Table of Contents
Map Of Arkansas And Tennessee
Introduction
Located in the southern United States, Arkansas and Tennessee are two states that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, these two states have something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Arkansas and Tennessee.
Top Attractions
Arkansas
When it comes to top attractions in Arkansas, you can’t miss the Hot Springs National Park, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, and the Ozark National Forest. Hot Springs National Park is the oldest park maintained by the National Park Service and offers a unique experience of bathing in natural hot springs. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a world-class museum with a collection of American art from the colonial era to the present day. The Ozark National Forest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with its scenic trails, waterfalls, and beautiful vistas.
Tennessee
Tennessee is known for its music scene, and the top attraction in the state is the birthplace of rock and roll, Graceland. You can also visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and the Grand Ole Opry. For nature lovers, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination with its scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Hidden Gems
Arkansas
If you want to explore the hidden gems of Arkansas, head to the Buffalo National River, a pristine river that flows through the Ozark Mountains. You can go canoeing, kayaking, or fishing in the river, or hike the trails to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Another hidden gem is the Thorncrown Chapel, a beautiful glass chapel located in the woods of Eureka Springs.
Tennessee
One of the hidden gems of Tennessee is the Natchez Trace Parkway, a scenic drive that follows the historic Natchez Trace, a path used by Native Americans and early settlers. The drive offers beautiful views of the countryside, historic sites, and opportunities for hiking and cycling. Another hidden gem is the Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in the country, located in Sweetwater. You can take a guided tour of the cave and the lake, and even take a glass-bottom boat ride.
Food Scene
Arkansas
When it comes to food in Arkansas, you can’t miss the barbecue. The state is home to some of the best barbecue joints in the country, including Whole Hog Cafe, Jones Bar-B-Q, and McClard’s Bar-B-Q. For a taste of Southern comfort food, head to the Faded Rose in Little Rock, known for its fried chicken and catfish.
Tennessee
Tennessee is famous for its hot chicken, a spicy fried chicken dish that originated in Nashville. Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack are two of the most famous hot chicken restaurants in the city. For a taste of Southern cuisine, head to Arnold’s Country Kitchen in Nashville, known for its meat and three dishes. Another must-try food in Tennessee is the barbecue, with popular joints including Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Peg Leg Porker.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Arkansas
If you’re on a budget in Arkansas, there are plenty of free or cheap things to do. You can explore the state parks and national forests, visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art on a free admission day, or attend a free concert or festival in one of the cities. For a budget-friendly meal, head to a local diner or food truck, or try the delicious pies at the Ozark Cafe in Jasper.
Tennessee
Tennessee offers plenty of budget-friendly options for travelers. You can visit the state parks and national forests for free or a small fee, attend a free concert or festival, or explore the cities on foot. For a budget-friendly meal, head to a local diner or food truck, or try the delicious hot chicken sandwiches at Bolton’s Spicy Chicken & Fish in Nashville.
Outdoor Adventures
Arkansas
Arkansas is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its scenic trails, waterfalls, and lakes. You can hike the Ozark Highlands Trail, go fishing or kayaking in the Buffalo National River, or climb the Pinnacle Mountain for panoramic views of the state. For an adrenaline rush, try the whitewater rafting in the Cossatot River State Park.
Tennessee
Tennessee offers plenty of outdoor adventures for travelers. You can hike the trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, go fishing or kayaking in the Tennessee River, or climb the Lookout Mountain for breathtaking views of Chattanooga. For an adrenaline rush, try the zipline tours or the whitewater rafting in the Ocoee River.
Family-Friendly Activities
Arkansas
Arkansas offers plenty of family-friendly activities, from visiting the Crater of Diamonds State Park to digging for diamonds, to exploring the Mystic Caverns, a series of limestone caves with stunning formations. For a fun day out, head to the Magic Springs Theme and Water Park, with its thrilling rides and water slides.
Tennessee
Tennessee offers plenty of family-friendly activities, from visiting the Memphis Zoo, to exploring the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, to riding the roller coasters at the Dollywood theme park. For a fun day out, head to the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, with its interactive exhibits and planetarium.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Arkansas
If you want to explore the off-the-beaten-path experiences in Arkansas, head to the Blanchard Springs Caverns, a series of underground caves with stunning formations. You can take a guided tour of the caves, or go on a wild cave tour for a more adventurous experience. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail, a scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the lake and the Ouachita Mountains.
Tennessee
One of the off-the-beaten-path experiences in Tennessee is the Cumberland Caverns, a series of underground caves with beautiful formations. You can take a guided tour of the caves, or go on a spelunking adventure for a more challenging experience. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Roan Mountain State Park, a hidden gem with beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Natural Wonders
Arkansas
Arkansas is home to many natural wonders, from the towering Whitaker Point in the Ozark National Forest, to the stunning waterfalls in the Petit Jean State Park, to the scenic drive on the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. For a unique experience, head to the Crater of Diamonds State Park, the only diamond-producing site in the world open to the public.
Tennessee
Tennessee is home to many natural wonders, from the majestic Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, to the stunning waterfalls in the Fall Creek Falls State Park, to the scenic drive on the Cherohala Skyway. For a unique experience, head to the Reelfoot Lake, a natural lake created by an earthquake in 1811, with its beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
Arkansas
For a vibrant nightlife experience in Arkansas, head to the River Market District in Little Rock, with its bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Another popular nightlife spot is the Dickson Street in Fayetteville, with its college vibe and diverse selection of bars and clubs.
Tennessee
Tennessee is known for its music scene, and the nightlife in Nashville is no exception. You can find live music and entertainment in the bars and clubs of the Lower Broadway, or head to the hip neighborhoods of East Nashville and The Gulch for a more eclectic vibe. Memphis also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with its famous Beale Street and blues clubs.
Local Markets
Arkansas
If you want to experience the local markets in Arkansas, head to the Fayetteville Farmers’ Market, one of the largest farmers’ markets in the state. You can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts from local vendors. Another popular market is the Little Rock Farmers’ Market, with its diverse selection of vendors and live music.
Tennessee
If you want to experience the local markets in Tennessee, head to the Nashville Farmers’ Market, a year-round market with a variety of vendors, restaurants, and shops. You can find local produce, artisanal products, and international cuisine. Another popular market is the Memphis Farmers’ Market, with its live music, food trucks, and local vendors.