Spanning roughly 300 miles through the state of Arkansas, the Scenic 7 Byway is a road-tripper’s mecca. Dense pine woodlands in the south give way to the verdant Arkansas River valley, reaching the lush Ozark and Ouachita mountains. Dig for crystals, sample the state pie, explore natural formations, and soak in The Natural State’s rich culture and history as you stretch your legs at these worthwhile stops.
El Dorado (pronounced with a long “a”) is a small town that’s brimming with history, natural beauty, art, and famous doughnuts. Stretch your legs at the South Arkansas Arboretum, a 13-acre park with paved walking trails and seasonal blooms like dogwoods and azaleas. Stop by the Oil Heritage Park to learn about the town’s 1920s oil boom and snap a photo with one of the life-sized bronze statues. For another fusion of history and art, head over to the Murphy Arts District to view seven friezes depicting the area’s early inhabitants. El Dorado also has its own Hatfield-McCoy-style saga, the Tucker-Parnell feud, which is reenacted each summer. Downtown, historic buildings now house antique shops, trendy boutiques, a bookstore, and more. Stop by Spudnut Shoppe, an El Dorado institution since 1948, known for its tasty doughnuts made from potato flour. For another taste of the town, make reservations at Fayrays, a local go-to, famous for its Delta catfish garnished with crawfish.
El Dorado, Arkansas 71730
Located on bluffs overlooking the Ouachita River, Camden is a small town worthy of a stop. Not only is Camden the birthplace of Grapette Soda, signs of which can be found throughout town, but several other historic sites are worth a look. The McCollum-Chidester House, built in 1847, is now a museum where visitors can view antique china, silver, a circa 1851 sewing machine, and more artifacts from the bygone era. At Postmasters Grill, dine inside a historically and architecturally significant building dating to 1895. Other one-of-a-kind stops for a bite include the White House Café, built in 1907, and reportedly the oldest continually running restaurant in Arkansas, and Woods Place, a local favorite known for its fried catfish plate.
Camden, Arkansas 71701
In Arkadelphia, natural elements reign king but art also surprises. Nearby DeGray Lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventurers. And just about an hour west, Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only state park in the country that allows the public to mine for diamonds and keep what they find. Downtown on Main Street, seek out the Arkadelphia Mural, “From a Dream to the Promise,” painted by Dave Loewenstein in 2012 as part of the Mid-America Mural Project. It’s one of several murals in town. Two schools, Henderson State University and Ouachita Baptist University also offer a wide range of sports, arts, and other events.
Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71923
One of the most varied and interesting stops along the byway, Hot Springs is nestled in the base of Hot Springs National Park, an ideal location for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Find world-class mountain biking at Northwoods Trails. In spring, stop by Garvan Woodland Gardens for a spectacular sea of colorful tulips and climb up in the treehouse. For some self-care, take a dip in the region’s famed mineral springs at the Buckstaff Bathhouse, which opened in 1912 and is one of just two bathhouses built over the springs that still offer traditional bathing experiences. Natural and wellness elements aside, Hot Springs also delivers a deep and varied history. Visit the Gangster Museum of America to learn about famous mobsters who spent time in Hot Springs, including Al Capone. Follow it up with a cocktail and live jazz at The Ohio Club, the oldest bar in the state. Another notable stop for a brew and a bite is Superior Bathhouse Brewery, a woman-run brewery and the only brewery located inside a U.S. national park. The brainchild of owner Rose Schweikhart, Superior uses the town’s thermal mineral water in the brewing process.
Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901
In Jessieville, try your luck at crystal mining at Ron Coleman Mining, just north of Hot Springs. For over 30 years, visitors have dug in the dirt for the area’s famed quartz crystals and other gems. Afterward, cool off with an exhilarating ride on a zipline. Located in the heart of the path of totality, the site will also host a solar eclipse music festival in April 2024.
Jessieville, Arkansas 71949
Russellville is packed with worthwhile stops. Nature lovers will want to visit nearby Lake Dardanelle and Petit Jean, both popular state parks with top-notch hiking, cycling, birding, and more. Atop Petit Jean Mountain, visit the Museum of Automobiles and view cars spanning the decades, from a 1904 Oldsmobile French Front to a 1981 DeLorean DMC12. In nearby Pottsville, peruse 100 years of head toppers at the Hat Museum at the historic Potts Inn. Stop by the River Valley Arts Center to scope local art. In April, the center is hosting an eclipse-themed quilt contest. Subiaco is home to an abbey that dates to 1878 and is still home to benedictine monks. Self-guided tours are available, and on Tuesdays and Saturdays, you can book a guided tour. In nearby Paris, you’ll find a 25-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower, painted with the same three-color blend as the original in France, plus a love lock fence, just like in the City of Light.
Russellville, Arkansas 72801
Scenery is the draw in Jasper, located along the upper Buffalo National River. The country's first national river is known for amazing outdoor activities, from hiking and boating to river floating, and more, and, honoring its seasonal herd of 450 elk, has hosted the Buffalo River Elk Festival since 1998. Visit the Alum Cove Natural Bridge to see a quartz sandstone cave arched into a natural bridge. Just six miles south of Jasper, stop by the Cliff House Inn, famous for its views of the “Grand Canyon of the Ozarks,” fried catfish, and “Company’s Comin’” pie, the state pie of Arkansas. Rotary Ann Roadside Park, the first roadside rest area constructed in Arkansas in the 1930s, offers 180-degree views of the Ozarks. Downtown on Court Street, pop into the many quaint antique shops, and grab a bite at the Ozark Cafe. Opened in 1909, the cafe is famous for its burgers and soda fountain treats, Americana artifacts, and laid-back vibe.
Jasper, Arkansas 72641
Just a few miles north of the Buffalo National River, Harrison is a natural stop along the byway. Three of northern Arkansas’ seven show caves are located within a 30-minute drive of Harrison. Above ground, dig into the area’s rich history at the Boone County Heritage Museum. Take a walking tour of downtown and visit several historic sites, like the bank where known outlaw Henry Starr was killed in 1921. Kick back with a dinner theater show or film downtown at the historic Lyric Theater, built in 1929.
Harrison, Arkansas 72601
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