The Best Things To Do In Heber Springs, AR: 15 Top-Rated Attractions & Hidden Gems
By Melanie Johnson|Published October 03, 2023
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Melanie Johnson
Author
I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
When it comes to small towns in Arkansas, Eureka Springs might be at the top of the list. And of course, the town is as charming as can be and definitely worth visiting. However, there is another small town in our state that belongs on your bucket list. As a gateway to Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts as well as for folks who love charming small-town vibes. Whether you’re searching for incredible recreation, family-friendly activities, great shopping, and more, you can find it all in Heber Springs Arkansas. In addition, the town has lots of hidden gems and you’ll want to experience them all for yourself. So, without further ado, here are the top 15 things to do in Heber Springs that I recommend.
Nestled at the foothills of the Ozarks and surrounded by Greers Ferry Lake, Heber Springs is the quintessential Ozark town that’s perfect for a getaway. And while you’re in town, here are some of the top attractions that you must explore.
As the first national scenic trail in America and the only mountain island in Arkansas, Sugar Loaf Mountain is a must visit. For a small fee, you can take the water shuttle from the Fairfield Bay Marina to the island. Or you can kayak or boat across the scenic lake to get to the destination. Once on the island, you'll want to hike to the top where you'll witness some of the most breathtaking views in Arkansas. With a 650-foot elevation change as well as lots of steps to conquer, the trek to the peak will be a bit challenging. However, the panoramic vistas from 1,000 feet above sea level are worth every single step that you'll take. Folks have even said that this is one of the best hiking trails in Arkansas, and personally, I agree.
At 40,500 acres, Greers Ferry Lake is the crown jewel of the town, and it's the ultimate paradise for folks who love spending time on the water. Enjoy fishing, scuba diving, kayaking, boating, swimming, and everything in between. Moreover, there are lots of campsites and recreation areas along the lake. Dam Site Recreation Area is open for day use and features a swimming beach with natural cliffs, picnic areas, a playground, hiking trails, a full-service marina, and so much more. Of course, if you would like to extend your stay, there are campgrounds available.
If you're a golfer, you'll enjoy the 18-holes at the Red Apple Inn and Country Club, an award-winning championship golf course in town. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Ozarks as well as the serene Greers Ferry Lake, this 6,451-yard course has been called one of the most scenic in Arkansas. The on-site Pro Shop has all the equipment needed for a day on the greens. Plus, if you're a novice golfer, you can opt for golf lessons from one of the golf experts. If you get hungry, stop by the Red Apple Inn Restaurant to savor one of the most delicious meals in Arkansas.
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Fun Things To Do In Heber Springs For Families
While Heber Springs is a paradise for the outdoor adventurer, it is also a great town with lots of family-friendly activities. From museums to fishing adventures as well as hiking trails, these are some of the best attractions that your family will love.
Train enthusiasts will love a visit to the Ruland Junction Train Museum. Housed inside an old rural train depot, this museum has a vast collection of train memorabilia as well as toy trains. The interactive exhibits will be especially fun for the little ones, but the entire family will also enjoy this unique attraction. With a library featuring a collection of books and magazines as well as a tour of the facility, your family will learn a lot about trains during your visit. There's no doubt that this attraction will make you feel like a kid again.
As one of the premier fly-fishing spots in Arkansas, the Little Red River is a paradise for anglers who love catching trout in the 29 mile habitat just below the Greers Ferry Dam. Take the family on a guided fishing adventure by booking a full or half day excursion with a local guide. The best part is it's guaranteed that you'll reel one in.
If your family love chasing waterfalls, then the Bridal Veil Falls is the best cascade in Heber Springs to explore. This impressive natural wonder is a perfect backdrop for a family photo. You can walk behind the falling waters for the ultimate experience. While in the area, be sure to also check out Cornelius Falls. Truth be told, this is a two-for-one outdoor adventure.
Free Things To Do In Heber Springs
One thing I love about the Natural State is that adventure awaits around every turn. And best of all, lots of those activities are absolutely FREE. Of course, as the saying goes, those are the best things in life. Here are some free things to do in Heber Springs that will be a blast for you and your family.
No trip to Heber Springs is complete without a stroll through the historic downtown district. Featuring art galleries, museums, antique shops, specialty boutiques as well as delicious restaurants, you'll want to spend some time exploring it all. Grab a coffee or latte from Jitterbug Coffeehouse or stop by Woodgrove Antiques, Tea Room & Rock Shop for a unique experience.
Located at the John F. Kennedy Park, Collins Creek Trailhead is a 1.2-mile easy, kid-friendly and wheelchair-accessible trail that leads to a pretty, cascading waterfall. Not only can you hike and explore the beautiful area, but the Greers Ferry Fish Hatchery is within walking distance. Moreover, the kids will love the outdoor self-guided tours where they can see trout of all sizes swimming inside the ponds. Plus, you'll want to stop by JFK park and marvel at the breathtaking views of the dam from the overlook. You could easily spend an entire day on this FREE fun adventure.
Who doesn't love spending time on the water? A day at Sandy Beach will be the most fun you'll have in Heber Springs. The water adventures are endless! You can enjoy swimming, diving, kayaking, canoeing, or simply spend the day soaking up the rays on the white powdery sand. The beach is one of the best in Arkansas and you'll love every minute of it.
Things to Do Indoors In Heber Springs
Of course, rainy days are never part of the plan when we are out exploring a gorgeous small town in Arkansas. And while we can’t control the elements, we can plan activities around them. So, for those days when the weather is dreary outside, here are some fun indoor activities that I recommend.
Bad weather shouldn't spoil your fun in the water while you're in town. So, just head to the Aquatic Center and take advantage of all that it has to offer. Featuring glow parties, Zumba classes, fitness classes as well as seasonal swim lessons, it's a great place for the entire family. With its recreational swimming area as well as lap lanes, the center is fun for all levels of swimmers. Members can enjoy some extra perks at the center, but non-members will also have access to everything needed to have a blast at the pool.
This charming "little market on top of a mountain" is a must-visit while in Heber Springs. With a farmers market and country store rolled into one, you can find fresh produce, artisan goods, locally handmade products, home decor, and so much more, at this adorable market. Plus, the kiddos will love the candy as well as all the sweet treats. A visit to this delightful market will be an unforgettable experience for you and your family.
Step back in time and catch a movie inside the beautifully restored Gem Movie Theater. This historic building was first opened in 1939. Just a few years later, the theater burned down, but it was reconstructed in 1942 using the stunning Art Deco style. This 250-seat theater is truly a hidden gem in Heber Springs and your family will be experiencing part of the town's history.
Honorable Mentions
While the aforementioned attractions are the best in town, there are a few hidden gems in Heber Springs that are worth mentioning. Check out these awesome activities that you should explore if you choose to extend your stay in town.
Of course, with a name like Heber Springs, there must be a spring that runs through the town. If you thought that, then you would be correct. And the best part is, you can sample the cool spring water that flows from the spring inside Spring Park. The park is located in the heart of downtown and it's a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
For an in-depth history lesson of Heber Springs and Cleburne County, you'll want to stop by this museum. Housed inside a historic Old Post Office that was built in 1937, this museum is a time capsule preserving the history of the town. Featuring lots of relics, artifacts, records, and more, history buffs will appreciate the wealth of knowledge found inside this museum.
There is no shortage of nature trails in Heber Springs, so if you're up for more outdoor adventure, I recommend checking out Mossy Bluff National Nature Trail. The 1.8-mile trail is easy to navigate, and you'll witness rock formations, towering bluffs, flowing creeks, and more. You can also see views of the river and the dam and explore the William Carl Garner Visitor Center as well.
Speaking of views of the dam, there are several areas in town where you can witness Greers Ferry Dam. Its historical significance makes it the crown jewel of the town. Once the lake was completed, President John F. Kennedy came to Heber Springs in 1963 for the dedication, and it was his last public appearance prior to that fatal day. Don't leave town without marveling at this historic dam in all its glory.
So, what are your thoughts about these Heber Springs attractions? Is this a small town in Arkansas that you would visit? Between the family-friendly activities as well as the plethora of outdoor adventures, I recommend that you add this delightful town to your getaway list. Also, while you’re in the area, here are some top-rated places to stay in Heber Springs, or perhaps check out some rustic cabins in Arkansas that are perfect for you and your family.
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