travelottie

Thank you spirobulldog and all others for the excellent planning advice.

Flew into Little Rock, picked up rental car (easy walk to car center), stayed one night at beginning and end of trip at Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown.

1) Hotel is a few blocks from River Market District. Walked part of lovely river trail, went over pedestrian bridge, and enjoyed being close to this lively area. On Friday evening, many people out at numerous bars and restaurants which made it very pleasant. Loved Flying Fish restaurant: http://www.flyingfishinthe.net/LittleRock.

Toured Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. Impressive building and approach. Admission is good for re-entry which worked out well for us. I especially enjoyed the orientation film and presidential gift displays.

Saw Central High School, State Capitol & Old State House in early AM before anything was open as had to catch flight home that day.

2) Left for Petit Jean State Park. View from Petit Jean's grave is spectacular. The turn-off is well before the information building. I might have missed it if I hadn't been advised to watch for it. In parks I usually go to ranger station first for information, would have been a mistake here, as we did not leave on the same road.

Hiked easy Bear Cave Trail around huge boulders. I had an injury prior to this trip that forced me to hike on easy trails.

Traveled scenic Rt. 7: arkansas.com/places-to-go/… to Azalea Falls Lodge & Cabin: http://www.azaleafalls.com/ for 2 nights. Lovely, fully equipped and decorated cabin in isolated setting near Buffalo River area. Hiked on the property into the hollow and next day did Ponca to Steel Creek Trial with views into the Buffalo River.

3) Fayetteville, overnight, The Chancelor Hotel. Great city to walk around, central square, many restaurants.

4) Bentonville, overnight 21C Hotel. Walking distance to amazing Crystal Bridges Museum - the art work and setting make a memorable and unique experience.

Drinks at hotel bar, The Hive and dinner at Crystal Bridges restaurant (again setting is inspirational).

Museum of Native American History. Extensive displays, artifacts and comprehensive audio guide.

5) Natural Falls State Park, OK. Made it to our 50th state! Easy access from highway to a 77 foot spring fed waterfall that runs year round.

Ask any questions.

happytourist

I'm so glad you posted your trip report. Too bad you missed Eureka Springs but you did plenty of other things in Arkansas and you got into Oklahoma as well. Giving up Tulsa or Ok City was wise.

Come back again!