6 Family-Friendly Spots to Explore in Arkansas This Summer
Arkansas comes to life in the summer months, so there’s no better time for an adventure! Wear out the kiddos by taking on the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program’s National Register Passport Tour. Explore historic sites packed with kid-friendly activities around the state — but all close enough for a day trip.
As the family visits different educational sites, kids can get a commemorative passport stamped at each stop. Pick up a passport at any of the 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers operated by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism or email info@arkansaspreservation.com to request yours.
The program runs through Dec. 31, 2020 so there’s plenty of time to visit the 26 total destinations. The passports are available is for all ages but the program is generally aimed at ages 13 and younger. To see the complete list of destinations click here.
Start your adventure with these seven travel spots to explore Arkansas' rich heritage and culture!
1. Crater of Diamonds State Park, Murfreesboro
Ready to strike it rich? Get outside with a visit to the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Dig in the dirt as you hunt for real diamonds on a volcanic crater! Visit the Diamond Discovery Center for interactive exhibits and instructional mining videos. You can even see real diamonds in the rough and learn why diamonds are present here at Arkansas’s diamond site. If you get lucky and find a diamond, it’s yours to keep! Learn more on the website.
2. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
Take this opportunity to explore Arkansas’ vital role in the Civil Rights movement with this high-school experience. The nationally significant site stands to preserve a living legacy of the 1957 desegregation crisis. Compare your high school experience as you walk the path of the “Little Rock Nine.” Remember the turbulent events of the first days of integration in 1957 and honor the important heritage here at Little Rock Central High School.
3. WWII Japanese American Internment Museum, McGehee
Head to the McGehee Railroad Depot and explore the history of two internment camps located in Arkansas in the 1940s. Rohwer and Jerome, two Delta communities, were the sites of U.S. government, WWI-era internment camps housing more than 17,000 Japanese Americans. Wander through a traditional Japanese garden to enjoy the culturally inspired beauty. Explore memorabilia from the camps, hear the voices of actual internees and view artwork by Nancy Chikaraishi, inspired by her parents’ interment experience. Learn more here.
4. Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park, Scott
Did you know that Arkansas is home to one of the largest and most impressive archeological sites in the Lower Mississippi River Valley? The Toltec Mounds are far more than man-made hills; they are the sacred resting place for generations of Native American cultures that once thrived in what is now Arkansas. Learn more on the website.
5. Delta Cultural Center, Helena-West Helena
We’ve all listened to the radio, but have you seen radio? The Delta Cultural Center is home to the longest-running, daily blues radio show in the U.S., “King Biscuit Time.” The show was first broadcast on Nov. 21, 1941, and the legendary “Sunshine” Sonny Payne has hosted since the 1950s. Visit the studio and watch him announce another famous broadcast! Interact with hands-on activities in the “Songs from the Field” exhibit, featuring the early story of Delta music. This exhibit will transport you to a past that has richly influenced today’s blues, gospel and R&B music. For more information, visit the website.
6. President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace, Hope
You can be anything you want to be when you grow up, even president! Visit the birthplace of President Bill Clinton and walk through his life in pictures, videos and interactive exhibits. Explore his formative years as you uncover more about Arkansas’s only president. Be sure to download and complete the Junior Ranger booklet before you go to receive a certificate and badge. Learn more here.
