Tourist traps are well-documented and often overrated, but a region’s hidden gems can easily emerge as the greatest icons. Find memories that endure at some of Jacksonville, AR‘s best-kept secrets.
1. Bayou Meto Urban Canoe Trail
The Arkansas River Trail is this region’s most well-known
aquatic attraction, with attention-grabbing features like Big Dam Bridge and
the Clinton Presidential Bridge. Nestled between Jacksonville’s Dupree Park and
Reed’s Bridge Battlefield Heritage Park, you can enjoy two miles of scenic and
shaded waterway perfect for leisurely canoeing and kayaking.
This peaceful getaway provides picturesque views of cypress trees and wildlife,
such as dam-building beavers, that you will not find anywhere else in the
region.
2. Reed’s Bridge Battlefield
The Jacksonville Museum of Military History, located at 100
Veteran’s Circle, gives in-depth insight into major wars impacting the region,
from the Civil War to World War II. For an intimate glimpse of one of the Civil
War’s defining regional battles, you can go directly to where the action took
place at this field steeped in history.
The well-maintained grounds include placards that offer details about this
battle, and you may even visit during a reenactment. The battlefield’s also a
literal haunt for ghost hunting groups, as it’s rumored to be frequented by
spirits.
3. Rail and Sprue Hobbies
This local hobby shop is a paradise for lovers of all things
scale replica. They began in 2000 and continue to be driven by a passion for
model railroads and trains in particular. Pay a visit to this location, and
you’ll have your choice of countless affordable train sets and more, sold by
experts who know their stuff. The inventory does not end on the rails, though,
as slot cars, model boats, model spaceships, and more are available.
Plus, you can lay eyes on the incredible Moon Southern Line model railroad,
going strong since 1965. Marvel at this masterpiece by visiting 1200 John
Harden Drive. If you prefer your vehicles, life-size, the Ford F-150 pickup has
a hidden gem of its own in the key fob. This nifty device can program your seat
positions, locate your ride from a longer distance, and even resurrect itself
from the dead when its battery dies.
4. Delightful Eats
Wee Betty’s Cafe at 9B Crestview Plaza is no lightweight when it comes to serving up amazing sandwiches, rolls, biscuits, pies, cakes, and other baked treats, all with a distinctly Scottish twist. In addition to these delicious delights served with piping hot tea or coffee, you can enjoy an authentic Irish breakfast every morning from Wednesday to Sunday, beginning at 10:30 most days. Indulge in all the overseas fixings like bangers, black and white pudding, and potato scones.
If you’re on the hunt for more hearty fare, journey on over to Smokin’ Buns Barbecue, stationed at 25401 Highway 107. Once you step inside, you won’t regret it. Take your pick from the state’s best BBQ, Pride of the Pond catfish, or another selection from an undeniably Arkansas menu.
Find a treasure trove of impressive autos. Stop by Crain Ford of Jacksonville and browse an inventory packed with pleasant surprises.
Image via Pixabay.
