Arkansas is known for their rustic scenery and the in the winter months it becomes even more beautiful. There are numerous outdoor and indoor activities to take advantage of in February whether you are on a family vacation or just looking for something interesting to do.

After a day at the races you may need to head down to the Hot Springs Bath Houses to defrost and relax. The Ouachita Mountain Valley has produced thermal springs for centuries. The waters are thought to heal the body and many people will visit on a regular basis for water therapy. The Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and National Park Visitor Center is a resurrected bathhouse that offers tours of what the bathhouse looked like in the early days as well as provides informational videos on taking the baths. There are several bathhouses available so you can experience the thermal waters firsthand.

The National Park Aquarium in Hot Springs is another great site to visit in February. This Arkansas’ largest fish and reptile exhibit. They have on display a variety of Arkansas fish, saltwater species, and many reptiles. There is even a 90-pound snapping turtle. No trip to Hot Springs is complete without a trip to Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. The attraction features seven different worlds with 30 settings. The museum is open year round and great for getting out of the cold. You will see everything from celebrities, to royalty, the pope and even Da Vinci’s “Last Supper.” They also have added two exhibits featuring the New York City’s Firefighters during 911 and the late Princess Diana.

To remind us of the Valentine’s Day spirit, don’t forget about the Chocolate Lovers Festival in Eureka Springs. The event is held at The Auditorium and features and art auction, chocolate and Champaign and delicious chocolate delights. There will be chocolate tastings, dipping fountains, wine and “Best Of” chocolate events. Contests include both Professional and Amateur Chocolate contests in sculptures, decorated cakes, chocolate cookies and best chocolate cake recipes. The event is held at the Best Western, Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center.

Arkansas – the natural state, is a beach lovers paradise with over 600,000 acres of water. It also has a very large number of tranquil lakes that accentuate the beauty of the state. These lakes and beaches offer opportunities to swim, boat, water ski, parasail, fish, scuba dive and even house boat. At the other end of the spectrum are the many picturesque hills and mountains that are great for hiking, camping, or just driving through. The spectacular scenery and natural wonders that are splattered all over the state are a challenge to the adventurous. When in the mountains, be sure to explore the many caves and underground caverns that are a discoverers delight.

Golf is also a great activity to take part in while visiting Arkansas. There are many world class golf courses throughout the entire state that offer great vacation packages. The Arkansas landscape offers beautiful scenic courses to enjoy nine or eighteen holes of golf. Arkansas has a very rich legacy of civil war battlefields and American history. The art and history buffs can spend days soaking in the offerings of numerous museums and historic heritage sites. If you would like to enjoy life as the locals know it check out some of the many festivals that take place each year in Arkansas. The harvest is very important to the people of Arkansas and this is apparent in their many festivals that center on this event.

If you would like to enjoy life as the locals know it check out some of the many festivals that take place each year in Arkansas. The harvest is very important to the people of Arkansas and this is apparent in their many festivals that center on this event. Some of these festivals include watermelon, peach, and tomato festivals. There are also festivals that feature delicious foods such as steak, chilli con carne, and even Greek food. If you enjoy culinary delights then Arkansas’ many food-related festivals will satisfy your taste.

Arkansas boasts of a number of music festivals. The pride of place goes to ‘The King Biscuit Blues Festival’ – a fabulous outdoor festival which is amongst the largest in all of the United States. The state offers music festivals to ‘please every ear’ all around the year. You can enjoy world class blues music, rock and roll, jazz, classical, and even opera. Arkansas always has your ear.

After all this fun you may be ready for a couple of relaxing days. Arkansas has plenty of spas to help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Some of the spa resorts offer great packages where you can feel pampered like royalty. Spend a day getting massages, facials, and even attend a yoga class to sooth the soul.