Things To Do
in Jonesboro
Jonesboro is a vibrant city in northeastern Arkansas known for its friendly Southern hospitality, a growing dining scene, and rich local history. Home to Arkansas State University, the city blends college-town energy with family-friendly parks and cultural venues. Its landscape ranges from the wooded trails of Crowley’s Ridge to modern shops and eateries downtown.
Visitors can expect welcoming neighborhoods, easy drives, and ample opportunities to explore outdoors and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café. Stroll along Main Street, taking in the charming architecture and local boutiques that showcase Jonesboro's rich history. Don't forget to snap some photos at the iconic Craighead County Courthouse, a beautiful example of early 20th-century design.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Jonesboro Museum of Fine Arts, where you can appreciate regional artworks and exhibitions. Then, take a relaxing walk through the nearby Rotary Park, enjoying the serene landscapes and vibrant flower beds. Wrap up your afternoon by exploring the local shops and picking up unique souvenirs.
As evening descends, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of Jonesboro's popular restaurants that specialize in Southern cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a live music performance at a local venue, where you can experience the vibrant music scene of the area. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the downtown, admiring the twinkling lights and lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Crowley's Ridge State Park, where stunning landscapes await. Spend the morning hiking the park’s scenic trails, offering beautiful views of the unique ridge formations and diverse wildlife. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to many native species.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the park's designated spots, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Afterward, take some time to explore the visitor center, where you can learn about the park's ecology and history. Engage in some outdoor activities, like fishing or kayaking at the nearby lake.
As the sun sets, make your way back to Jonesboro for a relaxing dinner at a local diner with a cozy atmosphere. After your meal, take a scenic drive through the countryside, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and evening sky. End your day with stargazing at a nearby open space, where you can marvel at the clear night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $90-150 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ⛽Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
| ☕Coffee from a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming communities and a strong university presence
- Access to outdoor spaces and nature on Crowley’s Ridge
- Reasonable costs of living and plenty of dining options
- Solid healthcare facilities with regional hospital access
- Compact downtown with walkable centers and events
- Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to larger cities
- Public transportation options are modest; car-dependence is common
- Hot, humid summers and potential severe spring weather
- Smaller shopping and museum options relative to metro areas
Places to Visit in Jonesboro
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil lake with tree-lined shores and reflections at sunrise or sunset, ideal for landscape and silhouette photography.
Elevated vantage points and natural scenery along the Ridge, offering scenic views and nature-forward compositions.
Iconic campus buildings and focal points provide architectural interest, especially of the stately brick facades and tree-lined quad areas.
Colorful murals and historic storefronts along Main Street create vibrant urban photography opportunities.
Food in Jonesboro
Jonesboro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fried catfish served with golden hush puppies and coleslaw, a staple at many casual fry houses and seafood spots.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked ribs with tangy cole slaw and barbecue sauces, a reliable choice at local barbecue joints.
Savory breakfast favorite featuring fluffy biscuits covered in creamy sausage gravy, available at diners and cafes.
A Southern classic, lightly battered and fried, often served as a side or appetizer in local eateries.
Seasonal fruit dessert featuring peaches with warm crust or biscuit topping, a sweet end to meals in the summer months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, honey, jams, baked goods, and occasional food trucks or prepared foods from area vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, polite greetings are common. A warm “hello” or “how are you?” is typical in casual encounters.
Locals often value politeness and courtesy; be patient, courteous, and respectful in queues and shops.
Small talk about weather, sports, and local events is common before discussing business or plans.
Safety
Tipping in Jonesboro
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 15-20% of the total bill before tax is customary for good service. Tip higher for excellent service, and consider rounding up at casual places.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, along with cash and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) at most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery and blooming trees; occasional showers—great for outdoor photography and park days.
Warm to hot and humid with long days; humidity can be high, so plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for walking tours, outdoor markets, and scenic drives.
Cool to mild with occasional cold snaps; indoor venues and campus events provide warmth and cultural options.
Jonesboro at Night
Hiking in Jonesboro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge trails with overlooks and forested paths offering elevated views and nature photography opportunities.
A network of walking and biking trails around the park’s lakes and woodlands suitable for a relaxed hike.
Airports
How to reach Jonesboro by plane.
Local airport offering general aviation services and connections for regional travel.
Major international gateway about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Jonesboro, with extensive domestic and international flight options.
Large national airport offering broad flight options, located a few hours away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority demographic with a mix of African American residents and other communities contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
A significant community presence contributing to local culture, food, and events.
A growing demographic contributing to the city’s diversity in cuisine and cultural experiences.
Smaller communities including Asian and multiracial residents, enriching local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
ASU’s football program with community support and game-day traditions.
College basketball presence with games on campus and local viewing opportunities.
Local leagues and college-level play with seasonal schedules.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jonesboro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer meatless dishes like veggie burgers, salads, roasted vegetables, and pasta. When dining out, ask for vegetarian options or substitutions, and look for daily specials that feature farm-fresh produce.
Label checks and cross-contamination awareness are important. Opt for grilled proteins, salads, and naturally gluten-free sides, and ask about sauces and fried items that may contain gluten.