Wood - Explorers Guide Arkansas

Copyright 2019, 2010 by The Countryman Press

Maps by Mapping Specialists, Ltd, Madison, WI The Countryman Press

Interior photographs by the author unless otherwise specified

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available

978-1-68268-258-6 (eBook)

978-1-68268-257-9 (pbk.)

This book is dedicated to the kind and caring people of Arkansas who welcomed me with open arms and shared their passion and special place in the world with me. I hope to see you again very soon, and until then, I am sharing your stories with a few new friends.

EXPLORE WITH US!

Welcome to the second edition of Arkansas: An Explorers Guide , and an expedition through 53,187 square miles of natural diversity that varies from the swampy lowlands of the Delta to the eroded domes of the Ozark Mountains. As an Arkansas native who has relished spending 20 years traveling the state professionally (10 of them specifically scouting locations and escorting tours for out-of-state businesses), it is my goal to provide you with an insiders guide to the states lodging, dining, and attractions that not only includes those businesses that specifically cater to tourists, but also the sacred mom-and-pop diners, bed & breakfasts, and off-the-grid shops and galleries. Arkansans favor these so much we are tempted to keep them to ourselves to ensure they dont outgrow us and move on to the big city. You will find vibrant cities and quaint villages replete with upscale dining, interesting museums, scenic drives, exciting theme parks, unique historical sites, challenging golf courses, pampering resorts, and luxurious spas to soothe your body and rejuvenate your spirit. From the rib shacks tucked in the fields of the earthy Delta to the dining rooms of lodges perched on the shoulders of the Boston Mountains, you will find detailed listings for bed & breakfasts and resorts; restaurants; attractions; state, local, and federal parks; shopping; events; and more than a few opportunities to share only with special friends. Think of this guide as a backseat passenger on your adventure, here to provide directions and guidance, and fill you in on the legend and lore along the way.

WHATS WHERE In the beginning of this book, youll find a few pages that highlight the basics, special features, and some helpful tips to know when traveling the Natural State. For a quick reference on everything from crystal mines to dude ranches, this section will show you where to start.

PRICES Please dont hold us (or the listed innkeepers) responsible for the rates listed as we go to press for 2018. Changes are inevitable. Most of the lodging options listed here are privately owned, and most emphasis is placed on resorts, campgrounds, cabins, and bed & breakfasts. Franchise and chain operations are not included; my goal is to take you along the back roads, not the highways, and show you the people and places that make our state unique.

SMOKING Arkansas law bans smoking in public places and any establishment that serves minors. Adults are also prohibited from smoking in vehicles in which young children are passengers.

RESTAURANTS There are separate sections for Eating Out and Dining Out, with the former devoted to casual dining and the latter reserved for a more gourmand experience. You will find most restaurants in Arkansas require neither reservations nor fancy attire.

LODGING PRICES The prices listed range from low-season to high-season rates. On summer weekends and holidays, prices can double. Prices do not include local taxes.

DINING PRICES The prices listed do not include drinks, tax, or gratuity (which is normally 15 percent of your total bill). Prices generally include an entre plus an appetizer, salad, or dessert signature to the restaurant.

Please send any comments or corrections to:

Explorers Guide Editor

The Countryman Press

500 Fifth Avenue

New York, NY 10110

KEY TO SYMBOLS

Child-friendly. The kid-friendly crayon symbol appears next to listings with special appeal to young people.

Handicapped access. The wheelchair symbol appears next to listings that are partially or fully handicap accessible.

Pets. The dog paw symbol appears next to lodgings that accept pets. In general, you can expect to pay a fee for letting Duke the dog or Luna the cat come along. Make sure to tell the owners upon your reservation that you plan to bring an animal.

Bars and nightlife. The martini glass symbol appears next to restaurants with bars or drinking establishments.

Special value. The blue ribbon symbol appears next to lodging and restaurants that give you an exceptional deal for your money.

CONTENTS

MAPS

W elcome to the second edition of Explorers Guide Arkansas. There have been a lot of developments in Arkansas since the first edition was published. Everything in this guide has been thoroughly updated to include new offerings sprinkled throughout the state to ensure you dont miss a thing while you are here.

Most notably, the quaint hamlet of Bentonville has transformed since the November 11, 2011, opening of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The artists rendering referenced in this guides debut is now 271,000 square feet of galleries and meeting spaces featuring acclaimed artistic treasures and a world-class restaurant. Special thanks to Blair Cromwell of the Bentonville Convention and Visitors Bureau for her gracious hospitality, support, and expertise about her community. I emerged from my tour with a passion for this charming town and deep admiration for the artisans who operate its businesses. You will find this inspiration extends beyond the town and through the Northwest Corridor of the state. Nearby Fort Smith has gained international recognition for its public art exhibitions featuring murals with realistic figures that stand six stories tall.