Perry ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Perry, Arkansas.
1. Perry County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Perry County Historical Museum invites visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of Perry County through a variety of exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and historical documents. This museum showcases significant local events and notable figures that have shaped the community, from Native American history to the impact of agriculture and industry. Visitors can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere while learning about the daily lives of past residents through displays of household items and tools used in local trades.
2. The Hidden Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
The Hidden Gallery is an art gallery in Perryville that showcases works from local and regional artists. Visitors can browse through diverse collections of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic mediums that reflect the cultural identity of the area. The gallery provides an intimate setting for art enthusiasts to appreciate creative expressions while supporting the local art community.
3. Perryville City Park
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Perryville City Park offers residents and visitors alike a peaceful green space for outdoor recreation and community gatherings. The park features walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds suitable for families looking to enjoy nature within the city limits. It also serves as the location for the Perry County Farmers Market, where locals can purchase fresh produce and handmade goods.
4. Flatside Wilderness Area
NATURAL WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Flatside Wilderness Area provides outdoor enthusiasts with over 9,500 acres of pristine natural landscape to explore near Perryville. Hikers and nature lovers can traverse the rugged terrain featuring diverse ecosystems, mountain streams, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. The wilderness area offers a remote backcountry experience perfect for those seeking solitude and connection with untamed Arkansas landscape.
5. Lake Sylvia Recreation Area
OUTDOOR WATER ACTIVITIES
Lake Sylvia Recreation Area offers a refreshing retreat for water enthusiasts and outdoor recreationists just outside Perryville. The clear mountain lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating during warmer months. Surrounding the lake are hiking trails, picnic facilities, and camping areas that make it an ideal destination for day trips or weekend getaways.
6. Big Fish Gravel Loop
SCENIC CYCLING TRAIL
Big Fish Gravel Loop offers cycling enthusiasts a challenging and scenic route through the rolling hills surrounding Perryville. The trail winds through diverse landscapes including forests, streams, and rural countryside, providing riders with breathtaking views and varying terrain. Cyclists of different skill levels can enjoy this well-maintained gravel path that showcases the natural beauty of Perry County.
7. Harris Brake Lake
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Harris Brake Lake is a popular fishing destination spanning approximately 1,300 acres near Perryville, known for its abundant populations of bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. The lake features boat ramps, fishing piers, and shoreline access points that cater to anglers of all experience levels throughout the year. Surrounding the lake are picnic areas and wildlife viewing opportunities that make it an appealing destination for both serious fishermen and families seeking outdoor recreation.
8. Diamond TR Ranch
WESTERN RIDING EXPERIENCE
Diamond TR Ranch offers visitors an authentic western experience with horseback riding trails through the scenic Arkansas countryside. The ranch provides guided rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, allowing guests to explore beautiful forested paths and open meadows. Visitors can also enjoy other ranch activities and possibly interact with various farm animals during their visit.
9. Movie House Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Movie House Winery welcomes visitors to sample locally produced wines in a unique setting converted from a historic movie theater. Guests can enjoy wine tastings that showcase Arkansas-grown fruits and grapes transformed into distinctive varietals. The winery combines charming ambiance with regional flavors, making it a popular destination for both wine enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing afternoon experience.
10. Rialto Community Arts Center
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Rialto Community Arts Center serves as a cultural hub for Perry and surrounding communities, hosting various performances, exhibitions, and events. This renovated historic venue showcases local talent through theater productions, musical concerts, and art displays throughout the year. The center plays an important role in preserving and promoting arts and culture in this rural Arkansas region.
11. Museum of Automobiles
VINTAGE CAR COLLECTION
The Museum of Automobiles houses an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, including the prized Climber automobiles once manufactured in Arkansas. Located atop Petit Jean Mountain near Morrilton, the museum displays vehicles spanning different eras of automotive history, many in pristine condition. Visitors can admire over 50 vehicles ranging from early 1900s models to more recent classics, all showcased in a spacious facility with informative exhibits about automobile development.
12. Barnyard Friends Petting Zoo
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Barnyard Friends Petting Zoo offers families an interactive experience with friendly farm animals in a safe, controlled environment near Morrilton. Children and adults alike can feed, pet, and learn about various animals including goats, sheep, rabbits, and chickens. The petting zoo combines entertainment with educational opportunities about animal care and farm life, making it an ideal outing for families with young children.
13. Petit Jean State Park
ARKANSAS'S FIRST STATE PARK
Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas's first state park, offers visitors stunning natural beauty with its dramatic overlooks, waterfalls, and diverse hiking trails. The park features the 95-foot Cedar Falls, ancient rock formations, and the historic Mather Lodge perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking Cedar Creek Canyon. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating on Lake Bailey, and exploring the numerous CCC-era structures that add historical significance to this natural wonderland.
14. Perry County Farmers Market
LOCAL FARM FRESH GOODS
Perry County Farmers Market brings together local farmers and artisans to offer fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted items to the community. Held in Perryville City Park, the market provides a venue where visitors can purchase seasonal vegetables, fruits, baked goods, and unique crafts directly from producers. The farmers market not only promotes healthy eating and supports the local economy but also serves as a community gathering place where residents and visitors can connect with local culture.
15. Camp Ouachita
HISTORIC CCC STRUCTURE
Camp Ouachita stands as the only surviving Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps girls' camp in the area, offering visitors a glimpse into Depression-era architecture and history. The historic structures, built in the 1930s, showcase the rustic style typical of CCC projects with native stone and timber construction. Today, the preserved camp serves as both a historical landmark and a venue for special events, allowing guests to step back in time while enjoying the natural surroundings of the Ouachita National Forest.