arkansas to indiana road trip

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Road Trip Around The Ohio Valley

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Having previously visited 24 US states , I looked at the map of USA and noticed that there were several states in relative close proximity to Arkansas that we had yet to explore.

Planning a road trip around the Ohio Valley including the states of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky was challenging but certainly achievable over the span of a weekend.

Day 1 – Jonesboro, AR to Indianapolis, IN

Total Distance: 443 miles (6 1/2 hour drive)

When we decide to take a weekend road trip, we first have to establish when we want to leave – Friday evening or Saturday morning! Usually this is based on the distance we are traveling. Anything over 4 or 5 hours we will generally leave on Friday after work to at least get the majority of the distance covered so that we are not spending the whole weekend driving, not giving us any time to explore a destination.

Although we sometimes try to leave work a couple of hours early, this road trip didn’t allow this so it was 5:00PM before we were on the road. One other word of note here was that the direction we were heading saw us move from Central Time Zone to Eastern Time Zone.

Departing Jonesboro, our estimated time of arrival in Indianapolis was 12:30AM (1:30AM Eastern Time).

We don’t usually frequent McDonalds but during a road trip when you haven’t eaten anything all day and you are trying to get to a location as quickly as possible, the term ‘fast-food’ really does help! A quick pitstop in Mount Vernon, Illinois for dinner here saw us back on the road within 15 minutes which is a pretty good turnaround.

We arrived in Indianapolis at 12:35AM (Eastern Time) at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Airport hotel, which saw us make up almost a hour on the expected time of arrival.

Day 2 – Indianapolis, IN to Cincinnati, OH

Total Distance: 108 miles (1 1/2 hour drive)

During most of our weekend getaways, Saturday is always the ‘busy’ and ‘hectic’ day as we are trying to cram as many attractions and landmarks as possible, with the knowledge that we will be heading home at some point the following day. Our plan was to spend the morning and early afternoon in Indianapolis and then drive on to Cincinnati where we already booked a hotel to stay Saturday night.

Downtown Indianapolis

Without getting into too much detail on our experiences at specific attractions, our morning comprised of having breakfast at Chick Fil A, followed by heading to Downtown Indianapolis where we parked directly in front of the Indiana War Museum . This area was metered parking but at $1 per hour, we felt this was a really good rate for a downtown location. We paid for a couple of hours and started walking around before returning to explore the Indiana War Memorial Plaza prior to heading over the Canal District.

The second half of our time in Indianapolis was spent exploring the NCAA Hall of Fame museum and wandering around the beautiful Canal District and Riverfront park which was gorgeous on a perfect Spring day.

Driving to Cincinnati

We left the downtown area of Indianapolis around 1:45PM and headed East towards Cincinnati where we stopped along the route for lunch before arriving in the ‘Cincy’ area around 3:30PM. The rest of Saturday comprised of shopping, visiting IKEA  and having dinner at The Cheesecake Factory which admittedly was one of our worst experiences there!

The evening culminated in heading over to Graeter’s which is the “Home of Irresistible Ice Cream and Handmade Candy”.

Day 3 – Cincinnati, OH to Jonesboro, AR

Total Distance: 555 miles (8 hour drive)

By the time Sunday arrives, its usually time to start winding down and preparing to drive home but that wasn’t on our radar for this weekend getaway. Our initial plan was to drive from Cincinnati to Louisville and then home, but we made a few slight adjustments along the way.

Downtown Cincinnati, Ohio

After enjoying breakfast at the Embassy Suites Cincinnati Northeast location, we ventured downtown to see the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal which was a really impressive landmark despite being closed early on Easter Sunday.

Louisville, Kentucky

The drive from Cincinnati to Louisville, KY was similar in time and distance to the previous days route from Indianapolis to Cincinnati. We arrived in Louisville just before Noon and headed to Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby .

You can read all about our experiences there but we made the decision to just visit this museum rather than also experience the Louisville Slugger Museum which was our initial plan.

Nashville, Tennessee

Our detour from Louisville took us through Nashville, TN which takes around 2 1/2 hours. We crossed back into Central Time Zone on this drive but I have to say that this is one of the more attractive, scenic routes as we drove through the foothills of the mountains.

We didn’t stop anywhere along the way though signs for the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY (infamous for the recent sinkhole catastrophe) and various caves which are likely cool to explore.

A quick stop in Nashville to visit the Opry Mills Mall and then possibly our favorite store in Nashville, McKay’s Used Books was all we had time for before we headed back home along I-40.

This was probably one of our more extreme road trips given the distance we covered and the number of attractions that we saw but I am delighted that we did this because it proves to us, and hopefully you that you can achieve an awful lot in just a weekend.

I have covered three days here but the reality is that we did everything inside 48 hours and even after we returned home on Sunday evening we were not completely exhausted.

Method of Transportation: Car

Length of Getaway: 3 Days

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18 COMMENTS

You certainly covered a fair distance and fitted a lot in. I’ve no idea what the petrol prices are like there but here (the UK) I think that would put a lot of people off taking a similar trip. Not really my kind of travelling to be honest but it is always interesting to read about a different approach and what others enjoy. It’s a great example of what you can do if you put your mind to it!

It really is interesting Kathryn because coming from England I know exactly what you are talking about regarding petrol prices. ‘Gas’ as they refer to it here in USA is of course way cheaper ($3 a gallon which equates to about 75-80p a litre) so it makes such road trips easier to accomplish. At the same time though as I just mentioned in another comment, when you live in the part of USA as we currently do (Arkansas), you have to be willing to drive such distances because of the vast amount of land and distance between locations.

People don’t realize, at least I know I didn’t, just how big USA really is until you get here! That is one thing that I miss greatly about England, the fact that everything is relatively close together. But of course there are pros and cons of everything.

I admire you both for doing this kind of crazy road trip, personally I don’t like being in a car for too long, so not really my thing. It is an interesting way to cover a lot of ground in a very short space of time, so you certainly did achieve a lot.

I’ll take the crazy part as a compliment Jackie 🙂 No seriously, it was adventurous even for our standards. Usually our weekend road trips will consist of a maximum 4-5 hour drive to get there and then spend 2 days in the same location before heading back on Sunday evening. But I really wanted to see what it would be like to embark on such a road trip and honestly I am surprised at how easy this really was. We covered a lot of ground but in the States if you want to see places, especially if you are stuck in the Mid-West, you have to be willing to drive long distances.

This sounds like a crazy road trip, but you seemed to enjoy yourselves the whole way. Must have something to do with the company you keep : ) The last time I did one like this was to visit Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. Was glad the family got to see all the different sights, but I’ll admit it wasn’t easy. Kudos to you!

The company just makes the trip that much more special. We both love traveling and honestly don’t mind being in a car for that length of time. I think when you are just doing short journeys and then stopping to explore it makes it easier. It gets tiring after a while when you know you have so many things planned but it really is worth it I think, especially when you have full-time jobs and the reality is you have no other option apart from waiting for vacation time, which for us is just not an option!

PS-I’m going to a Kentucky Derby party this weekend. Thanks for getting me in the mood!

That’s awesome Alison, hope you have a great KY Derby party this weekend! I am sure it will be great and a lot of fun.

Chris, Don’t you just love a weekend road trip? I do the same thing, but definitely lean towards leaving Friday night so I have as much time at my destination as I can possibly squeeze out! I haven’t been to the Ohio Valley and done these things, but they all look like fun. Maybe in a future States trip. Good suggestions.

Corinne, it’s awesome isn’t it to know just how much you can achieve during a weekend! Agree completely with your comments about leaving on Friday night. Sure its cheaper to leave early Saturday morning as you only have to pay for one night but to really maximize your trip, Friday is the best option!

Cool road trip! I love going for driving trips like this. I think we might be making the drive this summer from Toronto to Kentucky because we want to explore Mammoth Cave! Might stop in Cincinnati too since that will be along the way!

Thanks Lauren, this really was an adventurous road trip and I think that achieving this so effectively over a short weekend gave us the inspiration to start our new market niche – Weekend Getaways! We drove right past Mammoth Caves and considered stopping had it not been for our desire to get to Nashville, but we are likely heading back to KY in August so may check it out then.

That will really be an awesome drive from Toronto, will be interested to hear more about it if you decide to go through with it!

Wow… over 1,000 miles in just 3 days. Rather you than me, Chris!!! 🙂

Sounds like you had a great time, though… which states are next in your radar? 🙂

Cheers Paul, before I arrived in the States if someone had told me that I would drive 1000 miles in 3 days, I would thought they were crazy simply because in England you just don’t even contemplate that. Driving from Manchester to London would be considered a fair drive whereas over here it’s essentially just down the road.

Great question about where’s next on our radar. There are only a few more states that I would consider to be relatively nearby to us (North and South Carolina) and then after that it will start getting tougher. I am currently at 27 out of 50, with the 6 New England states to come at the end of May. Hopefully will be at the upper 30s by the end of 2014.

That’s quite a weekend road trip. I was exhausted just from reading about all the stops and places you visited.

Now that I read over this post again and realize exactly what we did over that short weekend, really exhausts me too so I know what you mean Carmen 🙂 So many cool attractions along the way and the reality is that it wasn’t as tiring and difficult as it probably seems. We just want to inspire others to follow suit and have knowledge that it can be achieved without having to completely exhaust yourselves.

I can’t believe how much ground you guys covered in just three days! We’ve got a road trip coming up in June and are giving ourselves three weeks. We’ll be driving through 10 states and visiting family along the way. It’s our last hurrah before moving to Latvia and want to soak up as much American culture as possible! I’m sure that will include a few McDonald’s stops along the way 🙂

Sounds like one extremely long road trip but what a great way to see the country. I agree with other comments about the price of petrol here in the UK but it seems that in comparison you get a good deal in the States. We love travelling by car because you get to see so much more. Fantastic post! Beginning to see the attraction to certain parts of the country after reading your posts! 🙂

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The 5 best Arkansas road trips: from hot springs to crystal bridges

Apr 14, 2022 • 6 min read

Explore the beauty of the Ozark mountains with one of our Arkansas road trips © Paul Knightly / Getty Images / iStockphoto

Arkansas is an interesting state for a road trip. If we’re talking physical size, it’s not even in the top 25 states (29th, to be exact). But it can take over six hours to cross the Natural State, as much time as it takes to drive across the behemoth that is Wyoming. Why?

In a word, mountains . And hills. And plateaus (OK, five words). Arkansas contains a huge swathe of the U.S. Interior Highlands, including the highest peak in the region – Mount Magazine . Two distinct ranges – the Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains – are the most prominent topographical features of the state. And more mountains mean fewer straight roads. On the other hand, it also means driving through a green dream of lush forests and fields of wildflowers which make an altogether peaceful scene, the serenity only broken by the occasional hairpin turn on a narrow, cliff-hugging road.

Ouachita and Ozark Odyssey

Best for stunning scenery and wide-open spaces.

Hot Springs-Eureka Springs; 200 miles

This iconic Arkansas road trip connects two of the state’s artsiest towns. Tucked in a forested valley of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs is best known as the location of Hot Springs National Park , the oldest federally protected land in the USA. The park basically has two portions: an urban, historical preservation unit that centers on gorgeous, grande dame-style early 20th-century bathhouses, which once catered to presidents and gangsters, and a more traditional zone of preserved natural beauty.

From Hot Springs you can drive north on AR-7 through the valleys and passes of the Ouachitas, past the wonderfully named Lake Nimrod and Nimrod dam, which makes for a good detour as there’s a recreation area here with a selection of swimming spots . Carry on to Dardanelle, then the town of Russellville, and jump on I-40 heading west.

From here you could take AR-23 north to Eureka Springs, and hey, AR-23 is a lovely road. But if you want a slightly longer, not-as-utilized, equally scenic ride, consider using AR-21, which winds over the Ozark plateaus and crosses miles of farmland, fields, and forest. Even if you go with the AR-21 option, you’ll have to merge into 23 at some point (if you’re taking 21, you’ll want to turn west onto US-412 to link up to 23. You’ll know the junction is coming after passing one of the best business names in the state: Sugar Booger’s, a barbeque joint). Head north to Eureka Springs and settle into one of the upland South’s strangest little enclaves, where you can hang out with assault rifle experts and pottery makers all in the same afternoon.

Northwest Arkansas Adventure

Best for small-town culture and music.

Eureka Springs-Fayetteville; 60 miles

This trip may be short but it nonetheless hits three of Arkansas’ most interesting towns. Eureka Springs is a gorgeous historic mountain village with a distinctive mix of artists and libertarian-minded mountain folk. There’s good food, superlative hiking , and a sense of place that is hard to replicate.

From here drive across the rocky roof of Arkansas, heading west along US-62, passing mountain scenery the entire way, then drop down to Bentonville, the corporate headquarters of Walmart and (a little ironically) a town with a pretty strong sense of regional pride in their local independent businesses. The big attraction is the enormous Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , which brings a world-class museum space to the Ozarks. Then jump south on I-49 to Fayetteville , where street markets, good dining, and a lively bar and music scene can keep you well entertained through the evening.

Arkansas Introduction

Best for history and folk culture.

Little Rock-Mountain View; 105 miles

Little Rock really is a compact capital, with a population of around 200,000 and a lovely location with easy access to the outdoors. There’s plenty to check out, including great Southern dining at South on Main , Civil Rights history at Little Rock Central High School , and bucolic pedestrian paths at Riverfront Park .

After you get your fill of city sights, head north into the foothills of the Arkansas uplands. Take US 167 north to AR-5, then get head north through a long swathe of rolling farmland and small towns. You’ll round Greers Ferry Lake, where you may want to detour to enjoy a relaxing walk around the Mossy Bluff National Nature Trail , a relatively easy hike that is a nice introduction to the scenic beauty of the Natural State.

From here carry on to Mountain View, a small town that has become a gateway for those looking to explore the rich folk culture of the Ozarks . In the evenings, you can often find some sort of concert or jam session, be it at someone’s home or barn or the town square . Between mountain music and hiking, there’s enough here to keep you occupied, or, whet your appetite for more exploration of the region.

Across the Ozarks

Best for hairpin bends and river views.

Mountain View-Ponca; 100-120 miles

This trip works as an extension of the Arkansas Introduction (above), but the point is getting to Ponca, which can serve as a base for exploring the Buffalo National River , the first river in the country to earn that distinction. Any way that you approach Ponca – be it from the south and Little Rock or Hot Springs, or from the north via Eureka Springs or Fayetteville – you’ll be rewarded with views of karst rock formations and long stretches of forested hills and wild ridgelines.

All that said, there’s something about coming here from Mountain View – you’re getting a real feel for the Ozarks and their distinct character. There are two routes from Mountain View – either head west along US-65, or go north on AR-5, jump on US-412 heading west, then take AR-43 south. The former route is more direct and will pass through much of the farm, fields, and forests of the plateaus that characterize the Ozarks. The second route is more twisty (if only slightly longer), and takes you through some spectacular winding roads that pierce deep into the mountains. Either way, you’ll end at Ponca, which is a great jumping-off point ( and lodging base ) for getting into the Buffalo National River.

Into the Ouachita

Best opportunities for hikes and treks.

Hot Springs-Fayetteville; 190 miles

It doesn’t take long after driving west from Hot Springs to enter the Ouachita National Forest . On US-270, you can round the bottom of Lake Ouachita, which is full of recreational areas if you want to do some hiking or boating. Head through the valleys, then north on US-71, past farmland and deciduous forests, then jump on I-49 to get to Fayetteville , one of the more iconoclastic, artsy college towns in the American South.

You may also like: There's adventure for every terrain in Arkansas Glamping in Arkansas puts you in the middle of the action Arkansas for nature lovers: where to get outdoors in the Natural State  

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Driving Time between Arkansas and Indiana

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Taking a Drive from Arkansas to Indiana: How Long Will It Really Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Arkansas to Indiana soon? Knowing how long it might take is important to help you plan your trip better. The distance and time can greatly vary depending on which route you take and the traffic patterns. So, buckle up and let’s explore the best and worst-case scenarios for this drive.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

The shortest distance you can cover when driving from Arkansas (Little Rock) to Indiana (Indianapolis) is 575 miles. Google Maps shows two different routes you can take. The fastest option is via I-57 N and I-70 E, which can take you about 8 hours and 45 minutes if you drive non-stop. However, if you decide to follow historic Route 66 via I-44 E and I-70 E, the distance slightly increases to 605 miles and the driving time can be up to 9 hours and 30 minutes.

The Time It Takes Based on Traffic Patterns

Be mindful of rush hour traffic or possible accidents along the way when checking the estimated drive times. The actual driving time will vary based on weather conditions, driving speed, and the number of stops you make during the trip. Rush hour in cities such as St. Louis or Kansas City could also impact the timing of your trip. Google Maps gives an estimated arrival time based on the current traffic conditions, but it's always best to have a cushion of extra time in case of unexpected jams.

Peak Traffic Times

If you’re traveling during peak traffic times, this usually refers to the rush hour times or during the holidays. During these times, the usual 8-hour drive time might take a bit longer. On average, a route along I-57 N and I-70 E takes approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, while the I-44 E and I-70 E route will take around 10 hours.

Low Traffic Times

If you’re hoping to avoid traffic, the best time to hit the road often is during the early morning or late at night. According to Google Maps, taking the I-57 N and I-70 E route early in the morning will help avoid traffic, with an estimated arrival time of around 8 hours. If you take the I-44 E and I-70 E route during a clear traffic day, the estimated driving time can be as low as 9 hours and 15 minutes.

In conclusion, driving from Arkansas to Indiana can be an exciting adventure, providing beautiful landscapes and fun stops along the way. Knowing the shortest and fastest routes, and being prepared for possible traffic, can help make your travel more enjoyable. Safe travels!

Arkansas Road Trip Itinerary – The PERFECT 7-Day Route

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Planning an epic Arkansas road trip itinerary to hit all the best spots? Our latest article from our recent trip through the state will make sure you don’t miss a thing!

It’s always been a dream of ours to go on a road trip though the Southern United States, checking out some of the best cultural and scenic vistas along the way.

This year we were lucky enough to finally tick off that dream from our bucket list, and after exploring the best sights in Louisiana we crossed the border into the neighboring state of Arkansas.

Truth be told we hadn’t really heard a lot about the state, so we went in with a fully open mind and excitement levels buzzing to see what we can find.

With no expectations we were incredibly surprised at just how nice the road trip was. They don’t call it the Natural State for nothing.

Table of Contents

Go on a Bike Tour with Rock Town River Outfitters

Visit the william j. clinton presidential library and museum, grab some tacos and beer at camp taco, grab some breakfast at the pancake shop, fordyce bathhouse visitor center, book in for a thermal bath at quapaw baths and spa, hot springs mountain tower, go on a hike, enjoy some food and beers from superior bathhouse brewery, stay at hot springs treehouse, grab a great breakfast at kollective coffee & tea, go mountain biking on the northwoods trails, do not miss the anthony chapel complex, grab some pizza at delucas, day 4: hot springs to crater of diamonds state park – 60 miles, 1 hr 15 min, drive the mount magazine scenic byway, benefield picnic area, mount magazine state park tourist centre, mount magazine lodge, cedar falls trail and overlook, hike the cedar creek trail, walk along the riverfront park, visit a brewery and listen to some live music, devil’s den state park, eureka springs, blanchard springs caverns, ouachita national forest, arkansas wine country, buffalo national river, fayetteville, renting a car in arkansas, the perfect week-long arkansas road trip itinerary.

Scenic drives, historic places, limestone cliffs, great coffee shops, a bustling music scene, tree houses and plenty of hiking meant we certainly made the most of our time here.

Ready to hit the road and follow in our footsteps for a week in Arkansas? Let’s dive into our itinerary!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Day 1: Little Rock

Unless you’re like us and travelling from Louisiana or one of the other neighboring states, you will most likely fly into the capital of Arkansas, Little Rock.

Lucky for you too, because this is a great place to start exploring.

Definitely leave yourself a day or two to explore this city, as there really is so many great things to do in Little Rock .

You can learn about the history, try some local beer, explore Bill Clinton’s Presidential Library or enjoy all the green space that Little Rock offers on a bike.

Here are our suggestions for what to do on your first day in Arkansas.

The absolute best way to explore a city is by bicycle. So that’s what we did in Little Rock, and you should too.

We recommend spending the morning riding around and learning about the city Little Rock. The best people to do this with is Rock Town River Outfitters .

These guys provide the bikes and the knowledge with their awesome guides, who absolutely love their city.

During our bike tour we learnt a lot about Little Rock and saw so much on two wheels in a short period of time.

Ride down streets with old historical warehouses, huge mansions and of course the iconic State Buildings.

This one is not to miss if you visit Little Rock and don’t have a lot of time. A standard tour will take about 3 hours.

• Address:  400 President Clinton Ave Suite A, Little Rock
• Closed Monday and Tuesday
• Wednesday – Friday: 10am–6pm
• Saturday – 9am–6pm
• Sunday – 11am–6pm
• Price:  Starting from $60 for a bicycle or $82 for an e-bike

After a little work out, why not learn more history at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum , also known as the Clinton Presidential Center?

Being from Australia, it was fascinating to us that in the USA after the president finishes their term a museum is made to house the entire archives of the life of the presidency.

Bill Clinton was born and raised in Arkansas, so having the museum in Little Rock was a no brainer.

There are over 100,000 objects to read and see in this museum, from gifts he received, artwork and fashion pieces.

One of the real highlights though is an exact replica of the Oval Office.

There are countless images, videos and records stored here, and you can spend a couple of hours wandering around the different exhibits.

The restaurant also serves surprisingly delicious food. Worth stopping by for lunch.

• Address:  1200 President Clinton Ave
• Hours:  9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday, 1pm – 5pm Sundays
• Cost:  $12

READ MORE: Enjoy another one of the top road trips in the US with our West Virginia itinerary !

Next on our list for your time exploring Little Rock is some local music, food, craft beer and great atmosphere – all found at  Camp Taco .

This small brewery is a hidden gem in Little Rock, with a large number of unique craft beersand delicious Mexican-style food.

Eating here was actually the best meal we had in the entire state. Make sure you get the Mexican ramen, it was divine!

• Address:  822 E 6th St, Little Rock
• Hours: 11am – 9pm Sunday – Thursday, 11pm – 10pm Friday – Saturday

Have more time in Little Rock? Check out our article on more things to do in Little Rock.

Day 2: Little Rock to Hot Springs National Park – 55 miles, 1 hr

For the next two nights you’re going to stay in Hot Springs, one of the nicest places in the Southern USA.

From Little Rock, it takes about one hour to drive to Hot Springs National Park. We would recommend leaving early so you can get the most of each day, as there’s a lot to see and do here.

The town of Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Arkansas, and while most people like to come to check out the historic bathhouses, there’s actually a lot of great natural beauty around.

Hot Springs National Park has some stunning, lush forests, gorgeous waterfalls, many lakes and some great activities like mountain biking and hiking close by.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide to all the best things to do in Hot Springs !

Start your day right at this amazing family business, famous for making the best pancakes in Arkansas (and some of the best we have ever tasted).

We had a great breakfast here when we were in Hot Springs and it is not to be missed. We highly recommend the blueberry pancakes, and you have to try the freshly-squeezed orange juice.

After your brunch in Hot Springs, stop off at the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitors Center .

This is not just a visitors centre to help you find out information about the area, it is also a museum about the history of the bathhouses that were once an integral part of the town.

Before Hot Springs became a national park, 8 extravagant bathhouses were built that tapped into the natural hot water coming from the ground, providing a luxury bathing service for gangsters, politicians and business people from around the country.

Give yourself about one hour to walk the 3 levels (and basement) of the Fordyce Bathhouse building and learn how the bathhouses once were and what they looked like.

On the upper level. you can learn about how the mineral water is extracted into the buildings and where it comes from.

Do not miss the basement where you can see this process and the machinery they once used.

After your self-guided tour, go see the rangers in the centre to help you organise the rest of your stay here in Hot Springs. They are very knowledgable and can give you advice on any hikes, mountain bike trails and photography spots in the national park.

Next it’s time to walk down Bathhouse Row and check out the 8 bathhouses. Make sure to read about each one with the information boards in front of them all.

• Address – 369 Central Ave
• Opening Hours – 7 days a week – 9am – 5pm
• Price – Museum is Free to enter

Since you have learnt all about the Thermal Bathhouses, why not try one for yourself?

We recommend the Quapaw Baths and Spa. We popped on in and paid for the public baths.

They were so relaxing and our skin felt amazing afterwards. The thermal water has health benefits and many locals visit the bathhouse regularly.

The service they offer for the public baths are first-come, first-serve. You do not need a reservation, just come in and pay. They do get busy and they may start a waiting list so get there early or later in the day.

• Address – 413 Central Ave
• Opening Hours – Wednesday to Monday – 10am – 6pm (closed on Tuesday)
• Price – $25 plus tax per person (public baths)

This is a great place to see the whole area, where you can look down over the town.

Once you have reached the mountain tower park your car and head inside. There is a fee to head up the top for the view if you want a higher elevation.

The tower elevator will take you 66 meters (216 feet) up to the top where the observation decks are.

You will enjoy amazing panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs Mountain, and Diamond Lakes area.

• Address – 401 Hot Springs Mountain Dr.
• Opening Hours – Hours depend on the month. Check their website.
• Price – $8 for adults (12 & over) and $4.50 for children (5 to 11). Free under 5 years old.

After checking out the great view from the top of Mountain Tower, explore the short hiking trails nearby.

Get out and see the scenic Ouachita Mountains. These hikes are great for all ages and levels. You get more great views of the area and

If you have extra time and want to do some more hiking, check out the trailheads that are located very close to downtown, such as the Sunset Trail, West Mountain Trail and Gulpha Gorge Trail which are all great hikes.

Stop by the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center to get more information on the hiking trails.

Welcome to our favourite place in all of Arkansas!

When the town was designated as a national park, all but 2 of the bathhouses closed down. These beautiful buildings though were wasting away, until one young entrepreneur came up with an idea – why not turn one of the bathhouses into a brewery?

Meet Rose, the founder of Superior Bathhouse Brewery . She came up with this incredible idea and after years of planning, permit-acquiring and historical protection agreements, she opened up the first ever brewery inside a US national park.

It’s absolutely booming now, and during the summer she has line-ups down the street for people wanting to come in and grab a taste.

Rose loves good beer (learning her craft in her basement), but also loves to get experimental with her brews. Besides delicious IPAs, stouts, lagers and ales, she throws random ingredients in to see how they’ll turn out. For example we tried a jalapeño ale, infused with peppers giving it a spicy taste. And boy was it good.

Do not miss stopping in here on your Arkansas road trip.

If you want to stay in one of the nicest and most unique accommodations in Hot Springs, make sure you book in for two nights here.

The Hot Springs Treehouses are just 15 minutes outside the town of Hot Springs, but feel like they’re in a whole different world.

We stayed in the Firefly Ridge Treehouse, a huge log cabin with a fireplace, big sitting area, massive bed and the highlight, a hot tub on the deck surrounded by beautiful forest!

We spent two nights here and loved chilling by the fire, sitting in the jacuzzi and listening to the sounds of birds and insects. Such a peaceful place.

Day 3: Hot Springs National Park

On your second day in Hot Springs, head out for more great adventures around town.

Kollective was such a great place to fill your body up with energy before a busy day of adventures.

They have a great variety of food and drinks to choose from. Their coffee was delicious and we recommend dining in too.

They make fantastic breakfast bagels, and even us as self-proclaimed coffee snobs (we are Australians after all) gave two thumbs up to their brew.

Here’s their site for more info .

The mountains around Hot Springs are filled with miles of trails, so why not pick up a mountain bike and hit them?

These versatile trails are right in the backyard of downtown Hot Springs, so no need to drive anywhere – just pedal from town.

If you are around for a few more days and want to do more mountain biking, check out the places below.

• Womble Trail – Located in the Ouachita Mountain 
• Cedar Glades Trails – Located in the Ouachita Mountains
• Iron Mountain Trail – Located on the south shore of Lake DeGray 
• Ouachita National Recreational Trail – Located in the Ouachita Mountains 
• Lake Ouachita Vista Trail – Located on the south shore of Lake Ouachita

You can rent a bike though a number of companies in town.

• Hot Springs Bicycle Touring Company
• Spa City Cycling
• Trail City E-Bikes
• Parkside Cycle

READ MORE: Travelling elsewhere in the Southern USA? Don’t miss our guide to the top things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana !

Visit the Garvan Woodland Gardens

There is something so calming and relaxing about walking around a garden, and this spot here is one of those magical places!

When I read there was an amazing garden just outside of Hot Springs, I had to check it out.

The Garvan Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical garden with lots of walking paths to enjoy.

To promote well being, the botanical garden has walking circuits so you can either exercise in nature or sit and enjoy the stillness.

We spent hours at the Garden exploring each section. The architecture with some of the designs in the garden are so unique. I took lots of inspiration for our own garden in the future.

The gardens are located near Lake Hamilton. Lake Hamilton is a family fun man made lake where water sports take place on weekends.

• Address –  Garvan Woodland Gardens, 550 Arkridge Rd
• Opening Hours – 7 days a week: 10am – 6pm
• Price – $20 for Adults (13 and up), $5 for Children (4-12) and free for under 3 years old

You have to visit the Anthony Chapel Complex when you are at the Garvan Woodland Gardens. Do not miss it. It is incredible.

Can you believe there’s a church like this hidden in the forest in Arkansas?? How cool is this place!

This is Anthony Chapel, standing 57 feet tall and made of native wood & glass. It was built in 2006 and designed by architects Maurice Jennings and David McKee.

It looked so unique emerging from the trees, and the inside was just as cool. It’s often used for weddings – what a beautiful spot to get married!

Now if you want to try a traditional Pizza, Italian style, check out Delucas. This is the place to eat in Little Rock.

The pizza was the biggest pizza we have ever seen. It was huge.

A few hours south of Hot Springs is one of the most unique places in all of Arkansas – Crater of Diamonds State Park .

This park may be hot and dusty, but you’re not coming here for the landscapes. Instead this is the only place in the world where the public can mine for diamonds!

Diamonds naturally occur in the area, and while there’s not enough to warrant a full-scale diamond mine being developed, there’s enough around for the average Joe to dig, sift and eventually find a shiny rock.

And best of all, if you find one, you keep it! The biggest ever found was 40 carats. Can you imagine?

We tried our best but didn’t find any of our own diamonds unfortunately. But we did meet some people who come every year and do indeed find the precious stones.

It’s very hot out in the field, so make sure you bring lots of water with you. You can rent all the sifting equipment you’d need from the visitors centre.

The town itself is quite pleasant as well, so grab a nice BnB or motel and enjoy the atmosphere after you’ve (hopefully) struck it rich.

• Address – 209 State Park Rd, Murfreesboro
• Opening Hours – 7 days a week – 8am – 4pm
• Price – $10 per person for entry, equipment rental on top of that. If you arrive late in the day, you can use your ticket for the following day.

Day 5: Crater of Diamonds to Mount Magazine State Park – 118 Miles, 2 hr 30 min

From Crater of Diamonds it’s time to drive to Mount Magazine State Park in Northwest Arkansas. This route will take you about 2 hours and 30 minutes, so hit the road early.

On the way, you will drive along the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway which is a gorgeous scenic drive, so keep the camera handy.

The Mount Magazine Scenic Byway enjoys a slow ascent on a windy road through gorgeous forest.

Mount Magazine is Arkansas highest peak at 2,753 feet (Around 840 metres). It is a lovely drive with a lot of viewpoint stops along the way.

Do not miss them as this is a great opportunity for a nice view and to stretch your legs.

Once you reach near the top of Mount Magazine State Park you will come across the Lodge , the top accommodation in the area.

This is where we stayed and it really is a lovely place. The lodge has great views on a clear day but it is also amazing when the clouds come in low and you can enjoy a hot drink by the fireplace.

There are many trails leaving from the lodge or are located a short drive, so grab your walking shoes and hit the track.

READ MORE: Make a trip to Lake Charles in Louisiana and hit up all the incredible things to do there too!

Travelling along the Mount Magazine Scenic Bypass you will see a lot of hiking trails.

When you arrive to Mount Magazine State Park your first stop should be the Tourist Center. Do drop in here and they will provide all the information you will need for hiking in the area.

There are hikes from the Mount Magazine State Park Tourist Centre or you can hike from the Mount Magazine Lodge.

• Benefield East Loop Trail
• Benefield West Loop Trail
• Mossback Ridge Trail
• Inspiration Point
• Sunrise Rock
• Bear Hollow Trail
• Turkey Springs
• Greenfield Trail
• North Rim Trail
• Will Apple’s Road Trail
• Signal Hill Trail

Once you’ve finished hiking head back to the lodge for a big meal and cold beer.

Day 6: Mount Magazine to Petit Jean State Park – 53 Miles, 1 hr 15 min

Get on the road early and head down the Mount Magazine Scenic Bypass towards Petit Jean State Park.

This is another beautiful state park where you can really embrace nature.

When arriving to Petit Jean State Park there is a camping area or cabins to stay in.

Check into the lodge and they will be able to give you some advice on the hikes in the area.

Most of the walking trails are a short distance from Mather Lodge. Spend the afternoon exploring the area by foot or relax in the lodge.

The Cedar Falls Overlook is an easy hike at just a quarter mile. It’s a well maintained boardwalk that will overlook the waterfalls.

If you are keen, there is the Cedar Falls Trail hike that is 2 miles out and back. It is a moderate/strenuous hike that leads down to the waterfall. There are a number of stairs that descend and the path is well maintained.

The Cedar Creek Trail is a loop trail that is about 1.2 mile (2km) long.

The well marked trail starts at the Old Pioneer Cabin where you will follow the path on a fairly easy but moderate trail.

The trail’s scenery is beautiful and well worth it.

After the walk head back to your cabin or campsite, make a fire and enjoy the stars.

Day 7: Petit Jean State Park to Little Rock – 70 Miles, 1 hr 15 min

Before leaving Petit Jean State Park, get up early and check out the Petit Jean Gravesite Overlook.

This drive will take about an 1 hour and 20 minutes. The lookout has beautiful views over the Arkansas River Valley.

It has great boardwalk for everyone to enjoy with the allowance to go out to the edge.

Getting there for sunrise is the way to go but if you miss it, this place is still worth a stop.

Afterwards it’s time to make the drive back to Little Rock to finish you Arkansas road trip.

READ MORE: Did you know there’s so many awesome activities in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia ? Don’t miss them!

Drive into town, check in at your hotel (or park the car downtown) and go for a walk at the Riverfront Park.

Riverfront Park stretches 11 blocks on the south side of the Arkansas River. The gorgeous urban parkland has 33 acres for nature lovers.

The Riverfront Park is great for outdoor activities and you can even learn about the state’s history. Get out and go for a stroll.

You can visit many attractions along your walk through Riverfront Park. Some of the sights you may pass include:

• Little Rock Civil War Marker
• Clinton Presidential Bridge
• Riverfront Park History Pavilion
• Junction Bridge                                                                                            
• La Petit Roche Plaza
• Medical Mile
• Peabody Splash Park
• First Security Amphitheater
• Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden
• William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands
• Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center

Day 8: Enjoy Your Last Day in Little Rock

It’s the last day of your Arkansas road trip itinerary, and by now you’ve seen some of the state’s top attractions.

If you have a flight out today make sure you enjoy a delicious breakfast, have a coffee and make your way to the airport.

In town for the whole day? Awesome! There’s still lots to do.

Why not check out a local brewery and relax for the afternoon? Most of the breweries have live music on the weekends.

There are a few local breweries to choose from in Little Rock. You can check out some of these in Little Rock;

• Lost Forty Brewing
• Vino’s Brewpub
• Flyway Brewing Company
• Stone’s Throw Brewing – Quapaw Quarter
• Diamond Bear Brewing Co.

Extending Your Trip in Arkansas?

If you have longer on your Arkansas Road Trip, here are a few more places to check out

Near the border of Oklahoma and on the way to Fayetteville, you could stop off at Devil’s Den State Park for some hiking on the number of hiking trails.

Located in the Ozark National Forest, Devil’s Den State Park is a peaceful place that’s worth a visit.

Another city located in the Ozark Mountains is Eureka Springs.

Eureka Springs is known for its beautifully preserved Victorian buildings in its Historic District.

Today in Eureka Springs, you can stay in one if you choose such as the Basin Park Hotel and Crescent Hotel. The historical buildings were built in the past around the city’s natural springs.

In the nearby hills around Eureka Springs, you can visit the Thorncrown Chapel which is a stunning wood and glass church. Very similar to the Anthony Chapel Complex in the Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs.

If you are in the north of Arkansas, do not miss stopping off at Eureka Springs.

After Eureka Springs, you can head north to Blanchard Springs Caverns. Blanchard Springs Caverns is 2.5 hours of Little Rock.

It’s worth a visit to drive the Sylamore Scenic Byway, one of the top road trips in Arkansas.

Make the most of Arkansas’ stunning mountain scenery by hitting the trails in the Ouachita National Forest and along the Ouachita River outside of Hot Springs.

What?? Arkansas has vineyards? It sure does!

In the Arkansas River Valley you can find a whole variety of great vineyards serving up delicious drops.

While Arkansas wine country might not match Napa Valley, it’s still worth a visit if you have time and like a good drink.

The small town near Buffalo National River is a great place for canoeing, camping, boat rentals and getting the family into the great outdoors on the Buffalo River.

Finally for our list of other places to check out when you head west on these Arkansas road trips is the hip town of Fayetteville.

This gorgeous region is home to excellent rock climbing, cool cafes in small towns and a great launching point for the Ozark National Forest, Mulberry River and other excellent places to visit.

There are multiple car rental companies at the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, and in Little Rock. Your best option is to book ahead so you do not miss out on a car when you arrive.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

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The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Ben's Biz: 2024 MiLB ballpark road trips

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This is an excerpt from the latest edition of the Ben's Biz Beat Newsletter, bringing Minor League Baseball business and culture news to your inbox each and every Thursday. Check out the full newsletter HERE. Over the past 13 seasons I’ve witnessed more than 300 games at 186 Minor League

This is an excerpt from the latest edition of the Ben's Biz Beat Newsletter, bringing Minor League Baseball business and culture news to your inbox each and every Thursday. Check out the full newsletter HERE .

Over the past 13 seasons I’ve witnessed more than 300 games at 186 Minor League ballparks, always with the goal of highlighting what makes each team unique. It’s an ongoing and perhaps never-ending journey, with the latest chapter set to begin.

In 2024 I’ll embark on four MiLB ballpark excursions. This is a modest number in comparison to the devil-may-care days of my youth -- by youth, I mean my early 30s -- but still enough to result in a formidable amount of raw material. This material is then diligently sculpted into what some call content, but what I refer to as art.

2024 marks the third consecutive season in which no new MiLB ballparks are opening, and the second in which I, personally, had no ballparks to visit for the first time. This will change in 2025; until then, my priority is to visit locations that I have not been to for at least seven years.

Please note that these itineraries are subject to change, and that a couple of small additions are likely. Read to the end for information regarding Designated Eaters and other aspects of my endearingly (?) ramshackle operation, but first things first: Here are the Minor League ballparks I plan to visit in 2024.

Trip #1: Going back to Cali With the exception of a stop in Fresno five years back, I have not visited California since 2016. Time to make it back out West, where everyone is three hours behind and In-N-Out reigns supreme. My 2024 travel season kicks off with a quartet of Golden State games, three of which are within the aptly named California League.

Sacramento, of course, will become a big league city when it hosts the A’s next season. It’ll be interesting to visit that ballpark in advance of such a major (no pun intended) shift in operations. The last time I was there, in 2016, I ran as Ronald Reagan in the River Cats’ Governors Race. I found myself ideologically misaligned within the giant pompadoured cranium that had consumed me -- and also almost passed out -- but, hey, later on it became a Topps card.

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5/2 : San Jose Giants, Excite Ballpark vs. Lake Elsinore Storm, 6:30 p.m. (Beer Batter Thursday)

5/3: Modesto Nuts, John Thurman Field vs. Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, 7:05 p.m.

5/4: Stockton Ports, Banner Island Ballpark vs. Visalia Rawhide, 7:05 p.m. (Star Wars Night)

5/5: Sacramento River Cats, Sutter Health Ballpark vs. Tacoma Rainiers, 1:05 p.m. (Copa game, playing as the Dorados)

Trip #2: Rickwood and beyond You are probably aware that Birmingham’s Rickwood Field, the oldest ballpark in America (and therefore the universe) will host a Major League game between the Giants and Cardinals on June 20. A Minor League game featuring the Birmingham Barons -- who called Rickwood home from 1910-86 -- and Montgomery Biscuits takes place two days prior.

I built the below itinerary around Rickwood’s Minor League contest, which is essentially a new version of the Rickwood Classic game that the Barons played from 1996-2019. I have not been to the other three ballparks in this itinerary since 2012. What I remember most about that trip was that I had just been diagnosed with celiac disease and was morosely processing the fact that I could never enjoy ballpark food in the same way ever again. Fare thee well, hot dog buns. Adios, soft pretzels. Hello, Designated Eaters.

There will be more details to come regarding the specifics of this trip, as this is the itinerary most likely to change. Stay tuned.

6/18 : Birmingham Barons, Rickwood Field, vs. Montgomery Biscuits, 6:35 p.m.

6/19 : Memphis Redbirds, AutoZone Park vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, 7:05 p.m.

6/20 : Arkansas Travelers, Dickey-Stephens Park vs. Wichita Wind Surge, 6:35 p.m.

6/21 : Northwest Arkansas Naturals, Arvest Ballpark vs. Tulsa Drillers, 7:05 p.m.

Trip #3: Cookout and Cheerwine: A Return to North Carolina North Carolina is, as one book put it, “ The Cradle of the Game .” Ten Minor League teams currently call the state home, and there are a number of independent and summer-collegiate teams as well. I have visited North Carolina in eight of the 13 seasons in which I have traveled professionally, and trip number nine will take place in July.

With this itinerary, there were two distinct goals. The first was to return to Truist Stadium, the home of the Winston-Salem Dash. The first time I was there was during my first trip to North Carolina, in 2011, and I never made it back (not that I hadn’t tried, it’s just that the home-road scheduling gods were always against me). Thirteen years later, I’ll be watching the videoboard to see if they can top this nugget:

I was also desirous of visiting Kinston’s Grainger Stadium one more time, as the Down East Wood Ducks are relocating to Spartanburg, S.C., in 2025. Grainger Stadium was built in 1949 and it almost certainly will never host Minor League Baseball again after this season. Inevitable, maybe. Sad, definitely.

Incorporating both ballparks in the same itinerary was tricky, again due to the vagaries of the home-road scheduling gods. The schedule I put together allows time for an Appalachian League interlude, witnessing a pair of games between the Danville Otterbots and Burlington Sock Puppets. I have not seen an Appy League game since the circuit switched from Rookie-Advanced to summer-collegiate prior to the 2021 season. In those days Danville’s team was named the Braves, while Burlington was home to the Royals. Things have changed.

7/26 : Down East Wood Ducks, Grainger Stadium vs. Fayetteville Woodpeckers, 7:00 p.m.

7/27 : Durham Bulls, Durham Bulls Athletic Park vs. Gwinnett Stripers, 6:35 p.m.

7/28: Greensboro Grasshoppers, First National Bank Field vs. Asheville Tourists, 2 p.m.

7/29: Danville Otterbots, Legion Field vs. Burlington Sock Puppets, 7 p.m.

7/30: Burlington Sock Puppets, Burlington Athletic Stadium vs. Danville Otterbots, 7 p.m.

7/31: Winston-Salem Dash, Truist Stadium vs. Greensboro Grasshoppers, 7 p.m.

Trip #4: Michigan and more I have fond memories of a June 2013 excursion that included all three of Michigan’s Minor League teams, as it was shortly after the summer solstice and the days seemed to last forever. This time around it’ll be later in the summer and night’s abyssal void will creep in a bit earlier, but I’m still betting on beauty. South Bend was also part of that 2013 itinerary, so I’m glad to get back there as well. Toledo (last visit: 2018) is always great. All hail Toledo.

Anyhow, here’s a picture from the last time I visited the West Michigan Whitecaps.

8/23 : West Michigan Whitecaps, LMCU Ballpark vs. Lake County Captains, 6:35 p.m. (Beer City Bung Hammers alternate identity)

8/24 : Great Lakes Loons, Dow Diamond vs. Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, 7:05 (The Office Night featuring David Koechner)

8/25: Toledo Mud Hens, Fifth Third Field vs. Louisville Bats, 2:05 p.m.

8/27 : Lansing Lugnuts, Jackson Field vs. Fort Wayne Tin Caps, 7:05 p.m.

8/28 : South Bend Cubs, 7:05 p.m. vs. Great Lakes Loons (Adbert Alzolay bobblehead giveaway)

Designated Eaters, Etc.

As many of you know, I am the originator and sole administrator of a long-running Designated Eater program. The concept is simple: At every ballpark I visit, I meet with a fan who consumes and critiques the ballpark cuisine my gluten-free diet prohibits.

If you would like to be a Designated Eater at any of the ballparks listed above, email me: [email protected] and put Designated Eater and the team in question in the subject line.

The Designated Eater email deadline for my first trip (San Jose-Modesto-Stockton-Sacramento) is April 24. For all other visits, get in touch by the end of May.

Beyond Designated Eating, please get in touch if you have any suggestions regarding who or what I should write about at any of the ballparks I’m visiting. Be it beloved gameday employees, eccentric superfans, underappreciated players, retired mascot performers, avuncular bus drivers or irascible clubbies, I’m open to it all.

Finally, I hope to meet you. I really mean that. Thanks for reading, and see you out there.

Benjamin Hill is a reporter for MiLB.com and writes Ben's Biz Blog . Follow Ben on Twitter @bensbiz .

• San Jose Giants
• Modesto Nuts
• Stockton Ports
• Sacramento River Cats
• Birmingham Barons
• Memphis Redbirds
• Arkansas Travelers
• Northwest Arkansas Naturals
• Down East Wood Ducks
• Durham Bulls
• Greensboro Grasshoppers
• Danville Otterbots
• Burlington Sock Puppets
• Winston-Salem Dash
• West Michigan Whitecaps
• Great Lakes Loons
• Toledo Mud Hens
• Lansing Lugnuts
• South Bend Cubs
• Ben's Biz
• Benjamin Hill

These unique Airbnb locations are around an hour from Louisville. Worth a road trip.

For out-of-towners looking for a vacation to the Louisville area, or for residents hoping to take a trip without putting a ton of miles on the vehicle, there are plenty of spots close to downtown to consider.

Kentucky Airbnb: Whether you're bringing a date or a book, these cozy Kentucky Airbnbs could be right for you

Here's a list of some local Airbnb listings to consider for a vacation:

Lawrenceburg, Kentucky

Bourbon trail: caboose on the farm.

Distance From Downtown Louisville: About an hour drive, or 60 miles.

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $200 before taxes.

Property description: For those seeking an untraditional stay, the Southern Caboose x525 is located on a working cattle farm.

"Maintaining the industrial feel of an authentic caboose, while bringing in the warmth of handcrafted woodwork design, the Caboose on the Farm creates a unique experience like no other," according to the description. "Queen bed, twin bunk-beds, full bath, kitchenette. Beautiful outdoor pavilion with grill and fire pit. Working cattle farm, see cattle, goats, a donkey, a horse, and a pig!"

Tucked Away Treehouse on the KY Bourbon Trail

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around an hour and 15 minutes, or 65 miles.

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $160 before taxes.

Property description: For up to four guests, this unique property, nestled in the trees, offers a different view of the area, quite literally. "Tucked Away Treehouse boasts a full-service kitchen, loft with memory foam queen bed (accessible only by ladder), a full bathroom, and pull-out couch (on the main level). One of our very favorite features is the full glass garage door which creates a fun, indoor-outdoor environment. We are certain you will love sleeping amongst the trees," according to the description.

Louisville, Kentucky

Captain's cabin: historic romantic by bourbon trail.

Distance from downtown Louisville: About 20 minutes.

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $250 before taxes.

Property description: Located on eight acres with a private lake, Captain's Cabin is a well-known place to stay, featured in national magazines like the July 2019 issue of Log Cabin Homes, the April 2015 issue of Country's Best Cabins and the 2015 September issue of Style Blueprint.

"Period furnishings and modern conveniences make this an unforgettable retreat. A massive stone fireplace creates a quiet ambiance," according to the description. "Tasteful antiques appoint the cabin for a step back in time. Sip wine by the fireplace, read on the private back porch or enjoy the wildlife visiting the lake from the front porch."

Historically Registered 1847 Log Home

Distance from downtown Louisville: Less than 30 minutes, or 20 miles.

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $280 before taxes. A minimum three-night stay is required to reserve.

Property description: For up to eight guests, this recently renovated and historically registered home provides a nice space for relaxation.

"Escape to the country while staying close to the city with this 2,600 square foot hand-hewn log home from 1847," according to the description. "Lounge on one of the two large decks and enjoy the sunset or sunrise. The oversized kitchen will make cooking a country dinner a breeze. Rinse the day away with a rainfall shower head in a custom tile shower and enjoy (the) night with plush beds."

Jeffersonville, Indiana

River front cottage - entire house - renovated.

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 15 minutes, or 5 miles

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $240 before taxes. A minimum three-night stay is required to reserve.

Property description: For up to eight guests, this property is closely located to downtown, with a view of the Ohio River. "Freshly remodeled river front home with 3bd/2 bath and open large living/kitchen. The views are fantastic, looking directly across to Louisville's historic water tower," according to the description. "Located in a quiet neighborhood, just minutes from booming downtown Jeffersonville!"

Borden, Indiana

Top of the rock.

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 30 miles or 45 minutes.

Average cost per night: An overnight stay in June is priced at around $275 before taxes. A minimum two-night stay is required to reserve.

Property description: This property, accommodating up to ten guests, has a unique, rustic appearance and rests around 800 feet above sea level, known for its impressive balcony and views.

"The sweeping vistas overlooking miles of trees and farms is like nothing you've seen before. You find yourself already deciding which corner of the balcony you'll sit and sip your morning coffee, envisioning scrumptious steaks sizzling on the grill in the outdoor kitchen, and calling dibs on the porch swing in the cozy alcove by the fire pit where you can nurse a nightcap - with your entire field of vision immersed in the beautiful sunset."

"From the moment you cross the one-lane bridge on Top of the Rock Road, you'll be entering your own private oasis of farmland and forest," according to the description. "The northern edge of the property abuts hundreds of acres of state forestry - hikers, bikers, horsemen, and nature lovers will be thrilled by the miles and miles of trails only steps away from your front door. With a growing list of on-property add-ons including food packages, trap-shooting, trail rides and more, you may never want to leave. Make your reservation now for your own private hilltop retreat- you don't want to miss the chance to choose your own adventure at Top of the Rock!"

Coastal Carolina University Athletics

Women's Tennis 4/11/2024 2:25:00 PM

Chants Begin Road Trip vs. Old Dominion and James Madison

CONWAY, S.C. - Following the win over Arkansas State in the home finale, the Coastal Carolina women's tennis team (12-6, 6-2 SBC) is set to travel to Virgina to take on the Old Dominion Monarchs (11-5, 7-0 SBC) tomorrow and the James Madison Dukes (8-9, 4-3 SBC) on Saturday. 

CCU is coming off a pair of wins over ULM and Arkansas State last weekend in their final matches at the Stevens Tennis Complex this season. The Chants swept ULM 7-0 on Friday and defeated Arkansas State 6-1 on Sunday on senior day, improving their overall record to 12-6 and their conference record to 6-2. Senior Jesse Hollins went a perfect 4-0 across doubles and singles play over the weekend, extending her singles winning streak to 11. Senior Kata Foldeak also extended her singles winning streak to a career-high seven matches with a three-set victory over the Red Wolves' No. 4 seed Sarah Millard. 

Old Dominion welcomes CCU with an 11-5 record this season, currently sitting atop the Sun Belt standings at a perfect 7-0 in conference play. In their recent results, the Monarchs blanked both ULM and James Madison in a pair of wins on the road. 

James Madison enters the weekend at 8-9 on the season and 4-3 in conference, which places them in sixth place in the Sun Belt ranks. The Dukes have gone 2-2 in their last four games, also beating ULM and Arkansas State and losing to Old Dominion and VCU in a non-conference matchup. 

CCU vs. Old Dominion will start at 12 P.M. ET tomorrow at the Folkes-Stevens Tennis Center in Norfolk, Va. CCU vs. James Madison will start at 10 A.M. ET on Saturday at Hillside Courts in Harrisonburg, Va. 

For complete coverage of CCU women's tennis, follow the Chants on social media @CoastalWTennis (Twitter), facebook.com/CCUChanticleers (Facebook), @GoCCUSports (Instagram) or visit the official home of Coastal Carolina Athletics at goccusports.com  

Players Mentioned

Kata Foldeak

Jesse Hollins

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The Breathtaking Scenic Drive Through Arkansas That Runs Along The Mulberry River

Melanie Johnson

I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.

More by this Author

Now that it’s road trip season, how about we kick it off in the best way? One of the most scenic drives in Arkansas is the Mulberry River Road Scenic Byway and it belongs on your list this year. At only 17 miles long, this drive might be short, but it’s jam-packed with breathtaking water views and tons of adventure along the way. If you’re ready, gas up the car, pack your favorite road trip snacks , and let’s head to the town of Oark to start this scenic waterfront drive in Arkansas.

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Have you driven on Mulberry River Road Scenic Byway before? If so, do you agree with us that this waterfront drive in Arkansas is one of the prettiest drives in Arkansas? Sound off in the comments below.

Also, check out our previous article about High Bank Twin Falls. You should definitely make time to see these double waterfalls in the Ozarks .

The Marvelous 0.5-Mile Trail In Arkansas Leads Adventurers To A Little-Known Waterfall

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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