Perhaps you’ve heard of Magnolia Bake Shop because it’s the first bakery in Arkansas. It has been providing sweet treats since 1928, and this iconic bake shop is an important piece of Arkansas’ history. While Magnolia is the best old-fashioned bakery in Arkansas, there are other exceptional bakeries that have been making their own waves. Let’s take this scenic drive and explore some of the other traditional bakeries in Arkansas.

On this scenic drive through Arkansas, you’ll travel through the majestic Ozarks, then you'll continue through the Ozark Plateau and the Arkansas River Valley. And finally, you’ll conclude the trip just north of the state capital.
Google Maps
The trip is just under 5 hours, so you’ll have time to stop and bask in the scenery along the way. If you would like to add more stops to the trip, use this interactive map.
Let’s jump start this road trip in Northwest Arkansas at the foothills of the Boston Mountains. This mountain range has the highest peaks in the Ozarks, so the terrain is certainly a sight to see.
Granger Meador/Flickr
In this area, you’ll find the charming town of Farmington, and it’s home to one of the most iconic bakeries in northwest Arkansas. Briar Rose Bakery is the most adorable European style bakery housed inside a charming cottage-style building.
Brad/Google
Briar Rose Bakery & Deli, 28 E Main St, Farmington, AR 72730, USA
Briar Rose Bakery/Facebook
The bakery specializes in making the finest breads from scratch the old-fashioned way. Expect to find artisan breads as well as the most decadent desserts that you can dream of. Word on the street is that Briars have the best cinnamon rolls in the state.
After you’ve been mesmerized by all that Briar Rose has to offer, hop in your car and travel west on scenic Highway 421 to Harrison. Here you will find Neighbor's Mill Bakery and Cafe, a family-owned bakery that believes in breaking bread with its neighbors.
Neighbors Mill Harrison/Facebook
Neighbor's Mill Bakery & Cafe, 1012 U.S. 65 North, 1012 N Highway 62 65 Bus, Harrison, AR 72601, USA
Neighbors Mill Harrison/Facebook
With the policy of honest ingredients, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting some of the finest breads and pastries in NWA. You’ll be pleased to know that the bakery uses an old-fashioned, 100-year-old grist mill to grind the wheat berries and doesn't use any artificial ingredients.
Once you’re done breaking bread with the neighbors, head south on Highway 65 and you’ll be driving through the spectacular Buffalo National River area.
Jasari, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
You might know that it’s the first of its kind and an iconic treasure of Arkansas. On highway 65, you’ll also drive by the Marshall Overlook, which is a perfect place to get a selfie.

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Continue on this scenic route and you’ll eventually arrive in the delightful town of Leslie. This town is home to a true hidden gem in Arkansas, Serenity Farms Bakery.
David Engle/Google
Serenity Farm Bread, 805 US-65, Leslie, AR 72645, USA
Serenity Farm Bread/Facebook
This cute bakery is tucked away at the foothills of the Ozarks, and it specializes in old-fashioned sourdough breads as well as pastries and meals using healthy ingredients. The pastries are made fresh every day and they are to die for. But be sure to get there early because everything sells out quickly.
From Leslie, drive for about 55 miles to the next stop in Conway. And if you love donuts, then you’re in for a treat. Some have said that Julie's Sweet Shoppe and Bakery makes the best donuts in Arkansas, but you would have to judge that for yourself.
Larry Nordstrom/Google
Julie's Sweet Shoppe & Bakery, 201 Skyline Dr #39, Conway, AR 72032, USA
Julie's Sweet Shoppe/Facebook
In addition to the donuts, this award-winning sweet shop makes some of the most decadent cakes, cupcakes, pies, and more. If you have an event like a wedding, baby shower, anniversary, or birthday, this traditional bakery will make your moment special.
As you continue on this route, you’ll approach the Ozark Plateau as well as the Ouachitas and the Arkansas River Valley.
Geographilia/Flickr
There are tons of scenic attractions along the way that you’ll love including the beloved Petit Jean State Park.
Once you cross into the area, you’ll eventually get to the town of Searcy. Named as the best bakery in Arkansas, it only makes sense to conclude this trip at Wild Sweet William's Bakery.
Wild Sweet William's Bakery/Facebook
Wild Sweet William's Bakery, 504 S Main St, Searcy, AR 72143, USA
Wild Sweet William's Bakery/Facebook
Indeed, this bakery has earned its title and all the treats are wild, sweet, and downright divine. Enjoy freshly baked handmade scones, kolaches, cinnamon rolls, and so much more.

Of course, there are lots of other traditional bakeries in Arkansas that should have made the list. So, tell us in the comments below which ones you would like to see. Or visit the OIYS nomination page and submit your favorite bakery in Arkansas for a feature. 

And for more sweet treats, here’s a pie road trip in Arkansas that you’ll love. 

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