Articles from Arkansas travel writers http://www.arkansas.com/blog/ Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Former President Bill Clinton was in Little Rock yesterday for the celebration of the five-year anniversary... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/283.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     With the 70th anniversary of the premier of Gone With the Wind fast approaching (December 15, 1939), here is your opportunity to help the ongoing preservation one of its... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/282.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansa@gmail.com   While returning from a run at Two Rivers Park recently I drove past a hot air balloon about to launch in a field outside the park. I pulled over to get a... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/281.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com I had the change to catch Magnolia resident and best-selling author Charlaine Harris speak at the Fred K. Darragh Distinguished Lectureship series at UALR tonight. The talk was around an... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/280.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Magnolia author Charlaine Harris, author of The Southern Vampire Mysteries series ( on the New York Times bestseller list), will present the Fred K. Darragh Lecture at 6:30 tonight at... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/279.aspx   Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     A rare opportunity awaits visitors at Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park in Scott. For the first time in nearly 20 years, an on-site excavation... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/278.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Direct from China, Cirque Shanghai: Bai Xi  is scheduled to land at Texarkana's Historic Perot Theatre on Nov. 23. The show has been described as “magical and mind-boggling, a visual... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/277.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     How about going shopping this weekend? It’s a great time to get started on shopping for the holidays. One central Arkansas community has activities going on... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/276.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   If your a birder, checking off a rare bird on your checklist gets the adrenaline pumping. For those of you who this applies to ( you know who you are)  I... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/275.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comIt may be somewhere between fall and winter, but take a moment to think about Summer 2010 and Wakarusa because tickets for reserved campsites go on sale tomorrow (Thursday, Nov. 5) at noon. ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/274.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   In the spring of 1864, the Civil War became very personal to the people of southern Arkansas as the battles of war went from being in the distance to being fought in front yards. Vivid reenactments... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/270.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com  In 1934, a movement of change was born in the small Delta town of Tyronza. Eighteen tenant farmers, both black and white, met and decided to confront the widespread unethical practices... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/269.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   As mentioned in the below blog, Halloween is fast approaching. I was surprised to find out how haunted this state is. Our department created a website where folks can check out and learn about the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/268.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comHalloween is Saturday and I don’t have a costume yet. I suppose this is a good week to find a discount. It’s also a good week to visit the haunted cave tour at the Old Spanish... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/267.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     You know you must be doing something right when you win the same award two years in a row. That’s exactly what Mount Victoria Bed & Breakfast Inn in Eureka... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/266.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comAgriculture has played a very important part in the history and culture of Arkansas but especially so in eastern Arkansas.Celebrate Hazen’s farming heritage as the town hosts the 33rd annual Grand... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/265.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comFort Smith is a city of convergence. Its first fort was built at Belle Point, where the Arkansas and Poteau rivers unite. Federal marshals rode out of the United States and into Indian Territory... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/264.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com As you may have read in an earlier blog, Arkansas had two visitors from Japan this week with Ocean Life magazine. Editorial planner and writer Mr. Norio Konno and photographer Mr. Yasutake Ito are... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/263.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com       Arkansas Times Photo If you’re looking for something to do Friday evening and happen to be in the Central... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/261.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   On my drive back from Mena yesterday I made an unplanned stop to check out a piece of radio history. The Lum and Abner Museum and Jot ‘Em Down Store... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/260.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com  About 150 sports cyclists will descend upon the Ozarks on Oct. 24 when brandnewbus hosts Ride 89/68, an 89-mile bicycle ride in and around Jasper that promises approximately... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/259.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Two journalists from Tokyo, Japan are in the state now on a tour of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Mr. Norio Konno and photographer Mr. Yasutake Ito are journalists for Ocean Life magazine... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/258.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   For those art fans out there, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) at the Ozark Bathhouse on Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs National Park is now open. MOCA is the first contemporary art... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/256.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   On Friday (Oct. 16) Governor Mike Beebe was the featured speaker for the groundbreaking of the El Dorado Conference & Student Center and the South Arkansas Community College Health Science Center.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/255.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     It’s that time of year again folks! Time to scare and be scared and what a better... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/254.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Here’s a quick head’s up for Civil War buffs. A Civil War reenactment has been set for Oct. 23-24 at Charles Brown Farm (100 acres) in El Dorado.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/253.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com I HAVE to go back to StoneCreek Ranch and Resort near Mountain Home. Now understand, there are many reasons why I WANT to go back. I want to experience a country setting again and be reminded of my youth... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/5.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Two Hot Springs bed and breakfasts have been selected as winners in the annual Best of BedandBreakfast.com Awards for 2009-2010. Ray and Kristie Rosset of... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/252.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Acclaimed humor writer David Sedaris, whose work includes When You Are Engulfed in Flames, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/248.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A Japanese film crew from Nihon TV covered The World Championship Quartz Crystal Dig in Mount Ida this weekend. The footage is expected to be viewed... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/247.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comAt Whitton Farms, located five miles northeast of Tyronza, they have a motto. “If you know your farmer, you know your food!” They are committed to growing high quality, locally grown food and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/246.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A group of Oklahoma tour operators visited the state this week as part of a scouting trip via Red Carpet Charters. The name of the tour (Oct 6-8) was... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/245.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     The American Planning Association just named President Clinton Avenue as one of the 10 Great Streets of 2009. The street, which runs through the River Market District... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/241.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Conway has joined a growing list of Arkansas communities proud of their arts reputation. Out of this cultural explosion has come the annual ArtsFest, which starts today and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/242.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com  Small-town Americana at its finest -- that’s what you’ll find in Elm Springs this weekend during the 3rd annual Yester Daze Festival. The event will take place from 8... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/244.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   If you are looking to get your arts fix in, the 2nd Annual Ouachita Art Trails Studio Tour is scheduled for this weekend  (Oct. 9-11). There... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/243.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Last night in Little Rock Rackensack gathered for a folk music meet up. Rackensack is an organization started by Jimmy Driftwood and several of his cohorts (George Fisher, the political cartoonist... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/240.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Yesterday the Arkansas State Lumberjack Championships took place during Timberfest in Sheridan. Events during the competition included the ax throw,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/239.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   If Iron Chef, Chopped or Top Chef are on your "must see TV list," then you won’t want to miss the Celebrity Chef Cook-off Thursday, October 8, at Pulaski Technical College... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/238.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Ever wonder about the origin of “stuff?” Heifer International will explore this topic on October 10 when it hosts Know Your Stuff Day. You... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/237.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   If the opportunity to sample creations by some of Arkansas’s favorite restaurants, then grab a red pen and circle October 17. That’s... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/236.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   If you find yourself around the Lake Sylvia Recreation Area this weekend (Oct. 3-4), be on the lookout for a crew of ultrarunners taking on The Arkansas... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/235.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Blues Traveler, Joe Nichols, Jack Ingram, and Trout Fishing in America are among the headliners set to play this weekend at MusicFest XXII Oct. 2-3... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/234.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com   I finally found one negative thing about living in Fayetteville. Because I have a home here, I have no need to stay... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/233.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comOne of my favorite things to do is sip delicious wines and eat by candle light at the Weinkeller Restaurant at Wiederkehr Wine Cellars in Wiederkehr Village.   I’ve... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/232.aspx Kimberly J. Williams DeltaTraveler@gmail.com      Blues are the songs of despair, but gospel songs are the songs of hope.  Mahalia JacksonMusic is an important part of the culture of The Natural State. From blues... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/231.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Since Interstate 540 was built, there’s not been much reason for most people to travel the old Ark. 71 over the Boston Mountain. But there is a reason to head to that... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/230.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   The popular game show, Wheel of Fortune, has had an Arkansas flavor quite a bit this year. Numerous contestants, chosen from tryouts held in Conway... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/229.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   If you love horses, or just love watching horses, then head to the Saline County Fairgrounds in Benton September 19 and 20 for the Arkansas Horse Fest.  “The... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/228.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach  jillsjourneys@gmail.com There are two great reasons to head to Harrison for the weekend:   1) The 14th annual Arkansas State... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/227.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comIs it too early to talk about Christmas? It will be here sooner than you think. So here’s an idea for a way to enjoy some fall foliage in the Ozarks, shop for Christmas, and possibly win a holiday vacation... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/226.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comWhen the weather changes from full-blown summer to the first inklings of fall, I have a term that I’ve used since I was about four – carnival weather! There’s a crispness... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/225.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A new BMX motocross complex has been added to the lineup of BMX courses in the state. Earlier this month, the Cabot BMX Complex (which hosts a 1,100 –foot-long... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/224.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comA free Hunter Safety course will be taught on Saturday, Aug. 29 at the new Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Visitor Center. Steven Dunlap, education coordinator for the Arkansas Game and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/223.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   For some people, like me, the countdown to the start of the next college football season begins the day the previous season is over. Others have a little more patience. But... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/220.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com The Hot Springs Blues Festival is once again making it’s way to Hill Wheatley Plaza Sept. 4-6. In it’s 13th year, the sound of blues will be heard around... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/222.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Variety act performances are making a return to the Malco. On Sept 5-6 comedian Joby Saad and ventriloquist Marc Rubben will be performing at the Historic... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/221.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com If you like music you’ll enjoy a weekend at the Ozark Folk Center in Mountain View sitting in the large theater tapping your toes to talented musicians of all ages. It’s... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/219.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com I had the change to catch Jekyll and Hyde at the Weekend Theater in Little Rock last night. I’m sure most are familiar with the story-this... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/218.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Driving through Sheridan recently I decided to make a pit stop by the Grant County Museum. It wasn’t a scheduled stop but since I’d never been... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/217.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com       The schedule for the free outdoor festival that takes place every year during the Hot Springs JazzFest (Sept. 15 and 17-20) has... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/216.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   I just came across the news that all nine of Magnolia author Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse books (the inspiration for HBO's "True Blood") are on this week's New York... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/215.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com       Arkansas performer Steve Perry of Sherwood won the “Oh Say Can you Sing” contest sponsored by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Perry... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/213.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Josh Williams, Curator at Historic Washington State Park, just sent word about and upcoming show at the park. The event, Music in the Park: A Night of 19th... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/214.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com Last week, I checked into the Best Western Governor’s Suites in Little Rock for the first time. It was 8 p.m. I was hungry. So was Kim, the co-worker I was meeting. We decided to make things easy and eat... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/212.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comTickets are on sale now for the Mulberry Mountain Harvest Music Festival on Aug. 12-15 at Mulberry Mountain near Ozark. If you missed the huge Wakarusa... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/211.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   If you are into triathlons, either as a competitor or a spectator, the DeGray Lake Triathlon Festival, set for August 15-16 in Arkadelphia, is fast approaching.  The event is... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/210.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com  Everyone likes something that is free – especially when it’s something you enjoy doing. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is offering free admission to the boat launches and swimming beaches... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/209.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comOne of my favorite museums in the Arkansas Delta is the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum in Piggott. If you’ve never been, this week is a wonderful time to visit. If you have, now you MUST go again,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/208.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   If you are in the mood for a rodeo, I just got word that the Crossett Riding Club's 61st Annual PRCA Rodeo is fast approaching. PRCA stands for the Professional... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/207.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comThe 7th annual Eureka Springs Family Bluegrass Weekend on Aug. 20-23 in Eureka Springs will now be free and held outdoors. But don’t worry about rain when making plans... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/206.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com Giveaways and a scavenger hunt will be part of the activities at the 1929 Hotel Seville Open House and Eureka Springs Travel Fair from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday (July 22) in... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/205.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   For you art lovers out there, an event to celebrate the growth of the art scene in Hot Springs is set for August 7.  On that day, (from 5-9) the Arts... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/204.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   The 3rd Annual Red River Region Heritage Symposium will be taking place this Saturday (July 25) from 1-8 at Historic Washington State Park. Conference topics... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/203.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Just a quick reminder that Showdown at Sunset, which was named one of the Top-100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association last year, will... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/202.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comIf you’re looking for a fun activity this upcoming weekend, why not plan a trip to the heart of the Arkansas Delta? Delta Heritage Trail State Park is hosting a guided bike and kayak tour of the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/201.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Any weekend is a good weekend to be in Eureka Springs. But, if you like mountain biking, this is THE weekend to be in Eureka Springs.   ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/200.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com     If you’re anywhere near Helena-West Helena on Saturday and you hear the sounds of cannons firing, don’t be alarmed! On Saturday, beginning... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/199.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Little Rock resident, Brandi Hinkle, will appear on Wheel of Fortune this evening. It airs at 6:30 p.m. on KATV Channel 7 in Little Rock – check your local listings... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/198.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   While scanning the radio recently I came across a interesting program called Arkansas Cooks. The weekly radio spot airs at noon on Saturdays... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/197.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     If you’re planning on visiting any of Arkansas’s beautiful lakes and rivers, you need to... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/195.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Beginning July 1, Arkansas’s “Click it or Ticket” law became stronger. Now police can pull you over for not... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/196.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   For those of you who don’t like getting up early to run, here’s something for you. The Big Dam Bridge Twilight 5K Run takes pace I mean takes place... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/194.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A Walks through History Tour of Historic Downtown Sheridan takes place July 11. The event is part of the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program and the tour group will meet in front of the Grant... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/193.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com       If you like food – and who doesn’t – and would like a way to sample new dishes, then plan on being in downtown North Little Rock for the first... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/192.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Malvern is known as the "Brick Capital of the World” (a nod to the many Acme Brick plants in the area) and during the last week of June, the town celebrates this facet of its history with... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/191.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   The first of a series of three Showdown at Sunset performances starts this Saturday (June 27) in El Dorado.The performances,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/190.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Many people might not be aware of the canoe trails available in the heart of Little Rock. A canoe launch site being built this summer at Hindman Park... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/189.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A rededication of the Leake Ingham Library is taking place in Camden today at 5:30. The Greek Revival style building was built in 1850 and is... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/188.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comAn annual Father’s Day Weekend tradition, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs will host its 12th annual Native American Pow Wow June 19-21. Surprise Dad with a trip... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/187.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     Juneteenth , a holiday honoring the freedom and emancipation of slaves in the United States, will be celebrated by Little Rock... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/186.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com   Today marks the 147th anniversary of the Engagement at St. Charles. On the morning of June 17, 1862, four Federal ships—the ironclads Mound City and St. Louis and timberclads... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/185.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   If you’re looking for something to do this Saturday -- or any Saturday this summer, how about trying a little fresh air shopping? You know you’re going to... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/184.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Garvan Woodland Gardens, the University of Arkansas’ botanical garden in Hot Springs, will unveil its newest development, the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden, June 18.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/183.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Throughout the year, the town of Washington is a target for bladesmiths from across the globe. I visited the town to check out the Bill Moran... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/182.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   The Blessing of the PurpleHull Pea Crop took place this past Sunday at the Billy Williams Farm in anticipation of The PurpleHull Pea Festival, which... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/181.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comIf you like antique cars, car parts, crafts and the beauty of Petit Jean Mountain, head to the 51st annual Petit Jean Antique Auto Show & Swap Meet on Tuesday, June 16 through Saturday,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/180.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.comThe multi-award winning War Eagle, Arkansas, a family film that was inspired by the true story of two young men at a crossroads in their lives, will be released to theaters this summer by Empire Film Group,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/178.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   The annual Balloons of Hope will be June 19-20 at Hope Fair Park. The event is a chance to visit with pilots and see hot air balloons up close. Balloonmeister Shelley Caraway of Kilgore, Texas is... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/179.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com   In May 1965, a construction crew was doing some work on Interstate 40 near Hazen, when they stumbled upon something a LITTLE different! The crew, located two miles northeast of Hazen, had... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/177.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comJuneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Each year communities around the nation hold celebration events. Fort Smith’s... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/176.aspx  Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comOne of my favorite events of the year in Fayetteville will take place this week – The Art of Wine Festival at the Walton Arts Center on June 4-6. I have my tickets... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/175.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comThousands of people from the region and across the nation will converge at Mulberry Mountain near Ozark this week for the Wakarusa Music & Camping Festival that starts Thursday, June... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/174.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comLast winter’s ice storm caused plenty of damage in northern Arkansas and many state parks are still dealing with the damage. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area near Rogers has been... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/173.aspx Zoie Clift Travelarkansas@gmail.com The Lum & Abner Festival is set for June 5-6 at Janssen Park in Mena. A tornado hit the town in April and crews have worked diligently to get... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/172.aspx   The Hudson family of Fayetteville is featured in the recently released June issue of Family Circle Magazine. Each month Family Circle runs a column called “My Hometown” where a family and the town they live in are... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/171.aspx   Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   According to Outdoor... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/170.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     Summer hours are now applicable for the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, located on the bank of the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. The last tour starts 30 minutes... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/169.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comGuitar Shorty, Hubert Sumlin & the Buddy Flett Band, and Joe Louis Walker will headline evening shows at The Auditorium during the 2009 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend on May 28-31 inEureka... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/168.aspx Zoie Clift Travelarkansas@gmail.com   If stories about figures such as Bonnie and Clyde and Al Capone interest you, swing inside The Old State House Museum sometime. The museum is currently hosting an intriguing exhibit, Badges, Bandits... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/167.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comNorthwest Arkansas will be stampeded this week by H.O.G.s -- not the Razorback kind, but the two-wheeled version. More than 5,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycle riders will roll into... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/166.aspx Kimberly J. Williams DeltaTraveler@gmail.com   Well, it's Friday afternoon and the three-day holiday weekend begins in a matter of minutes!! If you're looking for something to do, it's not too late!!   From festivals,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/165.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.comDelta Cultural Center  in Helena-West Helena pays homage to the gospel roots of the Arkansas Delta as the museum hosts one of it’s most popular yearly events.  The 9th annual Arkansas... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/164.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A few co-workers and I got the chance to preview the new Heifer Village, set to open June 5 in Little Rock. The village, which was a $13.5 million project,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/163.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Today the replica of Snowman’s semi trailer and a group of Trans Am honoring the Smokey & the Bandit movie (which was the second highest grossing... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/161.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Due to the weather we’ve been having lately, an email came this way reminding everyone that Saturday's (May 16) Fourth Annual Stueart Pennington... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/162.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Although September seems awfully far away right now, it won’t be long before it’s here, and it’s not too early to make your plans to see one of the most... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/154.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comIt’s Monday, and boy oh boy is it (for me anyway). So let’s think about the weekend already and something fun to do. The Crawdad Days Festival in Harrison starts Friday evening... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/160.aspx Susannah Spoon and Cheryl FergusonAs a crowd of 15,000 flocks to the Riverfront Amphitheater in Little Rock, We wait for American Idol finalist Kris Allen to take the stage for his first concert since returning to The Natural State.  ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/158.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   An exhibit opening for “GPS Adventures Arkansas” will be held at the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover on May 16 from 11-1:30. The exhibit is a traveling exhibition introducing... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/157.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comTwo fun things start today in Fayetteville – a photo scavenger hunt contest to “Discover Fayetteville” and the Joe Martin Stage Race.   Let’s... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/156.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comWant to know how to show your kids a good time this weekend? Take them to the Hammer-In at the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View.   I am neither... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/155.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Bandit Run ’09, a re-enactment of the legendary 1977 Burt Reynolds “Smokey and the Bandit” movie race, will be driving through Hot Springs... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/153.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comSpring is a great time for camping and a choice spot to go is around Greers Ferry Lake, which is located in Heber Springs in the north-central portion of the state. Sporting... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/152.aspx     Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comOkay, so it’s supposed to rain in northwest Arkansas this weekend. But, a lot of the activities taking place at Terra Studios on Saturday, May 2 will be inside. So go ahead and make... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/151.aspx Kimberly J. Williamsdeltatraveler@gmail.comI love Pocahontas – the town, not the Disney princess, although she’s okay too. Pocahontas has one of the loveliest town squares I’ve ever visited and it’s also home to TWO... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/150.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comYouth fishing derbies are popular this time of year and you can catch one this weekend at Springhill Park in Barling. On Saturday, May 2, children 12 years of age and younger will compete... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/149.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     Looking for something to do this weekend? Head to Mountain Home and take part in the 2nd annual Norfork National Fish Hatchery Open House on May 2. First,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/148.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com The 36th annual War Eagle Mill Antiques and Crafts Show will take place this weekend, May 1-3, in the historic village of War Eagle. The Sharp... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/147.aspx Zoie Clift ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/146.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com Starting this Saturday (April 25), the BentonvilleFarmers Market will open on the town square offering locally grown produce, fresh meats, artisans bakery goods,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/145.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     April 21 kicks off the 35th anniversary of the Little Rock Farmers Market. What started as a few farmers selling their produce from the back of pick-up trucks in a Main Street... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/144.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   We all know how rumors get started. Well, due to an erroneous newspaper report, a rumor has started that Marlsgate Plantation in Scott has been... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/141.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   For over a century The Reader Railroad, which ran through Nevada and Ouachita counties, carried everything from timber to tourists. Though it is no longer rolling, steam locomotive No 2. has a steady... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/143.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comCelebrate Earth Day this Saturday, April 18 at the new visitor center at Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area in Rogers.   A highlight of the day’s activities... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/142.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   Passes are now on sale for the Third Annual Little Rock Film Festival (LRFF) scheduled for May 13 – 17. The festival will announce its official 2009 film lineup and schedule at the Clinton... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/140.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Levon Helm and the Levon Helm Bandwill perform at the Walton Arts Center’s Baum Walker Hall at 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 18 in Fayetteville. Tickets are... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/139.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   There are so many talented artists here in the state I wanted to try to showcase a few via this blog. I’ll try to highlight at least two a month so we’ll see how it goes. Keep... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/138.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com   A Trail of Tears Bike Tour is set to take place this weekend to celebrate National Park Week. Little Rock Central High School National Historic... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/137.aspx   Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com       All those interested in gardening and organic foods need to mark April 18 on their calendar. Nationally recognized gardening expert and Little Rock... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/136.aspx Zoie Clift Travelarkansas@gmail.com The Arkansas Trails Council has announced the dates of their annual Arkansas Trails Day. The event will be held April 18... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/135.aspx     Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Fishing, family and fun go hand in hand at the Great Cotter Trout Festival, which will take place on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/134.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comRanaga Farbiarz of Celestial Windz Harmonic Bizaar in Eureka Springs was commissioned in December 2008 to create 47 wind chimes, tuned to the score of a modern classical work... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/133.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com The Ouachita Challenge is kicking into gear tomorrow- Sunday. The mountain bike tour/race takes place each spring in the Ouachita Mountains and is the largest mountain... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/132.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Entries are now being accepted for the Fourth Annual 'Stueart Pennington Running Of The Tubs' Bathtub Race taking place May 16 in Hot Springs. The... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/131.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Chances are pretty good that most Americans won’t make it to Washington D.C. for the White House Easter Egg Hunt. So the Clinton Presidential Center in downtown Little Rock... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/130.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com Cash’s White River Hoedown in Mountain View will celebrate its 25th season starting this Saturday, April 4. It is the area’s oldest country music and comedy show. Throughout the year, special... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/129.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Suzanne’s Fruit Farm in Hampton is in the midst of offering tours of their farm. The tours (which are being offered through... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/128.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comHow long has it been since you flew a kite? Before this past weekend I could not have told you when I last tugged on a kite string. My in-laws gave my kids a kite on Sunday and off to the park we went. We took... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/127.aspx   Kimberly J. Williamsdeltatraveler@gmail.com Starting March 24, the National Symphony Orchestra will perform five concerts and two youth concerts at five locations in The Natural State. Arkansas was chosen as the site for the 2009 American Residency,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/126.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Any Elvis Presley fans out there? Well clear your schedule for Wednesday (March 25) because you’ll want to be at the Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum in Fort Smith from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to commemorate... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/125.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com If you like antiques, Eureka Springs is the place to be this weekend. Fifty seven antique dealers from 17 states will attend the 13th annual Spring Antique Show and Sale beginning tomorrow March 20 through... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/124.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Are you looking for something different and a little bit out of the ordinary for your group to do? The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum has just the answer – an overnight stay aboard... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/123.aspx PEROT THEATRE It was a steady stream—young and old, blinking sequins and trendy denims.  All were smiling and happy to see old friends as they looked for their seats in the exquisitely refurbished, exquisitely ornate old theatre.  The... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/122.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com The World's Oldest Leprechaun has announced he will participate in... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/121.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com                                           If you were intrigued... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/120.aspx    Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com If you love the ABC’s hit show “Dancing With the Stars,” you want to make your way to northwest Arkansas the second weekend in March. Dancing With the Stars of NWA will hold a fundraiser... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/119.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com If you’re looking for something to do tomorrow night (Thursday, March 5) and you’re in the Harrison area, check out The Supper Club. The Supper Club will begin at 6 p.m. for a cocktail hour... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/118.aspx     Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com     The Arkansas Delta is home to the blues, wonderful food and a diverse history. The region is also home to some amazing artists, crafters and cooks. Now you can purchase... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/117.aspx Tim Schultz, visual coordinator/photographer Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism       They just kept coming.  Steady from up the street, down the street,  from the side streets—people of all ages!  Many... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/116.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com One of South Arkansas' largest events takes place during the 16th annual Camden Daffodil Festival March 6-7 in Camden.  ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/115.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com There’s good news from the Buffalo National River, and that is that day-to-day park operations are back to normal, following the most devastating ice storm to hit the area in more than 100 years. However,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/114.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com    The first race of the Arkansas Marathon Mt. Bike Series will take place March 7 at Cedar Glades Park in Hot Springs. The Spa City 6 hour Mt. Bike Race... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/113.aspx  Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comBlanchard Springs Caverns are now open for business after being closed since January 26 because of the huge ice storm. Downed trees and branches from last month’s storm covered nearly every road in the Sylamore... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/112.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com For those interested in the independent music scene, The Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival (VOV) is gearing up for it's 5th (and biggest) year. The event is attracting... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/111.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     It’s always nice to be selected or voted as “the best” or “one of the best.” But as everyone knows, space at the top is narrow and selective. That’s... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/109.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com I felt like I had found a golden ticket and was touring Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory with Charlie when I stepped into the Eureka Springs Chocolate Lovers Festivallast... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/110.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Lookout Point Inn in Hot Springs was recently featured in National Geographic Traveler. The article highlighted... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/108.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com The Great River Road National Scenic Byway is truly a jewel in the crown of the Arkansas Delta. Running along the eastern border of The Natural State, the Great River Road travels alongside the Mississippi... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/107.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com A celebration of our nation’s symbol will be on the agenda at the 30th Annual Eagles Et Cetera Festival... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/106.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com     For the first time since Southern Living magazine began its Reader's Choice Awards in 1995, Arkansas has placed three destinations in the finals. Mount Magazine... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/105.aspx   View from Mount Magazine       Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com When I travel I enjoy finding the places the locals hang out. Of course, general tourist attractions or restaurants... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/104.aspx     Kimberly J. Williamsdeltatraveler@gmail.com It’s that time of year – we prepare to bid a fond adieu to 2008 and pull out our 2009 calendars. The holidays are almost over and it’s time to get back to our daily... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/103.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   It’s almost time for Christmas and most people’s stress levels are a lot higher than they should be. Nearly everyone ALWAYS has someone on their... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/102.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com A peek into a historical holiday scene takes place this Saturday ( Dec 13) during the 22nd Annual Christmas and Candlelight... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/101.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourney@gmail.comThe smoke, the smell, the cannon shot ringing in your ears, the thunder of horse hooves pounding the earth, men shouting in the chaos of the Civil War – the Battle of Prairie Grove re-enactment set for... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/100.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com The holidays are officially here. The largest Christmas parade in Arkansas takes place Dec. 6 in El Dorado.  The parade starts at 4. Entertainment begins at 10... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/99.aspx Zoie Clift Travelarkansas@gmail.com El Dorado is among the semifinalists for The 2009 Great American Main Street Awards (GAMSA). The GAMSA Awards recognize exceptional accomplishments in revitalizing America's... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/98.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Halloween is over so it’s beginning to look at lot like … ???? You got it! Christmas! The last piece of candy had barely been handed out on All Hallows Eve before the Christmas... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/97.aspx   Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com If scenes of ice -skating signify winter for you, we’ve gotten word that Hot Springs' outdoor ice rink will... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/96.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Browsing through a book store recently, I came across a children’s book I remember hearing about, but have never come across... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/95.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Make time tomorrow or at least in the month of November to visit the Clinton House Museum in Fayetteville. The museum is offering a great opportunity to see the art of Dana Tiger. She’s the daughter... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/94.aspx Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com Here’s a spooky idea that will last through November – flashlight tours on the Dripstone Trail in Blanchard Springs Caverns in Mountain View. The tours will be conducted with the lights off, allowing... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/92.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com   Most cities and towns throughout Arkansas have local legends that have been passed down by the generations. There’s the Gurdon Light, which was featured on Unsolved Mysteries. The Crescent... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/90.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com White Oak Lake State Park has a new trail for hikers and bikers to check out. Fern Hollow Trail and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Lower White Oak... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/89.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Directors and film buffs from around the world will be heading to Hot Springs this weekend for the start of the 17th Annual Hot Springs Documentary Film... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/88.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Fall has always been my favorite time of the year. I love the cooler temperatures, the changing colors of the leaves, college football, especially the Razorbacks, family... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/87.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com A rare photo of Al Capone in Hot Springs with his wife Mae has been discovered and made into a postcard. The photo was discovered by Mike Shaw of Shaw's Antiques and shows Capone... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/86.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com I have two great reasons for you to eat at 302 On The Square, located in Berryville. Wait, make that three. First, the food is awesome. Every bite bursts with flavor. Second, the price of the food is more than... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/85.aspx   Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com   With the arrival of the cooler temperatures of fall, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy The Natural State! Pumpkin Hollow near Piggott is the perfect place to spend a fall morning... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/84.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com If you’re a cyclist, chances are you already know about the Big Dam Bridge 100 taking place this Saturday (Sept.27) in North Little Rock. If not,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/83.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com 1964: Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts/ARS, New York Growing up in the sixties, I really wasn’t as “with it” as some were but I sure knew... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/81.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com On a recent trip to Fordyce, I had the chance to tour the Dallas County Historical Museum with James & Agnes Phillips, owners of the Wynne Phillips... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/80.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comHooray, it’s Friday. The weekend has arrived. Now, what to do? If you’re in northwest Arkansas or headed that way, make plans for a dinner date with your significant other at Autumn Breeze Restaurant... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/79.aspx   Jill Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Labor Day weekend is a great time to visit an Arkansas State Park and take part in the interpretive programming offered. While topics vary from park to park, many programs include... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/78.aspx Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com   The power of the Mississippi River is never more apparent than when the waters of the mighty river leave its banks. The result can be devastating, as witnessed during the April 1927... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/77.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com    If you're a music enthusiast, The Hot Springs Blues Festival will be the place to be August 29-30. The festival is set to feature some of the best local, regional and national talent for blues fans... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/76.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   The minute you enter the gates at the end of a dusty road which winds through acres of farmland, you immediately shut the door on the hustle and bustle of today’s world and enter... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/75.aspx    Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.com With a calliope circus wagon cranking out tunes in the background, The Park at West End in historic downtown Ft. Smith is whimsy at its best. Take a date there for some light romance or take the kids... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/74.aspx       Kimberly J. WilliamsDeltaTraveler@gmail.com There’s a new reason to visit historic downtown Batesville. Beginning Aug. 8, Main Street Batesville and the Batesville Area Arts Council will host the first 2nd Friday Downtown... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/73.aspx Zoie CliftTravelarkansas@gmail.com Some interesting news came across my desk that I wanted to share. Characters created by Arkansas writer Charlaine Harris will soon make the transition to the screen in a new vampire series set to air on HBO. ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/72.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com                                                                                                                     Photo... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/71.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comIf you’re in or near Springdale and hungry for some good home cookin’, Neal’s Café is THE place. In fact, it’s an institution where people not only gather to eat but also to talk... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/70.aspx   Kimberly J. Williams, travel writerDeltaTraveler@gmail.com Horseshoe Lake, a scenic oxbow lake located east of Hughes along the Great River Road, is ready to celebrate! Since late April, the lake has been back at its full level for the first time... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/69.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   Anyone who does any amount of traveling at all knows who Michael and Jane Stern are.  They created the crème de la crème of dining guides years ago and named it... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/68.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com The Pink Tomato Festival (which runs through this Sat.) in Warren is one of the oldest running festivals (it started in 1956)  in the state. It’s a celebration of... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/67.aspx Kerry KrausNaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   This one falls into the category of “just when you think you’ve seen everything….”   We’ve all seen buildings made of stone, brick, lumber, steel and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/66.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.com     Depending on how old you are, you may or have may not heard of Louis Jordan. Born on July 8, 1908, in Brinkley, Jordan became... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/65.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comThe place to spend all or part of your long Memorial Day weekend is the new Lake Fort Smith State Park, which just reopened on Wednesday in northwest Arkansas. The park features all new facilities – 30... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/64.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com The long-awaited completion of the conversion of the Junction Railroad Bridge into a pedestrian and bicycle bridge is upon us. The bridge will link riverfront parks on both sides of the Arkansas River. The completion... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/63.aspx  Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com A new trail is quietly piecing together in Hope. The trail is located along an abandoned Louisiana/Arkansas railroad right of way going from Hope to Springhill, Louisiana. The railroad is in the midst of... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/62.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Superlift ORV Park is known as one of the premier wheeling spots in the state. A subculture of  4x4, ATV and motorcycle enthusiasts regularly filter in and out of park, which sits just outside Hot... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/61.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comI realize that wielding knives and cutting through 2x4’s, then ping pong balls, rope, water bottles and other stuff seems more like a guy sort of thing than the event for me to go to on Mother’s Day.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/60.aspx   Jill M. Rohrbachjillsjourneys@gmail.comSeeing where artists create their work is exciting to me. I like getting a sense of how they organize, the tools they use, the environment they choose to work in. It makes their art more appealing to me. Usually... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/59.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.comIf I had my druthers for Mother’s Day, I would spend the weekend at Buzzard Roost Inn in Mountain Home. I have wanted to visit there since I began receiving the Inn’s emails about restaurant specials.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/57.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Having come from Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and headed on to the Bible Museum at The Great Passion Play, we weren’t in a hurry, but were on a schedule. Yet we couldn’t help lingering at the tasting... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/55.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comI love animals! When I see any animal, I immediately want to pet it. This is a habit that has not always served me well. I’ve learned, after a few close calls, to always ask the owner IF I can pet the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/54.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Conway’s humongous spring/summer shindig – Toad Suck Daze -- is coming up May 2-4. That’s when over 150,000 head to the central Arkansas town for three days of exciting... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/53.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach mailto:jillsjourneys@gmail.com Record rainfall in the state makes this a perfect time to hike to a waterfall. I don’t mean to make light of the flooding and troubles the massive amounts of rain are causing for some people. And... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/52.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comFor those of you who have read my blog, you’ve probably figured out that the Arkansas Delta holds a very special place in my heart. I was born and raised here and I’m thrilled to now represent this... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/51.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com   You never know who you’ll run in to in downtown North Little Rock. The revitalization of this area, which is ongoing, is bringing more and more people here to sample the nightlife, entertainment... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/50.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.comThe World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be the “cleanest” one in history this year. Mike Rowe, creator and host of the Discovery Channel show “Dirty Jobs,” is coming to Hot... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/49.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.comThe University of Arkansas will host the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships for the ninth consecutive season on March 14-15 at the Randal Tyson Track Center on the UA campus in Fayetteville. Now, I don’t... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/48.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com The Swiss Family Bistro is a refreshing place to stop when you’re on the road. Located right on I-40 at Exit 41, it is owned and operated by Wiederkehr Wine Cellars and Vineyards. You can enjoy delicious... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/47.aspx Remembering John H. Johnson Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comFor most people, the name John H. Johnson is not necessarily a recognizable name. But I’m willing to bet that almost everyone has heard of the magazines... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/46.aspx Kerry Kraus Natural State Blogger@gmail.com In some respects we are a nation of voyeurs. We love to see how the other half lives, especially if that other half is wealthy. The Conway Symphony Designer House provides a terrific opportunity to see... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/44.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.comMany hiking and backpacking enthusiasts may already know about OuachitaMaps.com but for those who don’t, here’s a quick introduction. The site is a great stop if one is looking for weatherproof hiking maps of ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/45.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com The Clinton House Museum in Fayetteville will be celebrating Presidents' Day on February 16 and 18 with half price admission. On February 16, the museum will also be serving visitors with former President Bill... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/43.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com I got an email in my inbox this week about the news that Country music star Tracy Byrd will represent Hot Springs this year as its first ever celebrity spokesman.Byrd travels thousands of miles across America each year,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/41.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.com February is upon us and that means it’s time to show your special someone how much they mean to you. Valentine’s Day can sometimes cause stress when you have no idea what to give your significant other.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/42.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com                                                                                       ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/40.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach mailto:jillsjourneys@gmail.com What was the first car that you wanted to own so bad you thought your heart would burst? Do you still remember its color, make or model? Did you see it on a showroom floor, on television or in a print advertisement... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/39.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comThere’s an old adage that tells us “nothing is free.” Well that’s certainly not true in The Natural State, where you can spend an afternoon or a weekend enjoying free museums, state parks... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/38.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com The Ouachita National Forest will turn the big 1.0.0 tomorrow. (December 18th ). The south’s oldest and largest National Forest is somewhat of a big gun as far as forests go. There is plenty of room to celebrate as... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/37.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach mailto:jillsjourneys@gmail.com Whimsical, enchanting, fun – that’s Terra Studios, located 14 miles east of Fayetteville. Terra Studios is home of the original Bluebird of Happiness and you can watch them being made in... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/36.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com I’m a native Arkansan and have traveled the state fairly extensively. I know all about Crowley’s Ridge being the only “uplift” in the otherwise flat Arkansas Delta. I’ve... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/35.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.comFor the first time, Southern Living magazine has chosen Hot Springs as the location for the 2007 Idea House. The house, which was featured in the August issue of the magazine, is located at 155 Dellmere Drive in Red Oak Ridge.  ... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/34.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.comSitting on a beach this spring soaking up the sun, I wondered why I choose to live where I live instead of by warm, relaxing sand like I was experiencing in the Bahamas. Then I saw my homeland: The peace I feel... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/33.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.com Fall is here! The temperatures are cooler and the leaves have started taking on their autumn wardrobe. Over the next few weeks, Arkansas will become ablaze with fall color. So before holiday preparations... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/32.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com For those looking for a new attraction to head to, news of a new museum being built just got sent this way. The Gangster Museum of America will be Hot Springs’s newest attraction when it is tentatively set to open... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/31.aspx A sharp-shootin’ cowgirl, some rockabilly legends, three well-known actors, a local television news icon, a prolific band leader and a pioneer in the state’s talent scout industry – Wow! What an evening! Dust off the black tie attire... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/30.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com A sea of motorcycles swept over Fayetteville this weekend. The fastest growing motorcycle rally in the nation, Bikes, Blues & BBQ fills northwest Arkansas each year with thousands of motorcycles... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/29.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.comLast Tuesday, Sept 25th marked the 50th anniversary of the integration of Little Rock Central High School. A commemoration ceremony was held on the front lawn of the school in honor of the anniversary, marking the first time... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/28.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comThis past weekend, my hometown of Marianna held their annual fall festival, Autumn on the Square. In past years, you never knew what to expect from the weather. There are times, in my beloved Arkansas Delta,... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/27.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com Mt. Nebo is one of the state’s most popular hang gliding spots. I had a chance to visit the area a few days ago and ran into Dave Dunning, a local pilot who was patiently assembling his white glider in a shaded area... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/26.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com There’s a special “understood” language that happens around our office this time of year. It goes something like this: “You goin’ Saturday?” “Yeah, You?”... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/25.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach mailto:jillsjourneys@gmail.com If you’re headed to Northwest Arkansas and need a place to stay, I highly recommend Simmons Suites in Bentonville. Sure it’s a nice place to spend the night because it’s new, and... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/24.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comAlthough summer is in full swing in the Arkansas Delta, in the next few weeks you’ll begin to see fields of “snow.” The “snow” I’m referring to is beautiful white bolls... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/23.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.comIf you’re a Jazz fan, grab a pen and ink in the dates Sept. 7-9 on your calendar. And then highlight them so you won’t forget. You won’t regret it. The 16th annual Hot Springs Jazz Festival is near so this... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/22.aspx Kerry A. Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com Even though I was born and raised in Little Rock I didn’t visit historic Little Rock Central High School until after my junior year in high school. At the time, the school I went to was in the Pulaski... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/21.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Sometimes words do no justice in describing an experience – like the awe inspired when you walk into the cathedral room, the oldest and prettiest part, of Blanchard Springs... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/20.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comThe devastating tornadoes of February can’t keep Dumas down! The 28th Annual Ding Dong Days will be held July 25 – 29. Many of the trees were destroyed at Memorial Park, so the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/19.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com A new wildlife preserve will soon be open in Arkansas. Slated to tentatively open sometime this month, the Moro Big Pine Wildlife Management Area will protect native loblolly-shortleaf pine forests, one of the least-protected... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/18.aspx Kerry A. Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com One of my all-time favorite day trips in Arkansas is going to the small south-central community of Keo. I have gone through the town all my life as my family made the familiar trek to England to visit relatives.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/17.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.com If you’re in the mood for live music this weekend, head to Helena-West Helena. The Delta Cultural Center will host the 2nd Annual Mother’s Best Music Fest on Saturday, June 16, beginning at 10 a.m.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/16.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.comWalking into the Daisy Airgun Museum earlier this year, I immediately began to smile when I saw the fishnet stocking-covered leg lamp that can only make a person think of one thing, the movie “A Christmas... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/15.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com Geologists say that Arkansas and Brazil have the best quality quartz in the world. Though I’ve never been much of a rockhound, I was curious to see what drew people from around the world to the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/14.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com  Grab your kids or your grandkids and head to the new Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center in Fort Smith for an afternoon of family fun. Actually, you don’t have to have kids with you... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/13.aspx Kimberly J. Williams deltatraveler@gmail.comArkansas never ceases to amaze me. I’ve lived here my entire life and there are still things I’ve never experienced before. Some happen to be just outside my back door. I recently visited Southland Park... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/12.aspx Zoie Clift travelarkansas@gmail.com “History is a bridge connecting the past with the present and pointing the road to the future."- Allan Nevins Only a few mile outside of Hope lies an often overlooked travel stop—Historic Washington State Park.... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/11.aspx Jill M. Rohrbach jillsjourneys@gmail.com Sitting around a camp fire recently at a cabin on the White River below Bull Shoals Dam, one of my girlfriends remarked on how at her family gatherings during her youth they used to sit around the fire... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/10.aspx Kerry Kraus NaturalStateBlogger@gmail.com I love being on the water. There’s something so soothing and tranquil about being out on an Arkansas lake. You can get away from everyone and feel like you are the only person in the world –... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/9.aspx Zoie Clifttravelarkansas@gmail.com I am always on the lookout for new terrain to run. Luckily, a trail has recently popped on the radar that fits this criteria- the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail. Or- also affectionately known by the acronym- the... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/6.aspx Arkansas Department of Parks & TourismKimberly J. Williamsdeltatraveler@gmail.com Last weekend I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Twain. Okay, so it wasn’t really Mark Twain, but it could have been! If you had been there, you would have... http://www.arkansas.com/blog/entry/7.aspx