There are so many things to uncover when it comes to Arkansas. This state is often overlooked, but it’s actually home to numerous treasures that are still waiting to be discovered—rushing rivers, the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, public parks, forests, breathtaking views, the vibrant community, a brimming culture, and many more. While all of these are found in Arkansas, one thing that stands out the most about this place is its natural beauty. Almost everywhere you look, nature is calling! That’s why we have created a list of the best romantic things to do in Arkansas, the USA, amid nature. While you’re at it, book a top Airbnb or a cabin rental for your upcoming trip now!
1. Make your own wine (from USD 60.0)
Wineries are popular date night getaways for couples. Keep it fun and unique in Arkansas and have fun making your own wine instead! This Airbnb Experience in Roland hosted by Wendy will let you start with a light tasting to have a feel for the flavors and discover which combinations you would like to create for yourself. After the tasting, you’ll be guided to the winery where you will carefully craft and bottle your own wine. If you’re looking for a unique winery adventure, try this class!
Wine Making fun - Art or Chemistry!
Duration 2 hours
2. Zip line in Hot Springs (from USD 66.0)
Itching to do something blood-pumping in the city of Hot Springs? This Viator tour has got you covered. Along with your special someone, you will be gliding on zip lines in the rich forests of Arkansas. If you haven’t tried such an activity, you’ll be glad that you finally decided to take on the challenge. The longest zip line on this tour is about 850 ft (259 m). This isn’t your typical one-and-done zip line tour. The excursion takes 1.5 hours with a total of 10 zip lines that are truly worth the money!
Hot Springs, Arkansas Small-Group Zipline Tour
Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
3. Climb the Hot Springs Mountain Tower
If you want to get a good view of the boundless and beautiful Arkansas, there may not be a better way than climbing Hot Springs Mountain Tower. This observation tower stands at 216 ft (65.8 m) and is made of lattice steel. This attraction opened in 1983 and has quickly become one of the most frequented spots in the city. Imagine you and your loved one, hand in hand, just aware of each other’s presence and looking over the vast greens and blue skies. If you ask us, it’s the perfect opportunity to propose to your partner if it’s something you have been thinking about!
Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Address: 401 Hot Springs Mountain Dr, Hot Springs, AR 71901, United States
Website: Hot Springs Mountain Tower
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
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Judy's Cabin in the woods
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4. Check out what's in Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Do you and your partner have a special fondness for the arts? Arkansas may be the last place that comes to mind when pertaining to art, but when you do find yourselves in the state, head over to Bentonville and pay a visit to Crystal Bridges Museum of Art. This world-class museum has a vast collection of works from small to giant names in the world of art. You ask how big? They have Warhol pieces waiting for you! Surprise your loved one now, and go on an art trip to this fine Arkansas attraction.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Address: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, United States
Website: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Opening hours: Mon: 11am - 6pm; Wed - Fri: 11am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Tue)
5. Observe the wildlife at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Have a deep passion for saving wildlife? Eureka Springs in Arkansas houses Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. The property is a refuge for neglected and abused big cats and is currently housing 100 animals. As certified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, the wildlife refuge mainly houses tigers but is also home to abandoned cougars, lions, leopards, and other similar animals. If you wish to be of service to these animals, there are plenty of ways to help the wildlife refuge. Pay a visit and learn how you can give support.
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Address: 239 Turpentine Creek Ln, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, United States
Website: Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)
6. Go for a romantic stroll at Natural Bridge of Arkansas
One of the best things to do in Arkansas for couples is strolling along the Natural Bridge of Arkansas. It has attracted visitors for several decades. It’s a staple tourist destination, and it’s home to many locals. Before it became the famous spot that it is today, this bridge has a rich history—it’s believed to be an early home to the Quapaw Indians, and it is also said that it was a temporary residence for Belle Star, a female outlaw. Walk down the trail with your special someone at Natural Bridge of Arkansas, and experience nature at its finest.
Natural Bridge of Arkansas
Address: 1120 Natural Bridge Rd, Clinton, AR
Website: Natural Bridge of Arkansas
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
7. Appreciate indigenous flora and fauna at South Arkansas Arboretum State Park
With a mission to preserve the flora and fauna surrounding Arkansas, South Arkansas Arboretum State Park is a 12-acre site that showcases exotic local species and abundant camellias and azaleas. It’s one of the best places to visit as a couple since it also has walking trails, pavilions, and gazebos that are for rent. Getting to the location is already an adventure of its own. Make new memories together at South Arkansas Arboretum State Park!
South Arkansas Arboretum State Park
Address: 1506 Mt Holly Rd, El Dorado, AR
Website: South Arkansas Arboretum State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
8. Learn something new with your special someone at Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Take your date to a whole new level at Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. It features 12 themed gardens and a surreal butterfly house, which is one of the main attractions of the place. Aside from being an ideal destination for a date, Botanical Garden of the Ozarks offers education programs and workshops that cover horticulture, conservation, and many other topics related to gardening. Do something new with your significant other by attending one of these programs.
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Address: 4703 N Crossover Rd, Fayetteville, AR
Website: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
9. Experience an adventure at Blanchard Springs Caverns
Feeling adventurous? Go to Blanchard Springs Caverns for one of the unique things for couples to do in Arkansas: exploration! Expect natural wonders such as creeks, waterfalls, trails, and caverns all in one place! It’s a true hidden treasure and is highly recommended for couples that are hungry for an adventure of a lifetime. Truly nothing beats time spent in the great outdoors.
Blanchard Springs Caverns
Address: 704 Blanchard Springs Rd, Fifty-Six, AR
Website: Blanchard Springs Caverns
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 9:30am - 6pm (closed on Mon - Tue)
Price: 12 - 24 USD
10. Go on a romantic dinner date at Brave New Restaurant
A romantic date at a restaurant never fails to spark a beautiful evening for couples. And one of the best places to check out is Brave New Restaurant. This place is loved for its casual yet warm and welcoming environment. It serves scrumptious meals at a very reasonable price, and every bite feels like a celebration of delectable cuisine! Past diners highly recommend the grilled shrimp and roasted vegetable ravioli.
Brave New Restaurant
Address: 2300 Cottondale Ln #105, Little Rock, AR
Website: Brave New Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)
11. Go hiking together to Whitaker Point Trailhead
They say that one of the most romantic activities that couples can do together is hiking, and what better place to do this than at Whitaker Point Trailhead! The view here is simply breathtaking, and it offers trails that are suitable for all ages—even your dog can walk this trail, as long as he’s on a leash! A visit here will also let you witness rock formations, mountain views, and hills, so feel free to take lots of pictures for memories to take home.
Whitaker Point Trailhead
Address: Co Rd 5, Kingston, AR
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Visit an extraordinary Thorncrown Chapel
Established in 1980, Thorncrown Chapel is a uniquely constructed chapel inspired by Sainte-Chappelle, which is a Gothic church in Paris that was deliberately built taller than usual with multiple windows to allow more light to enter. Thorncrown Chapel was recognized as one of Budget Travel’s “12 Most Beautiful Churches in America” and was also included in Bored Panda’s “50 Most Extraordinary Churches of the World.” This chapel is a great date idea in Arkansas because it gives you a chance to reflect and be spiritual with the love of your life.
Thorncrown Chapel
Address: 12968 US-62, Eureka Springs, AR
Opening hours: Mon: 9am - 5:30pm; Tue - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sun: 9am - 3:30pm
13. Relax and unwind at Quapaw Baths & Spa
You and your partner deserve a break from all the hustle and bustle of city life. Claim your much-awaited relaxation at Quapaw Baths & Spa! This place offers luxurious spa services, a bathhouse, hot springs, and more! It also has a cafe called Quapaw Cafe, which is available to attend to your cravings, while a visit to Quapaw Boutique allows you to look for souvenirs and trinkets to take home.
Quapaw Baths & Spa
Address: 413 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park, AR
Website: Quapaw Baths & Spa
Opening hours: Mon & Wed - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 50 - 80 USD
Nature is calling
The diverse geography of Arkansas is one of the things that make this place stand out. If you’re looking forward to a stay that will surround you with natural beauty, this is the place to go with your special someone. Not only will you feel closer with your partner, but both of you will also go home feeling rejuvenated after your date.