One of the most memorable, scenic, while still laid back road trips we have ever taken was all the result of my son wanting to dig for diamonds for his sixth birthday.

This Arkansas Road Trip takes you through staggering landscapes in Illinois, Arkansas and Missouri. You’ll find treasures, come face to face with a dragon, and discover some of the world’s “largest.” 

With the variety of sightseeing and attractions included in our list of the top 25 stops to include on your Arkansas road trip, there’s something for everyone. 

Let’s start from Northern Illinois and work our way south.  We’ll loop back north and end with ideas for St. Louis. See the end of this guide for more ideas between St. Louis and Chicago.

Arkansas Road Trip Itinerary

Illinois 

Wally’s

First up: Wally’s in Pontiac, IL. Forget everything you know about typical gas stations—this place is a different beast. Here, you can stock up on travel games to keep the backseat lively, grab everyone’s favorite car snacks, or grab a hearty meal like pulled pork or chopped brisket.

Wally’s proudly dubs itself “Home of the Great American Road Trip,” and it lives up to the title. It’s a bit like Buc-ee’s in that they both have a knack for making a pit stop feel like an event. Clean restrooms? You betcha. They’re practically gleaming.

The place has this welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger.

Casey, Illinois

Casey, Illinois is a quirky wonderland where everything is larger than life. Stroll through streets with the world’s largest rocking chair, teeter totter, baseball bat, and other colossal surprises. It’s all part of an easily walkable loop that turns your day into a treasure hunt of epic proportions. You can find the map on their Facebook Page, Big Things in a Small Town.

As you wander, you’ll stumble upon enticing shops and fun eateries that make the adventure even sweeter. Speaking of sweet, don’t miss the S’more Pretzel at Tetzel Prime. It’s enough for 4 to split!

If you’re bringing kids on your Arkansas Road Trip, Rock Hound Rocks in Casey is a must-stop. They offer free rocks for littles and treasure loving kids will love looking through their collection.

Jeremy “Boo” Rochman Memorial Park

Tucked away in Carbondale, Illinois, the Jeremy “Boo” Rochman Memorial Park (Boo Castle Park) is a heartfelt tribute to a young man whose life was far too short when he died in a car accident at only 19 years old. This beautiful park is a living testament to his interests.

It features a fortress-like play structure where kids can let their imaginations run wild, complete with dragons and wizards standing guard over the park grounds.

With plenty of space and shade, it’s an ideal spot for a picnic. There are toilets available on-site as well.

The park is free to visit, but gates do close overnight so check their website for opening hours. There’s a donation box in the park to contribute to its upkeep.

Giant City State Park 

Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest of southern Illinois, Giant City State Park is the perfect road trip break for stretching your legs. One of the best parts about this park is the variety of trails that are perfect for little legs or short visits.

Giant City State Park got its name from the rock formations’ sheer cliff faces which look more like tall buildings as you navigate through their corridors.

Our first stop was the Visitor Center, which was packed with information, helpful staff and also where you’ll find the restrooms. The boys picked up a kid’s park booklet, which promised a prize upon completion. It was a great way to keep them engaged as we explored the park.

Their favorite part was learning about a certain type of rock found near the creeks. These rocks were used by ancient people as paint. Fascinated and curious, they eagerly searched for similar rocks and spent the afternoon painting larger rocks with their newfound natural pigments. It was a simple activity, but it sparked their imagination and connected them to the history of the land in a tangible way. Just make sure kids aren’t using them to write on any cliff walls / in caves.

Tennessee

Memphis

Memphis is an easy stop off the interstate and worth checking out on your Arkansas road trip if you’ve never been. Here are the top five things to do:

Home to over 3,500 animals, the Memphis Zoo is a hit with kids. They’ll love seeing the Komodo dragon and pandas, feeding giraffes, and exploring the hippo exhibit.

The Children’s Museum of Memphis has interactive exhibits, a splash park, and a carousel. Kids can create, explore, and discover to their heart’s content.

Don’t miss the famous Peabody Ducks at the historic Peabody Hotel. Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., live ducks march to and from the lobby fountain. Get there early for a good spot and a chance to chat with the Duckmaster.

While known for its nightlife, Beale Street is family-friendly during the day. Stroll down this iconic street, catch some live music, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a great way for kids to experience Memphis’ musical roots.

Arkansas

Arkansas Welcome Center at Blytheville

The staff at the Welcome Center is exceptionally kind and helpful and they have a cute little gift shop. This is a highly recommended road trip pit stop on your way to Arkansas.

For those traveling with pets, the Welcome Center offers designated pet areas where your furry friends can stretch their legs and get some exercise.

Technically you’ll stop at this Welcome Center before hitting Memphis on our route due to the squiggly border between the two states and the way the interstate crosses it.

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is a powerful place to visit. It’s a symbol of the civil rights movement, marking the pivotal events of 1957 when nine brave African American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, integrated the school amidst intense opposition.

Walking through the site, you can almost feel the weight of history. The visitor center is a great starting point, offering exhibits and films that give context to the struggles and triumphs of those times. It’s educational and deeply moving, making you appreciate the courage and resilience of the Little Rock Nine.

For families visiting with kids, the Junior Ranger Program is a fantastic way to engage young minds. The program provides an activity booklet filled with fun, educational tasks that kids can complete as they explore the site. Once they’ve finished, they earn a Junior Ranger badge.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to understand more about the civil rights movement, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is a great stop for your Arkansas road trip.

Garvan Woodland Gardens, Children’s Garden, and Treehouse

The Japanese garden at Garvan is one of the best in the country and definitely a highlight of a visit. AHS members can get in for free, which is a nice perk. On our trip, we found that our annual membership to our local botanical garden at home was cheaper than what it would have cost for four of us to enter Garvan Woodland Gardens. It’s a lovely place to spend a few hours, with something for everyone to enjoy.

The children’s area is full of fun things like waterfalls to explore behind, rocks to leap across, and a treehouse. There’s also a fairy garden that’s intricate and beautiful.

If you visit in March like our recent visit, you’ll see tulips everywhere, winding through the woods and making for a colorful, enjoyable walk that can easily fill half a day.

Hot Springs National Park 

Known for its thermal springs, Hot Springs National Park provides visitors with a variety of activities that celebrate both its natural wonders and the rich history of Bathhouse Row.

A collection of eight historic bathhouses date back to the early 20th century. The Fordyce Bathhouse now serves as the park’s visitor center and museum, providing fascinating insights into the history of the area and the significance of the springs.

For those who prefer the outdoor features, the park boasts a variety of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of the Zig Zag section of the Ouachita Mountains. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower provides an excellent vantage point to take in the panoramic scenery.

The Junior Ranger programs were a hit with my boys. Kids can engage in activities that teach them about the park’s geology and ecology, earning badges and pins along the way. Don’t forget to request the Bat Explorer program while you’re there!

What sets Hot Springs National Park apart from most National Parks is its seamless integration of urban and natural environments. The park is situated right in the town of Hot Springs, allowing visitors to easily access restaurants, shops, and historic sites on an Arkansas road trip.

Superior Bathhouse Brewery (Hot Springs National Park)

Don’t miss the Superior Bathhouse Brewery, the only brewery located within a National Park Service site. Here, you can enjoy a variety of craft beers brewed with the park’s thermal spring water, along with a delicious menu of pub fare.

The brewery’s large beer garden and adjacent open field are perfect for relaxing and letting the kids play.

Mid-America Science Museum

If the timing works out as you pass through Piney, Arkansas, consider stopping to check out the Mid-America Science Museum.

Highlights include the Marvelous Motion Gallery, the Digital Dome Theater, and the Underground Arkansas exhibit, which explores the state’s unique geology.

One of the museum’s standout features is the outdoor Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk.

If you have an ASTC membership with another museum, you’ll have reciprocity here.

Crater of Diamonds State Park

Visiting Crater of Diamonds State Park for some diamond hunting is a unique and fun adventure. It was the main purpose for us to plan our recent Arkansas road trip.

When most people hear the word “mine,” they imagine digging underground, but here, you’re in a giant open field, sifting through the surface for raw diamonds.

And the best part? You get to keep anything you find! Up to five gallons of rinsed gravel per person, per day, to be exact.

Camping at the state park’s campground was another highlight for us. The campsites are spacious and private, with good tree coverage, a playground, and clean shower buildings. Our campsite (#10) was conveniently close to the trail leading to the dig site.

The cost to search for diamonds is $15 for adults, $7 for kids ages 6-12, and free for kids under 6. A small price for the chance to find a treasure and have a memorable day outdoors.

Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:

1. Don’t wait until just before closing to have your finds assessed by the gem expert; the line gets very long the last 60-90 minutes of the day.
2. Expect long lines at the rental equipment return in the same 60-90 minute window.
3. Consider setting up near the stream from the rinse station’s runoff. You can sift there instead of hauling buckets back and forth.
4. There’s almost no shade in the dig field, so avoid the peak of summer. Bring large umbrellas and lots of water—we packed a whole picnic.
5. When you arrive at the dig site, it’s a good idea to check in with one of the interpreters. They can give you tips on the best areas to start searching and pointers on how to spot raw diamonds—something we found super helpful, as we didn’t know what to look for at first.
6. To save money on rentals, bring any digging supplies you already have. Sturdy shovels, buckets, and even sand toys for the kids can keep everyone busy for hours. (Click here for rental pricing.)
7. Bring some small containers for the little stones you find. You wouldn’t want to lose a small raw diamond through a hole in your pocket! We used contact lens containers for ours.
8. Join the Crater of Diamonds Facebook Group to see what people are finding daily and get more tips for a successful search.
9. If you’re visiting more state parks in Arkansas, pick up a state park passport book for the kids to check off as they explore. This guide will take you to one more in Arkansas: Petit Jean.

As for us, we didn’t find any diamonds, just a lot of jasper, calcite, mica, quartz, and barite. We were ok with it. Our kids were happy as could be digging in the mud. Plus the $4 pen with a diamond at the end they picked out at the gift shop is still all they talk about.

Hawkins Variety Store

A visit to Hawkins Variety Store in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is like stepping back in time. This charming little store has been a local favorite since it opened its doors in 1946. It’s a mix of nostalgia and down-to-earth hospitality that makes it special.

One of the things that makes Hawkins Variety Store stand out is its quirky assortment of goods; from vintage candies and old-fashioned toys to handy household items and local crafts.

Grab a sandwich or ice cream here before you head out of Murfreesboro. It’s surrounding area is a fun little slice of Americana.

Crystal Vista (Free Diamond Mining)

For a budget-friendly alternative to plentiful paid dig sites, visit Crystal Vista in Arkansas.

This former WWII mining site, once crucial for radio technology, now offers free crystal hunting for those willing to hike for it! The hike to the best search areas is fairly steep but under a mile. The parking lot at the trailhead is small and there were only 2 open spots when we arrived.

Crystals are often found embedded in the surface, especially at coordinates 34°30’33.7″N 93°36’28.7″W, where we felt like we were at a secret jackpot.

Remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and perhaps a small digging tool or gardening gloves, though many crystals are right on the surface.

Crystal Vista was the perfect way for us to experience the thrills of our discoveries while not being held to a specific schedule at a paid site or spending the money.

Private Crystal Mining

For a crystal hunting adventure with a bit more guidance and less hiking, Arkansas offers several paid dig sites where you can hunt for crystals with experienced rockhounds. These sites often provide shuttle rides to the dig areas, making the experience accessible and convenient.

Board Camp Crystal Mine

Located in Mena, Board Camp Crystal Mine is a popular spot for crystal enthusiasts. The mine offers a shuttle ride out to the dig site, so you don’t have to worry about a long walk.

The cost is $35 per person 16+ (free for 15 and under with paid adult), which includes the shuttle service.

Wegner Crystal Mines

In Mount Ida, Wegner Crystal Mines offers a variety of crystal digging experiences. The shuttle takes you directly to the digging area, making it easy for everyone to participate. Prices start at $19 for adults, but check their website to determine which dig option is best for you.

Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig

Also located near Mount Ida, Avant Mining’s Fisher Mountain site is another great option. Known for producing high-quality crystals, this site offers shuttle service to the dig areas.

Cost: Adults: $25, Kids 7-17: $10; Kids 6 & under: Free!

Petit Jean State Park

When we were camping at Crater of Diamonds State Park, several of our campground neighbors raved about Petit Jean and insisted we make it the next stop on our Arkansas road trip. As luck would have it, there was just one site left for the dates we needed so we jumped on it! The stars our first night were simply breathtaking.

We all had a fantastic time. The weather held out for us even though the clouds were wild. We enjoyed breakfast sandwiches and coffee at the Petit Jean Coffeehouse, conquered exciting trails for the kids, savored a meal overlooking the valley behind the Mather Lodge, and the kid’s earned their stamp for their Arkansas State Park passport by completing a litter cleanup project assigned by the park ranger.

The most popular trail in Petit Jean State Park is the Cedar Falls Trail. It’s a 2-mile round trip with moderate difficulty, leading to the stunning Cedar Falls.

The two easiest trails I’d recommend to anyone with little kids are:

Rock House Cave Trail: It’s only 0.25 miles long and takes you to a large rock shelter with ancient Native American pictographs. It’s an educational and intriguing stop that’s perfect for families.

Another interesting feature along this trail is the Turtle Rocks you’ll traverse on the way to the Cave. You’ll feel like you’re hiking across the backs of giant turtles. (Bottom left in the picture below.)

Bear Cave Trail: Another one that is just 0.25 miles long, we loved climbing giant boulders and even more so exploring the narrow slot canyons on this trail.

There are also two playgrounds within the park. If you visit in the summer, there’s a pool near the lodge too!

Missouri

Johnson Shut-Ins

This park is famous for its natural water park, where the Black River flows through ancient volcanic rock, creating stunning shut-ins—basically, nature’s own water slides and swimming holes.

The campground here is top-notch, offering sites for tents and RVs, complete with modern amenities. However, the campground felt far away from the other points of interest in the state park.

The Shut-Ins Trail is a must-do. It’s a 2.25-mile loop that’s moderately difficult, leading you through beautiful forested areas and giving you great views of the shut-ins. It has an accessible short cut that was much easier to embark with the kids, taking you directly to the shut-ins view points.

Another highlight is the Scour Trail, a bit longer at 3 miles and more challenging, but it offers unique geological features and a look at the effects of a historic flood. This flood was so powerful, it left boulders in the lawn of the visitor center – quite a distance from the river!

Don’t miss the visitor center (open seasonally) to learn about the park’s history and geology.

Elephant Rock State Park 

Elephant Rocks State Park is small but packed with fun. The boulders are perfect for climbing, and kids will love scrambling over these natural giants. It’s a great spot for a picnic too, with plenty of shady areas to relax. There’s a playground and are bathrooms onsite, adjacent to a large parking lot.

The park is named after its giant granite boulders, which resemble a train of elephants standing in a line. It’s a small park, perfect for a quick visit if you have just 45-90 minutes, and it’s conveniently close to Johnson Shut-Ins State Park, making it easy to combine both in one trip.

The unique Braille Trail is another highlight. It’s a 1.2 mile, accessible path with signs offered in braille. It’s a real gem for visually impaired visitors and also perfect if you’re looking for a stroller friendly scenic route.

Old Village Mercantile

The first thing you’ll notice when you walk into Old Village Mercantile is the incredible variety of candies, both today’s favorites and yesteryear’s classics. Kids (and adults) will have a blast picking out their favorites from the colorful displays.

We were b-lining to the ice cream counter where the friendly staff served up generous scoops!

Many patrons also rave about the coffee beans. You’ll see people stocking up on different blends, taking home the rich aroma and taste of freshly roasted coffee.

St. Louis

We’re wrapping up this Arkansas road trip itinerary with a city break in St. Louis.

St. Louis quickly became one of our favorite midwest getaway destinations. We fell in love with the food, the zoo, the friendly locals, and plenty of outdoor fun.

We have a full blog post on our favorite spots for families in St. Louis.

If you’re heading to the Chicago or Milwaukee area after St. Louis, don’t miss our post on fun stops along the way.

Closing Thoughts on our Arkansas Road Trip

Recommended trip duration: 10-12 days

Exploring the hidden gems of Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas is not a vacation I’ll soon forget.

Each stop offers its own special charm which seemed to sparkle in my kids’ eyes, making it clear why these parks and local treasures are so beloved.

Save this Arkansas Road Trip Itinerary for Later