Travel Archives | At Home in Arkansas

Go East

May 4, 2018 by Stephanie Maxwell Newton

Discover Memphis: There’s more to Memphis than Graceland and Grizzlies: Here are 18 recommendations for the next time you cross the Mighty Mississippi

WHAT TO DO >>

Experience the city’s famous blues and barbecues at annual and monthly celebrations.

Above: The lineup for Beale Street Music Festival this year includes Jack White, Erykah Badu, Alanis Morissette, and Vance Joy among many others. Courtesy of Nathan Zucker

Memphis in May
Downtown Memphis, Begins May 4
Tens of thousands gather at Tom Lee Park for the Beale Street Music Festival (May 4-6), three days of music that kick off the city’s month-long celebration. The fest’s lineup is famously varied, usually including a mix of rock, pop, country, hip-hop, and indie acts. Another MIM favorite is the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (May 16-19), where teams from all over the country compete for the championship title in mouth-watering categories such as Whole Hog, Beef, Vinegar Sauce, and Hot Wings. Visit memphisinmay.org for more information about the many events during Memphis in May.
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Spotlight on the Spa City

March 5, 2018 by Stephanie Maxwell Newton

Discover Hot Springs: All you need to know about visiting “America’s First Resort”

Walking down Central Avenue on a chilly day before winter started to turn to spring, I was struck by the way Hot Springs has managed to honor its historic charm while evolving over the years. I watched a pair of backpackers in front of me taking in the city and I saw it again through fresh eyes: They admired the architecture, popped into each and every storefront, and warmed their hands over the steam of the hot water bubbling through a fountain in front of Fordyce Bathhouse, now the Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center….

Discover: Bentonville and Rogers

October 18, 2017 by Stephanie Maxwell Newton

Bentonville and Rogers are two of Arkansas’s fastest growing communities with some of the state’s most well-kept secrets. From the excellence of internationally renowned art collections to the simplicity of a perfectly brewed cup of joe, this corner of the state seems to have it all.

The Coca-Cola mural on Bentonville City Square’s Tate & Haney Building is a 2016 re-creation of a similar ad once found there. This spot is one of the many photo ops along the Razorback Regional Greenway, a 36-mile shared-use trail stretching from Fayetteville to Lake Bella Vista. Photo by Stephanie Maxwell.

CYCLE OF LIFE

While much of The Natural State is bike-able, Bentonville and Rogers are particularly cycle-friendly communities. To wit: Multiple local bike shops, cycling events, a bicycling-themed brewery (see the next page), and more are keeping cyclists busy in the area. With several of those shops offering rentals and daily group rides, it’s never been easier to go for a spin while you’re in town. See the below listings for bike sales, service, tours, and rentals….

Discover: Conway

April 17, 2017 by Norma Edwards

Known as the City of Colleges, or perhaps better known for its nickname, The City of Roundabouts, exciting things in Conway keep visitors circling back for more

Brewing for Good
What’s in a cup of coffee? If you ask Blue Sail Coffee, the answer is opportunity—in large numbers. “Coffee is a part of our everyday lives. And for some of us, it is definitely more than one cup a day,” Stormie Perry, Blue Sail Coffee’s Director of Marketing & Social Media, says….

Discover: Jonesboro

March 17, 2017 by Norma Edwards

Northeast Arkansas continues to experience revitalization in the arts, while adding flavor to the culinary scene and fostering a strong sense of community

Downtown Living

Want to call downtown Jonesboro home? Three separately owned buildings featuring a total of 29 lofts are currently under construction in the area. Stay tuned to the Downtown Jonesboro Association Facebook page or sign up for their newsletter for more info. downtownjonesboro.com

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Discover: Hot Springs

June 21, 2016 by Norma Edwards

The Spa City is an ideal destination for summer fun, boutique shopping, and resources to beautify your home

Local Finds
Whether it’s your first visit to Hot Springs or you’re in the area frequently, be sure to reserve a bit of time for shopping at locally owned boutiques. Don’t miss one of our favorite area boutiques, Accessory Gallery (501-321-9168). Known for their wide selection of women’s wear, the shop stocks a number of well-known lines including Joseph Ribkoff. Shoppers will also be delighted with their well-stocked inventory of handbags, jewelry, and other accessories. Whether you’re headed to a summer soirée or in search of stylish finds to wear every day, Accessory Gallery is a must-visit resource.

Aside from this boutique, you’ll also find a number of gift shops and gourmet shops in the Hot Springs area. We suggest parking near the historic Arlington Hotel and walking the downtown area to see the array of stores and galleries that are breathing new life into the district.

Area Attractions
Long deemed as a retreat for Arkansans, Hot Springs is home to a variety of events and attractions. While in the downtown area, don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll along Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark in Hot Springs and a focal point not to be missed. There are eight distinct bathhouses all built between the late 1800s and 1923, each with its own architectural style to enjoy. If you’re interested in the history, you can tour a few of the houses, or if you’re tempted, you can even take a hot springs bath.

Of course, Oaklawn Racing & Gaming (800-625-5296, oaklawn.com) ranks high in popularity for many Arkansans and out-of-state visitors. While the horse racing season may have drawn to a close, there are still numerous activities to enjoy at the park, including a performance by The Monkees at the Finish Line Theater on Friday, July 22. Check their website for complete details.

If you prefer to take in the scenic surroundings, head to Garvan Woodland Gardens (501-262-9300, garvangardens.org), a 210-acre botanical garden teeming with color and creativity. Tour the gardens at your own pace or become a member and go on a Plant ID Hike (held each Thursday beginning at 8 a.m.) with the Director of Education, Rush Fentress. It’s a place to visit again and again, as the landscape changes with each season.

With summer at its peak, you may be interested in spending some time on the water. Hot Springs has no shortage of amazing lakes, including Lake Catherine, Lake Ouachita, and Lake Hamilton. Whether you prefer to swim, waterski, or simply relax on a party barge, these waterways are a main attraction on summer weekends.

Make It Home
If you fall in love with Hot Springs and choose to make it home—or if you’re one of the lucky ones already living in this vacation-like town, there are a number of resources to help make your house both comfortable and stylish. For starters, call on Sandy Sutton and her team at Sandy Sutton’s Design Center (501-624-6700, sandysuttondesigns.com). The established designer works on a variety of new construction projects as well as remodels, and she can manage your project from start to finish. Visit her showroom on Central Avenue to see selections of flooring, tile, wallpaper, fabrics, and more—all of which Sandy can help you incorporate into the home of your dreams.

If you are in the market for new furnishings, visit Arkansas Furniture (501-623-3849, arkansasfurniture.com). Located on Albert Pike Road, this one-stop shop offers everything from mattresses to dining tables and bedroom furniture, as well as home accessories. You’ll find a number of quality brands—including Bernhardt, Lane, La-Z-Boy, Broyhill, Serta, and Tempur-Pedic, and Norwalk (shown at right)—at the lowest available price. They also carry outdoor furniture lines, such as Breezesta and O.W. Lee, to help you spruce up your deck or terrace.

Holiday Destinations

November 20, 2015 by agill@athomearkansas.com

Whether you’re visiting family, headed to a winter attraction, or simply want to enjoy the respite of a few days away during the season, there’s plenty to do in the Natural State. Check out these places, events, and accommodations

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

Throughout the month of December, there are numerous activities in which to take part in this region of the state. Start in Fayetteville’s town square to see the annual Lights of the Ozarks (thelightsoftheozarks.com) display, any night from November 20 through December 31. In addition to the display, you can enjoy pony and carriage rides, hot chocolate, and, occasionally, even carolers.

From there, head north to Bentonville, where you’ll find yet another festive display of holiday lights around the town’s charming downtown square. And just north of the square is The Rink at Lawrence Plaza (bentonvillear.com), a place for children of all ages to learn to ice skate, play hockey, or even watch holiday movies known as “Frosty’s Flicks.” Check the website for a full schedule of operating times and events.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in town, don’t miss 21c Museum Hotel (479-286-6500; 21cmuseumhotels.com/bentonville), which is located just steps from the square and in close proximity to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art—an attraction that draws local and national visitors year-round. The 104-room boutique hotel is a retreat in itself, with a fresh and inviting atmosphere, thought-provoking art exhibits, and The Hive—its renowned restaurant.

Travel further north to join in the festivities in the popular destination town of Eureka Springs. How dreamy would a stay at the historic Crescent Hotel (800-342-9766, crescent-hotel.com) be during this enchanted time of year? Imagine the rugged landscape covered with a blanket of snow, while you’re able to enjoy its beauty from the warmth and comfort of a well-appointed room. If you go, be sure to check out their New Moon Spa and visit the nearby shops—many of which carry local and handmade goods.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

If this corner of the state is your destination, don’t miss the Jonesboro Christmas Parade (parade.jonesborojaycees.org), set to take place on December 3. This year’s theme, “A North Pole Christmas,” is sure to elicit reindeer, toy-making elves, and, of course, jolly old St. Nick, on numerous floats that will make their way down Main and Union Streets.

If it’s music that gets you into the spirit, head to Arkansas State University’s Fowler Center (870-972-ASU1; yourfowlercenter.com) on December 6 for an afternoon with the Boston Brass, who will perform their “Christmas Bells are Swingin’” program.

CENTRAL ARKANSAS

Celebrate the season in the capital city by visiting—what else?—the Arkansas State Capitol (591-682-5080; sos.arkansas.gov). Each year, the interior and exterior are majestically illuminated and decorated with the season’s best to welcome Arkansans.

If you’re looking for a day activity the entire family can enjoy, we suggest heading to Motley’s Tree Farm (501-888-1129, motleystreefarm.com). Experience the thrill of selecting and cutting your own Christmas tree, meet Santa Claus, and don’t miss a trip to their Fudge Kitchen for a tasty treat. Visit the website for operating times and event dates.

SOUTH ARKANSAS

If South Arkansas is calling your name, there are two not-to-be missed events to add to your schedule of festivities. First, El Dorado’s South Arkansas Arts Center (870-862-5474, saac-arts.com) will present the beloved Christmas play Miracle on 34th Street, the story of one little girl who longs to believe in Santa and a man whose goodwill officially earns him the title. The production will held November 27-29 and December 4-6.

Secondly, if it’s the glow of twinkling lights that puts you in the holiday spirit, head to Smackover and the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources’ (870-725-2877, amnr.org) Holiday Light Extravaganza. You’ll have the opportunity to view a variety of light arrangements in the oilfield park every Friday and Saturday night from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., November 20 – December 26.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Three ways to ring in 2016 in style with dinner, dancing, and a whole lot of fun

Last Night Fayetteville, Fayetteville

Billed as Arkansas’s largest New Year’s Eve Celebration, this five-year-old, non-profit performance festival, which is held on the Fayetteville Square, will feature 11 stages for both kids and adults with entertainers of all kinds including musicians, dancers, magicians, acrobats, and more. Don’t miss the “hog drop” and fireworks finale at midnight. For info and tickets, visit lastnightfayetteville.com.

The Arlington, Hot Springs

Choose from the Gala Dinner Dance in the Crystal Ballroom or the New Year’s Eve Festival Party in the Conference Center to bid goodbye to the old year and welcome the new. Room packages and amenities available. For reservations, call (800) 643-1502 or visit arlingtonhotel.com.

“Downton Abbey” Wine Dinner, Little Rock

The Empress of Little Rock plays host for this annual event, which encourages period costumes. Guests enjoy dinner with various wine pairings along with a midnight champagne toast, with the option to purchase lodging. For reservations, call (501) 374-7966 or visit theempress.com.

Discover: The Delta

October 21, 2015 by agill@athomearkansas.com

Rich in heritage and history, the Arkansas Delta spans the entire eastern portion of the state, from the northern tip of Clay County all the way to southerly Chicot County. Comprised most notably of fertile farmland, the 27 counties in the region offer more than just beautiful landscapes and bountiful harvests. Read on for a few of our favorite stops in this stretch of land.

EATS & SWEETS

Whether you’re just passing through or native to the area, chances are you’ve heard of Pickens Country Store & Restaurant (122 Railroad Road, Pickens, 870-382-5266) and there’s good reason for that—it’s a stop not to be missed for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. Open Monday-Friday, the joint—which was originally a commissary for the locals and workers at the Pickens Plantation—is one-part general store and one-part restaurant. Inquire about their daily specials and don’t skip the pie. To get there, keep an eye out for their roadside sign on U.S. Highway 65 South. You’ll take a right here and travel a little more than a mile to Pickens.

Also located in Desha County is Taylor’s Steakhouse (14201 Highway 54, Dumas, 870-382-5349). Open for dinner Thursday – Saturday starting at 5:30, Taylor’s is the Delta’s go-to destination for steak and sides. Their chalkboard menu features bone-in or boneless rib eyes and porterhouses (both starting at 25-ounces!) as well as filets—all dry-aged and hand-cut. Be sure to come hungry!

LOCAL FINDS

While you are in Dumas, be sure to visit potter Gail Miller at Miller’s Mud Mill (862 Highway 65 South, Dumas, 870-382-5277, millersmudmill.com). Well known for her handmade pieces, including bowls, trays, vases, cheeseboards, and more, Miller’s pottery features natural colors and forms, and the pieces are often prized for their individuality as well as their Arkansas Delta origin.

Further south you’ll find one of the area’s most popular destinations for home décor—Paul Michael Company (3696 Highway 65, Lake Village, (870) 265-3872, paulmichaelcompany.com). Shoppers come from all over the region to find quality pieces of American-made furniture, much of which is designed and constructed from reclaimed or native wood and salvaged materials in nearby workshops. This time of year, holiday décor fills the Lake Village store, including harvest and Thanksgiving pieces as well as Christmas items. The store is open seven days a week, with extended hours during the holiday season.

Heading back towards the northern portion of the Arkansas Delta, make a stop at Handworks Helena (227 Cherry Street, Helena, 870-338-4340, handworkshelena.com). Filled with beautiful dinnerware, including Skyros and Juliska, the shop is a go-to for finding the perfect wedding gift and for viewing the registry of a local bride-to-be. While you’re there, be sure to browse their selection of home décor, art, and other fashionable accessories.

If you’re in the market for on-trend clothing, jewelry, and accessories, be sure to step next door to visit Bella (229-A Cherry Street, Helena, 870-228-5004). The boutique features top women’s brands, including Nally and Millie, BB Dakota, Chaser, and Kendra Scott. You’ll also find a full selection of children’s clothing, and have the opportunity to shop registries for local little ones.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

If you want to learn more about the region, one place offers a history of the 27-county span all in one location. The Delta Cultural Center (141 Cherry Street, Helena, 870-338-4350, deltaculturalcenter.com), located in Helena, is a museum dedicated to the Arkansas Delta’s history. Visit the center for a free, guided tour of the exhibits, or register for one of their educational programs. While the museum is housed in the depot, there are a number of historical and new buildings as well as landscaped parks that comprise the Cultural Center. Visit their website to learn more about upcoming lectures, exhibits, and events.

Helena also boasts another interesting regional stop that’s especially popular among outdoors enthusiasts. The Delta Heritage Trail (5539 Highway 49, Helena-West Helena, 870-572-2352, arkansasstateparks.com/deltaheritagetrail) is a part of the national “rails to trails” initiative, which aims to convert former railroad lines into pedestrian and bicycle routes. Currently being developed in phases, the trail will span 84.5 miles when complete. Bicycles are available for rental at the visitor center, which is located on U.S. Highway 49 in Barton.

Discover: Hot Springs

June 19, 2015 by agill@athomearkansas.com

For many, the Spa City is a respite for rest, relaxation, and fun! The shores of Lake Hamilton offer not only peace and quiet, but also plenty of opportunities to let the good times roll. Aside from the water, the city is home to a number of restaurants, fashionable boutiques, and one-of-a-kind shops. What’s more, if you call Hot Springs home—or you’re looking to move to the area—you’ll find amazing local resources to help you build or remodel. Read on for a few of our must-visit stops.

EATS & SWEETS

For fresh and innovative fare, we suggest dropping into Café 1217 (501-318-1094, cafe1217.net) where founder, owner, and head chef Diana Bratton offers soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees that will delight even the most discerning palate. The menu changes monthly to continue to offer diners new options reflective of what’s in-season. When we dined there in June, we particularly enjoyed the Shrimp Cobb Salad, the House Smoked Banana Leaf Pork Sandwich, and a piece of strawberry pie from the dessert case.

If you’re in the mood for seafood, there’s no better place than Cajun Boilers (501-767-5695, cajunboilers.com). Serving both lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers authentic Cajun dishes such as crawfish étoufée, boudin, and Catfish Chalmette along with fresh oysters, fish, and peel-and-eat shrimp. They can also cater to a crowd. Contact them for more information about hosting your next event or meeting at this well-loved Hot Springs restaurant.

LOCAL FINDS

Along Central Avenue, you’ll see an abundance of locally owned boutiques for both fashion and home décor. We suggest making Accessory Gallery and Sparkle (501-321-9168; facebook.com/shopag) your first stop. These stocked shops are a go-to source for the well-dressed woman. The two boutiques (which are connected to one another) offer clothing for a casual lunch or date night, as well as everyday wear. Plus, they have shoes, scarves, purses, and an excellent selection of jewelry to complete your look. Their newest lines include Comfy, Lysse, Zenzii jewelry, and Mycra Pac rain jackets. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for the latest arrivals.

If history is your cup of tea, don’t miss Tillman’s Antiques (501-624-4083). The long-established store, located in the heart of downtown on Central Avenue, is a destination for estate jewelry pieces, glassware, and collectibles—as well as the stories that accompany them. Owner Davis Tillman is a wealth of knowledge on the artifacts and is eager to assist you in finding the perfect choice for your own collection. In addition to the estate items, we love their selection of attractive and affordable Lafonn man-made diamond jewelry as well as pieces from Ronaldo Designer Jewelry, Inc., which are all handcrafted in America.

MAKE IT HOME

Hot Springs boasts an array of talented interior designers who can help with any project. Designer Jennifer Huett of House to Home (501-520-4949, shophousetohome.com) is known for infusing whimsical, on-trend style and color into her projects. Her business, which recently relocated to Ridgeway Street, is open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and by appointment on Friday and Saturday. Contact Jennifer for your next whole-home redo or one-room makeover, and be sure to visit her blog for inspiration.

The team at Sandy Sutton’s Design Center (501-624-6700, sandysuttonsdesigns.com) also recently made the move into a new space. They are now located on Central Avenue. Here, they have created a true one-stop resource for everything from flooring and backsplash tile to on-trend wallpaper and fabrics. Offering both residential and commercial design, the award-winning Hot Springs native can help with everything from space planning to custom draperies or finding the perfect antiques and furnishings for your home.

Whether you’re working with a designer on a full-scale project or you’re just looking for a few pieces and updates around the house, there’s a variety of stores that cater to your needs. We suggest heading to Arkansas Furniture (501-623-3849, arkansasfurniture.com) on Albert Pike Road when you’re in the market for a new sofa, a pair of chairs, a dining table, ottoman, or even accessories. You’ll find affordable, high-quality lines such as Bernhardt, Lane, La-Z-Boy, and Broyhill. Plus, they also have a great selection of mattresses from manufacturers like Serta, Tempur-Pedic, and icomfort. The home furnishings shop is conveniently open Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. to help meet all your furniture needs.

For more in-depth updates, visit Peter’s Flooring and Paint (501-623-1800, petersflooringandpaint.com). Since 1906 they have been servicing Hot Springs and surrounding areas. When you visit their 8,000-square-foot showroom, you’ll find an amazing selection of carpet, wood and laminate flooring, tile and stone, as well as a paints and stains from brands such as PPG Pittsburgh Paints, Cabot, Pratt & Lambert, and more. They also offer cabinetry, countertops, radiant heating, wallpaper, and window treatments—making them a one-stop shop for any home update. Finally, to make the process easy and convenient, call on them for in-house measuring, installation, or financing.

Searcy to Heber Springs

March 18, 2015 by agill@athomearkansas.com

Whether you’re a local or headed through the area to a weekend getaway destination, make the time to stop and take in the charming sites and shops in downtown Searcy and Heber Springs

Local Finds

Located just off the square, Bliss Salon & Boutique (501-279-2544) is a haven for the busy woman. Offering appointments for hair, nails, and massages, as well as the latest fashions, it’s truly a one-stop shop to relax and update your look. The boutique features fun and colorful clothing, along with jewelry and accessories. Don’t forget to shop the upstairs portion of the store for more trendsetting finds.

From there, we suggest heading just down the square to visit The Boutique (501-268-3434, searcyboutique.com). Filled with beautiful china, kitchen and tabletop wares, bedding from Pinecone Hill and furniture and rugs from Company C, as well as a huge selection of special, soon-to-be cherished gifts, the shop is a true gem for all things home. Newly engaged brides can create their own registry filled with all the things that make a house a home. Stop in today to find unique goodies for yourself or a loved one.

Next, venture over to East Race Avenue for all of your fine jewelry needs. Located in a beautifully updated historic property near Harding University, Tara & Co. Diamonds (501-268-4684, taracodiamonds.com) is the area’s premier jeweler, offering the expertise of a trained and knowledgeable staff. You’ll find a huge selection of stunning engagement rings and exquisite quality brands including Michele, Sylvie, Le Vian, and Pandora—the perfect accessory for any look.

Continue your shopping trip just up the road in Heber Springs, where you’ll find Panache (501-362-7919, aromatique.com). The charming and well-stocked store adjoins the corporate headquarters for Arkansas’s beloved home fragrance brand, Aromatique. And while you’ll find plenty of candle and potpourri offerings in the shop, you can also browse an equally large selection of china, glassware, linens, and gift items. In addition, Panache now offers bridal registry for the area’s newly engaged couples. The friendly staff is eager to help you find your favorite Aromatique fragrance or show you their wide array of giftware if you’re on the hunt for something special.

Make it Home

If you decide to call the area home, we suggest stopping in at Sowell’s Furniture (501-268-8100, sowellsfurniture.com) for a few new pieces to spruce up your home. The family owned and operated business has been a staple of the area for more than 70 years. Best known for their colorful home furnishings—including upholstered pieces, dining tables, bedroom sets and more, they recently received a new shipment for spring. Walk their 38,000-square-foot showroom, to find the perfect furniture selections for your home.

If you need to make a few updates to your home’s tile or flooring, turn to White River Flooring (501-593-4994, whiteriverflooring.com). Located just down from the square on Main Street, the showroom offers any type of flooring you could possibly need, including many options for pre-finished flooring. Visit them for all your hardwood, tile, and carpet needs. Many options are in-stock and can be delivered to your home right away.

Perhaps your home could benefit from new bedding, drapes, or pillows. Interior Creations (501-268-2311, searcydesigncenter.com) can assist you with their selection of fabrics, custom-made soft goods, and ideas for personalization. What’s more, the family owned business has a huge selection of window treatments and carries upholstered goods as well.

If the idea of renovating or redecorating your home seems daunting, turn to an expert who can help with everything from start to finish. Beth Davis Interiors (501-305-3139, bethdavisinteriors.com) is a full-service design firm helmed by its namesake, interior designer Beth Davis. From a kitchen makeover or a room refresh to entire home renovations, Davis has you covered. Working with a variety of styles, Davis can help you to make your vision for your home a reality. Contact her today to set up a consultation.

While you may love living in the area, summer vacations are just around the corner. Contact Renee Taylor Travel Company (501-305-3780, rtaylortravel.com) to help you plan your perfect summer getaway. Through their network and affiliations, the full-service travel agency can offer you access to top hotels, resorts, spas, cruise lines, and tour companies—all at a great value. With more than 25 years of combined experience, the professionals at Renee Taylor Travel Company are trusted advisors who can help you every step of the way to make your travel dreams an enjoyable reality.

Spotlight on the Spa City

Discover: Bentonville and Rogers

CYCLE OF LIFE

Discover: Conway

Discover: Jonesboro

Discover: Hot Springs

Holiday Destinations

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Discover: The Delta

Discover: Hot Springs

Searcy to Heber Springs

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At Home in Arkansas