Arkansas Road Trip: A Journey Through History and Taste
Road trips are all about the journey, and for me, they're even better when they're filled with unique experiences and a dash of history. My Arkansas road trips are a perfect blend of these two elements, and I'm here to share my latest adventure with you. So, buckle up and let's hit the road!
A Breakfast to Remember
My Arkansas road trips generally begin early and end late. For me, it's not a true road trip unless you have three meals in independently owned restaurants. No chains allowed. And so, our journey began at 7 a.m. with a hearty breakfast at Southfork Truck Stop in Gurdon. This place has been around for more than 40 years, and it's hard to find a more complete breakfast menu. I can even have grilled bologna along with the usual selection of bacon, sausage, or ham. From steak and eggs to the South Carolina specialty of shrimp and grits, this place has it all. And the catfish and grits? Well, that's a uniquely Arkansan breakfast, and I was thrilled to try it.
The Southwest Trail
After breakfast, we made our way to U.S. 67, which stretches from the Texas border at Texarkana to the Missouri border at Corning. It passes through 13 counties, following the route of what once was known as the Southwest Trail. This highway is a piece of history, having been constructed during Arkansas' territorial period. It was the first land route created in Arkansas, and it's fascinating to think about the people who traveled this route before us.
A Historical Stop
Since we're playing the role of tourists in our own state, I took my friend Leo to the Clinton Birthplace Home National Historic Site in Hope. I've been there numerous times, but Leo had never seen the home. It's one of seven National Park Service sites in Arkansas, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in history. President Bill Clinton was born in this house in 1946, and it's incredible to think about the impact he's had on the world.
A Taste of Arkansas History
For lunch, we headed to Williams Tavern in Washington, part of Historic Washington State Park. Built in 1832, the building that houses the restaurant was owned by John Williams. During the 19th century, it served as a tavern for travelers. The tavern features simple Arkansas country cooking, and it's hard to find another spot that includes more Arkansas history than this one. As someone who loves studying Arkansas history, I can never get enough of this place.
A Wildlife Management Area
I could spend all afternoon here, but I promised Leo I would show him Millwood Lake and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Grandview Prairie Wildlife Management Area. On the way back, we stayed on U.S. 67 as far as Arkadelphia. And for supper, we headed to the Arkansas classic Fish Net at Caddo Valley. It's for sale, if someone wants to own a great Arkansas restaurant. Darkness will soon descend, so we took Interstate 30 back to Little Rock in the interest of time.
A Journey Through Time
This Arkansas road trip was a journey through time, filled with history, taste, and unique experiences. It's a reminder that the road is not just about the destination, but also about the journey itself. So, the next time you're planning a road trip, remember to take the time to explore the history and culture along the way. Because, in my opinion, that's what makes a road trip truly memorable.
