Winter Wonderland: Arkansas' Best Winter Activities Await

Treat yourself to a cabin getaway in an Arkansas State Park

There are 52 state parks in Arkansas and 12 of those have cabin rentals available. From more modern designed spaces to rustic structures made of log and stone, guests get to choose the kind of feel they are going for. The cabins feature kitchen amenities and cozy fireplaces to keep you warm on a harsh winter evening.

Catch an Arkansas Razorbacks game

One of the most widely supported Arkansas winter activities takes place, for the most part, at Bud Walton Arena at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Few Arkansans have survived a winter without a visit to cheer on the beloved Razorbacks as the basketball team takes the ball to court.

Lawrence Plaza, Bentonville, AR

Each holiday season the Lawrence Plaza in Bentonville transforms itself into a popular spot beloved by locals. This well-known summer splash park converts into an outdoor ice skating rink during the Arkansas winter months. So lace up your skates and get ready to practice those moves.

Buck Island Wildlife Management Area, Phillips County, AR

Like many other Southern states, Arkansas is a land of hunters and deer meat-eaters. One of the best winter hunting spots is in the Arkansas Delta less than a mile north of the Helena River Park. Owned by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Buck Island Wildlife Management Area is only accessible by boat.

Witness the magnificence of the bald eagle in the Ozarks

In case you’d forgotten (because we all forget sometimes), not only has the bald eagle been the national bird and the national animal for the United States of America for over 230 years, it also served as a spiritual symbol to the native people of this land for much longer. During the winter season, the ancient Arkansas Ozarks become an uncommon home to wintering eagles. As bird-watching gains popularity in the Natural State, the Ozark Mountains continue to annually provide the perfect setting to view this threatened species in flight. You won’t forget a glimpse of this majestic creature: the unmistakable adult bird has a 10 to 12-foot wingspan and sports a white head and tail.

Holiday light shows

One of the Arkansas’ favorite winter activities is finding a spectacular drive-thru light display. Among the best are Little Rock’s Christmas at the Capitol, Eureka Springs’s Passion Play Light Display, and Pine Bluff’s Annual Enchanted Land of Lights & Legends.

Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Little Rock, AR

A visit to the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra is a lesser known, yet popular winter activity. Under the musical direction of Philip Mann and after recent renovations, this holiday tradition is moving back to Little Rock’s Robinson Center this season’s performances.

Light Up Siloam Springs Christmas Parade, Siloam Springs, AR

Sponsored by the Heritage League of Siloam Springs, the city of Siloam Springs has been hosting an annual Christmas parade for over 35 years. Year after year this local tradition brings this small community together with spirit of Christmas. Get together with your loved ones for this event that everyone can enjoy.

Experience the Lights of the Ozarks

One of the best winter activities that every Arkansan has experienced is the lighting of the Square. Each year, entire communities are known to gather together in one accord as they begin the winter season. A few of the most well-known locations include: Huntsville’s Christmas Lighting on Polk Square, Fayetteville’s Lights of the Ozarks, and Bentonville’s Winter Wonderland.

Trumpeter swans at Magness Lake

Yearly, from mid-November to late February, Arkansas residents can witness wintering trumpeter swans in this famous spot. For years, people in the area have been granted the beautiful experience of watching these beautiful birds. It’s a majestic sight.

Mena Christmas Gift Art Show, Mena, AR

The annual Mena Christmas Gift Art Show held each winter in the Mena Art Gallery in Mena, is a favorite among Arkansas winter activities. When the cold keeps you inside, have yourself a little art-retail therapy and shop for a variety of unique (and affordable!) Arkansas artworks.

Festival of Trees at the Bay and Light Up the Bay

The Festival of Trees at the Bay and Light Up the Bay, presented by the Fairfield Bay Chamber of Commerce, are a traditional launch to the areas holiday season. This magical experience is just one of the many, wonderful winter activities in Arkansas.

Key Insights at a Glance

• Cabin Getaways in Arkansas State Parks: Stay cozy in one of 12 state parks offering cabin rentals, complete with fireplaces and kitchen amenities.
• Arkansas Razorbacks Basketball Games: Cheer on the Razorbacks at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, a beloved winter tradition.
• Ice Skating at Lawrence Plaza in Bentonville: Enjoy the outdoor rink that transforms this splash park into a winter hotspot.
• Hunting at Buck Island Wildlife Management Area: Accessible only by boat, this top winter hunting spot in the Arkansas Delta is a haven for hunters.
• Bald Eagle Watching in the Ozarks: Witness majestic bald eagles wintering in the Arkansas Ozarks, a birdwatcher’s dream.
• Holiday Light Shows: Drive through iconic displays like Little Rock’s Christmas at the Capitol, Eureka Springs’ Passion Play Light Display, and Pine Bluff’s Enchanted Land of Lights & Legends.
• Arkansas Symphony Orchestra in Little Rock: Experience holiday performances at the Robinson Center under the direction of Philip Mann.
• Light Up Siloam Springs Christmas Parade: A 35+ year tradition that brings the Siloam Springs community together for holiday cheer.
• Lights of the Ozarks: See festive community lighting events in Huntsville, Fayetteville, and Bentonville.
• Trumpeter Swans at Magness Lake: Watch these elegant birds at their seasonal wintering site from November to February.
• Mena Christmas Gift Art Show: Shop for local art and crafts at this annual winter event in the Mena Art Gallery.
• Festival of Trees and Light Up the Bay in Fairfield Bay: Celebrate the season with this festive kickoff featuring beautifully decorated trees and community lights.