It’s impossible not to love fall in Arkansas. After the summer heat dissipates, we’re rewarded with pleasant weather and a changing of the leaves that’s not to be missed. Fall is one of my favorite times of year to get out and explore the great destinations Arkansas has to offer. Here are 5 of my favorite things to do around The Natural State this fall.
1. Arkansas Cornbread Festival – Who wouldn’t travel to sample the best cornbread in the state? I know I would! Luckily for me, SoMa Little Rock is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the farm! I look forward to this event every year and bonding with the community over cornbread… it’s a southern tradition! This year, the festival happens on Saturday, October 27 from 11a-4p.
2. Crystal Bridges Museum – Crystal Bridges will make my list any time of year! It’s such an inspiring place, celebrating American art and culture. This fall, experience works of art by important Native American artists from the 1950s to today, enriching our understanding of American art.
3. Mount Magazine Scenic Byway – There’s nothing like hitting the open road just to enjoy the scenery. This 28-mile drive stretches between Havana, Arkansas and Paris, Arkansas. On this beautiful trek, you will experience Mount Magazine, which is the highest peak in Arkansas at 2,753 feet. When the trees are showing off their gorgeous fall foliage, the views of the mountains, valleys, and waterways just can’t be beat!
4. Johnny Cash Heritage Festival – Dyess, the boyhood home of Johnny Cash, will host their annual 3-day festival honoring the Arkansas legend and the programs that shaped his childhood. The event includes regional music, public presentations, food and craft vendors, demonstrations, and tours. This year’s closing concert, from noon to 5p.m. on Saturday October 20, will include a tribute to the 1968 Johnny Cash Homecoming Show. Hosted by producer/performer John Carter Cash, the performance will feature award-winning singer/songwriter Jamey Johnson and Grammy record-holder Alison Krauss, along with Ana Cristina Cash, Suzanne Cox, Heather Berry Mabe, Ira Dean, and others.
5. Battle of Prairie Grove Reenactment – This December, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park will commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Prairie Grove, fought on December 7, 1862. This battle saw about 22,000 soldiers fighting most of the day, with about 2,700 killed, wounded, or missing. During the weekend there will be many activities to take part in, including tours through the Union, Confederate, and civilian camps, along with living history programs.
If none of these events sparks your interest, there is much more to experience this fall in The Natural State. To explore other travel destinations in Arkansas, visit www.arkansas.com.