The average car gets at least 300 miles per tank. That's 150 miles to and from the location. Most of these destinations either have free or inexpensive admissions on top of being inexpensive to get to.
Crater of Diamonds is the eighth largest diamond reserve in the world and one of the only mines where visitor's can mine their own diamonds. I often hear people remark that it's only open to the public because it's "empty," but every other year or so, someone finds a record breaking diamond to prove them wrong. Besides diamonds, you can find quartz and other fun stones. Some kids will find mining rocks a bit boring, but some will enjoy it. Admission is $6.50.
Blanchard Springs Caverns is a popular summer attraction that is listed in many guidebooks as one of the most beautiful caves in America. The temperatures are always cool, and the caverns are beautiful. Even the easy trail is quite a walk, but kids do enjoy looking at the bats and cave formations. Admission is $10.
Helena is pushing our 150 mile limit, but most cars can make it to Helena and back on a tank full. The Delta Cultural Center celebrates Arkansas' musical heritage. You can learn all about Arkansas blues and even see a broadcast of King Biscuit Time, the nation's longest running blues radio broadcast. A separate building hosts information on the delta, its people and its history. Helena is lots of fun and often has music events, including the King Biscuit/Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival. The Delta Cultural Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
4. Garvan Woodland Gardens or Memphis
Garvan Gardens is just about 50 miles outside of Little Rock in Hot Springs. The park is 210 acres and admission is $8. The gardens showcase floral landscapes, free-flowing streams and waterfalls, as well as architectural structures in a natural woodland setting.
Memphis Botanical Gardens are a little over 150 miles, 96-acres and admission is just $5. It features many themes gardens including a Japanese garden of tranquility and a sensory garden. The two are very different gardens.
5. Greers Ferry Lake
Greers Ferry is fun for the outdoor enthusiast. You can fish, swim, scuba dive and even hike this 40,000 acre park. Camping areas are available to turn your "day trip" into a cheap overnight vacation. Antiquing, shopping and even golf can be found in the area.Tour over 30 historic structures that have been restored to their 1824-1900 glory. The entire town is restored and is a National Historical Landmark and a National Register of Historic Places site. Many of the homes include period antiques and guides wear period attire. Tickets are $8.
Hot Springs has something for everyone. Shopping, restaurants, a theme park, museums, nice hotels, spas and even hiking trails and forests. It can be a romantic destination, a fun family getaway or both. It's under and hours drive from Little Rock.
