A CELESTIAL SPECTACLE

The 2024 Eclipse in Arkansas.

By Lindsey Jordan with Arkie Travels    Photography by Arkie Travels

Arkansas River Valley Tri-Peaks Region

In the central region of Arkansas, the Tri-Peaks beckon visitors with their breathtaking vistas and rich natural wonders. Mount Magazine and Petit Jean State Park offer unparalleled vantage points for witnessing the solar eclipse.

Events

Russellville: For unrivaled eclipse action in Arkansas, you need to head to Russellville where you’ll find NASA, the Weather Channel, live music, great food and so much more. Starting Friday, April 5, through Monday, April 8, the city will come alive with events such as Moon Over Main, Blues, Balloons and BBQ, and you can even get married during the Elope at the Eclipse, where the multicouple ceremony concludes just minutes before totality takes place with over 4 minutes of complete darkness.

Paris: The Gateway to Mount Magazine: Plan a trip to Paris for an unforgettable experience. In addition to the breathtaking eclipse, there will be movie nights under the stars, “Sunsational Shopping” in the charming downtown area and a plethora of campsites for a nature-filled escape. They’re providing live entertainment to make your eclipse experience spectacular.

Petit Jean State Park and Morrilton: If it’s fun you’re after in the path of totality, you’re in for a great time at Morrilton and Petit Jean State Park. Visitors can look forward to concerts, a food truck festival, a thrilling hot air balloon event atop Petit Jean Mountain, a pop-up market, kids’ games and activities, and much more.

Favorites
Pasta Perfection at Pasta Grill in Russellville: This family-owned restaurant in Russellville is a favorite of ours and serves incredibly delicious, authentic Italian cuisine packed with flavor. From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, every bite at Pasta Grill is sensational.

Artisan Crafts at Mount Magazine: Discover handcrafted souvenirs and unique artworks at the Mount Magazine State Park Visitor Center, where they showcase the talent of local artists and offer a vast selection of crafts and mementos to mark this special occasion.

Dining Delights at Petit Jean: Pick up a coffee and sack lunch at Petit Jean Coffee House and dine on down-home-goodness at Mather Lodge Restaurant in Petit Jean State Park with breathtaking views of the mountains.   

Mammoth Spring, Hardy and Cherokee Village

If quaint towns and natural beauty are your ideal, plan to visit Mammoth Spring, Hardy and Cherokee Village for charming downtowns and outdoor activities as part of the Ozark Total Eclipse event.

Events

Mammoth Spring Eclipse Celebration: Mammoth Spring Chamber and Thayer Chamber are collaborating to host an exciting event on April 6 at Thayer High School, starting at noon and continuing into the evening. They’ll have many different vendors, kids’ activities, fireworks and live music performances. Be sure to check out the incredible Mammoth Spring itself; it has over 9 million gallons of water flowing hourly, making it one of the largest springs in the world.

Hardy is Eclipse Viewing Dreams: Get ready for an extraordinary viewing experience in the city of Hardy. Stop in at Hardy Sweet Shop to stock up on tasty treats for the event, or book a room at Riverview Falls Inn for a truly memorable stay.

Cherokee Village Solar Eclipse Festival: Cherokee Village has planned a three-day extravaganza April 6-8, 2024, that’s packed with activities for all ages, with a 60-foot tall Ferris wheel, live music by Ingram Hill and local artists, and the added fun of an outdoor beer garden and pop-up shops. Plus, the kids can have a blast in the fun zone with bounce houses and yard games.

Hot Springs

Renowned for its thermal springs and historic allure, Hot Springs presents a marvelous backdrop for the 2024 eclipse where visitors can take in the natural wonder of Hot Springs National Park. The spirited downtown district has everything you’re looking for, with a wide range of boutique shops, art galleries and phenomenal eateries.

Events

Eclipse at Hot Springs National Park: Hot Springs National Park is one of two national parks in the path of totality, making it one of the most ideal places in the world to witness the eclipse. Reserve a campsite or select from numerous hotels and rentals to plan your getaway to witness the totality in the Spa City.

Atlas Obscura’s Ecliptic Festival: Combining the magic of the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse with the 20th Annual Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival creates one extraordinary event! Located at Cedar Glades Park, just three miles from downtown Hot Springs, ECLIPTIC offers the perfect opportunity to witness the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in a natural setting. The event will feature art installations, speakers, DJs, films, camping, vendors and more.

Bridge St. LIVE! Eclipse Edition: Get ready to kick off the weekend as Hot Springs lights it up with a sizzling free public concert featuring the electrifying blues artist Nikki Hill and the soulful sounds of the Gravel Yard Blues Band.

As the eclipse draws near, Arkansas shines as a destination for all seeking to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event. Whether you marvel at the cosmic sight or spend your time enjoying Arkansas’s bountiful natural and cultural treasures, the 2024 Solar Eclipse promises to be an unforgettable adventure in The Natural State.

Favorites
Artisanal Discoveries in Downtown Hot Springs: Find unique wares at Wrapped Gift Boutique, treat yourself to luxurious soaps at Bathhouse Soapery & Caldarium and find your next read at Black Ribbon Books, located under the historic Arlington Hotel.

Culinary Delights and Libations in Hot Springs: Some of the most decadent cuisine can be found in Hot Springs and you can indulge in culinary delights at famed eateries like The Ohio Club, Superior Bathhouse Brewery and DeLuca’s Pizza, all known for their delectable fare and historic appeal. And don’t miss a trip by Crystal Ridge Distillery for a tour and tasting, or see Arkansas’s first Sake brewery at Origami Sake.

Outdoor Oasis at Hot Springs National Park: Nature lovers can escape on a scenic hike along the beautiful trails of Hot Springs National Park. As you make your way through these trails, you’ll forget you’re in a bustling city as you’re enveloped by the natural beauty and therapeutic draw of the thermal springs.