We all know Arkansas is the best state to live in and now we even have evidence to support that fact. Zippia: The Career Expert has analyzed and ranked Arkansas’ happiest cities based on criteria such as education, employment, and the low cost of living. However, sometimes it’s hard to know what to do with lists like these. Okay, sure, the citizens are happy but how does that affect me? Well! We’ve found the best attraction for each smiling city to help showcase what makes a particular city worth visiting in addition to the happy folks. Find your happy place as we tour around the state’s happiest cities.
1. Bentonville
You thought I was going to say Crystal Bridges, didn't you? The museum should definitely make your to-do list while you're in the NWA area but there's an underrated spot that really captures the happiness of Bentonville. The Compton Gardens is 6.5 acres of green oasis that perfectly captures the beauty of the Ozark area. Even better, it's no feat to walk the trails then head to Crystal Bridges afterwards. The Compton Gardens are located at 312 N Main Street in Bentonville.
2. Bella Vista
One of the determining criteria for finding happy cities was the marriage rate. What better way to rejoice in Bella Vista's happy couple rate than to tour the Mildred B. Cooper Chapel. The Elven-like architecture will transport you to a different, care-free world. The Cooper Chapel is located at 504 Memorial Drive in Bella Vista.
3. Maumelle
Maumelle scored high for happiness based on home ownership and part of what makes a happy home is a family meal. If you haven't invited for a home-cooked dinner by your favorite Maumellen then not to fret because David's Burger offers the same family atmosphere without the awkward intrusion. Join the Central Arkansas staple for lunch at 102 County Club Parkway in Maumelle.
4. Bryant
Please note, Red Door Escapes has permanently closed.
The families that play together stay together and one way to experience the happiness that's found in Bryant is to play one of the puzzle rooms at Red Door Escapes. Work together to figure out the Battleship or Principal's Office rooms. Make some new family memories at Red Door Escapes which is located at 3614 Marketplace Avenue, Suite 5 in Bryant.
5. Centerton
Please note, Jim's Centerton Café has permanently closed.
Now known as Jim's Centerton Cafe, this is one place that will impress you with its friendly atmosphere and staff. Different lunch specials are offered weekly but we recommend waking up with a smile to an order of true southern grits for breakfast. Jim's Centerton Cafe is located at 1084 W Centerton Blvd.
6. White Hall
White Hall is number one happiest city based on size. They may be small but this is one community that is filled with happy citizens. In the warmer months they're definitely worth a trip to play at the Crenshaw Springs Water Park. The park is located at 9801 Dollarway Road.
For a full tour of White Hall, read our article
here.
7. Greenwood
Folks from around the area have been flocking to Greenwood for home ownership happiness. The beauty of the area is highlighted through Lake Greenwood's North Trail, an easy 2 mile hike that is filled with natural wildlife. To really see the Greenwood community bonding in action it's best to take the trail, have lunch at El Palenque ( 228 S Coker St.), and then cheer on the Bulldogs at one of the high school's football games. The trail starts at 1759 Mt Harmony Road in Greenwood.
8. Lowell
The best time too see the happy citizens of Lowell is during their annual Mudtown Days in June. The whole town comes together to enjoy the festival's parade, stagecoach rides, and the featured event - the mud crawl. Cleanliness may be next to godliness but there's nobody happier than a family playing in the mud.
To stay updated on the next Mudtown Days, you can check their Facebook Page
here.
9. Hot Springs Village
Hot Springs may outshine this neighboring community but don't let the perks of the tourist town keep you from also stopping by the Village. Grove Park is the place to see why Hot Springs Village made the happiest list. This outdoor venue hosts a green market, artisan market, and jam sessions.
10. Mountain Home
Mountain Home showcases Arkansas' natural beauty. It's hard to be sad when you're surrounded by the White River, Buffalo National River, and North Fork River. We recommend taking to the water and spending the day at Bull Shoals. The constantly biting trout plus the fresh air will guarantee a great day. You can rent a boat at the Bull Shoals Lake Boat Dock at 131 Boat Dock Cove.
What’s one place that shows off your city’s happiness? Share the love with us in the comments below!
If you know Arkansas is your happy place, you can show your love with one of our Happy Place shirts .
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