26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Mountain View (AR)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Mountain View, AR?

Mountain View is a city that was founded in 1873 but was officially incorporated on the 14th of August in 1890.

This is the largest city in the entire Stone County, nestled in the Ozarks, in the state of Arkansas, United States.

Mountain View has become famous for its dedication to preserving the state’s traditional folk music.

The city offers tourists and locals numerous opportunities to get outside for recreational activities through the nature preserve and parks.

Mountain View features several fun attractions, including Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, Loco Ropes, Mellon’s Country Store, the McSpadden Dulcimer Shoppe, Washington Street Park, and many more.

Plan a trip to Mountain View, alone or with your family and friends for your next vacation or holiday. Let’s explore the top things to do in Mountain View, AR.

Things to Do in Mountain View, AR

1. Blanchard Springs Recreation Area

One fun thing to do on your first day in Mountain View is visiting Blanchard Springs Recreation Area with your companions.

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area is an excellent place for adventure seekers, and it is located on the Ozark National Mountain.

There are many gorgeous waterfalls, rolling hills, hidden caverns, waterfalls, and more within the Picturesque Ozark Mountains.

Due to its proximity to several natural elements such as beautiful rock bluffs, clean streams, and the other incredible spots covered by pine trees.

The scenic Ozark Mountains are characterized by their crystal clear waterfalls, streams, rolling hills, and isolated caverns.

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area features a lake ideal for fishing and other water-related activities like swimming.

There are trails perfect for mountain biking and hiking, plus campgrounds with many campsites for those who would like to stay for long.

Address: 1001 E Main St, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

2. The Mountain View Area Chamber of Commerce

The Mountain View Area Chamber of Commerce manages Mountain View’s visitor’s center located in the downtown area.

The chamber is more concerned about the evolution of the business population and funding several events held all year round to bring more people to the region.

The visitor’s center is adequately run by passionate volunteers who are ready to serve their community; they are responsible for providing visitors with all the information they need.

The Mountain View Area Chamber of Commerce consists of a Board of Directors, and it is headed by Rianna Kendrick, Executive Director.

The chamber is committed to the city’s economic development by encouraging tourism and supporting local businessmen and women.

You can visit their website and click on BECOME A MEMBER if you want to join the Board or Become a member.

Address: 109 N Peabody Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

3. Ozark Folk Center State Park

The Ozark Folk Center State Park is a remarkable park and one of the most popular places in the United States.

It is the only generally recognized park concerned with the state’s music, culture, and craft and is situated in the Folk Music Capital of the World.

This park offers hundreds of visitors unique opportunities to come in and watch numerous crafters while they work.

The Ozark Folk Center State Park allows you to vibe to great music tunes and take a peaceful walk through the beautiful gardens.

The park is not open throughout the year but from mid-April to Mid-November featuring the craft village where visitors get to watch several artists make stunning crafts like Baskets, pottery, iron work, and more.

Address: 1032 Park Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

4. Stone County Museum

Are you interested in learning more about the history of Arkansas people? Then, visiting Stone County Museum must be on your list of fun things to do in Mountain View, AR.

The Stone County Museum was founded by the Stone County Historical Society, dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the natives who dwelled in the North-central region of Arkansas.

This wonderful museum is always open to everyone, both locals and visitors, from Mid-April to late October.

On days like Saturdays, Thursdays, and Fridays when the museum is closed, although volunteers are allowed to come in from 1pm-4pm.

Address: 206 School Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560 United States

5. Arkansas Folk Festival

Arkansas Folk Festival has been consistently held every year for the past fifty-eight years attracting visitors and locals from different parts of the world.

The festival offers people lots of excitement, ranging from music presentations to delicious meals.

It is held annually in April, usually on the third Saturday, during which local merchants set up booths packed with many essential items.

The Arkansas Folk Festival mainly supports local businessmen and women, including artisans.

Several exciting shows and competitions are also presented to showcase the culture and lifestyle of the community and the people.

Address: 107 N. Peabody Avenue, Mountain View, AR 72560 United States

6. Washington Street Park

Washington Street Park is a clean and adequately maintained park, offering a peaceful and comforting atmosphere.

The park serves as a meeting place for many locals and visitors alike; it is a small park but a place to create long-lasting memories.

Washington Street Park is a laid-back park; visiting this park is one of the best things to do in Mountain View, AR if you’re a music lover.

You may find at least two or more different groups of talented artists playing various genres of music, including gospel, local songs, and bluegrass.

The park is always filled with many friendly people, and it is a great place to have a snack with your friends and family.

Address: 314 King St, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

7. Peace Pole

The Mountain View’s Peace Pole was built and designed to show the desires or requests of the residents of the Ozarks.

It began as an idea of sixteen residents in Stone County who came together at the library of Stone County to deliberate on creating a peace pole.

They decided to build a peace pole with their local stone, which is one of the trademarks of the County and would serve as a reminder even to the unborn generations.

The Peace Pole was created through an intensive fundraising scheme with an expression that states, ” May Peace Prevail on Earth.”

The phrase was used to describe how the early settlers in the region lived and to pass a message to the next residents.

Address: 1112 W Main St, Mountain View, AR 72560 United States

8. The Old Mill

The Old Mill is a historic site constructed in 1914, filled with many fascinating stories behind its creation and destruction.

Here, there are rare items like vintage pictures, ancient tools, Indian artifacts, equipment for grinding corn and wheat, and more.

This Mill was originally built with wood, and it was later destroyed, after which a Dam was constructed in a bid to restore the area.

Under the Mirror Lake Dam, you will still find remnants of the old mill, which was rebuilt before the War started.

The Old Mill consists of an ancient store that offers eggs, corn meal, antiques, fresh farm produce, and more.

If you’re searching for a lovely place to take beautiful pictures, this is the best place for you with scenic waterfalls.

9. Jack’s Fishing Resort

Jack’s Fishing Resort is owned and operated by Jack and Mary, offering visitors every essential amenity they need during their stay.

They provide a lovely resort where their guests can comfortably reside while they visit several exciting attractions in the region.

The guests are taken on a thrilling fishing trip and a tour throughout the river, while in the evenings, it is a whole new experience.

During evenings, Jack’s Fishing Resort offers visitors mouthwatering dishes from Jojo’s Catfish Wharf before they all return to their cozy rooms.

The rooms feature kitchenettes, TVs, a Cable, and a stunning porch that offers beautiful river views, and it is perfect for those who want to enjoy the cool breeze.

Jack’s Fishing Resort also features a fantastic pavilion with grills for get-togethers and a bathhouse with an Rv Park.

Address: 212 Hayden Heights, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

10. Pine Hills Golf Course

The Pine Hills Golf Course was established in 1994 by Pete Whitfield, and it is a premium golf course that stands out.

The golf course consists of 9-holes with a tee of 1, 743 yards making it the longest tee in the region, and it is perfect for a brief golf match.

The golf course is operated by Kathy Oliphant, who serves as the Clubhouse manager, providing a spot where visitors can relax or boost their lost energy.

The Pine Hills Golf Course is ideal for beginners and professionals, offering all players fun challenges.

Address: 111 E Winds Ln, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

11. Disc Golf Course – Mountain View City Park

The Mountain View City Park has a fantastic disc golf course considered one of the best in the state.

Disc Golf Course – Mountain View City Park is an 18-hole disc golf course with fifty-four tee pads, and it is open for free.

It was recently upgraded with several holes, both tasking and exciting; the yellow course is ideal for amateur players while the blue course is great for professionals.

The golf course is adequately maintained and open throughout the year where many beginners and advanced players come to play.

12. Anglers Restaurant

The Anglers Restaurant is a fantastic restaurant situated at the Anglers White River Resort, which is the reason for its name.

The restaurant offers visitors a cozy and energetic environment to feel more relaxed and comfortable while eating.

There is a large dining room and a portico for dining and chilling, which also offers beautiful views of the incredible White River.

The Anglers Restaurant uses freshly sourced farm produce and ingredients in making every meal, ensuring they are as tasty and quality as possible.

They offer the best sandwiches, seafood, ribeye steak, chicken, omelet, pasta, burgers, O’Brien Crepes and Onion Strings, Loaded Potato Brown Beans and Hushpuppies, chicken Buffalo wings, cinnamon rolls, Blackened Catfish, and more.

What could be better than dining in a beautiful setting that offers amazing views of the environment graced with nature?

Address: 5 AR-9, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

13. The Arkansas Craft School

Visiting the Arkansas Craft School is one of the best things to do in Mountain View, AR, especially if you want to learn something new or enhance your art skills.

The Arkansas Craft School is an establishment that is concerned with educating emerging and advanced artists on the ways to improve their skills

As a nonprofit organization, the Arkansas Craft School, offers lectures throughout the year on studio arts, wood, photography, glass, jewelry, and fiber.

The Arkansas Craft School features many art and craft studios where students get to bring out their creative nature.

 The organization also offers a wide variety of events or workshops targeted at increasing the area’s growth and passion for arts and crafts.

All the classes are led by professional instructors, both regional and international artists from different parts of the country. At the end of each session, students always leave with happiness and pride after creating beautiful arts.

The Arkansas Craft School is operated by the Arkansas Arts Council, the Windgate Charitable Foundation, the Department of Arkansas Heritage, the stone bank, and donors.

Address: 101 N Peabody Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

14. Swinging Bridge

Swinging Bridge is a single-lane bridge constructed in the 1910s, and a must-visit for every visitor in Mountain View.

This is a bridge suspended by cable wires that actually swings; it extends for more than 200 feet along the Creek of South Sylamore.

The bridge was recently refurbished in 2018, being a popular place for many locals and visitors in the city.

Swinging Bridge is a beautiful sight to behold, offering an amazing scenery with picturesque views of the lake.

From the bridge, you can watch fish play in the water. Don’t forget to come along with your camera for beautiful pictures.

The calmness, peaceful scenery, and cool breeze make this place a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the gift of mother nature.

Address: 476-448 Swinging Bridge Rd, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

15. Jimmy Driftwood

Are you a fan of folk music? Then, add a visit to Jimmy Driftwood to your list of top places to visit in Mountain View, AR, with your friends.

Jimmy Driftwood was the mastermind behind the construction of the Jimmy Driftwood Music Barn & Folk Hall of Fame structure.

It was built in 1976 by Glen Branscum and his sons with extra help from friends. Jimmy Driftwood later donated the Barn to the University of Arkansas

The barn was the place where classes were organized before it was acquired by Glen Branscum and managed with Nellie until the 5th of April, 2011, when he died.

Jimmy Driftwood Music Barn is now operated by Nellie Branscum as several music shows are performed by local artists from different parts, including Gospel, bluegrass, folk, and mountain music.

Address: 19775 AR-5, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

16. Tommy’s Famous

Tommy’s Famous is a popular destination for hungry fellas who wish to have their tummy refilled with deliciously made meals.

So, whenever you’re hungry, visiting Tommy’s Famous is indeed one of the best things to do in Mountain View, AR. This is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving the people of the community right from 1991.

Tommy’s Famous prepares meals made from scratch using the highest quality ingredients, which are locally sourced.

They offer an extensive food menu featuring delectable pizzas, baby-back ribs, calzones, batches, and more. In addition, there is a bar that offers views of the pizzas being prepared.

The full-time bar offers a relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy some of the best selections of non-alcoholic beers, both local and international.

Tommy’s Famous staff is polite and tolerant when attending to customers, both young and old offering them the best services.

Address: 205 Famous Pl, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

17. The McSpadden Dulcimer Shoppe

Have you ever heard of a Dulcimer or seen one? If your answer is no, this place is for you; add a visit to the McSpadden Dulcimer Shoppe to your list of things to do in Mountain View, AR.

A Dulcimer is a musical instrument consisting of strings all over the trapezoidal-shaped sounding board, which are played using a handheld hammer to strike them(strings).

The McSpadden Dulcimer Shoppe made its first ever production in 1962 and boasts of being one of the best dulcimer companies.

The store is open to the public throughout the year displaying the hard work and efforts used in creating every instrument.

The McSpadden Dulcimer Shoppe offers a unique experience of learning the process of producing such an important instrument in Folk music.

Address: 1104 Sylamore Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

18. Loco Ropes

Have you been wishing to have a state-of-the-art experience? visit Loco Ropes .

Loco Ropes is nestled within the Ozark Folk Center State Park, offering visitors and locals an amazing treetop experience.

The presence of Loco Ropes clearly illustrated why National Geographic Adventure Magazine mentioned Mountain View in the United States’ “50 great Adventure Cities”.

Loco Ropes consist of three separate rope components, which, when piled up, offer a sum of more than thirty different kinds of challenges.

These challenges are excellent for testing participants’ endurance, skillfulness, nervousness, and resilience.

Loco Ropes is a great stop if you are looking for a wonderful place with lots of adventure for the whole family.

Address: 1025A Park Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

19. Mellon’s Country Store

Are you looking for a lovely store to shop? Then, add a visit to Mellon’s Country Store to your list of things to do in Mountain View, AR.

Mellon’s Country Store takes you back in time as you step into the 1940s-inspired interior featuring gas pumps right in front of the store.

The store offers everything from collectibles, gifts, old fashioned antiques, and more, including local jellies and jams.

When you step into the store, you will be welcomed by musicians playing beautiful old country music.

Mellon’s Country Store owners and staff are friendly and welcoming; they are always ready to offer assistance to customers.

Address: 19735 Highway 5, Mountain View, AR 72560-9299 United States

20. OK Trading Post

The Mountain View OK Trading Post is an excellent place for outdoor and animal lovers where they can have an incredible time.

The OK Trading Post offers exhilarating horseback rides, which extend through beautiful Mountain trails for any group size.

These trails offer incredible views of the natural forest and the state while leading through the stunning forest and across a creek.

There is a good number of campsites for different sizes of families or groups who would like to stay overnight, for a more memorable experience.

The OK Trading Post features a nice petting zoo that kids will love, including animals like rabbits, goats, deers, donkeys, and more.

You will find a fully stocked gift store where you can shop for unique souvenirs, which will serve as a form of remembrance of the time you spent here.

Address: 11595 Hwy 14, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

21. Bean Fest

Are you ready to truly disintegrate into the community? plan to attend Bean Fests.

Bean Fest has been held annually for thirty-eight years in Mountain View with numerous exhilarating activities.

The festival involves many outdoor races and cooking bean competitions with many merchants and their booths offering a diverse collection of items.

You’re offered an exceptional opportunity to explore the Historic community square filled with numerous stores.

The Bean Fest offers amazing live music throughout the weekend by talented artists, plus delicious local food.

Hands-on activities such as letterpress printing, doll making, weaving, and more are available for you to participate in during the festival.

Address: 1032 Park Avenue Mountain View, AR 72560 United States

22. Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail

Are you ready to go outside for some fun? Then, add a stop at Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail to your bucket list of fun things to do in Mountain View, AR.

The Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail is a chain of unevenly connected trail loops and a fantastic spot for an adventure.

The trail offers visitors a chance to go out for an awesome Mountain biking through the mountain bike trail of exactly fifty miles.

Through the four trailheads, you can access the various loops and the Blanchard Springs Recreation Center.

The Syllamo Mountain Bike Trail features three trailheads easily accessible from Green Mountain Road, although the fourth one is found within Highway 5 North.

A different section of the trail offers different kinds of challenges, from amateurs to advanced. Amateurs are advised to walk with their bikes when they get to the more difficult part.

Address: 28000 AR-5, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

23. The Skillet

The Skillet is a fantastic Mountain View restaurant founded with the primary aim of uniting and serving people with delicious meals.

So, if you truly want an amazing dining experience add a visit to the Skillet to your list of fun things to do in Mountain View, AR.

They provide an environment filled with lots of energy, warmth, and empathy towards everyone, both locals and visitors.

The Skillet offers customers an extensive food menu featuring nothing but delicious meals made through products sourced from local producers.

Some of the Meals served includes grilled chicken salad, fried petite catfish, burgers, Ozark sampler, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches, Philly Cheese Steak Sandwiches, state park ribeye, and more.

They also offer delightful beverages like tea, hot chocolate, coffee, juices, Apple ciders, sodas, waters, chocolate milk, Coca-Cola, and more.

The restaurant is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 3pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 8am to 3pm.

Address: 1032 Park Ave, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States

24. Arkansas Craft Gallery

The Arkansas Craft Gallery houses the artwork of the Arkansas Craft Guild, a cooperative established in 1962.

The Arkansas Guild tried to provide a conducive space where craft makers could develop their art and establish a market for the best products. They have over 150 members in this cooperative.

The Gallery is where the works of guild artists are displayed and have the largest display of Arkansas artists in one place.

You can find all kinds of pottery, jewelry, gourds, home decor, photography, paintings, wooden bowls, carvings, and much more at the gallery.

If you’re looking for that unique gift to buy? Consider dropping by The Gallery.

Address: 104 E Main Street, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States.

25. Stone County Barn Quilt Trail

The Stone County Quilt Trail is a beautiful part of Stone county history with lots of stories to enjoy.

The quilt trail comprises 12 blocks; on each block, you’ll find a quilt hanging somewhere. Each stitch of a quilt tells a piece of the story of different people’s lives and places in Stone county.

It’s up to you to take a drive and follow the quilt trail learning the rich history of stone county and the people who lived in it.

Address: 109 N. Peabody Ave. Mountain View, AR 72560, United States.

26. Rainbow Antique Mall

If you’re an Antique lover looking for an antique spot to explore, plan a trip to Rainbow Antique Mall.

There you will find a wide array of Vintage items and antiques to choose from. Their friendly customer service makes shopping there an even greater delight.

You can also browse and get inspired to decorate your space with antique items. Whatever the need, know there’s something there for everyone to enjoy, so hurry down and get busy.

Address: 204 W Main St, Mountain View, AR 72560, United States.

Want to check out other cities in Arkansas? here are guides on Jonesboro, Little Rock, and Texarkana for a fun Arkansas exploration.

Plan a Trip to Mountain View

Mountain View is a beautiful city with a dynamic assortment of attractions making it a highly tourist-friendly destination.

Every street or point you visit in the city, you will surely find an incredible place to have fun, unwind or make discoveries.

Mountain View is a city for the entire family as there is something for everybody, assuring them an unforgettable experience.

Start planning your trip to Mountain View.