If your idea of romance is soaking your senses in thermal baths, sipping the best wine, savoring art at museums, lying underneath the vast expense of the star-laden sky, or indulging in adrenaline-pumping activities like rafting or mountain biking, an escapade to Arkansas is what you need. The romantic getaways in Arkansas satiate the needs of every type of couple.
Whether seeking a relaxed weekend amidst natural beauty or wanting to channel the adventure junkie in you, Arkansas has everything for everyone.
The beautiful state tucked in the south-central region of the United States of America, Arkansas, is a treat for one and all.
From natural splendor to man-made wonders, this state will give you a taste of everything. Every region of Arkansas has a distinct experience to serve on your platter.
So, whether you wish to celebrate a special occasion or just want to break the monotony of your life, head out to this landlocked state and marvel at its beauty.
Table of Contents
The Best Romantic Getaways in Arkansas
We have compiled a list of the best romantic getaways in Arkansas to help you find an ideal escapade. So, take a look:
Hot Springs
What could be more romantic than being submerged in thermal baths with the love of your life?
Enjoy a steaming weekend escapade at Hot Springs in the Ouachita Mountains. The natural underground thermal springs wash away the worries of life and help you relax your senses.
If the idea of romantic getaways in Arkansas with hot tubs rings with you, plan a visit to the Hot Springs National Park.
Located in central Garland County in Arkansas, a stone’s throw away from Hot Springs, the Hot Spring National Park houses Bathhouse Row with an array of offerings, including hydrotherapy, massages, sauna, and spa services.
Book a stay at any exotic hotel and resort to coat your weekend getaway in luxury.
Apart from thermal springs, Hot Springs has many other delights to offer, such as Garvan Woodland Gardens, Anthony Chapel, Magic Springs Theme and Water Park, Hot Springs Mountain Tower, and more.
Bentonville
Bentonville is the perfect spot for art lovers, adventure lovers, and entertainment seekers. Circled by the spectacular Ozark Mountains, this place has a rich culture and history.
The historic downtown district is home to many fancy boutiques and restaurants. Activities and events like First Friday celebrations, Farmer’s Market, etc., take place in the downtown district.
Bentonville is the birthplace of Walmart, and hence, a visit to this town is incomplete without a visit to the Walmart Museum.
Apart from it, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art provides a perfect dose of art and architecture.
If you are looking for adventure, you will find many mountain trails, from the dirt trails of Coler Park to the Razorback Greenway for hiking and running.
Bentonville never disappoints adventure lovers. In fact, it is called the “Mountain Biking Capital of the World”.
Fort Smith
If the bygone always fascinates you, a weekend trip to the historic town of Fort Smith will satiate your hunger to assimilate the forgotten world.
Perched at the hummocks of the Ozark Mountain along the Arkansas River, the beautiful town brims with a rich history.
Take a stroll in the streets and admire old buildings. Plan a visit to the Fort Smith National Historic Site to acquaint yourself with the city’s past.
After spending a day learning about the bygone era, rekindle fun and romance by participating in fun music and art events at the Fort Smith Riverfront Park.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville is amongst the most exotic romantic getaways in Arkansas. This historic college town offers everything to the visitors, from a buzzing nightlife to a quaint escapade.
Encircled by the Boston and Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville offers a perfect place to enjoy adventure activities like mountain biking and hiking.
The paved biking trails that traverse the city make up for a scenic route to explore the city on bikes.
Plan an exciting game date at the University of Arkansas. Cheer for Arkansas Razorbacks at football or basketball game with your significant half.
Visit the Botanical Garden of the Ozark to get up close and personal with the flora of the city.
Explore the themed gardens and the butterfly house. Participate in the weekly garden yoga session and channel your physical, mental, and spiritual energies.
Furthermore, Fayetteville is a mecca for food lovers. You will find many fancy and affordable restaurants serving a very delectable menu in the Historic Downtown Square.
The live music venues in the city provide a perfect spot to hang out after dinner and enjoy music and drinks.
Eureka Springs
Romantic getaways in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, are all about unwinding in nature, visiting the bygone era, dining in modern restaurants, shopping at fancy boutiques, and enjoying local events.
No matter which month in the calendar you drop by, you will always find plenty of things to do in Eureka Springs.
Also known as the “Little Switzerland of the Ozarks”, “Stairstep Town”, and “The Magic City”, Eureka Springs is a remarkable district.
Owing to its geographical location, the streets and pathways wind up and down. Beautiful Victorian-style cottages and manors sit on both sides of the steep winding roads.
The entire town has a Victorian vibe that attracts tourists from across the globe.
If you wish to get a taste of the outdoors, plan a visit to Beaver Lake with your beloved. A man-made lake, it is one of the most romantic getaways in Arkansas.
The shoreline stretches to hundreds of miles, creating the most scenic view. Let your hair down at the beach or participate in recreational water sports.
Book yourself a traditional lakeside accommodation to get the best taste of this place. However, if affordable honeymoon getaways in Arkansas is your idea of fun, camping at the lakeside is an ideal option for you.
Other than Lake Beaver, Lake Leatherwood also serves some of the most picturesque views and a 15 miles long hiking trail.
Cultural indulgence
Furthermore, Eureka Springs is a celebration of art and culture. If you visit this place in the month of May, you will witness art in its full glory, celebrated at the May Festival of the Arts.
Food and wine lovers would love to be a part of the Eureka Springs Food and Wine Festival. The Eureka Gras Mardi Gras Extravaganza, King’s Day, Diversity Weekends, UFO conferences, auto shows, etc., are the events celebrated with great zeal.
Petit Jean State Park
Another amazing romantic getaway in Arkansas is Petit Jean State Park. Located in Conway County, on top of the Petit Jean Mountain near the Arkansas River, the Petit Jean State Park has some of the most breathtaking views.
Wallow in adventure and nature with outdoor adventure activities like hiking and climbing. Enjoy the views of the 95-foot waterfall or indulge in fishing or pedal boating at Lake Bailey.
You can also enjoy horseback riding, golfing, and several other outdoor activities at the Petit Jean State Park. Do not miss interesting archaeological sites such as Turtle Rocks, Natural Bridge, Carpet Rocks, Bear Cave, Natural Bridge, Rock House Cave, and the Grotto.
The park houses a gorgeous Mather Lodge, where you can enjoy rustic living for a weekend. However, if your budget is barring you from splurging on luxury accommodation, consider camping.
Buffalo National River
If you are looking for affordable romantic getaways in Arkansas, pack your bags and head to the Buffalo National River.
The Buffalo National River, America’s first National River, is the perfect place for camping in the wild. Reserve a weekend for kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in the clear water.
Walk down the hiking trails lined by lush greens. Spend your night under the open sky and count the stars.
What else could be more romantic than this?
El Dorado
El Dorado is another culturally-rich romantic weekend getaway in Arkansas. Incepted in the 1920s, this city is a mix of old and new.
When in El Dorado, visit the 1928 Union County Courthouse, surrounded by modern storefronts.
Enjoy the traditional delicacies at any of the local eateries or visit a fancy restaurant in the Murphy Arts District.
If you are interested in the history of El Dorado, do not miss the Newtown House Museum, housed in a mansion dating back to the 1840s.
Murfreesboro
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. If you are lucky, you might discover the big stone for your lady in Murfreesboro, Arkansas.
This small town, situated in the southwest of the state, is home to sparkling diamonds. Reserve a day or two for the Crater of Diamonds State Park, two miles south of the town, to relish an exceptional escapade. If you stumble upon any rock, you can keep it as a souvenir.
The town offers several accommodation options to the visitors. You can book a themed accommodation with exceptional amenities, but if you are seeking a secluded getaway, book an RV or tent campsite right into the park.
Little Rock
Arkansas’s capital and the largest city, Little Rock, has a lot to offer. A blend of history, culture, and modernism, Little Rock magnetizes tourists from across the world.
If you want a very eventful escapade, this charming city will not disappoint you. There is so much to see and do in Little Rock that you will end up wanting more.
Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site or the Old State House to unearth the history of this city. Do not miss the River Market District, the Clinton Presidential Library, and the Arkansas State Capitol.
Treat your taste buds to the fresh produce at the farmer’s market or visit the River Market Food Court to taste delicious food from every corner of the world. Furthermore, indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy the glamorous nightlife of the city.
If secluded romantic getaways in Arkansas are on your mind, take a 30-minute drive to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to reach Pinnacle Mountain State Park.
Discover the hiking trails and soak your senses in natural beauty. For riverside camping, visit Maumelle Park or enjoy the picturesque beauty at the Old Mill.
Greenbrier
Greenbrier is synonymous with serenity, calm, and charm. It is also a secluded romantic getaway in Arkansas.
The Woolly Hollow State Park in Greenbrier is a perfect spot to have some outdoor fun. Laden with natural beauty as far as your eyes can see, it makes up for a perfect camping spot.
Head on Highway 65 for some retail therapy. You will find many hidden treasures at antique stores and flea markets.
Van Buren
The small town of Van Buren, perched adjacent to the Oklahoma border, is an ideal getaway for those who want to experience the charm of a quaint little town.
Enjoy a brilliant show at the King Opera House. Visit the many antique stores and art displays to appreciate art.
If the adventure bug is biting you hard, visit Lee Creek Park and enjoy hiking on the gorgeous hiking trail.
Conway
If you want to take your beloved back to your college days, the city of Conway qualifies as the perfect destination for your romantic weekend getaway.
The City of Colleges, Conway, sits 30 miles from Little Rock. It is home to Hendrix College, the University of Central Arkansas, and Central Baptist College.
Grab a burger and a coke and enjoy a good game of basketball or explore the beautiful college campuses.
Conway is indeed one of the best affordable romantic getaways in Arkansas.
Final thoughts
The American state of Arkansas is laden with natural beauty. It is a blend of natural beauty, culture, tradition, modern, forgotten, natural, and man-made.
Plan a weekend getaway or spend a few days surrounded by nature and rich cultural heritage.
All the romantic getaways in Arkansas mentioned in the list have something very distinct to offer the visitors. So, select your favorite romantic getaway in Arkansas and rekindle your romance.
