Known for its gorgeous mountains, landscapes, thermal waters, Arkansas invites you to its hospitable, nature-filled home for a getaway.
But where should you stay in the Natural State? You definitely don’t have to limit yourself to a commercial hotel in Little Rock. There are too many fantastic places to stay in Arkansas to do that!
Keep reading as we break down the most unique stays to book in Arkansas, including lakeside villas, swimming pool amenities, Victorian and modern architecture, and much more!
1. Cedar Lodge Arkansas Resort
- Bella Vista, Arkansas
- Best for big families and water activities
The Cedar Lodge Arkansas Resort has a couple of gorgeous chalet/villas that sit on the shores of Lock Lamond, a white river lake. With water depths that reach 80 feet, the lake’s 477 acres offer abundant opportunities to enjoy entire days of water activities, from tubing and boating to kayaking and fishing.
The Cedar Lodge has a more chalet feel, with all-wooden interiors that still look much more polished than your average cottage. We also adore the details, from the wooden ceiling above the dining room, to the slab of stone that adds character to the kitchen countertop. You can also spend evenings relaxing by the fire pit on a lawn chair, with uninterrupted views of the stars.
The Emerald Shores Villa is a tad more modern, with cooler tones of color throughout; however, you’ll still find accents of wood in certain areas, like the master bedroom furniture and family-style dining table. Both vacation homes have lakefront access and are just a stone’s throw away from endless biking and hiking trails, forests, and a short drive from Bentonville, too!
2. Lakefront Modern Container Home: The Outlook
- Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Best for architectural enthusiasts & proximity to Bathhouse Row
This lakefront container home on Lake Hamilton has an impeccably unique architectural style, with diverse levels and areas to enjoy different experiences. You’ll also love the dock access and gorgeous lakefront views, as well as the short distance to Hot Springs National Park.
The Airbnb property is elevated by a wooden platform, where you’ll find the first-floor deck, complete with lawn chairs and a comfortable patio sofa to enjoy the lakeview scenery. Inside, you’ll find 3-4 potential bedrooms, along with a huge deck that spans the whole second floor. Wooden steps lead you up, with golden-industrial pipe decorations on the wall for added mystique.
Modern bathroom, floor-to-ceiling windows, hammocks, velvet touches to furniture, a swinging bed — these guys didn’t sacrifice a single detail to inspire awe, style, and comfort within their rental.
3. Dragonfly Treehouse
- Conway, Arkansas
- Best for stunning scenery and nature immersion
The Sunset Farm Dragonfly Treehouse is the perfect spot for anyone that feels a hint of dreaminess and wonder when surrounded by nature. Release your inner fairy as you frolic up the steps, down the small, low bridge, and into the treehouse.
You’ll be surrounded by rustic nature on the outside, but the inside spares no expense on modern comfort. Modern furniture and interior design offer a breath of comfort as you ease into the space. Details like sliding farm doors, plush bedding, a guitar, and sunshine-flowing windows make the space magical. We also love the fairy lights on the patio, which add a touch more illumination to starry nights.
Don’t forget to check out the private hot tub! The property is also introducing new amenities to come, like a private walking trail within its 18 acres.
4. The Cottrell Cottage
- Shirley, Arkansas
- Best for history buffs
Ever heard of a dog trot? This is the name given to homes built in the early 1900s in Southeastern USA, with open sitting rooms at the front of the home, and small center openings for the dog to run in and out as a kennel.
The Cottrell Cottage is a restored dog trot, with mountain views of the gorgeous Ozark Mountains and a striking, green-pink exterior. Sit on the porch with a cup of coffee, or explore each room’s unique themes. You’ll find an old-style, dial-up telephone, old car figurines, records, framed newspaper clippings, and other odes to the past in each piece of decor. The owners had fun adding a polka-dot theme to one bedroom as well.
Despite the house’s age, it still comes equipped with comfortable features to make your stay pleasant, like a 50-inch HDTV, recently updated HVAC system, and Wi-Fi. Go for a walk outside, and you might meet the neighbor’s friendly dogs, too!
5. New-Orleans-Style Apartment
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Best for city slickers
In Little Rock, Arkansas, you can channel your inner Louisiana with this charming apartment, complete with a community-building, gated courtyard to meet neighbors and travelers alike. While small, this apartment is the perfect fit for a couple on a romantic getaway, or small family who wants to enjoy a city-centered vacation.
Interiors are modern and comfortable, including leather headboards on the beds, wooden floors, and tasteful shelves and wall hangings. You’re also within walking distance of a ton of attractions, including the Arkansas Repertory Theater, MacArthur Park, and the River Market District.
6. Beckham Creek Cave Lodge
- Parthenon, Arkansas
- Best for caves and nature-inspired architecture
Beckham Creek Cave Lodge is a beautiful testament to what’s possible when you respect nature’s body in your architectural vision. This boutique hotel in the Ozark Mountains sleeps 8, and incorporates stunning, old rock formations within its decor. The kitchen walls are rocks of the cave, with stalagmite-esque features along the walls throughout.
Outdoor activities are also endless — take the family on a little hike to see the Eye of the Needle overlook, or explore several cave openings on the grounds. You could also take a guided tour to the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Inside the property, you’ll find 4 bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen to cook your heart out, and abundant places to relax and connect, like balconies, lofts, a fire pit, and the striking Spanish Piano waterfall formation right in the living room!
7. Wooded A-Frame Home in Fayetteville
- Fayetteville, Arkansas
- Best for proximity to the #1 vineyard in Northwest Arkansas
This A-Frame hidden gem in East Fayetteville is a treat for the eyes, with white exteriors, and an inviting design that welcomes you just a short drive away from the famous Sassafras Springs Vineyard.
You’ll have to visit its old-barn-foundation and enjoy a glass of wine in the stunning Fire and Wine Room.
While this home is nestled in the woods, you’re only 30 minutes away from Dickson Road in Fayetteville, the University of Arkansas, and plenty of other attractions. Amenities include a fully screened-in back porch, on-site hot tub, and lake access, where you can enjoy water activities like canoeing or fishing. It almost looks like a little inn, but the difference is that you have the place all to yourself!
The property is also baby-friendly, complete with cribs, high chairs, and other amenities for your children that you can ask the host about.
Where will you stay in Arkansas?
Bottom line? The possibilities are endless with an Arkansas vacation. You can immerse yourself in natural beauty, caves, and springs, or enjoy modern living in thoughtfully curated city apartments, too.
Whether you crave immersion in the Blue Ridge Mountains or treehouses in Texas, we’re your go-to guide for the most unique places to stay across the US!
