20 Things To Do In Texarkana

Straddling the border between Texas and Arkansas and just a few miles north of Louisiana, Texarkana is a small city aptly named for the three states. Technically, the Texas and Arkansas sides of Texarkana are twinned but distinct cities, with a population of around 66,000 residents between them. The little town is bursting with southern hospitality from its diverse eateries to its lively nightlife. The friendly locals will help you feel at home in no time. 

It’s perfect for a laidback getaway, whether you like pounding the streets of a city, or getting out and exploring the beautiful surrounding landscape. Here are the best things to do in Texarkana and the surrounding area. From stunning nature reserves, comfortable urban parks, and historic landmarks and museums to thrilling fun-parks, there’s something to suit everyone.

Texarkana, Arkansas

20 Best Things To Do In Texarkana

1- Stop By The Arkansas Texarkana Welcome Centre

When you get to Texarkana, your first stop should be the Arkansas Texarkana Welcome Centre.

A one stop shop to find out about everything going on in and around the city, with tons of pamphlets that you can take with you, it will ensure you don’t miss any local events or attractions.

Not only will the centre ensure you have no trouble finding activities to suit everyone, but it also displays several exhibits, from taxidermied specimens of local wildlife to regional archaeological finds, so is an attraction in and of itself.

It is truly deal for getting a quick introduction to the town.

Go to 10000, 10000 I-30, Texarkana, AR 71854, United States.

2- Look Around The Museum of Regional History

If you want a comprehensive look at the history of the local area head to the Museum of Regional History.

Appropriately housed in a historic building, the compact museum displays a range of exhibits on the city’s history, development, and local arts scene, so is ideal to fill a spare hour or so.

Head to 219 N State Line Ave, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

3- Take A Selfie On The State Line

Texarkana’s main claim to fame is its unique location on the state line between Texas and Arkansas.

With that in mind, a photo with one foot in either state is a classic memento of any visit to the city.

While a busy highway runs directly along most of the border through the city, making it a bit unsafe to pose for such a photo, there is a pedestrian friendly spot in front of the local government office.

There’s even a designated photo spot, with the state line marked on the ground, and the columned façade of the government building offering an impressive background.

See it at 500 N State Line Ave, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

4- Stroll Along The Texas – Arkansas Border

The border between Texas and Arkansas runs along Highway 71, which cuts right through the heart of the twinned cities.

It’s lined with bars and restaurants, so you’ll have plenty of places to stop when you get tired of strolling in and out of the two states or want to escape the southern humidity.

Start at N State Line Ave, Texarkana, TX 75503, United States.

5- Pay Respects At Korean/Vietnam Memorial

One of the things you can stop at along the border walk is the Korean/Vietnam Memorial.

The compact monument is dedicated to the local soldiers who either gave their lives or were taken as prisoners of war in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as in other conflicts over the last century.

The monument is on its own pedestrian island, shaded by trees and furnished with benches where you can sit for a moment in contemplation.

Go to US-67 & Veterans Memorial Dr, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

6- Check Out The Ace of Clubs House

One of the most striking, historic buildings in the city, the Ace of Clubs House has a distinctly unique architecture, though the feature for which it gets its name is best seen from above.

Built in the late 1800s, the floorplan of the house was designed to imitate a club from a deck of cards.

Legend has it that it was designed that way to commemorate how the owner won the funds to build the house in a poker game.

A private home for a century, the house was converted into a museum in 1985 and now offers visitors guided tours of its elaborately furnished interior.

Spot it at 420 Pine St, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

7- Explore The Works Of ArtSparK

If you love art, you should visit ArtSparK, a quirky, open-air art installation on Main Street.

The compact urban park is littered with unique sculptures and mosaics.

At the back of the lot, a curved metal wall acts as a striking gallery for frequently changing exhibitions of two-dimensional art.

Head over to 317 Main St, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

8- Chill Out At Spring Lake Park

When you want somewhere to stretch out and relax in the fresh air, head over to Spring Lake Park.

The large city park has something to help everyone enjoy spending an afternoon outside.

Walking trails lead through trees and around the eponymous Spring Lake, while baseball fields, a splash pad, and even a disc golf course will keep the more energetic among you entertained.

Alternatively, just take some time to relax or enjoy a picnic on one of the many spacious lawns.

Go to 4303 N Park Rd, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

9- Cruise Around The Four States Auto Museum

Petrol heads will definitely want to visit the Four States Auto Museum.

Neatly lined up within the unassuming building are over a dozen classic cars and motorbikes from over the decades.

The vehicles on display are regularly rotated, so it’s worth a return visit.

The museum even contains some retro service station equipment to help set the scene.

It is only open on the weekends though, and only until 4pm, but admission is free.

Find it at 217 Laurel St, Texarkana, AR 71854, United States.

10- Have A Blast At Fun Country Park

Looking for family friendly entertainment? Head just a mile north of Texarkana to Fun Country Park.

There’s a whole range of activities on offer for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Challenge yourself to the climbing wall, race against each other on the go-kart track, or putt for glory on the mini-golf course.

Head out to 8225 N State Line Ave, Texarkana, TX 75503, United States.

11- Go Treasure Hunting At The Owls Nest Flea Market

If you’re keen on hunting for vintage bargains, then you’ll want to pay a visit to the Owls Nest Flea Market.

Dedicated treasure seekers can spend hours searching through shelves piled with antique trinkets and unique furnishings.

You never know what you’ll find among the packed aisles but there’s sure to be something you fall in love with.

It’s open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to root around for the perfect souvenir.

Swing by 4720 Texas Blvd, Texarkana, TX 75503, United States.

12- Relax In Ed Worrell Memorial Park

When you need a break from city life but don’t feel like trekking out into the countryside, head over to Ed Worrell Memorial Park.

The park runs along either side of Nix Creek, with baseball fields on the western side and open lawns stretching along the east.

A walking trail runs alongside the creek, following it through the city, offering a comfortable, tree-lined walking route for if you don’t feel like just sitting around.

The trail leads through several other compact urban parks, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a waterside picnic.

Find it at E 35th St, Texarkana, AR 71854, USA.

13- Cool Off At Holiday Springs Water Park

The southern heat can get a bit much, especially at the height of summer.

If you’re really feeling the need to beat the heat, you can head to Holiday Springs Water Park and take a dip in the cool waters.

The park features a wave pool and multiple waterslides for a fun-filled day out.

Alternatively, drift along the lazy river or retreat to a private cabana if you’re after a more laid-back afternoon.

Go to 5501 Crossroads Pkwy, Texarkana, AR 71854, United States.

14- Catch A Show At Perot Theatre

If you are a fan of the performing arts, then you will want to take a look at what’s on at Perot Theatre.

The grand building with its ornate façade is just as pretty on the inside, offering an elegant venue for a range of excellent performances.

From classic productions like the Rocky Horror Picture Show to movie showings with live orchestral backing, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Right at the heart of downtown and surrounded by bars and restaurants, it makes for a great date night event too.

Head into 221 Main St, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

15- Have A Drink At Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery

To get a real taste for the city, visit the Pecan Point Brewery and sample some local beverages.

Pecan Point offers both in-house-brews and guest beers from other local breweries.

You can enjoy them all alongside some delicious, hearty food in a venue that combines industrial chic with historic charm.

Find it at 213 Main St, Texarkana, TX 75503, United States.

16- Raise A Glass At O’Farrell Country Vineyards

If you’re not a fan of beer or you’re just after something a little more refined, head out to O’Farrell Country Vineyards.

Here you can sample over a dozen wines, all grown and crafted on-site.

If you visit late in the summer, you may even have the opportunity to get involved with the harvest. 

Venture out to 7152 FM995, Atlanta, TX 75551, United States.

17- Hang Out In Bobby F. Ferguson Park

Bobby F. Ferguson Park offers all the joys of nature without having to venture outside of the city.

Surrounding Lake Dieffenbacher, the park consists of leafy walking trails around the waterside, a comfortable fishing pier, a high-quality children’s play area, and plenty of spaces to set up a picnic.

It’s perfect for getting the whole family out in the fresh air.

Head over to 50th St, Texarkana, AR 71854, USA.

18- Search For The Three Corners Marker: AR/LA/TX

Since Texarkana is named after the three states that meet just south of the city, it makes sense that that point is a local attraction.

You’ll find the spot just off Highway 77, a few miles south of Texarkana.

The actual marker is a fairly small, carved stone block nestled into the roots of a tree, so it may take you a minute of looking around the area to spot it.

If you need a hint; look for the orange tag.

Look for it at 78230 TX-77, Atlanta, TX 75551, United States.

19- Enjoy Nature At Clear Springs Park

Texarkana is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and Clear Springs Park is one of the best examples.

Trails lead through lush forests to the edge of a large lake, offering some lovely routes for hiking and cycling.

There are designated spaces for camping or setting up a fire or barbeque, and fishing piers along the edge of the water.

It’s perfect for when you really want to escape into the comforts and peace of nature for a few hours.

Find it at 64 Clear Springs Rd, Texarkana, TX 75501, United States.

20- Find The Painted Bridge

If you’re a fan of graffiti and interactive street art, then you may want to seek out the Painted Bridge.

Crossing Diversion Canal, the bridge is entirely covered in colourful tags, including the street itself.

Just a couple of miles north of Texarkana, it makes an ideal goal for a hike through the Texas countryside, or a scenic drive if you don’t fancy the walk.

It’s also an excellent vantage point to spot the wildlife bustling about in the river, as it is well known for its population of turtles and catfish.

Hike out to 2306 Co Rd 2305, Texarkana, TX 75503, United States.