Interstate 40 Practically Runs Through All Of Arkansas And It's A Beautiful Drive
By Melanie Johnson|Updated on April 19, 2024(Originally published September 21, 2022)
×
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.
Did you know that you can take Interstate 40 from Arkansas all the way to California? In fact, at 2,557 miles, it’s the third longest interstate in the nation. Heading west from Memphis Tennessee, the interstate cuts through the Arkansas Delta region and stretches across the state for approximately 290 miles to the historic town of Van Buren. And the drive is absolutely beautiful as there are many incredible cities and towns along the way. Here’s more on why you should consider a drive along the iconic I-40 in Arkansas.
Driving west towards Arkansas via the Hernando de Soto Bridge, you’ll feel welcomed and delighted by the highway sign. The drive across the great Mississippi River is a pleasant way to enter the Natural State.
Once you cross into Arkansas, you’ll be heading towards the town of West Memphis, tucked along the west side of the Mississippi. Due to its geological location and its significance in the trucking industry, the town was named the “crossroads of America.” But it’s mostly known for Big River Crossing, the longest active rail, bike, and pedestrian bridge in the country. So, West Memphis continues to be a hub that connects people in the area.
As you travel west through the Delta region, you’ll eventually drive into the town of Forrest City. Known as the “Jewel of the Delta,” this town is located along the scenic Crowley’s Ridge. And it’s rich in culture, arts, and has lots of recreation parks, lakes, trails, and more. And the East Arkansas Community College Fine Arts Center has transformed this city into a cultural hotspot.
After you’ve left Forrest City, you’ll be driving through the small towns in the Delta. These towns might be small, but they have some of the best down home cooking in Arkansas. From there, you’ll be heading right into the state capital. And Little Rock has endless adventures and places to explore. There are tons of historical sites, museums, art and culture, food, hiking trails, and so much more.
From Little Rock, Interstate 40 bears north and leads into the town of Conway. Home to three major universities, Conway is a popular college town. But Lake Conway also attracts many visitors. And at approximately 6,700-acres, it’s the largest constructed game and fishing lake in the country.
About 20 miles outside of Conway, you’ll arrive in Morrilton. The area was first settled around 1819 as a trading post and eventually became a popular railroad stop after the train depot was built in 1910. Of course, Morrilton is known mostly as the home to Petit Jean State Park. Not only is it the first state park, but it’s also Arkansas’ favorite.
The next major town that you will drive through is Russellville. Interstate 40 runs through the northside of the city. First established in the 1830s, Russellville is perhaps known for its access to Lake Dardanelle as well as its proximity to the Arkansas River. This makes Russellville a great recreation hub with some of the most gorgeous sunsets you’ll ever see. But it’s also home to Arkansas Tech University and the only nuclear plant in the state.
As you continue along Interstate 40, you’ll head towards the charming town of Clarksville. And due to its location, the city is known as the “Southern Gateway” to the Ozark Mountains. This means that it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There is no shortage of beautiful vistas as well as recreational activities. And the delightful town is home to the Johnson County Peach Festival, which is one of the oldest festivals in Arkansas.
On the final stretch of I-40, you’ll enjoy driving through the scenic region passing through wine country as well as charming small towns along the way. You’ll eventually arrive in the beautiful town of Van Buren. Be prepared to be amazed by the historic downtown district that is lined with gorgeous Victorian-style architectural buildings. The city is also a paradise for art and antique enthusiasts.
