What do Walmart® & Diamonds have in common? Arkansas!
Walmart® and diamonds? The two didn’t really compute for us either—until we researched this week’s destination, Arkansas. Always wanting to offer some fun facts to inspire your next girlfriendships® getaway, here’s the connection: Sam Walton (Walmart’s® founder) opened the first ever store in Rogers, and the corporate headquarters are still in the state, Bentonville to be more specific. And for the diamonds, Arkansas is the only state in the U.S. that produces them!
Of course, I can’t resist linking Walmart® and diamonds in another way. Remember this blog from March 2021 and the “special” place Walmart® has for me? (Definitely worth the read!) And of course, there’s a song about diamonds and how they are My Girlfriendships® best friend.
Okay, I took a few liberties with the song on that one.
All Aboard! We Girlfriends are Going to Arkansas!
Now for the reason you’re here: Arkansas for a fun girls’ getaway destination! Let’s Go to either Siloam Springs or Little Rock.
Siloam Springs
Why Siloam Springs? Well, how about the healing powers of its spring waters? Oh, and these fun things too.
What to Do
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Natural Falls State Park, Siloam Springs | Sometimes referred to as “Dripping Springs”, Arkansas’ Natural Falls State Park is positioned on the western edge of Arkansas. It’s the perfect spot for nature-lovers! The falls are the park’s main attraction, and the trails that take you past them are suitable for all hiking abilities too. This is a fantastic spot for you and your girlfriends.
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Kayak Park, Siloam Springs | If you like to get muddy and soaked, Kayak Park is the place for you. No matter what level of kayaker you are, you’ll find suitable waters—but beware! There are a few areas that may be intimidating to newer kayakers. Nevertheless, you should add it to your agenda.
Where to Stay
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Hampton Inn, Siloam Springs | Right off of Highway 412 in Northwest Arkansas is this cozy Hampton Inn. It’s three miles from John Brown University and only six minutes from all of the downtown attractions. You can enjoy a hot, complimentary breakfast onsite, or visit one of the various restaurants close by. This is a comfortable stay and a bang for your buck! Your thrifty girlfriends will love it.
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Apple Crest Inn Bed and Breakfast, Gentry | This bed and breakfast is distinctive. Located near the beautiful Ozark mountains, it’s nestled amongst the trees between the towns of Gentry and Siloam Springs. The Victorian manor-style home is peaceful and relaxing. There are five spacious rooms, some with Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces. In the morning, you will be served a down-home, buffet-style breakfast that will start your day off perfectly!
Little Rock
My Girlfriendships usually likes to include the capital cities of our destinations, and Arkansas is no exception. Just a nine minute drive from Clinton International Airport, Little Rock offers days of activities. Here are two.
What to Do
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River Market District, Little Rock | The River Market District has slowly developed over the last fifty years. Located in the heart of downtown, the market offers a hall of various cuisines, art galleries, and souvenir shops by day, and live entertainment and local music by night. If a lively evening is your vibe, then this is your place.
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Rock Town Distillery, Little Rock | Rock Town Distillery was the first legally recognized distillery in Arkansas after Prohibition. We love Rock Town because they only use grains from Arkansas to distill their local and international award-winning spirits. A true grain-to-glass distillery! You and your besties will love Rock Town.
Where to Stay
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Embassy Suites, Little Rock | This hotel is just 10 minutes from downtown Little Rock, offering easy access to all the attractions. Of course there’s an indoor pool, sports bar, free made-to-order breakfast, and a complimentary evening reception. The hotel is comfortable and easy on your wallet. You’ll enjoy resting comfortably, while also being close to all of the fun that Little Rock has to offer.
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Historic, Award-Winning Powell House, Little Rock | Welcome to this three-bedroom, prairie-style, architectural gem! The entire property was completely renovated to combine its 1913 historic charm with first-rate updates like a wine bar and coffee bar. You can book this with no worries because the owners are Airbnb Superhosts. This is a very unique stay that you will all remember forever.
Even though you may have never thought to visit Arkansas on a girls weekend trip, please give it a shot. It looks to be a super fun and affordable place to eat great food and have an adventurous time with your gals!
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