Don’t make the mistake of overlooking the Natural State’s beautiful attractions. Follow this itinerary from Little Rock to the Crater of Diamonds State Park, stopping for a soothing dip in mineral springs along the way.

1) Little Rock

Starting Point • Entertainment, Food, Shopping

Start your visit in Little Rock, the state capital and the largest city in Arkansas. Stroll the bustling River Market District, with a stores, events and entertainment. Some of the best spots to eat are found in the indoor Ottenheimer Market Hall, which features groceries, deli items, and cooked dishes from around the world. There’s also a weekly farmers market in the district held on Saturdays from May through September.

2) Hot Springs

Drive 54 miles, 1 hour, 1 minute • Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Sports

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs is a popular spot for folks seeking wellness retreats, owing largely to the area’s mineral-rich thermal hot springs and multiple spas and bath complexes. There’s also plenty here for active getaways, from boating and fishing on Lake Catherine to waterskiing and inner tubing on Lake Hamilton. Mountain biking enthusiasts flock here for the many bike trails, which range from a mile to over 100 miles in length.

3) Murfreesboro

Drive 56 miles, 1 hour, 9 minutes • Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Quirky

The little city of Murfreesboro is best known as a base for exploring the Crater of Diamonds State Park, where visitors can hunt through a 37.5-acre plowed field in search of real diamonds (and if you find one, you can take it home). Other stones found in the area include amethyst, garnet, jasper, quartz and agate. Take a break for treasure hunting for nearby trails and a water park.