With the kids out of school for summer vacation, now is the perfect time for family-friendly activities. Fortunately, the Natural State is full of opportunities for fun and safe adventures your kids will never forget. Whether you’re looking to experience the great outdoors or beat the Arkansas heat, there’s a destination for your family, close to home!
Jump in a lake.
There are a number of lakes across Arkansas and they each offer countless activities. From swimming, to fishing to watersports, everyone in your family can partake in the pastimes they enjoy. Lakes such as Ouachita and Greers Ferry are visually stunning, and their cool, clean water is an added bonus on hot summer days!
Head to the park.
Arkansas is full of state parks – fifty-two, to be exact. There are plenty of family-friendly options, including climbing at Pinnacle Mountain State Park or diamond mining at Crater of Diamonds State Park. However, if you’re looking to stay closer to home, your local or neighborhood parks can be just as much fun! You can relax and enjoy the sunshine as your kids tackle the playground.
Take a hike.
Hiking is popular in Arkansas, and kid-friendly trails are everywhere. A fairly easy trail with an impressive payoff is Signal Hill Trail atop Mount Magazine. The 1.5-mile round trip hike leads you to the highest point of Arkansas at 2,753 feet above sea level. There’s even a sign to prove it! You can snap a picture of your kids at the top of the state.
Play a round of mini-golf.
Mini golf is a game that’s simple and fun to play, and it appeals to people of all ages, from small children, to teens to grandparents. There are many putt-putt courses in Arkansas, but one of the most unique is Glowgolf in Rogers. The indoor course uses black lights so you and your family can play mini golf in the dark. It’s a hole-in-one for your family time!
Visit a museum.
Learning isn’t limited to the classroom! Your kids can gain an education on all sorts of subjects at museums right here in Arkansas. The Museum of Discovery in Little Rock features more than ninety hands-on exhibits, while the Scott Family Amazeum in Bentonville boasts a lab where kids can perform experiments with candy! Find a museum near your home, and soak up all the knowledge.
Summer goes by fast, so make sure you take advantage of the time you have with your family. At Baptist Health, we recommend that you get everyone together and get moving! Learn more about bonding with your family on our BHealthy blog.