Closest States to Arkansas: A Detailed Guide

Arkansas, known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and friendly locals, is nestled in the southeastern region of the United States. Whether you’re planning a road trip, looking for a weekend getaway, or simply curious about the neighboring states, knowing the closest states to Arkansas can be quite beneficial. Let’s delve into a multi-dimensional introduction to the states that share borders with Arkansas.

Bordering States

closest states to arkansas,Closest States to Arkansas: A Detailed Guide

Arkansas shares its borders with four states, each offering unique attractions and experiences.

State Distance from Arkansas
Louisiana 231 miles (372 kilometers)
Texas 314 miles (505 kilometers)
Mississippi 237 miles (381 kilometers)
Oklahoma 224 miles (360 kilometers)

Louisiana, to the south, is famous for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic sites like the French Quarter in New Orleans. Texas, to the west, boasts a vast landscape, from the bustling city of Dallas to the serene Texas Hill Country. Mississippi, to the east, is known for its musical heritage and the beautiful Natchez Trace Parkway. Oklahoma, to the north, offers a mix of natural beauty, Native American history, and vibrant cities like Tulsa.

Nearest Major Cities

When considering the closest states to Arkansas, it’s also essential to look at the nearest major cities. Here’s a breakdown of the closest cities in each neighboring state:

State Nearest Major City Distance from Arkansas
Louisiana New Orleans 231 miles (372 kilometers)
Texas Dallas 314 miles (505 kilometers)
Mississippi Jackson 237 miles (381 kilometers)
Oklahoma Tulsa 224 miles (360 kilometers)

New Orleans, Louisiana, is a must-visit destination for its world-famous Mardi Gras celebration, historic architecture, and vibrant music scene. Dallas, Texas, offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic sites, including the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Jackson, Mississippi, is known for its rich musical heritage and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Tulsa, Oklahoma, boasts a blend of art, culture, and outdoor adventures.

Traveling Between States

Traveling between the closest states to Arkansas is relatively easy, thanks to well-maintained highways and a variety of transportation options.

Highways: Interstates 20, 30, 40, and 49 run through Arkansas and its neighboring states, making it convenient to travel between them. For example, you can take I-40 from Arkansas to Oklahoma or Texas, or I-30 to Louisiana and Mississippi.

Air Travel: The closest airports to Arkansas are:

  • Little Rock National Airport (LIT) in Arkansas
  • Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) in Louisiana
  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in Texas
  • Memphis International Airport (MEM) in Tennessee
  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL) in Oklahoma

Train Travel: Amtrak offers train service between several cities in Arkansas and its neighboring states, including New Orleans, Memphis, and Oklahoma City.

Top Attractions in Each State

Each of the closest states to Arkansas has its own set of attractions that are worth exploring