Jonesboro Travel Guide

Explore the best of Jonesboro with this informative travel guide, featuring a list of must-visit cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Jonesboro

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the state, Jonesboro is a city in Arkansas that serves as the cultural, educational, and economic hub of the region. With a rich history dating back to the Civil War era, the city is home to several museums and historical sites, as well as an array of natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Jonesboro has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Jonesboro

Here are some of the top cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, activities and tours, food and drink spots, accommodation options, and nearby destinations to explore in Jonesboro:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library: Established in 1910, this iconic library is one of the oldest and largest libraries in the state. It has a vast collection of books, newspapers, and magazines, including rare editions and manuscripts.
  • The Trumann Museum: Located in the nearby town of Trumann, this museum showcases the cultural and social history of northeast Arkansas, including the Civil War, railroads, farming, and more.
  • The Delta Cultural Center: This museum features exhibits on the cultural heritage of the Arkansas Delta, including the music, arts, and crafts of the region.

Natural Attractions of Jonesboro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Craighead Forest Park: This 692-acre park has a lake, a swimming beach, a fishing pier, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a great spot for camping and outdoor activities.
  • St. Francis Sunken Lands Wildlife Management Area: This 30,000-acre area features a unique wetland ecosystem and is a popular spot for hiking, hunting, and bird watching.
  • Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center: Located on the scenic ridge of Crowley’s Ridge, this nature center offers interactive exhibits, hiking trails, and wildlife watching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jonesboro

  • Jonesboro to Lake City Trail: This 17-mile trail starts at the Arkansas State University and ends in the town of Lake City. It’s a great route for biking and hiking, with scenic views of the Craighead Forest Park and the Crowley’s Ridge.
  • St. Francis River Trail: This 41-mile trail follows the St. Francis River from the Marmaduke City Park to the Arkansas/Missouri state line. It’s a popular spot for hiking and fishing.

Best Things to Do in Jonesboro: Activities and Tours

  • The Downtown Jonesboro BBQ and Music Fest: This annual festival features live music, local vendors, and some of the best BBQ in the area.
  • The Jonesboro Sculpture Tour: This self-guided tour takes you around the downtown area to see some of the most iconic sculptures by local and national artists.
  • The Higginbotham Twin Cinema: This historic movie theater has been showing films since 1936 and is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jonesboro

Day 1: Explore the cultural attractions of downtown Jonesboro, including the Craighead County Jonesboro Public Library, The Trumann Museum, and the Delta Cultural Center.

Day 2: Check out the natural attractions of Jonesboro, such as Craighead Forest Park and Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center.

Day 3-4: Embark on a hiking or biking adventure, with routes such as Jonesboro to Lake City Trail or St. Francis River Trail.

Day 5: Enjoy some local activities and tours, such as the Downtown Jonesboro BBQ and Music Fest or the Jonesboro Sculpture Tour.

Day 6-7: Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Memphis, Tennessee or Little Rock, Arkansas.

Food and Drink Scene of Jonesboro

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ: Jonesboro is known for its BBQ and there are several spots to try it, including Whole Hog Cafe and Fat City Grill.
  • Catfish: With its proximity to the St. Francis River, Jonesboro has some of the best catfish in the state. Try it at Cafe’ 16 or The Fish House.
  • Cheese Dip: A local favorite, cheese dip can be found at several Mexican restaurants in Jonesboro, including El Acapulco and Casa Maya.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Stop by the Brickhouse Grill for a craft beer or head to Lost Pizza Co. for a wide selection of local brews.
  • Wine: The NEA Grape Festival, held in September, features some of the best wines from the region.
  • Coffee: The Edge Coffee House and Skinny J’s are two popular spots for a caffeine fix.

Where to Stay in Jonesboro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Jonesboro Inn & Suites: This budget-friendly hotel is conveniently located near several attractions, including the Arkansas State University.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Jonesboro: This mid-range hotel offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, and an on-site restaurant.
  • Fairview Inn and Suites: This boutique hotel features cozy rooms, friendly staff, and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Jonesboro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Craighead Forest Park merchandise: Support the local park by purchasing souvenirs such as t-shirts, caps, and mugs.
  • Catfish souvenirs: Pick up some catfish-related memorabilia, such as keychains or fridge magnets, at The Fish House.
  • Crowley’s Ridge honey: Stop by the farmer’s market to buy fresh honey made in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Jonesboro

Jonesboro has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and the locals are known for their hospitality. It is also a conservative town with strong religious values, so it’s important to be respectful of others’ beliefs and practices.

Best Time to Visit Jonesboro

The best time to visit Jonesboro is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jonesboro

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and historic sites to learn more about Jonesboro’s culture and history.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages, especially the BBQ and catfish.
  • Do be respectful of the local customs and values.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural attractions.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Don’t assume that everyone shares your beliefs or values.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jonesboro

Jonesboro is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, especially at night.

Health in Jonesboro

Jonesboro has several hospitals and medical centers, including the St. Bernards Medical Center and the NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital. It’s important to have health insurance and carry necessary medication and prescriptions.

Getting to Jonesboro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jonesboro

The nearest airport to Jonesboro is the Memphis International Airport, located about 80 miles to the east. There are several car rental companies and shuttle services available at the airport.

Bus Stations Near Jonesboro

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in Jonesboro, with connections to several cities in the region.

Other Options

Jonesboro is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the city. It’s also a popular spot for biking and hiking, with several routes and trails available.

How to Get Around in Jonesboro

Jonesboro is a walkable city, with several bike-friendly paths and sidewalks. There are also several car rental companies and taxis available. For longer distances, buses and shuttles are available.

Where to Go Next from Jonesboro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Memphis, Tennessee: Located about 80 miles to the east, Memphis is known for its music, food, and cultural attractions, such as the Graceland Mansion and the National Civil Rights Museum.
  • Little Rock, Arkansas: Located about 130 miles to the west, Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas and features several historic sites, museums, and outdoor adventures.
  • Tunica, Mississippi: Located about 60 miles to the south, Tunica is known for its casinos, golf courses, and southern charm.

Conclusion

Jonesboro is a hidden gem in the Arkansas Delta, with an array of cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink spots, and nearby destinations to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Jonesboro has something for everyone.