Keiser ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Keiser, Arkansas.
1. Hampson Archeological Museum State Park
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS
Hampson Archeological Museum State Park houses an internationally significant collection of Native American artifacts from the Nodena site. The museum showcases the remarkable achievements of this prehistoric civilization that once inhabited the Mississippi River Valley. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring pottery, tools, and other artifacts that provide insights into the sophisticated culture that thrived in the region from 1400 to 1700 CE.
2. White's Mercantile
CHARMING LOCAL SHOP
White's Mercantile offers visitors a unique shopping experience with a carefully curated selection of goods. The store features local crafts, home decor, and specialty items that reflect the character of the region. Shoppers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and distinctive merchandise that can't be found in typical retail outlets.
3. Historic Dyess Colony: Boyhood Home of Johnny Cash
MUSIC LEGEND'S ORIGINS
Historic Dyess Colony preserves the boyhood home of music legend Johnny Cash, offering visitors a glimpse into his humble beginnings. The carefully restored property showcases the New Deal-era colony where Cash's family resided during the Great Depression. Visitors gain insight into the hardships and experiences that shaped the iconic musician's life and influenced many of his songs.
4. Thorncrown Chapel
STUNNING GLASS ARCHITECTURE
Thorncrown Chapel is an architectural marvel nestled in the woods, featuring 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass. The stunning structure rises 48 feet into the sky with wooden beams that form a series of crosses throughout the interior. Visitors from around the world come to experience the peaceful sanctuary where nature and spirituality blend seamlessly.
5. Fordyce Bathhouse
HISTORIC SPA BUILDING
Fordyce Bathhouse stands as the grandest building on Bathhouse Row, showcasing the luxury spa experience of the early 20th century. The elegantly restored facility now serves as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park, featuring three floors of exhibits. Visitors can explore the ornate historic rooms including the gymnasium, bathrooms, and massage areas that once catered to wealthy patrons seeking therapeutic mineral baths.
6. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art houses a world-class collection spanning five centuries of American masterworks. The stunning museum building, designed by architect Moshe Safdie, integrates seamlessly with the surrounding Ozark landscape and features spring-fed ponds. Visitors can enjoy the extensive art collection, beautiful architecture, and miles of sculpture-lined hiking trails on the 120-acre grounds.
7. Petit Jean State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Petit Jean State Park features the iconic Davies Bridge, an enchanting stone arch bridge that seems transported from a fairytale. The park offers breathtaking views from its mountain setting, including the 95-foot Cedar Falls that cascades into a picturesque canyon. Visitors can explore more than 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes featuring unique rock formations, streams, and woodland habitats.
8. Millwood Lake State Park
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Millwood Lake State Park offers exceptional fishing opportunities on a 29,500-acre lake known for its trophy bass. The park features camping facilities, boat rentals, and guided fishing experiences for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. Wildlife enthusiasts appreciate the diverse ecosystem that supports over 300 bird species, making it a premier destination for birdwatching in the region.
9. Mark Martin Museum
NASCAR LEGEND MEMORABILIA
The Mark Martin Museum celebrates the career of NASCAR Hall of Fame driver Mark Martin with an impressive collection of race cars, trophies, and memorabilia. Visitors can view actual race-used vehicles from different periods of Martin's successful racing career spanning four decades. The museum provides an intimate look at one of Arkansas's most successful sports figures through photos, videos, and personal items from his championship seasons.
10. Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo
HISTORIC WILDLIFE ATTRACTION
The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo has been entertaining visitors since 1902, making it one of the oldest attractions in Hot Springs. The facility features regular alligator feedings where visitors can observe these prehistoric reptiles up close. Families particularly enjoy the interactive petting zoo area where children can have hands-on experiences with a variety of friendly animals.
11. Blanchard Springs Caverns
SPECTACULAR UNDERGROUND WONDER
Blanchard Springs Caverns is the second-longest cave system in Arkansas, extending over eight miles beneath the Ozark Mountains. The living cave features spectacular formations including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones that continue to grow through ongoing natural processes. Visitors can explore this underground marvel through several guided tour options designed for adventurers of varying abilities and comfort levels.
12. Mammoth Springs State Park
MAGNIFICENT NATURAL SPRING
Mammoth Springs State Park showcases one of the world's largest springs, producing nine million gallons of water hourly. The historic park features remnants of an old mill, a hydroelectric plant, and an 1886 Frisco train depot with a locomotive museum. Visitors enjoy excellent trout fishing, floating on the spring-fed stream, and exploring the unique natural and historical attractions throughout the grounds.
13. Ozark Folk Center State Park
LIVING OZARK HERITAGE
Ozark Folk Center State Park preserves the traditional crafts, music, and culture of the Ozark Mountains. Visitors can watch skilled artisans demonstrate heritage crafts including blacksmithing, pottery, weaving, and woodworking using traditional methods. The center regularly features authentic Southern Mountain Music performances that showcase the region's rich musical traditions and offer opportunities to purchase handcrafted items directly from the craftspeople.
14. Galaxy Connection
STAR WARS COLLECTION EXPERIENCE
Galaxy Connection offers an immersive experience for fans of Star Wars and superhero franchises through its extensive collection of memorabilia. Visitors enjoy guided tours featuring a vintage arcade, hall of movie props, and life-size superhero displays. The attraction provides unique photo opportunities with authentic collectibles that delight enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Lake Ouachita
ARKANSAS'S LARGEST LAKE
Lake Ouachita is the largest lake entirely within Arkansas's borders, offering 40,000 acres of crystal-clear waters surrounded by the scenic Ouachita Mountains. The pristine lake features over 200 islands for exploration, excellent fishing for multiple species, and numerous recreation opportunities including boating, swimming, and scuba diving. Visitors appreciate the rustic campgrounds, hiking trails, and beautiful swimming beaches that make this natural destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.