4 day itinerary for Arkansas

Itinerary

Arkansas is a hidden gem with stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor activities. Let’s craft an exciting 4-day itinerary for you, starting from St. Louis, Missouri. Buckle up for a scenic adventure!

## Day 1: St. Louis to Hot Springs

Morning:

• Departure from St. Louis: Start your journey early in the morning. It’s about a 4-hour drive to Hot Springs, Arkansas, so grab some coffee and hit the road!
• Scenic Stop: Consider a quick stop at Lake Ouachita for a picturesque view. It’s a beautiful spot to stretch your legs and take some photos.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Hot Springs: Check into your hotel or a cozy cabin.
• Lunch: Head to The Pancake Shop for a delicious brunch. Their pancakes are legendary!
• Hot Springs National Park: Spend the afternoon exploring the park. Hike the Hot Springs Mountain Trail for stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains. Don’t forget to check out the historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row!

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a meal at The Porterhouse for some great steak and local flavors.
• Relax: If you’re up for it, unwind with a soak at one of the local spas. The Quapaw Baths & Spa is a great choice!

## Day 2: Hot Springs to Little Rock

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Colonial Pancake & Waffle House.
• Travel to Little Rock: It’s just about an hour’s drive to the capital city.

Afternoon:

• Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Visit this important historical site and learn about the Civil Rights Movement.
• Lunch: Grab a bite at The Root Cafe, known for its farm-to-table approach and delicious sandwiches.
• Riverfront Park: Stroll along the Arkansas River and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don’t miss the Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America!

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill for a relaxed dining experience with a great atmosphere.
• Explore the nightlife: If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the local music scene or grab a drink at a nearby bar.

## Day 3: Little Rock to Petit Jean State Park

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Diner before heading out.
• Drive to Petit Jean State Park: It’s about an hour and a half drive, but the scenery is worth it!

Afternoon:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s stunning trails. The Cedar Falls Trail is a must-do, leading you to a breathtaking waterfall. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks!
• Petit Jean Mountain: Don’t miss the Mather Lodge for some incredible views and photo ops.

Evening:

• Dinner: Have dinner at the lodge or head back to nearby Morrilton for a local diner experience.
• Stargazing: If the skies are clear, Petit Jean is a great place for stargazing. Grab a blanket and enjoy the night sky!

## Day 4: Petit Jean State Park to St. Louis

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at the lodge or a local café.
• Explore More of Petit Jean: If you have time, take a short hike to Bear Cave or visit the Petit Jean State Park Museum.

Afternoon:

• Drive Back to St. Louis: Begin your journey back, but consider stopping at Arkansas Post National Memorial for a bit of history and a scenic view of the Arkansas River.

Evening:

• Dinner on the Road: Stop for dinner at a local diner or fast food along the way, depending on your mood.
• Arrive in St. Louis: You’ll be back home with a heart full of memories and a camera full of beautiful photos!

And there you have it! A delightful 4-day itinerary filled with scenic spots, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Enjoy your trip to Arkansas! If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌲✨