Discover Jonesboro, Arkansas – A Guide to the City’s Best Parks, Museums, and Southern Cuisine (2024)

Jonesboro is a vibrant community in northeastern Arkansas. It is the fifth-largest city in the state and is known for its rich cultural heritage and growing economy. Jonesboro is home to Arkansas State University, which majorly contributes to the city’s cultural and economic growth. This part of Arkansas is popular among tourists for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions.

Jonesboro is also home to a thriving arts community, with several local theatre groups, art galleries, and music venues. In addition, it also offers a variety of shopping and dining options and also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a quiet place to relax, Jonesboro has something for everyone. With its friendly locals, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, Jonesboro is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination in Arkansas. Are you considering a vacation in Jonesboro? Here are some exciting places you can visit when in Jonesboro. Have a look:

Discover Jonesboro, Arkansas – A Guide to the City’s Best Parks, Museums, and Southern Cuisine

Best Parks and Outdoor Recreational Areas in Jonesboro, Arkansas

Jonesboro is home to more than 20 outdoor landmarks, including Parklands, Cemeteries, and More. Someone who loves exploring green urban spaces can check out the following in Jonesboro:

1. Craighead Forest Park

Craighead Forest Park is a public park located in Jonesboro. Covering over 400 acres of land, it is a must-visit tourist destination in Jonesboro. This landmark for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation offers a range of things to do. Individuals visiting here can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and camping. There are several trails within the park whether you are a beginner or experienced in hiking. One of the most popular attractions of this Forest Park is the 35-acre lake. The lake is stocked with various species of fish and provides great fishing opportunities.

Craighead Forest Park also features a playground, disc golf course, and pavilion. The park is open year-round, and admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own gear and supplies. The natural setting and diverse recreational opportunities make it a popular place to check out in Jonesboro.

2. Forrest L Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center

Forrest L Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Jonesboro. This nature center preserves and promotes the biologically rich and diverse Crowley’s Ridge ecosystem. A visit here means you will find a range of interactive exhibits and educational displays highlighting the area’s natural history, geology, and wildlife. Since the center’s staff is knowledgeable and passionate about the environment, the experience doubles up when you are here. Ask them the number of questions you can, and they will guide you to the best of your knowledge.

Forrest L Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center also boasts well-maintained nature trails. Hiking on these trails means you are in to explore the area’s lush forests and scenic vistas. These trails are also ideal for birdwatching and other outdoor activities. Besides that, the center also offers educational programs, including birdwatching hikes, wildlife demonstrations, and educational workshops.

3. Centennial Bank Stadium

Centennial Bank Stadium is a state-of-the-art sports venue in Jonesboro, an ideal place to catch some action. The Stadium is the home of the Arkansas State University Red Wolves football team. It hosts a variety of sporting events and concerts throughout the year. Spending a day or a few hours here means a dynamic and exciting game-day atmosphere. There are comfortable seating, excellent sightlines, and a spacious concourse with food and beverage options. Centennial Bank Stadium provides a top-notch entertainment experience with its modern amenities and first-class facilities.

In addition to football games, the Stadium also hosts events like soccer, track and field, and concerts. However, before visiting here, check the event calendar for the latest information on game schedules and other activities. Also, try arriving early and take advantage of tailgating opportunities and other pre-game festivities. It is an ideal outdoor landmark in Jonesboro to gather with family and friends.

Popular Museum to Checkout in Jonesboro, Arkansas

4. ASU Museum

Also known as the Arkansas State University Museum, the ASU Museum is a must-visit place in Jonesboro. The museum is all about the history and culture of the region and thus features a diverse collection of exhibits and artifacts. Exhibits here focus on Arkansas’s natural history, art, and cultural heritage and surrounding area. Visitors will come across Native American artifacts, early pioneer life, and regional folklore. Its extensive collection also includes several natural history specimens like fossils, minerals, and wildlife. In addition, visitors can also go through a vibrant collection of contemporary art and photography.

Besides a guided tour at ASU Museum, visitors can also participate in a variety of educational programs and workshops. These programs are there to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the area’s natural and cultural history. The museum operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. It remains closed on Sundays, University Holidays, and on several State and National Holidays. Entry to the museum is absolutely free.

5. Bradbury Art Museum

Bradbury Art Museum in Jonesboro is an ideal destination for anyone interested in art and culture. This exciting museum features a collection of contemporary art and photography, especially works by Arkansas artists. A visit here allows individuals to check out a range of exhibitions showcasing the talents of local, regional, and national artists. Here you will come across the work of some of the most talented and innovative artists. This vibrant cultural institution has everything from cutting-edge installations to thought-provoking photographs.

Visiting Bradbury Art Museum is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the creative spirit of Jonesboro. Even if you aren’t a hard-core art lover, you will find yourself engaged in the exhibits here. The museum operates Tuesday through Saturday, from 12 pm to 5 pm, and stays closed on Sundays and Mondays. Admissions to the museum are absolutely free.

Other Popular Tourist Attractions in Jonesboro, Arkansas

6. Skirmish

Skirmish at Jonesboro was a key battle during the American Civil War that took place in 1864 in Jonesboro. The battle was fought between Confederate and Union forces. It was one of the major turning points in the war and helped to secure Union control of the state of Arkansas. Today people from Arkansas and across the USA visit the Skirmish at Jonesboro, considering it a State heritage. Skirmish visitors also add the local historical site Jonesboro Confederate Monument to their list.

The area also features several local historical societies and museums nearby. Exploring them all offers more in-depth information about the Skirmish at Jonesboro and the wider context of the American Civil War. These organizations often host events and reenactments of the battle, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of the area. For locating Skirmish at Jonesboro, reach South Main Street close to downtown.

Popular Restaurants to Try Southern Cuisine in Jonesboro, Arkansas

7. Skinny J’s, Jonesboro

Skinny J’s is a family-friendly restaurant in Jonesboro that presents a variety of American specialties. Skinny J’s is a popular southern cuisine restaurant located in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The restaurant is known for its delicious and authentic southern dishes, especially the hand-cut certified Angus beef ribeye steaks, seared scallops, and fresh ahi tuna. The restaurant is also known for its selection of southern-style desserts, including pecan pie, banana pudding, and sweet potato pie.

The warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and a lively, relaxed vibe, makes dining here an exciting experience. Whether you are craving some snacks or a fine dining spread, check out Skinny J’s in Jonesboro.

8. Omar’s Uptown, Jonesboro

Omar’s Uptown is a fine dining restaurant in Jonesboro known for serving mouth-watering New and modern American cuisine. The menu here features a range of creative and carefully crafted dishes. Visitors can try from their selection of steak, seafood, and pasta. Some of the recommendations here include smoked salmon, seared ahi tuna, crab cakes, and Caesar salad. In addition to food for pairing along the restaurant also offers a selection of fine wines and craft cocktails.

Omar’s Uptown elegant décor, along with a warm and sophisticated ambiance, adds to one’s dining experience. The soaring ceilings and walls with colorful art pieces add up to the appeal. In addition, attentive and knowledgeable staff will ensure that you have memorable dining. It is an ideal place for date nights and romantic dinners.

9. 501 Steakhouse, Jonesboro

Dining at 501 Steakhouse in Jonesboro is a culinary experience that one should not miss when in Jonesboro. This casual restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Their extensive menu features an array of mouth-watering cuts of steak, cooked to perfection, as its name suggests. In addition, the menu also features other classic plates, including seafood and poultry options. Along with that, individuals can also choose from a selection of delicious sides.

501 Steakhouse uses only the freshest ingredients, and all dishes are made from scratch. From food to presentation, everything here ensures the highest quality and satisfaction. The restaurant also features a well-stocked bar, offering a range of signature cocktails. Their carefully curated selection of wines perfectly complements your meal. It is an ideal place to visit for celebrations and date nights.