Piggott ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Piggott, Arkansas.
1. Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum
LITERARY HISTORY PRESERVED
Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum is housed in a 1933 Tudor Revival home that has significant literary importance. The museum preserves the location where Ernest Hemingway worked on portions of his writing during his marriage to Pauline Pfeiffer. Visitors can explore the history of Hemingway's time in Piggott and learn about the Pfeiffer family's influence in the area.
2. Matilda and Karl Pfeiffer Museum and Study Center
GEMS AND NATURAL BEAUTY
The Matilda and Karl Pfeiffer Museum and Study Center is located in an early 1930s home set on 11 acres of natural gardens. The museum houses an impressive collection of gems and minerals from around the world, as well as Native American artifacts and an extensive library. Scenes from the 1957 movie 'A Face in the Crowd' were filmed at this picturesque location.
3. Heritage Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Heritage Park is a well-manicured outdoor recreational area tucked on the edge of town that offers numerous amenities for visitors. The park features a serene stocked fishing lake, walking trails, picnic grounds, pavilions, and two playgrounds for children. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking advantage of the fishing dock and amphitheater for special events.
4. Piggott City Market
LOCAL FLAVORS AND TREATS
Piggott City Market offers visitors a taste of local hospitality with coffee and homemade pastries in a welcoming atmosphere. The market serves as a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, providing delicious morning treats to brighten anyone's day. Visitors can experience the small-town charm that makes Piggott special while enjoying fresh baked goods.
5. Piggott Train Depot
RAILROAD HISTORY PRESERVED
The Piggott Train Depot now serves as the home of the Piggott Chamber of Commerce offices and the tourist information center. This historic building was once a bustling hub for the St. Louis and Southwest Railroad in the late 1800s, representing an important part of the town's railroad heritage. The depot and its caboose were featured in the 1956 film 'A Face in the Crowd' starring Andy Griffith.
6. Pumpkin Hollow
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM FUN
Pumpkin Hollow is a leading provider of family-friendly farm entertainment located about 15 minutes north of Piggott in St. Francis. The attraction features seasonal activities including a gourd trellis, pumpkin patches, farm animals, hay slides, pony rides, train rides, and cornfield mazes. Open from May through November, Pumpkin Hollow also hosts special events like pig scrambles that delight visitors of all ages.
7. Piggott Heritage Car Show
CLASSIC AUTOMOBILES ON DISPLAY
The Piggott Heritage Car Show is an annual event that takes place on the third weekend in May, drawing over 300 antique cars and rod runs. Activities span from Friday night through Sunday afternoon and include live entertainment, breakfast at the park, a downtown parade, and a 50s dance on the square. The event culminates with the announcement of trophies and special awards on Sunday, celebrating automotive history and culture.
8. Piggott 4th of July Celebration
HISTORIC PATRIOTIC TRADITION
The Piggott 4th of July Celebration is a local tradition dating back to the early 20th century, beginning with a parade through town. The day continues with an old-fashioned barbecue, vendor booths, entertainment at the bandstand, political speeches, carnival rides, and beauty contests for all ages. The festivities conclude with a spectacular fireworks display at 10 pm, with all proceeds supporting the upkeep of the Piggott Cemetery.
9. Clay County Fair
TRADITIONAL COUNTY FAIR EXPERIENCE
The Clay County Fair has been a continuous tradition since 1932, featuring classic county fair staples like parades, 4H exhibits, livestock shows, and agricultural displays. Beyond the traditional elements, the fair includes beauty pageants, a 5K run, Battle of the Bands, rodeo events, and exciting motor competitions like the Demolition Derby, Mud Races, and Tractor Pull. The multi-day event typically takes place in mid-September and draws visitors from throughout the region.
10. Tourist Information Center
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE HUB
The Tourist Information Center in Piggott serves as the first stop for visitors wanting to learn about the town's attractions and history. Located at 100 E. Main Street, the center offers Piggott T-shirts and historic walkway bricks as souvenirs of the visit. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the center provides valuable resources to help tourists make the most of their time in this peaceful small town.
11. Downtown Piggott Historic District
CHARMING SMALL-TOWN CENTER
Downtown Piggott Historic District offers visitors a glimpse into the town's rich past with well-preserved buildings and a welcoming atmosphere. The district serves as the heart of this peaceful community, hosting events like the 50s dance during the Heritage Car Show and providing a gathering place for locals and tourists. Visitors can stroll the streets to experience the small-town charm that has made Piggott known as one of Arkansas' most peaceful places to live.
12. Chalk Bluff Battlefield Park
CIVIL WAR HISTORY SITE
Chalk Bluff Battlefield Park preserves the site of a significant Civil War battle and river crossing near Piggott. The park commemorates the May 1863 battle where Confederate General John S. Marmaduke's forces crossed the St. Francis River while being pursued by Union troops. Visitors can explore interpretive displays, walking trails, and picnic areas while learning about this important historical event in Northeast Arkansas.
13. Crowley's Ridge Nature Center
REGIONAL ECOLOGY SHOWCASE
Crowley's Ridge Nature Center is located approximately 40 miles from Piggott and showcases the unique ecosystem of this geological formation that rises from the flat Delta plains. The center features interactive exhibits, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs about the flora and fauna native to this distinctive ridge. Visitors can explore the indoor displays and then venture onto outdoor trails that wind through the natural landscape.
14. Parker Pioneer Homestead
LIVING HISTORY FARM
Parker Pioneer Homestead offers visitors a glimpse into rural life in early Arkansas through preserved buildings and agricultural displays. Located within driving distance of Piggott, this living history site features original structures including a farmhouse, barn, blacksmith shop, and other outbuildings. Visitors can experience demonstrations of traditional crafts and farming techniques that were once essential to daily life in the region.
15. Rodney Ghan House Restaurant
HISTORIC FINE DINING
The Rodney Ghan House Restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored historic home in nearby Paragould, offering fine dining in an elegant atmosphere. The restaurant serves upscale cuisine featuring local ingredients and seasonal specialties that showcase the flavors of Northeast Arkansas. Diners can enjoy their meal in rooms adorned with period furnishings that reflect the building's heritage while experiencing exceptional service and hospitality.