Day Tripping' :: Jonesboro, AR

At just about an hour away, Jonesboro is a surprisingly cute town with several, kid-friendly, things to do. Since it’s Arkansas, there’s a fun mix of outdoor and indoor activities, perfect for the crazy weather that fall can bring!

Things to Do:

Arkansas State University Museum: With permanent exhibits focusing on Arkansas frontier life, programs geared for children in Pre-K-8th grade, and a full mastodon skeleton, your kids will love this museum. Located on ASU’s campus, and open 6 days a week (they’re closed on Sundays), your family could easily spend a whole morning exploring.

Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center: This place is so fun! Plus it connects to Craighead Forest State Park, which I’ll talk about next. There is a three story nature center to explore, 1/4 mile paved trail, and many more miles of unpaved trails. Educational programs, from wildlife feedings to animal talks, happen daily, so check their schedule before you go. Park there, learn about all the wildlife in the area, then head to the state park and let your kids run free!

Craighead Forest State Park: This park connects to Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center. There are several playgrounds, miles of hiking, plus a lake you can fish on. There’s even a small splash pad if you’re there when it is warm! This is the perfect park, right in the middle of the city, if you’re a nature loving, face in the sunshine, family!

Ultimate Air Trampoline Park: Your kiddos still have energy to burn after all of that? This is the perfect place to go to make sure your kid takes a good car nap on the way home! They are open 7 days a week, and an hour of jumping is only $15! My kids love trampoline parks. The foam pit is always a hit!

Where to Eat:

Munchy’s: Get the cheesesteak sandwich. And the cheese sticks. And thank me later. Or curse me when your heartburn is burning all the way home. Either way. They also have regular, old deli sandwiches, and half sandwiches are available for the kids! So good.

Demo’s Smoke House BBQ: Two locations. The best BBQ. Open Monday-Saturday. You can’t go wrong. Man, I love barbeque.

Brickhouse Bar and Grill: This is not open for lunch, so would have to be a stop on your way home, but this place is amazing. The burgers are good. The Cajun food could be served in New Orleans easily. Definitely worth a late night drive home!