Arkansas Destination Guide

Overview of Arkansas

Devil's Den State Park
Photo credit: Doug Wertman

With Arkansas' alluring forests, lakes and mountains, it's no wonder most of the state's visitors come in search of outdoor adventure. The state's rock climbing opportunities, particularly in the sandstone crags of the northwest, are first rate; its rivers and streams, bursting with trout, are perfect for fishing, canoeing and rafting; and hunters enjoy abundant wildlife and comparatively liberal regulations. Arkansas features more than 50 parks scattered across the state, which offer excellent hiking, backpacking and mountain biking; also known for its digging sites, holiday 'geologists' can unearth their own quartz, judged to be among the world's finest, and occasionally even find a diamond. The Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only diamond mine in the world where visitors can pay an entry fee and keep whatever gems they find. The state's off-the-beaten-path reputation makes it quite an affordable holiday destination as well.

Once, however, Arkansas had a slightly different reputation among travellers. In the early 1900s, due to its thermal springs, it was an elite hideaway for those seeking health, rejuvenation and luxury. Hot Springs National Park, with its magnificent stone and marble bathhouses that are now historic landmarks, was the most famous spa, and it remains the most visited spot in Arkansas, attracting both bathers and history buffs. Eureka Springs is another picturesque historic town that grew up around its hot springs, situated far north in the fabled Ozark Mountains.

The Ozarks are one of the unique cultural regions in America. This mountainous plateau covering northern Arkansas, as well as parts of bordering states, was settled mainly by Scottish-Irish immigrants. As in Appalachia, the area's beautiful but harsh terrain led to a hardscrabble existence. However, from this lifestyle blossomed an ingenuity that has led to generations of Ozark artisans excelling in quilting, knife and instrument making, wood carving and other crafts. 'Mountain music', in which masters of the fiddle, dulcimer, autoharp and banjo join together for jamborees, is another intrinsic part of Ozark heritage. The Ozark Folk Center is dedicated to maintaining a living history of the Ozark way of life.

The southern region of Arkansas opens up into flatter land; the heartland of Arkansas' agricultural background. Two of Arkansas' most famous sons, Johnny Cash and Bill Clinton, were born in this area. Clinton's birthplace is the town of Hope, but his true Arkansas legacy is to be found in the capital, Little Rock. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum houses history's largest collection of presidential papers and artefacts. It is located in Little Rock's vibrant River Market District, on the banks of the Arkansas River, a revitalised warehouse area that now hosts a thriving farmers' market and is home to countless galleries and boutiques, fine southern restaurants, trendy cafés and lively bars. Travellers in search of more history can visit the Little Rock Central High School, now a national historic site where, in 1957, President Eisenhower dispatched federal paratroopers to force the local government to allow nine African-American students to attend the school.

Those who'd prefer to stay connected to the states tremendous natural beauty can spend their holidays on an authentic Arkansas dude ranch, where they can enjoy exploring the rolling hills and peaceful rivers of the Ozarks on horseback before returning to their own cozy cabin. The state also has some charming cottages that are a must for visitors who want to escape the everyday hustle and bustle and leave their stress behind. Camp sites, lodges, resorts and a range of hotels are on offer as well.

Key Facts

Language:

English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.

Passport/Visa:

It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.

As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.

Electricity:

Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.

Travel Advisories

Travel to Arkansas

Climate

The climate in Arkansas is characterised by four distinct, yet temperate, seasons. It is far enough south to have extremely hot, humid summers, during which thunderstorms occur quite frequently. Arkansas does border the so-called 'Tornado Alley', and severe tornadoes have struck in the past, most often in the spring months of May and June. Spring and autumn are the best time to visit Arkansas, being particularly mild and pleasant. Winters are chilly, but not unbearably so, and while snow is not uncommon, it is seldom excessive.

Health Notes when travelling to United States of America

There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.

Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America

Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.

Customs in United States of America

Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.

Duty Free in United States of America

Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.

Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.

Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.

Doing Business in United States of America

In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.

Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It's best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.

Communication in United States of America

The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.

Tipping in United States of America

A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.

Passport/Visa Note

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Canadians:: The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:: UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
Entry requirements for Australians:: Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:: Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
Entry requirements for South Africans:: South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.

Currency

Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	0.93 EUR Euro	0.80 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling	152.99 JPY Japanese Yen	1.37 CAD Canadian Dollar	0.91 CHF Swiss Franc
1.52 AUD Australian Dollar	39.40 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	443.91 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	93,075.00 LBP Lebanese Pound	4.86 LYD Libyan Dinar	6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.00 OMR Omani Rial	0.00 QAR Qatari Rial	1.35 SGD Singapore Dollar	10.82 SEK Swedish Krona	0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	58.11 DOP Dominican Peso	0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna	16.95 MXN Mexican Peso	610.53 XOF West African CFA Franc	0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar	0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira	133.87 DZD Algerian Dinar	0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat	0.00 BWP Botswana Pula
3.72 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	938.44 CLP Chilean Peso	386.84 AMD Armenia Dram	23.29 CZK Czech Koruna	17.63 MDL Moldova Lei	139.89 ISK Icelandic Krona
12,582.40 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	3.72 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	38.15 UYU Uruguayan Peso	0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	10.88 NOK Norwegian Krone	4.03 PLN Polish Zloty	3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal	0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	36.79 THB Thai Baht
3.66 AED U.A.E Dirham	5.09 BRL Brazilian Real	4.63 RON Romanian New Leu	7.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	610.53 XAF Central African CFA Franc	25,405.70 VND Vietnamese Dong
878.36 ARS Argentine Peso	0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	10.06 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar	1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.70 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	3,920.00 COP Colombian Peso	88.42 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	362.00 HUF Hungarian Forint	10.89 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	16,073.70 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
47.95 EGP Egyptian Pound	1,358.84 KRW South Korean Won	7,456.52 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	4.74 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	508.31 CRC Costa Rican Colón	1.67 NZD New Zealand Dollar
277.87 PKR Pakistani Rupee	91.39 RUB Russian Rouble	18.51 ZAR South African Rand	3.13 TND Tunisian Dinar	0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	1.82 BGN Bulgarian Lev
32.33 TRY Turkish Lira	57.28 PHP Philippine Peso	32.31 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	1,164.84 NGN Nigerian Naira	0.00 XPF CFP Franc	0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar	0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	0.00 BND Brunei Dollar	108.90 RSD Serbian Dinar	7.24 CNY Chinese Yuan	6.94 DKK Danish Krone
3.49 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	83.42 INR Indian Rupee

Exchange Rate for
Euro to U.S. Dollar

1 EUR = 1.07 USD

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 CAD = 0.73 USD

Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar

1 GBP = 1.26 USD

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 AUD = 0.66 USD

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar

1 NZD = 0.60 USD

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar

1 ZAR = 0.05 USD

Airports in Arkansas

Clinton National Airport (LIT)
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport Little Rock
http://www.clintonairport.com

Location: Little Rock The airport is situated four miles (6km) from the city.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 501 372 3439.

Getting to the city: Shuttle services are available near Exit D and taxis outside Exit H on the west side of the baggage claim area. Public transport is available through Rock Region Metro; the bus stop is adjacent to the shuttle pick-up area.

Car rental: Car rental service is offered by Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport. The taxi stand is located outside Exit H, on the west side of the baggage claim area.

Facilities: Facilities at the airport include restaurants, a food court, gift shops, newsagents, a book shop, ATMs and a visitor information centre.

Parking: Short- and long-term parking is available.

Fayetteville Airport (XNA)
Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport
http://www.flyxna.com

Location: Fayetteville The airport is located 23 miles (37km) northwest of Fayetteville.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Getting to the city: There is no public transport from Fayetteville Airport; however, there are several shuttle services available by advance booking. Some hotels offer complimentary transfers for guests.

Car rental: Car hire companies at the airport include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, National, Dollar and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxi companies servicing the airport include Ambassador Transportation Services and Jim's Express Shuttle and Taxi.

Facilities: Facilities at the airport include visitor information, a lost and found, conference rooms and business centres, medical emergency facilities, ATMs, a pet relief area, a yoga room, play centres, an arcade, a hair salon, FedEx and Mail Drop, a police department, and a selection of restaurants and shops.

Parking: Short- and long-term parking is available.

Little Rock

The capital and most populous city in Arkansas, Little Rock is named after a small rock formation on the bank of the Arkansas River, which was used as a landmark by early French colonists travelling along the river. With evidence that Native Americans inhabited the area before European settlers landed here, Little Rock has a fascinating history, including playing a major role in the American Civil Rights Movement, and as the former home of Bill Clinton. With no end of interesting stories to tell, Little Rock has plenty of great attractions to explore.

Located in the centre of where the Ozark Mountains, the Ouachita Mountains, and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain come together, Little Rock is nestled in picturesque natural surroundings, with forested rolling hills and cliffs that rise above the Arkansas River, making the city feel more like a holiday town than the metropolis and business centre that it is. Featuring stunning parks that boast golf courses, zoos, playgrounds, walking trails, mountain climbs, baseball diamonds and picnic areas, visitors don't have to leave the city to enjoy the fresh air. The city itself is pleasant and boasts some worthwhile sightseeing attractions for visitors, but Little Rock is most celebrated for its beautiful setting and the many outdoor gems nearby.

Getting around in Little Rock

Renting a car is the best option for those planning to travel beyond the downtown area of Little Rock. Taxis are available in the city, but are not plentiful so it is best to call in advance as they can be difficult to hail on the street; the exception is the airport, where taxis are always available. Ride-hailing such as Lyft and Uber are also options. The Little Rock Metro Streetcar services most of the main tourist attractions and entertainment venues downtown and is a cheap and convenient transport option for travellers. There is also a bus system that services most of the city, but it is less popular with visitors. Little Rock has a sizeable population of cyclists and renting a bike is a fun option.

Climate in Little Rock

Little Rock has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and fairly cold, but short winters. The average daily temperatures during the summer months, between June and August, range from 69F (21C) to 92F (33C), while the winter months can be relatively cold, with plenty of rainfall and average temperatures between 31F (-1C) and 55F (13C). Snow is not unheard of but is seldom excessive. The spring and autumn months of March and April, and September and October, respectively, are the best times of year to visit Little Rock as the weather is pleasantly mild and the colours during these shoulder seasons are glorious, with blossoms and new foliage in spring, and dramatic, rich colours in autumn.

Sightseeing in Little Rock

Little Rock is a springboard to the many natural wonders of the region, but the city also boasts some interesting attractions. Little Rock Central High School, one of Little Rock's prime tourist sites, hearkens back to the turbulent Civil Rights Movement. Now a National Historic Site with a memorial and visitor's centre, it attracts many visitors keen to commemorate the brave Little Rock Nine. For lovers of politics, The Clinton Presidential Center is fascinating, and the Arkansas Governor's Mansion beckons history buffs. Travellers can visit the oldest surviving Capitol building west of the Mississippi; shop for unique antiques and trinkets around town; take a ride on a riverboat down the Arkansas River; enjoy a drive through the picturesque historic Quapaw Quarter; or relish teeing off on a championship golf course.

Nature lovers can hook a fish from a world-class trout stream, walk in the scenic Ouachita Mountains where the Hot Springs National Park awaits, or enjoy breathtaking views, pristine lakes, rivers and vast underground caverns in the Ozark Mountains and River Valley. Especially worthwhile for nature lovers, the city of Little Rock is worth a visit for all who visit Arkansas.

Little Rock Attractions

Little Rock Nine Memorial

Little Rock Nine Monument
Photo credit: Cliff

After a ruling by the US Supreme Court that segregated schools were unconstitutional in 1954, a group of African-American students known as the 'Little Rock Nine' were enrolled in Little Rock Central High School in 1957, much to the dismay of their fellow all-white classmates. The move was considered to be one of the most important events in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. On 4 September 1957, several segregationist councils held protests at the school to deny the new black students entry, and angry mobs spat at and verbally abused the nine teenagers as they made their way to school. On 25 September, the Little Rock Nine were finally admitted to the school under the protection of the US Army, with 1,000 US paratroopers protecting them from segregationist whites, but they still endured a full year of physical, verbal and emotional abuse from fellow white students. Nevertheless, on 27 May 1958, Earnest Green became the first black student to graduate from the school. Finally, in 1964 the Civil Rights Law prohibited racial discrimination in education, employment or in public places. Little Rock Central High School still functions as part of the Little Rock School District, but is home to a National Historic Site that houses a Civil Rights Museum.

Website: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/civilrights/ak1.htm

Clinton Presidential Center

William J. Clinton Presidential Library
Photo credit: Thomas R Machnitzki

History buffs visiting Little Rock should be sure to visit the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, the presidential library of former US president Bill Clinton that features the Clinton Presidential Library, the offices of the Clinton Foundation, and the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service. Visitors can enjoy viewing artefacts from Clinton's two terms as president at the museum, including full-scale replicas of the Clinton-era Oval Office and Cabinet Room. Other exhibits include Clinton's Cadillac One, a gallery consisting of a 110-foot (34m) timeline of each of Clinton's years as President and 14 alcove displays featuring the Oklahoma City bombing, and Northern Ireland and Middle East peace efforts, as well as personal letters written to and by the Clinton family and family photographs. The Clinton Presidential Center is a slick attraction and a popular stop in Little Rock.

Website: http://www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org

Arkansas Governor's Mansion

The official residence of the Governor of Arkansas and his family, this mansion is located within the Governor's Mansion Historic District. Before its construction in 1950, there had never been an official residence of the state's chief executive. Twelve of Arkansas' 46 governors have lived in the Mansion with their families and pets, and many of the rooms feature heirlooms handed down through the years. Tours of the gardens are a must for visitors, as the sweeping vista of botanical beauty makes an afternoon stroll an experience to remember. Tours of the mansion itself are available upon request, although they must be booked at least a day in advance. These tours are offered free of charge.

Website: http://www.littlerock.com/little-rock-destinations/arkansas-governors-mansion

Hot Springs

Bathhouse Row
Photo credit: Wolfgang Beckers

Located just 43 miles (68km) outside of Little Rock, Hot Springs is a popular weekend getaway and excursion for both locals and tourists in Arkansas. The small city takes its name from 47 natural hot springs, which supply heated water to a number of spas in town, most notably in the beautiful old buildings on Bathhouse Row, designated a Historic Landmark District. Most of the popular attractions in and around Hot Springs, apart from the spas, involve outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, golf, horseback riding and fishing. Parts of the town are actually located within Hot Springs National Park, making it easy to explore the beautiful landscapes of the area. Hot Springs describes itself as 'America's first resort' and the town has been attracting eager travellers for decades.

Website: http://www.hotsprings.org

Airports in Little Rock

Clinton National Airport (LIT)
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport Little Rock
http://www.clintonairport.com

Location: Little Rock The airport is situated four miles (6km) from the city.

Time: GMT -6 (GMT -5 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).

Contacts: Tel: +1 501 372 3439.

Car rental: Car rental service is offered by Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National and Thrifty.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport. The taxi stand is located outside Exit H, on the west side of the baggage claim area.

Facilities: Facilities at the airport include restaurants, a food court, gift shops, newsagents, a book shop, ATMs and a visitor information centre.

Parking: Short- and long-term parking is available.

Arkansas Attractions