Altus Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drinks, transportation options, and where to stay in Altus, Arkansas. Plan your trip to Altus with this comprehensive travel guide.


Altus Travel Guide - Explore The Best of Arkansas

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, look no further than Altus, a small town in the River Valley area of Arkansas. With a rich history, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant food and drink scene, Altus is a must-visit destination for travelers.

Introduction to Altus

Altus is a small town located in the River Valley region of Arkansas, in the southern part of the United States. The town is situated amidst the Ozark Mountains and is known for its wine production. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and the Native Americans who once lived there left behind petroglyphs and other artifacts. The town was founded in 1870, and its name comes from the Latin word for “high.” Today, Altus boasts a population of around 800 people.

List of Places to Visit in Altus

Altus is a small town, but there are plenty of things to see and do there. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Altus.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Post Familie Winery: Established in 1880, this winery is one of the oldest in Arkansas. Visitors can sample wines and tour the vineyards.

  2. Altus Heritage House Museum: This museum showcases the history of Altus and the surrounding area. Exhibits include Native American artifacts, vintage clothing, and antique furniture.

  3. Morrison-Williams Nature Preserve: This nature preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and bald eagles. Visitors can hike the trails and see the Ozark Mountains up close.

Natural Attractions of Altus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Wiederkehr Wine Cellars: This winery is one of the most popular attractions in Altus. Visitors can tour the vineyards and taste some of the best wines in Arkansas.

  2. Mount Bethel Winery: Another great winery in Altus, this place is known for its fruit wines and scenic views of the Ozark Mountains.

  3. Ozark National Forest: Adventure seekers should not miss the opportunity to explore the Ozark National Forest. It covers over 1 million acres and offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Altus

Altus is surrounded by some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in Arkansas. Here are some of the most popular routes for outdoor enthusiasts:

  1. Mount Magazine State Park: The park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and length, including the Signal Hill Trail, which leads to the highest point in Arkansas.

  2. Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area: This area is home to some of the most breathtaking rock formations in Arkansas. It has several hiking trails of varying distances and difficulty levels.

  3. Mulberry River Trail: This trail follows the Mulberry River and offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains. Visitors can hike, bike, or even horseback ride along the trail.

Best Things to Do in Altus: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, there’s always something to do in Altus. Here are some of our favorite activities and tours:

  1. Wine Tasting Tours: Visitors can take a scenic tour of the local wineries and sample some of the best wines in Arkansas.

  2. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Experience Altus from above with a hot air balloon ride. This is a great way to see the Ozark Mountains and the beautiful countryside.

  3. River Rafting: The Mulberry River is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to experience river rafting. The river has several rapids of varying difficulty levels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Altus

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Altus, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour Altus Heritage House Museum, Visit Post Familie Winery
Day 2 Take a hike in Mount Magazine State Park, enjoy scenic views of Arkansas
Day 3 Wine Tasting Tour, Visit the Wiederkehr Wine Cellars and Mount Bethel Winery
Day 4 Hot Air Balloon Ride, experience the beauty of Altus from above
Day 5 River Rafting, explore the Mulberry River and its surroundings
Day 6 Visit Ozark National Forest, see the wildlife and explore the outdoors
Day 7 Relax and enjoy local delicacies, sample regional cuisine and local beers

Food and Drink Scene of Altus

Foodies are guaranteed to fall in love with Altus. The town has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local delicacies to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fried Catfish: This Southern favorite is a must-try when in Altus. It’s typically served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.

  2. BBQ: BBQ is a staple of Southern cuisine, and Altus has some of the best BBQ joints in Arkansas. The ribs and brisket are a must-try.

  3. Peach Cobbler: Nothing beats a warm slice of peach cobbler topped with whipped cream. This classic dessert is a Southern favorite.

Local Beverages

  1. Altus Grape Festival: This annual festival celebrates the town’s wine heritage and features wine tasting, live music, and food vendors.

  2. Ozark Beer Company: This brewery is located in nearby Rogers and offers a variety of craft beers.

  3. Altus Aquatic Mineral Water: Altus is home to some of the best mineral water sources in Arkansas. The spring water is said to have healing properties.

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

Altus has several accommodation options to suit all budgets.

  1. Park Motel: This affordable motel offers comfortable rooms and is centrally located in Altus.

  2. Kryptonite Ridge: This bed and breakfast is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains.

  3. Altus Mountain Home: This luxurious guesthouse is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a quiet retreat for travelers.

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

When in Altus, don’t forget to bring home some souvenirs and local products:

  1. Wine: Altus is famous for its wineries, and bringing home a bottle of wine is a must.

  2. Wood Carvings: The Ozark Mountains are home to several talented woodcarvers, and their creations make for unique souvenirs.

  3. Mineral Water: Altus is known for its mineral water, and bringing home a bottle is a great way to remember your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Altus

Altus is a small town with a rich history and cultural heritage. It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Altus

The best time to visit Altus is from March to May or from September to November. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. The town’s wine festival is held in July and is a great time to visit if you’re a wine lover.

Do’s and Don’ts of Altus

When visiting Altus, there are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.

  2. Try the local food and drink.

  3. Take advantage of the outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural surroundings.

  2. Disrespect the local traditions.

  3. Leave without trying the local wine.

Safety and Health

Altus is a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling.

Safety in Altus

  1. Keep your belongings safe and secure.

  2. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas.

  3. Follow the local traffic rules.

Health in Altus

  1. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

  2. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

  3. If you have any health concerns, consult a doctor before traveling.

Getting to Altus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Altus is easily accessible by air, car, or bus.

Airports Near Altus

The nearest airport to Altus is the Fort Smith Regional Airport, which is located approximately 50 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Altus

Greyhound Bus Lines has a station in nearby Ozark, which is about 20 miles away from Altus.

Other Options

Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Altus and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Altus

Walking or biking is a great way to explore the town. For longer distances, renting a car is recommended.

Where to Go Next from Altus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Little Rock: The capital of Arkansas is located approximately 100 miles from Altus and offers several cultural attractions.

  2. Hot Springs: This resort town is known for its natural hot springs and historic bathhouses. It’s located approximately 150 miles from Altus.

  3. Branson: This entertainment destination is located approximately 200 miles from Altus and offers live music shows, theme parks, and other attractions.

Conclusion

Altus is a hidden gem in Arkansas that is waiting to be explored. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Altus. Plan your trip now and experience the best of River Valley, Arkansas.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Altus Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Altus