Mena Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mena, Arkansas with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best attractions, hiking and biking routes, places to stay, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Mena

Nestled in the Ouachitas region of Arkansas, Mena is a charming town that offers plenty of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Whether you are looking to hike, bike, fish, explore local museums, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Mena has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Mena

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mena is rich in history and culture, offering several museums and historical places worth visiting. The following are some of the most popular cultural attractions that you don’t want to miss:

  • Mena Depot Center: This museum boasts a collection of vintage train cars, including a caboose, dining car, and Pullman sleeper car, and features exhibits on railroad history.
  • Polk County Courthouse: This historic courthouse was built in 1907 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been restored to its original grandeur and features an impressive clock tower.
  • Mena Art Gallery: Featuring works from local and regional artists, this gallery hosts regular exhibitions and special events throughout the year.
  • Queen Wilhelmina State Park: Once a popular resort location for the wealthy, now this park is a popular spot to observe the wildlife or get a panoramic view of Oklahoma. The most popular attraction in Mena, it is named after Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands.

Natural Attractions of Mena: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mena is surrounded by natural beauty and offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. From hiking and biking to fishing and camping, here are some of the top natural attractions in Mena:

  • Ouachita National Forest: With over one million acres of beautiful forests and mountains, Ouachita National Forest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ouachita Trail spans over 200 miles and offers incredible hiking opportunities.
  • Wolf Pen Gap Trail: This 38-mile trail system offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and passes through beautiful forested routes.
  • Iron Mountain Trail: An eight-mile round-trip hiking route, Iron Mountain Trail offers stunning views of the Ouachita Mountains.
  • Lake Ouachita: Known for its clear waters and scenic beauty, Lake Ouachita is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mena

Mena’s natural beauty and many parks make it a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Whether you prefer easy or challenging trails, you’ll find many options to choose from. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Mena:

  • Talimena Scenic Drive: This 54-mile drive runs through the Ouachita Mountains and provides stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Ouachita Trail: This 223-mile trail runs from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma to Pinnacle Mountain State Park in central Arkansas. It offers a varying degree of difficulty from light to strenuous.
  • Mena Biking Trail: This 20-mile trail offers a mix of easy and challenging terrain and winds through scenic forests and past mountaintops.

Best Things to Do in Mena: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re staying for the day or for a week, there’s no shortage of things to do in Mena. Here are some of the best activities and tours to add to your itinerary:

  • Zip-lining at Wolf Pen Gap: See the forest from a different perspective as you zip-line through the trees.
  • Diamond Mining at Crater of Diamonds State Park: Mena is located just a short drive from the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, where visitors can mine for diamonds.
  • Mena Murals Tour: Take a walking tour to explore Mena’s colorful murals and learn about the town’s history and culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mena

If you’re planning to spend a week in Mena, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Mena and settle into your lodging. Spend the day relaxing and exploring the town.

Day 2: Visit the Mena Depot Center, Polk County Courthouse, and Mena Art Gallery.

Day 3: Explore the outdoor attractions of Mena, including Ouachita National Forest and Lake Ouachita.

Day 4: Take on a hiking or biking trail. You could try Talimena Scenic Drive or Ouachita Trail for an incredible experience.

Day 5: Visit Queen Wilhelmina State Park and enjoy the stunning views and hiking opportunities.

Day 6: Go diamond mining at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, or try zip-lining at Wolf Pen Gap.

Day 7: Take a walking tour of the Mena murals and enjoy some of the town’s delicious local cuisine.

Don’t forget to add your favorite activities to your itinerary.

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

Whether you prefer a cozy guesthouse or an elegant hotel, Mena has plenty of lodging options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay in Mena:

  • Ouachita Mountain Inn: A charming inn located in the heart of Mena, offering clean and comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
  • Queen Wilhelmina Lodge: Located in Queen Wilhelmina State Park, the lodge offers stunning views and comfortable accommodations.
  • Blue Sky Motel: This family-owned and operated motel offers cozy rooms and a quiet atmosphere.

Food and Drink Scene of Mena

Mena is home to a thriving food and drink scene that offers many local flavors and specialties. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Southern cuisine or something more adventurous, you’ll find it in Mena

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the must-try dishes in Mena:

  • Fried catfish: Southern staple, crispy and mouth-watering.
  • Arkansas BBQ: The Salt Lick BBQ is the go-to place for Arkansas BBQ, and you can enjoy pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and anything else under the sun.
  • Chocolate gravy: You won’t find anything like it anywhere else: a thick, rich, chocolate sauce served over buttered biscuits.

Local Beverages

To quench your thirst, make sure to try these local drinks:

  • Ouachita Mountain Ridge Runner: A refreshing and fruity beer made locally in Arkansas.
  • Blackberry Wine: You can get the taste of Mena right from the vine with a bottle of local blackberry wine.

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

Mena is known for its beautiful scenery and unique local products. Don’t leave without taking home one of these souvenirs:

  • Ouachita Mountain Hiking Sticks: Take home a souvenir to remember your hiking adventure and the beautiful Ouachita Mountains.
  • Hand-made jewelry: The artisan-made jewelry is available to purchase at Mena Art Gallery and other stores throughout Mena.

Local Culture and Customs of Mena

Mena has a proud and unique culture that reflects the spirit of the Ouachita Mountains region. Here are some of the customs and traditions that you will experience in Mena:

  • Friendliness: Mena locals are notoriously friendly and welcoming to visitors, and you can expect to be met with open arms wherever you go.
  • Love for the outdoors: Mena locals love their outdoor activities and embrace the natural beauty of the Ouachita Mountains.
  • Appreciation for History: Mena has a rich history that is deeply embedded in its culture and customs, and you will see that proud history throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit Mena

The best time to visit Mena is during the fall when the leaves are turning colors and the weather is pleasant. Springtime is also a great time to visit, when the weather is mild, and the foliage is blooming. Summer can be hot, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mena

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to help you navigate Mena and make the most of your trip:

Do:

  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking or walking around Mena.
  • Do bring sunscreen and insect repellent when exploring the outdoors.
  • Do be prepared for hot weather if visiting during the summer months.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the natural areas while hiking and exploring.
  • Don’t underestimate the natural beauty and wonder of Mena and the Ouachita mountains.
  • Don’t forget to try the local food and drink.

Safety and Health

When visiting Mena, keeping safe and healthy is a top priority. Here is what you need to know:

Safety in Mena

Mena is a safe and welcoming town with a low crime rate. Still, it’s essential to take precautions. Make sure to lock your car and avoid leaving any valuables in it when parked in public areas.

Health in Mena

Mena is generally a healthy area, but it’s always good to be cautious when traveling anywhere. Make sure to take precautions such as staying hydrated in hot weather and wearing sunscreen when out exploring. Make sure to follow all the COVID-19 guidelines while traveling.

Getting to Mena: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here’s what you need to know to get to Mena:

Airports Near Mena

The closest airport to Mena is the Fort Smith Regional Airport, which is approximately two hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Mena

The closest bus station to Mena is in Mena itself.

Other Options

If you are looking for alternative transportation modes, rental cars are available through most major car rental companies.

How to Get Around in Mena

The best way to get around Mena is by car. You can also rent a bike from one of several local rental shops, or walk if you prefer to explore the town at a more relaxed pace.

Where to Go Next from Mena: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mena is surrounded by many exciting destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Talimena Scenic Drive: This 54-mile drive will take you through the Ouachita Mountains and offers incredible views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Hot Springs National Park: Just a two-hour drive from Mena, you can visit this unique park, home of the oldest federal reserve in the United States.
  • Little Rock: The capital of Arkansas, Little Rock is located just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Mena and worth a visit.

Conclusion

Mena, Arkansas, is a charming town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in local culture, or just take a relaxing vacation, Mena is the perfect destination. Use this guide to plan your trip and enjoy all there is to see and do in Mena.

Talimena National Scenic Byway November 2016 29 (Queen Wilhelmina State Park) Talimena National Scenic Byway November 2016 29 (Queen Wilhelmina State Park) Talimena Drive in the fall Talimena Drive in the fall