I was prompted in writing this book to spend six months traveling more than 10,000 miles through 62 of Arkansas’s 75 counties, canvassing communities to include local recommendations—and a firsthand observation of their recommendations whenever possible—supplemented by an ample number of suggested pit stops I uncovered along the rural roads that connect them. I took the same approach while drafting the update, packing up the car and hitting the road to gather the reliable intel only acquired by an immersive traveler on a quest to uncover an authentically Arkansas experience.
Determined to incorporate the perspective of a newbie, I invited friends along for the ride to provide their thoughts and impressions and help me supply you with objective reviews of the state’s hospitality and all of its offerings. After all, we live in a world where the Internet now supplies us with too much information at times, and I have frequently referred to it as a level playing field because a geek in a garage can look as impressive as an international conglomerate. It is not my intention to replicate another all-inclusive listing of hotels and restaurants. There are plenty out there for you, starting with the state’s mega-monster website, Arkansas.com. No, there are far too many options in the state for that approach, and it doesn’t leave pages available to include those places I want to show you that aren’t located in any town; they just collect their mail there. It also doesn’t allow me to profile some of the smaller towns that may only have one attraction, but it is a really great one. Historically, Explorer’s Guide readers are explorers first, right? So I think you will gain a better appreciation for the state, and ultimately more enjoyment while you are here, if I venture off the tourism radar (and off road when necessary). I have opted to present a comprehensive, though not all-inclusive, listing of attractions, lodging, and dining options, and an all-inclusive guide to places I want you to see, people I want you to meet, and things I want you to do while you are here.
THE BUBBLE BY HARRIET WHITNEY FRISHMUTH ON DISPLAY AT CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
In addition to updating the listings included in the first edition, I specifically wanted to revise this guide to expand my coverage of Bentonville and Fort Smith. Northwest Arkansas transformed following the November 11, 2011, opening of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The museum and its acquisitions gained national attention prior to its debut, and its impact on this charming community is impressive. I love my state, and it is impossible for me to choose a favorite town, much like it is impossible for a mom to choose a favorite child. However, if you could only visit one city in Arkansas, I would recommend Bentonville. The controversy generated when Helen Walton acquired George Washington’s portrait and located it in a small town in middle America compels me to share the result of her endeavor. Every restaurant, shop, attraction, and bike path reflect the impact of Walton’s vision.
I also wanted to expand the Fort Smith story. On September 24, 2019, the official US Marshals Museum opens in conjunction with the 230th anniversary of the esteemed law enforcement agency. The aerial view of the final structure is designed to resemble a marshal’s badge, and prior to its opening visitors can take a virtual walk-through of the site from its footprint along the Arkansas River. Fort Smith has also embraced the arts in public spaces with a series of murals painted by artists from around the world. Increased national interest in this town has expanded its hospitality offerings in preparation for the visitors to come.
No destination paid for inclusion within these pages. In fact, at least one hotelier in Hot Springs comped our lodging on more than one occasion, fully aware that I would not be covering chain hotels in the book.