Friday, September 16, 2011

Arkansas Vacation Destinations

By Linda Fulkerson


With the price of fuel skyrocketing and the current economic troublesome times, a number of travelers are looking for vacation destinations nearer to home. Arkansas is a conveniently located state, which offers an abundance of inexpensive travel options. Some of the best value destinations for affordable getaways can be found here. If you are pondering what to do in Arkansas, keep on reading.

Morrilton, Arkansas, is the site of the state's first state park, Petit Jean. Named for a fictional young French girl who, according to the tale, followed her sweetheart over the ocean, ultimately landing at the foot of this beautiful mountain, Petit Jean boasts a number of pasttimes from camping, wildlife watching, hiking, paddle boating, bird-watching, and photography. The park also offers a good selection of rustic getaway cabin rentals.

Besides the nearby mountain, Morrilton's quaint downtown district is a bargain shopper's dream-come-true. One of the best "junktique" shopping locations in Arkansas, the main street through the community is brimming with flea markets, second-hand shops, antique dealers, consignment stores, and boutiques. Each first Saturday of the month, additional shopping chances are available because vendors display their stuff on Mainstreet Morrilton. The community is a favorite stop in the "Bargains Galore on 64" network.

For travelers who prefer entertainment to shopping, this central Arkansas city boasts one of the state's best local theaters -- the Rialto Community Arts Center. The Rialto was built in 1911, and during its heyday was considered to be one of the best theaters in the South. Recently converted into a community project, the theater now features live local music, community theater productions, films, and often hosts regional guests, including award winning Elvis Tribute Artist, Tony Witt. The Rialto Gallery is connected to the theater and displays different art exhibits throughout the year.

Fishing is another well-liked pasttime for both locals and visitors. The Morrilton region is home to 3 lakes, and the Arkansas River is situated only minutes from downtown. For hunters, the close by Ed Gordon Wildlife Management Area is merely a short ride down the highway.




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