When COVID-19 hit and the borders closed, Americans had no choice but to stay put. Then, something extraordinary happened: travel restrictions allowed us to explore our backyards.
We were reintroduced to our country’s natural and cultural wonders. People were excited to explore, get in their cars, and see where the road took them. Now, when we talk about going south, it’s no longer Mexico or the Caribbean.
The southern U.S. states have much to offer, from the natural beauty of Arkansas to Missouri’s rugged Ozark Mountains. It’s a road trip country; ripe for discovering underrated gems.
Below, we’ll dig into three epic road trip destinations in the southern US.
Table of Contents
#1. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas’ most populous city, played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Ideally located along the Arkansas River, the city’s tourism sector thrives on outdoor activities. A guided paddle or kayak tour provides a unique waterside view of the city while sharing its rich history.
Be sure to plan a stopover at the Old Mill, which was featured in the 1939 classic “Gone with the Wind.” Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the mill features sculptures by renowned artist Señor Dionicio Rodriguez.
What makes Little Rock the ultimate road trip destination? A mixture of history, culture and natural attractions, the city’s charming hospitality will enthrall you.
Photo by Scott May on Unsplash
Navigating Little Rock on Foot
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation, some parts of the city are hotbeds for car accidents, one being the I-30 Arkansas River Bridge.
The Little Rock metro area ranks as the 10th most dangerous in the U.S. for pedestrians. Avoid certain areas when walking.
Lacking pedestrian-friendly structures, about 3.63 annual deaths per 100,000 people were reported in the metro within five years.
If you happen to find yourself the victim of a car accident and sustain serious injuries, contact a Little Rock personal injury lawyer immediately.
An experienced personal injury attorney will advise you on your personal injury claim and if you qualify for compensation. If the lawyer can prove the defendant was negligent without reasonable doubt, your personal injury lawsuit ruling could work in your favor.
Keith Law Group says car accident victims deserve legal support from professionals who genuinely care about their recovery.
#2. The Ozarks, Arkansas
If you’re a fan of the Netflix crime series “Ozark”, you can’t miss out on the Ozarks. The tourist attraction is better known for its lakes, forests, mountains and caves.
The Ozarks are home to some of the prettiest towns in the U.S. Long before the region found renowned vigor on streaming, visitors were attracted to its unique offbeat culture.
Van Buren is a huge drawcard and the county seat of Crawford County. Embodying a laid-back vibe, the town sits on the Arkansas River with plenty of outdoor activities.
Make a day trip of it by visiting the 104-acre Lee Creek Park or nearby Ozark National Forest.
Don’t Forget Your Raincoat
The weather in the Ozarks can be unpredictable. Heavy rains hit the area last year, making mountain roads no-go zones.
Flooding hit an all-time high along the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Campgrounds and river access points sustained damage, forcing the Ozark National Forest Park to close.
Choosing when to visit depends entirely on the weather. The best time to go is during spring or fall.
Photo by Oyin Enoch on Unsplash
#3. Branson, Missouri
You can’t plan a family road trip without adding Branson to the schedule. The town is a theater lover’s dream.
You’ll have plenty of options with Branson staying true to its self-proclaimed moniker as the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World”.
A visit to Silver Dollar City is a no-brainer. The theme park, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, is home to record-breaking roller coasters, the Silver Dollar City Resort, and the Showboat Branson Belle.
Photo by Simon Ray on Unsplash
Stay Clear of the Animals
Missouri is a place of natural wonders where you’ll find fascinating wildlife.
However, the state has 47 different snake species, according to Only In Your State. Five of these are venomous, including the Osage copperhead.
You’ll probably see a black bear in isolated wooded areas. The population is growing, concerning residents who see them in the suburbs.
If you come across a black bear outdoors, never turn your back on the bear, stay calm, raise your hands and back away slowly.
Well, there you have three road trip destinations worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.
Pull up in Little Rock purely for the culture and charming city life. Visit the Ozarks for the small-town vibes, and treat the family to a thrilling mini vacation in Branson.
*This post has been contributed to Owl Over The World.
