bentonville, AR
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is not only the most awarded art museum in the state, but it offers a variety of family-friendly programs and activities. The museum’s “For Families” section provides year-round activities suitable for all ages including guided, drop-in art classes in their studio!
Additionally, the Nature & Trails program features over five miles of trails winding through the museum’s 120-acre site, allowing guests to connect with the Ozark landscape and enjoy outdoor artwork.
The museum also collaborates with Klip Collective to present Time Loop, an immersive light and sound experience designed exclusively for Crystal Bridges.
9. Heifer Village and Urban Farm
Location: Little Rock, AR
Visit Heifer Village to explore exhibits that highlight global hunger solutions and sustainable farming. Heifer International is a multi-award-winning educational and fundraising organization that is helping battle world hunger.
Tour the Urban Farm to meet goats, chickens, and other farm animals while learning about sustainable agriculture. Seasonal workshops teach skills like gardening, composting, and food preservation, helping families connect with important environmental issues. It’s an eye-opening experience for young learners and a great way to introduce them to global challenges. In loo of visiting, they also offer Family Fun Packs and digital education for the classroom!
10. Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources
Location: Smackover, AR
Explore Arkansas’s oil and brine industry history at the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources. Tour the museum’s collection of vintage drilling equipment, artifacts, and replicas that showcase the technology of the past. Learn about the 1920s oil boom and tour a recreated old “boom town.” Outside, trails and picnic areas give families a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. They also offer weekly STEM classes in the summer.
11. Scott Family Amazeum
Location: Bentonville, AR
At the Scott Family Amazeum, kids dive into hands-on exhibits like the Hershey’s Lab, Tinkering Hub, and Nature Valley Water Amazements.
Their Early Learners program provides learning adventures for children aged 0-6, providing hands-on activities that foster curiosity and creativity.
For school-aged children, the Homeschool program offers specialized workshops and classes designed to complement homeschooling curricula.
Additionally, the Amazeum hosts Amazing Camps throughout the year, including summer camps, mini camps, and spring break camps, all focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) education.
12. Historic Arkansas Museum
Location: Little Rock, AR
For a dose of frontier learning, you obviously can’t beat the activities at Arkansas Frontier, but since we’re not open year-round, here is a great alternative. Historic Arkansas Museum offers a tour of historic buildings, galleries, and living history performances that depict early settler life.
Watch demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking, and other pioneer crafts. Hands-on activities, like candle-making, give kids a taste of what life was like in the 19th century. Exhibits also cover Native American history, adding depth to the historical narrative. You’ll even get to tour the oldest building in Little Rock!
13. Pinnacle Mountain State Park Learning Adventures
Location: Little Rock, AR
Pinnacle Mountain State Park has been drastically increasing their offerings lately with a fantastic new visitor’s center, coming Loblolly Outpost, and Monument Trails mountain biking paths.
Hike up Pinnacle Mountain for stunning views and explore the park’s interpretive center, which offers exhibits on the area’s ecology, geology, and native wildlife. Participate in guided hikes, bird-watching, and workshops on native plants and conservation. Pinnacle Mountain is also home to volunteer programs where families can help with conservation projects and learn about environmental stewardship.
14. Arkansas Railroad Museum
Location: Pine Bluff, AR
Step into the Arkansas Railroad Museum to explore historic locomotives, cabooses, and a collection of railroad memorabilia. Climb aboard the restored steam locomotive 819, and attend special events like the annual Railroadiana Show to learn more about the role of railroads in Arkansas’s development. It’s a fascinating stop for any family interested in history and engineering.
15. Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park
Location: Scott, AR
Discover the remains of an ancient Native American civilization at Plum Bayou. Take a guided tour of the mounds and learn about the Plum Bayou culture that inhabited the area over a thousand years ago. The visitor center features exhibits on Native American archeology and holds workshops for kids interested in learning more about archeology.
16. Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Educational Center
Location: Piggott, AR
Who knew Earnest Hemingway, a famous author, once made his home in Arkansas? Step into the world of Ernest Hemingway at the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum, where the famous author once wrote parts of A Farewell to Arms. Tour the family home and barn studio where Hemingway worked, and explore exhibits about his life and writing. Families interested in literature can join the Summer Writer’s Retreat crafted to inspire young authors and introduce them to creative writing.
17. Historic Washington State Park
Location: Washington, AR
Discover the heritage of early Arkansas at Historic Washington State Park, which preserves more than 30 historic buildings from the 19th century. Families can join guided tours of sites like the 1836 Courthouse and Blacksmith Shop, where demonstrations bring history to life. Special events like Civil War reenactments and craft workshops as you follow in the footsteps of Sam Houston and Davy Crockett!
18. Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center
Location: Jonesboro, AR
Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center offers hands-on exhibits, live animal presentations, and a 300-gallon aquarium that showcases native species. Learn about the unique geology and ecology of Crowley’s Ridge, a rare landform in eastern Arkansas. The center also hosts workshops on topics like bird-watching, wildlife tracking, and conservation, and features a Habitats Trail where you can see Arkansas wildlife up close!
19. Arkansas Outdoor School at the 4-H Center
Location: Little Rock, AR
The Arkansas Outdoor School offers archery classes where students learn proper safety rules, firing techniques, and range commands. These classes are designed to teach success and improve self-esteem through sport. The center also offers customizable learning adventures with lessons in canoeing, Arkansas wildlife, fishing, rock climbing, and nature photography!
20. Northwest Arkansas Writing Project (NWAWP)
Location: University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Okay, so we don’t compose letters much anymore, but the art of writing is still a valid part of a well-rounded education. NWAWP offers Young Writers Camps during the summer, designed for students in second through 11th grade. These camps provide a creative environment where young students can learn to communicate better through writing with engaging activities and workshops. In addition to hosting summer camps, they offer frequent literary events and a daily text and audio poem!
21. Lake Dardanelle State Park
Location: Russellville, AR
Set along Lake Dardanelle, this lovely state park provides interpretive programs that teach about aquatic ecosystems, fishing, and birding. Kids can try their hand at fishing with loaner rods or join educational programs covering topics like water conservation and wildlife identification. The park’s aquariums and exhibits give families a close-up look at native fish species, while the trails allow for wildlife spotting in a beautiful setting.
22. Plantation Agriculture Museum State Park
Location: Scott, AR
Explore Arkansas’s agricultural history at the Plantation Agriculture Museum, where you can learn about cotton farming and early farming technology. The museum’s cotton gin and gristmill demonstrations reveal how crops were processed historically, and families can participate in hands-on activities like corn shelling. They provide unique learning adventures to understand the state’s agricultural roots and gain insight into rural life.
23. iCode Little Rock
Location: Little Rock
iCode Little Rock offers instructor-led, hands-on STEM classes and camps utilizing gamified learning techniques to keep students engaged. Their curriculum evolves with technology, ensuring students receive a best-in-class education. The classroom environment includes the latest hardware such as gaming computers, 3D printers, robotics, and drones. They offer weekly after-school BELT program classes.
24. Blanchard Springs Caverns
Location: Fifty-Six, AR
Explore the fascinating underground world of Blanchard Springs Caverns. The guided tours take you through stunning limestone formations, stalactites, and crystal-clear pools. You’ll learn about geology, the history of the caverns, and the delicate ecosystems within. Families interested in earth science and natural history will find this an eye-opening experience.
Find your next thrill on our list of “10 Cool Caverns in Arkansas for an Educational Adventure!”
25. Delta Rivers Nature Center
Location: Pine Bluff, AR
At Gov. Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center, families explore the unique Delta ecosystem through interactive exhibits, live animal displays, and nature trails. The center offers programs that cover topics like Delta wildlife, wetland ecology, and conservation practices. It’s a great place for kids to observe alligators, fish, and birds native to the area and learn about the importance of wetland habitats.
26. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch Climbing
Location: Jasper, AR
When it comes to learning adventures, it doesn’t get more fun that rock-climbing! Horseshoe Canyon Ranch offers guided rock-climbing lessons in the heart of the Ozarks, perfect for families wanting an introduction to climbing in a stunning natural setting. Learn the basics of belaying, knot-tying, and climbing safety, as well as techniques for tackling different types of rock faces.
With instruction for all skill levels, kids and parents alike gain confidence and physical skills while challenging themselves on scenic cliff walls. For a full day of outdoor fun, the ranch also offers the Via Ferrata ropes course and zip lining!
27. Terra Studios Pottery Classes
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Unleash your creativity at Terra Studios, an artsy wonderland filled with colorful sculptures, whimsical art installations, and a chance to learn pottery.
Sign up for pottery-making workshops that walk you through clay-shaping, throwing on the wheel, and decorating techniques. Instructors guide you through each step as you create one-of-a-kind pieces to take home. After class, explore Terra’s enchanting outdoor sculpture garden, a creative space designed to inspire artists of all ages.
28. Young Chefs Academy
Location: Rogers, AR
Young Chefs Academy offers weekly culinary classes for kids, helping them gain knowledge and important skills in the kitchen. They emphasize etiquette and table manners, safe food handling, presentation, and kitchen safety. Their programs include the MasterChef Program and the KinderCooks® Program, catering to different age groups. The best part is that your kiddos will be dying for you to try their created food, and you get to sit back and let them feed you for a change!
29. Mountain Harbor Learning Adventures
Location: Mount Ida, AR
For families interested in outdoor adventures, Mountain Harbor offers beginner-friendly lessons in horseback riding, scuba diving, and quartz mining. All activities are located on a fabulous resort on Lake Ouachita, so you can end your day by pampering your sore muscles in the spa!
30. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History’s Crafts Workshops
Location: Springdale, AR
Explore traditional Ozark crafts at the Shiloh Museum, where families can learn heritage skills like basket weaving, quilting, and candle-making. Each of these learning adventures is led by local artisans who share historical techniques and stories about the region’s crafting traditions.
Participants are guided through each step of creating items by hand, giving kids and adults a sense of connection to the past. Take your finished pieces home as a reminder of your visit and the timeless skills you’ve learned. They have a full calendar of fun and educational events year-round!
31. Arkansas Craft School Learning Adventures
Location: Mountain View, AR
The Arkansas Craft School offers weekly classes for children ages throughout the week. These $14 sessions introduce kids to different craft projects like glass bead making, stained glass, songwriting, blacksmithing, and pottery, helping them build creativity and confidence. They also offer some after-school classes. Each class includes a snack and provides a fun, hands-on environment for kids to explore new skills.
32. Paper & Thread Studio Sewing Classes
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Paper & Thread offers after-school sewing and crafting classes for children, focusing on creativity and skill-building. The programs cater to all skill levels, helping kids develop fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities through hands-on projects. The studio also hosts summer craft programs and Saturday classes.
33. Arkansas Builders and Contractors Youth Workshops
Location: Various locales in Central Arkansas
The Arkansas Builders and Contractors Association hosts several workshops throughout the spring, summer, and fall focusing on children of all age groups. Past courses have included welding, a tour of the RIGGS Cat factory, framing, masonry & concrete, and carpentry. If you’ve got a kiddo who loves to work with their hands, this is one of the best Arkansas learning adventures for you.
34. War Eagle Mill Culinary Adventures
Location: Rogers, AR
Step into the past and learn Southern cooking skills at War Eagle Mill, where you’ll learn to bake traditional dishes like cornbread, biscuits, and cobblers using stone-ground flour from the mill itself. These hands-on classes dive into the heritage of Southern cooking, offering techniques and recipes that are fun and accessible for all ages.
Families then enjoy the delicious results of their efforts and explore the historic water-powered mill, making it both a culinary and historical experience.
35. Sultana Disaster Museum
Location: Marion, AR
The Sultana Disaster Museum offers an engaging educational experience for children, focusing on the 1865 Sultana steamboat disaster—the deadliest maritime tragedy in U.S. history. Through interactive exhibits, personal testimonials, and a 14-foot replica of the Sultana, young visitors explore the historical significance of this tragic event and its impact on Arkansas history.
Get out there and experience these Arkansas learning adventures!
Okay friends, there you have it, 35 updated educational opportunities in Arkansas. I hope you found something that you love on this epic list of Arkansas learning adventures. For more fun activities in the Natural State, check out our Arkansas Frontier Blog. We post a new article every Tuesday focusing on educational, family-friendly adventures that you can enjoy in Arkansas!
Until next time…get out there and explore the Natural State!