Incredible Fall Destinations in Arkansas and Louisiana

Arkansas and Louisiana are two states that draw in millions of visitors every year. The combination of their vibrant cultures and scenic natural beauty has contributed to each having a unique appeal that keeps tourists coming back. The summer in both states is humid, and winters can bring unpleasant weather. But fall in Arkansas and Louisiana bring mild temperatures and a new set of fun activities to enjoy.

As the leaves in Arkansas and Louisiana change from green to red, orange, and yellow, visitors head to these two states to enjoy their incredible scenery and atmosphere. Let’s look at some destinations in Arkansas and Louisiana that are perfect for enjoying the fall.

Fayetteville is a large city best known as the University of Arkansas’s home, giving it a lively college town atmosphere. This scenic city is surrounded by rolling hills, greenery, and top-notch parks. It also has a thriving food scene.

Visiting Fayetteville in the fall is a perfect way to witness the changing leaves of the Ozarks. Just a short drive outside of Fayetteville, you’ll find Devil’s Den State Park, which has colorful mountain biking and hiking trails. The Pig Trail Scenic Byway is also a beautiful drive that winds through roads lined with stunning fall foliage.

Deep in the Ouachita Mountains, you’ll find an incredibly unique Arkansas city. Hot Springs is a mid-sized town home to less than 40,000 people, but every year tourists surge to this community to enjoy the town’s hot springs. These geothermal “pools” are naturally heated throughout the year and can be found in the famed Hot Springs National Park.

There are numerous scenic places near Hot Springs that you can explore to witness Arkansas’s colorful fall foliage. Lake Ouachita State Park and Lake Catherine State Park offer trails through forests where the autumn colors will take your breath away.

Shreveport is one of the biggest cities in Louisiana and a pivotal commercial hub in the three-state region. It is a busy urban city with lots to see and experience, including a thriving arts scene, entertainment like riverboat casinos, and a delicious food scene that makes it perfect for foodies.

There are many fall events and festivals in Shreveport throughout the seasons. The Louisiana State Fair is a major occurrence you won’t want to miss, and the Red River Revel Art Festival is an annual classic. Shreveport also has excellent farmers’ markets, along with streets and parks lined with trees undergoing a seasonal transformation.

Mountain View is a small town in Arkansas home to less than 3,000. While it may not be big, this Ozark-based city has a rich legacy in folk music. As the host of the annual Arkansas Folk Festival during the spring, folk music is ingrained in this town’s identity. However, most come to enjoy the town’s abundant natural beauty.

Mountain View is located near several natural hotspots, including the Blanchard State Canyons. However, the best place to explore in autumn is Ozark National Forest. This forest is perfect for leaf peeping and hiking, and many also enjoy fly fishing here in the fall. Mountain View is always scenic but made even more so by the autumn colors.

Little Rock is Arkansas’s capital, a beautiful city along the Arkansas River. This major city is home to 200,000, known for its excellent museums, history, and delicious food. Little Rock also has top-notch local parks and farmers’ markets and is a worthwhile destination for your next fall excursion.

Little Rock in the fall has numerous festivals and events, including the annual Arkansas State Fair, a seasonal event with rides, food, and more. Little Rock also has places like McArthur Park, perfect for a stroll on a crisp fall day.