Batesville's claim to fame is that it's the second oldest town in Arkansas. It also has one of the most well-established Main Street programs in the state (since 1985), and you'll find the downtown and surrounding residential neighborhood to have a great character, with spectacularly restored homes and buildings. There's plenty to see in an afternoon there.
Whether you're headed to Branson, Missouri, the White River or other nearby attractions, be sure to stop by our downtown favorites. If you're itching to take a day trip from Central Arkansas, the drive to Batesville is a scenic hilly country drive with plenty of flea markets and antique stores along the way. Oh, and be sure to exit at Bald Knob for a home made strawberry or peach milkshake at the Bull Dog, depending on what's in season.
5 Things: Batesville
1. View the exhibits at the Old Independence Regional Museum (380 South 9th Street) and step inside replicas of rustic log cabins and a mid 20th century Phillips 66 gas station.
2. Visit Paper Chase Book Store (136 West Main), one of the remaining family owned book stores in Arkansas. Buy some books (new and used), read them, the sell them back to the store.
3. Have lunch at the pocket park downtown and soak up the sunshine.
4. Enjoy delicious homemade ice cream and lemonade at Elizabeth's (321 East Main).
5. Shop fabric and antiques along Main Street. Quilters and Crafters: don't miss out on the bargains at Marshall Dry Goods, located on the western-most end of Main Street, which has one of the largest selections of fabric in the state.
Posts
