Crain Ford of Little Rock

Mar 10, 2023
2 Canada goose flying above the water | Weekend trips around Little Rock, AR

Conveniently located right in the center of the state, the city of Little Rock, AR is a perfect base to explore the many wonders of the region and take your loved ones on memorable weekend getaways in your 2023 Ford Explorer Limited. If you are searching for the best destinations to discover, we are sure you will love these three nearby spots.


1. Hot Springs

Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains and known for its naturally heated springs, the city of Hot Springs is a wonderful place to visit if you want to spend a couple of days relaxing and taking a break from the routine. Located about 55 miles southwest of the Little Rock city center, Hot Springs is one of the most popular weekend escapes among locals.

Right north of the downtown area, the Hot Springs National Park is the city’s main attraction, drawing more than one and a half million visitors every year. Established in the 1830s and designated a national park in 1920, this place features the largest collection of public bathhouses in North America, along with an extensive network of nature trails and camping areas.


2. White River National Wildlife Refuge

Providing habitat to large populations of mallard ducks, Canada geese, bald eagles, and black bears, White River National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife watchers and another fantastic spot where you can spend a weekend enjoying nature with your family. Covering an area of more than 160,000 acres, this place was established in the 1930s and has been a popular local landmark since then.

Driving from the Little Rock city center to the main entrance of White River National Wildlife Refuge takes about one hour and 40 minutes via route US-165. This nature reserve features more than 350 manmade and natural lakes, along with large swathes of grassland and forestland. Some of the activities you can take part in while exploring this place include wildlife photography, camping, fishing, selective hunting, boating, and hiking.


3. Memphis

Famous for its music scene and often referred to as the birthplace of rock and roll, the city of Memphis is one of the largest urban areas in the Southeast and a place full of local landmarks. Located about 135 miles east of Little Rock, Memphis can be reached in about two hours by car via route I-40. Popular attractions in the city include the National Civil Rights Museum, the Memphis Rock n’ Roll Museum, and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Are you thinking of buying a new or used vehicle to get behind the wheel and explore these destinations? Call us today at Crain Ford of Little Rock, and we’ll tell you all about our latest deals.

Image via Pixabay.