Arkansas is a state that begs to be explored, from the misty peaks of the Ouachitas to the winding Mississippi River. Known as The Natural State, its forests hum with cicadas, lakes shimmer under golden sunsets, and rivers carve deep into ancient stone. Its landscapes don’t just invite adventure—they inspire creativity. Visitors have long sought the rejuvenating thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park, while the Buffalo National River, the first designated national river in the US, winds through breathtaking limestone bluffs and untouched wilderness.

But Arkansas’s forests and rivers aren’t the only places where paths are forged—trailblazers in history, music, and art have left their mark. Hattie Caraway, the first woman elected to the US Senate, and Johnny Cash, whose music captured the heart of America, are just two of many who shaped its legacy. From the entrepreneurial drive of the Walton family to the literary voice of Maya Angelou, Arkansas has long been a place where creativity and ambition thrive. 

Not surprisingly, this state embraces the arts, from folk music and storytelling to quilting—a cherished craft passed down through generations. Whether preserving tradition or pushing boundaries, quilters continue to stitch Arkansas’s story into fabric. The land, its people, and the soulful blues of the Delta inspire colors, patterns, and themes, and each quilt carries echoes of the state that inspired it. 

With its stunning landscapes, thriving arts scene, and welcoming communities, Arkansas is more than a destination—it’s a place where tradition and creativity come together, making it a true gem of the South.

Writers: Rebecca Bratburd, Mel Burke, Meg Cox, Frances O’Roark Dowell, Courtney Mabeus-Brown, Diane L. Murtha, Sharbreon Plummer, and Teresa Duryea Wong.

Photographer: Azuree Holloway 

Photo Stylist: Trevor Holloway

Additional Photography: Kate Silva