Get Moving: 7 April Events for Outdoor Families
Float trips, blooming tulips, bike rides and amusement parks -- we'll be spending our weekends outside this April! Here are seven events in central Arkansas to get your family out of the house.
Arkansas Floats at Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center --Learn about water trails and paddling areas for all experience levels from Arkansas Game & Fish Commission educators. 1-2 p.m. April 5. For info: (501) 907-0636, CentralArkansasNatureCenter.com. FREE!
Bobby's Bike Hike Historic Neighborhoods Bicycle Tour in Downtown Little Rock -- Discover Little Rock’s rich, colorful history while pedaling through quiet, tree-lined streets, city parks, and historic places on this two-hour, seven-mile bicycle tour through the city. All ages and fitness levels will enjoy, but children must be strong, capable riders. Reservations recommended. 9-11 a.m. each Sat. $27.50, students $22, kids under 12 $16.50, kids under 4 $9. For info: (501) 613-7001, BobbysBikeHike.com.
Garden Stroller Strut at Garvan Woodland Gardens -- Parents and caregivers of young children are invited for this short interactive walking tour. The group will meet in the Pratt Welcome Center each Fri. through Sept. 26. 10:30-11 a.m. Free with Garden admission. For info: (501) 262-9606, GarvanGardens.org.
Magic Springs Water & Theme Park Opens in Hot Springs -- Enjoy fun for the whole family starting April 12, including thrill rides, family-friendly rides, and plenty of attractions for little ones. Crystal Falls Water Park opens Saturday, May 10. Theme park dates & hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. April 12, 13, 19, 26 & 27. $54.99. For info: (501) 624-0100, MagicSprings.com.
Spring Canoe Float at the Little Maumelle Boat Launch -- Experience the beauty of spring on this guided 4.5-mile paddling adventure. Prior experience is not required, but participants should be comfortable around water. Advance payment and registration required. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 12 & 27. $40 per canoe. For info: (501) 868-5806, ArkansasStateParks.com/PinnacleMountain.
Tulip Extravaganza at Garvan Woodland Gardens -- Garvan's 135,000 vibrant tulips put on a show during this annual event. To complement the tulips, beautiful hyacinths, daffodils, azaleas, and dogwood blossoms make a lovely and fragrant display. The flowers are at their pique through mid-April. Bloom times vary according to temperatures and rainfall. Check the Gardens' Facebook page for current photos. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily through April 15. $10, ages 6-12 are $5, under 6 are free. For info: (501) 262-9300, GarvanGardens.org.
Wetland Walk-a-bout at Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center -- Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Arkansas River Trail and on the William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Part Wetlands boardwalk. This half-mile guided stroll will offer opportunities to view native plants and wildlife. All ages and strollers are welcome. 2-3 p.m. April 13. For info: (501) 907-0636, CentralArkansasNatureCenter.com. FREE!
For more outdoor events in April, see our full online calendar here.