This Quiet Arkansas City Delivers Outdoor Adventures, Artistic Charm, And A Strong Sense Of Community

In the heart of woodsy southwestern Arkansas lies an unassuming small city full of artsy charm. It's unlikely that you've ever heard of Magnolia, much less ever considered visiting this relatively obscure region near the northern Louisiana border. But consider this your sign to include this town as a stop on your next road trip (like this scenic Southern one that connects Dollywood, Graceland, and New Orleans). Magnolia lies at the heart of the West Gulf Coastal Plain, a landscape rich with bayous, bucolic hills, and pine forests.

While this little town is slower-paced than more established tourist attractions in the Southeast, such as the towering oaks of Charleston's romantic Hampton Park, you won't be left wanting for things to do. Home to a community as warm as its subtropical climate, you'll be welcomed with smiling faces and an authentic peek into small-town Arkansas life. A visit to Magnolia will give you a renewed sense of appreciation for the friendly, humble and charming small-town America that flies peacefully under the radar. Whether you're a history buff, culture-seeker, or outdoors-lover, there's something for you in Magnolia.

Start your day in the vibrant downtown square, where clusters of striking magnolia trees will show you where the town gets its name. Take off from here on a self-guided walking tour of the Magnolia Murals, a public collection of artworks painted on the sides of buildings that depict the town's rich culture and history, from music to agriculture. You'll be rewarded with the best lighting and coolest temperatures if you take a morning or late-afternoon tour.

Staying true to its nickname of "The Natural State", Arkansas is made up of wooded regions full of hiking trails and natural beauty. Therefore, you may want to spend another day taking advantage of the abundant natural spaces near Magnolia. Lake Columbia, a 3,000-acre reservoir surrounded by forest, is popular for all sorts of outdoor activities. Furthermore, fishing piers offer opportunities for anglers. Fish for largemouth bass and catfish from the piers or you can use the docks and ramps for launching a boat. If you'd rather cool off, you can enjoy the swimming area or disconnect from it all at the campgrounds in nearby Logoly State Park.

Magnolia is situated in southwest Arkansas, near the border of Louisiana. The closest airport is the Texarkana Regional Airport, about one hour away by car. However, you're likely to find more frequent flight options into Little Rock's Clinton National Airport, which is a two-and-a-half-hour drive away through rural Arkansas down U.S. Highway 30. Renting a car is the best option for transportation.

As Magnolia is situated in the Deep South, be prepared for hot and muggy summers. Spring and fall are optimal for the most pleasant weather. May is the best month for a visit, as that's when the town comes to life and bursts into bloom — this is the month that the Magnolia Blossom Festival takes place. The whole community comes out to celebrate springtime with live music, food vendors, and the biggest event of the weekend — the World Championship Steak Cook-off, where Magnolia's chefs compete to sear the best sirloin.