Jonesboro

Woman smiling on a balcony at sunset, holding a camera, with city street lights in view.

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The Spirit of Northeast Arkansas

Jonesboro mixes small-town charm with big-city energy, where downtown culture, Arkansas State traditions and outdoor escapes all come together.

Jonesboro welcomes visitors with a lively mix of culture, shopping and outdoor adventure, all wrapped in easygoing college-town energy. A walkable main street sets the tone with locally owned shops, dining spots and everyday charm. Arkansas State University anchors the city with Red Wolves athletics, concerts and touring performances at the Fowler Center, and rotating exhibits at the Bradbury Art Museum, where regional and contemporary artists take center stage. The A-State Museum adds depth to the experience, bringing Northeast Arkansas history to life through engaging displays.

Events keep the calendar full, from the Downtown Jonesboro BBQ and Music Fest to Christmas at the Park and performances by the Delta Symphony Orchestra, alongside community theater and live local music year-round.

Outdoor recreation is a big draw with local favorite Craighead Forest Park with miles of hiking and biking trails, dedicated mountain biking routes, fishing access, and a popular disc golf course. Nearby Lake Frierson State Park provides a quiet setting for paddling, picnics, and casting a line. Set along Crowley’s Ridge State Park, Jonesboro also makes an ideal basecamp for exploring the region’s terrain, nearby towns and outdoor attractions, blending arts, nature and small-town warmth with plenty to discover nearby.

What's Nearby

Places to Stay

From boutique lodging at The Hotel at Huntington Square to camping at Craighead Forest Park and a full lineup of national hotel brands, Jonesboro has stays that fit every style and budget.

Places to Eat

Jonesboro’s dining scene stretches from Southern classics and barbecue joints to international fare and trendy downtown cafes. Locals rave about the burgers at Fat City Grill, the homestyle cooking at Sue’s Kitchen and fine dining fare at 501 Steakhouse.

Things to Do

Catch the excitement of an A-State game, wander downtown cafes and shops — including the Gearhead flagship store, an Arkansas-based company. Then slow the pace with an afternoon at the Bradbury Art Museum or a stroll through one of the city’s parks.

Get Outdoors

Surrounded by natural escapes, Jonesboro makes it easy to trade city streets for fresh air. Craighead Forest Park offers trails, fishing, and camping close to town, while Lake Frierson State Park is a quiet spot for boating, birdwatching and reeling in bass or crappie.

State Parks

Lake Frierson State Park, just north of Jonesboro, offers fishing, boating and trails along a peaceful 335-acre lake. A short drive away, Crowley’s Ridge State Park adds cabins, a swim lake, and scenic hiking for a classic Arkansas park experience.

Cycling

From the A-State campus to the Greenway Trail, Jonesboro offers rides for all levels. It’s also home to The Skirmish, a celebrated gravel ride event that showcases the rugged beauty and culture of the Delta.

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A person walking on a suspension bridge in forest with trees in background.

Crowley's Ridge State Park

Atop the forested hills in Northeast Arkansas, Crowley’s Ridge State Park is situated on a unique geological formation and has a rich history. Native log and stone structures, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, set the tone for this park’s rustic quality.

Art gallery with paintings and sculptures on display under soft lighting.

Bradbury Art Museum at Arkansas State University

Located within the Fowler Center at Arkansas State University, the Bradbury Art Museum features changing exhibitions of contemporary art in all media with programming that promotes the understanding of art and its significance to society. Prominent...