Though its purpose is to honor the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the United States military, Memorial Day weekend offers another, less-intended benefit: it gives us our first taste of summer.

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The days grow longer. The cicadas’ hum becomes your nightly soundtrack. The kids close their textbooks. Adventure is calling! Where will you go?

Luckily, you don’t have to venture far to find an amazing family experience. There’s an entire summer of fun waiting for you right here in the state of Arkansas.

Here at Taylor King Law, we love a good in-state road trip; just ask Bradi Bear! But our first installment of Arkansas Adventures: Places To Go and Things To Do begins in a small town that makes a big impact: Arkadelphia, Arkansas.

You may know Arkadelphia as the home of two universities, Ouachita Baptist and Henderson State. Perhaps it’s even familiar as the birthplace and home base of Taylor King Law! But in and around Arkadelphia, you’ll find fun for the whole family.

What to DO in Arkadelphia

Begin with a stop at the DeSoto Bluff Trail as you drive down North 10th Street. It’s a short, .25 mile paved trail that leads visitors through the woods to the famous bluff overlook at the end. Visitors are rewarded with a beautiful view of the Ouachita River. You’ll find more details about Hernando DeSoto, for whom the trail is named, along the path, along with information on local Native American tribes who once lived in the area, including the Caddo Indians for whom a nearby river is named.

Just a few miles outside of Arkadelphia, you’ll discover why Arkansas is called The Natural State. The DeGray Lake Resort State Park offers a staggering number of outdoor activities. Hike along one of the six open trails, take a scenic tour via horseback, swim and play in the sand at the Caddo Bend beach, rent a kayak, or play a round of golf – either on the resort greens, or the disc golf course. The possibilities truly are endless, and your family will never forget a week or long weekend spent at DeGray Lake.

Where to EAT in Arkadelphia

You’ll be happy to find a variety of eatery options and restaurants in Arkadelphia. For handcrafted coffee and top-rated paninis, visit Java Primo on Main Street. Another local favorite, Slim & Shorty’s, is just a block away, featuring shrimp po’ boys, fish tacos, fried pickles, and frequent live music.

If your family is split between hamburgers and seafood, however, Flying Burger in Caddo Valley could solve all your problems. With burgers, fries, classic fried catfish options and homemade cinnamon rolls, you’ll all leave happy.

Where to STAY in Arkadelphia

The Captain Henderson House Bed and Breakfast is a beloved fixture in Arkadelphia. Named to the National Register of Historic Places, the Captain Henderson House is a beautifully restored Victorian mansion located on the edge of Henderson State University’s campus. Learn a bit of Arkansas’s history while enjoying comfortable accommodations and delicious food at this B&B.

DeGray Lake Resort State Park Lodge is another excellent option in the area. Located just a few miles outside of Arkadelphia, the DeGray Lodge offers scenic views of the lake and sits just minutes away from all that DeGray State Park has to offer.

If you’re really looking for adventure, why not consider camping? There are 113 campsites with water and electric hookups within DeGray Lake Resort State Park, as well as several YURTs (Year-round Universal Recreational Tent). Campsites and YURTs can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center.

Bradi Bear Chimes In

We couldn’t wrap things up without asking our favorite doggy blogger to chime in. Bradi Bear shares her favorite “To-Dos” in the Delph! Bradi says: “I’m not HUGE on getting my nails trimmed or coat washed but while I’m in Arkadelphia, I try to make an appointment with Pam at Bow Wow. Then I like to make my way over to Sonic for a pick-me-up on one of the outdoor benches.” Sounds like a tail-wagging good time!

Taylor King Law: On Your Side, By Your Side in Arkadelphia

While we hope that all of your summer travels bring you home safely, we also know that accidents happen. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car wreck in Arkansas, you’re not alone. Taylor King Law is here to help.

If you were the victim of a personal injury, you may have legal rights to compensation. Our experienced team will help you get the settlement you deserve and get back to the life you love. Stop by our Arkadelphia office at 320 Main Street today to begin your FREE, no-obligation consultation. You can also call us at 870.246.0505 or submit a case form on our website.

Click HERE to read our next Arkansas Adventure in Springdale.

Photo Cred: DeGray Lake Resort State Park