It’s January and it’s cold! If you have the winter blues and need a little weekend get-away, I have a few suggestions. These are ideas for short jaunts from Northwest Arkansas. A few are well-known and very popular spots, while some are well-kept secrets and perfectly peaceful places. A couple you may want to enjoy now, and a hand-full you may want to book for spring or summer. Read through the list and dream a little dream… then make a little plan and have some fun in Arkansas!
1. My first thought for a “get-away” includes the words spa and indulgence. Less than a two-hour drive will take you to Chateau on the Lake Spa Resort in Branson, Missouri and it hits all the check marks. You will love the European flare of the Chateau and the beautiful views overlooking Table Rock Lake. You can spend the whole time indulging in all the Spa’s amenities or share some equal time taking a boat out from the Chateau’s private marina to enjoy a special picnic put together by the very professional and warm staff. Beautiful water and a uniquely Ozarks sunset make it picnic perfect.
Image courtesy of Chateauonthelake.com
2. Big Cedar Lodge and Cabins on Table Rock Lake just outside Branson, Missouri are rustic elegance in the wilderness that surrounds the lake. This is the place where you take those novels you have been waiting to read and curl up by the huge rock fireplace with a great bottle of wine.
Image courtesy of big-cedar.com
3. While thoughts are in Branson there is a wonderful hotel on Lake Taneycomo. Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing. It’s located within an entertainment district that includes over 100 specialty shops. You can take a romantic walk through the landing and watch the dancing waters at the fountain or take a sweet ride on the trolley that serves the entire landing. Be sure to make reservations for some fine dining and a romantic setting at both Level Two Steakhouse or Cantina Laredo.
Image courtesy of promenade.hiltonsofbranson.com
4. Just an hour away is the historical 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa in Eureka Springs, AR. Eureka Springs is that eclectic and historical little village full of Victorian era charm. The hotel was built on top of West mountain overlooking the valley. It opened on May 20, 1886 and has never ceased to provide the excellent service and grand “Castle in the Air” experience. The New Moon Spa is almost indescribable in its luxurious offerings. They provide many ways to start your day with stretching, yoga, or walking activities. You can have a relaxing pedicure as you look out at the beautiful view of the Ozark mountains. There is a year-round hot tub and a seasonal pool. Walking trails are a great experience year-round. This is a very romantic place to de-stress.
Image courtesy of crescent-hotel.com
5. If you really want a new adventure then Eureka Springs also offers some really great lodging in these three treehouse resorts. The Grand Treehouse Resort, Treehouse Cottages and Eureka Springs Tree Houses. Visit the websites for each one and pick the one that suits you! What could be more relaxing than hanging out in the treetops?
Image courtesy of thetreehouses.com (The Grand Treehouse Resort)
Image courtesy of treehousecottages.com
6. The shortest distance to an amazing get-away here in Northwest Arkansas is the 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville. This is a contemporary hotel you will want to experience. Spend some time at the world-renowned Crystal Bridges Museum and dine at The Hive.
Image courtesy of 21cmuseumhotels.com
7. Just south about an hour’s drive is one of Arkansas’ finest lodges sitting above the Petit Jean River Valley, Mt. Magazine Lodge and Cabins. This lodge resides in the Mt. Magazine State Park. Fantastic and breath-taking views! It also has 13 awesome cabins along the bluffs. Definitely a top pick for a relaxing weekend!
Image courtesy of mountmagazinestatepark.com
8. Buffalo River Outfitter’s Cabins are along the Upper Buffalo River. Along with these beautiful and rustic log cabins they offer much more in a complete Ozark get-away with guides; canoes, rafts and kayaks; horseback riding, hiking and more. If you can’t make it for a winter retreat by the cozy fireplace then definitely book it for the first family get-away of summer!
Image courtesy of buffaloriveroutfitters.com
9. Queen Wilhelmena Lodge will not re-open until late Spring this year but I have to include it for its historical significance. You will want to keep this “Castle in the Clouds,” as it is called, on your short list for a very special weekend booking. It is on top of Rich Mountain in the Ouachita Forest. You will travel down Scenic Highway 71 South to Mena, AR to find this treasure.
Image courtesy of queenwilhelmena.com
10.The farthest point is about a 2 1/2 hour drive to The Capital Hotel in historic downtown Little Rock, Arkansas and bear the famous Rivermarket District. It offers southern tradition and luxury amenities. A true 4-star hotel near a lot of fun and great points of interest near the Arkansas riverfront. This is a worthy reward for a hard-working couple looking for a weekend escape.
Image courtesy of capitalhotel.com
I hope this list tempts you to book a getaway right now. If you live in Northwest Arkansas, I hope I helped you find some great weekend get-aways near Fayetteville. If you’re visiting NWA, I hope I given you some ideas for a little jaunt. If you’re relocating to NWArk, I hope I gave you a glimpse of the place I call home. It’s a great place to live! If you visit any of these places, post a picture on Facebook or Instagram and tag me in the post. I’d love to see you Around Town.
If you’re interested in buying or selling real estate in Northwest Arkansas,
contact me, Jill Bell, for more information.
