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Best Travel Agency for Cruises in Arkansas: Vincent Vacations
Why Choose Vincent Vacations for Cruise Travel in Arkansas
Experience and Industry Recognition
Certified and Award-Winning Cruise Agents
Local Expertise with National Reach
Types of Cruise Vacations Offered
Ocean Cruises: Luxury and Family-Friendly Options
River Cruises: European and International Destinations
Expedition Cruises: Adventure and Discovery
Yacht-Style and Sailing Vacations
Private and Group Charters
How Vincent Vacations Cruise Agents Can Help You
Personalized Cruise Itinerary Planning
Exclusive Cruise Deals and Amenities
Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel Arrangements
Onboard and Shore Excursion Recommendations
24/7 Support and Travel Insurance Guidance
Unique Benefits of Booking with Vincent Vacations
Access to Exclusive Cruise Line Partnerships
Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays
Private Welcome Receptions and Hosted Sailings
Onboard Credits and Specialty Dining Experiences
Custom Excursion and Experience Credits
Cruise Destinations Served by Vincent Vacations
Caribbean and Mexico Cruises
Alaska and Pacific Northwest Expeditions
Europe and Mediterranean River Cruises
South America and Patagonia Cruises
South Pacific and Maldives Yacht Cruises
How to Book Your Cruise with Vincent Vacations
Contacting a Local Cruise Agent in Arkansas
Requesting a Free Cruise Quote
Customizing Your Cruise Package
Finalizing Booking and Travel Details
Client Success Stories and Testimonials
Family Cruise Vacations
Romantic Honeymoon Cruises
Group and Multi-Generational Cruises
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Travel in Arkansas
What Types of Cruises Are Available?
How Do I Choose the Right Cruise for My Needs?
What Are the Best Times to Book a Cruise?
Can Vincent Vacations Help with Special Requests?
Best Travel Agency for Cruises in Arkansas: Vincent Vacations
Planning a cruise vacation from Arkansas has never been easier or more rewarding. At Vincent Vacations, our dedicated cruise travel agents bring over two decades of experience to every booking, ensuring your journey is as smooth and memorable as possible. 🌍 Whether you dream of ocean cruises, river adventures, expedition voyages, or luxury yacht getaways, our certified and award-winning experts are here to make your cruise dreams a reality.
"From the first call to the final sunset, Vincent Vacations transforms cruise planning into a seamless, personalized experience."
As Arkansas's best cruise travel agency for travelers seeking unforgettable voyages, our top-rated Arkansas cruise agents specialize in curating luxury cruises, family cruise packages, and all-inclusive cruise vacations tailored to your unique style. Whether you are hunting for exclusive last-minute cruise offers from Arkansas, need an expert cruise planner for a complex itinerary, or simply want the best cruise deals on the market, our dedicated team handles every detail to ensure a seamless experience. Stop searching for a 'cruise booking agent near me' and start planning with a trusted partner who unlocks VIP perks, custom shore excursions, and the ultimate vacation packages for your next adventure at sea.
Have Questions?
Contact us and reach out today to discover all our best perks and value about why we're the best cruise travel agency in Arkansas.
With travel agents based all over the USA, Vincent Vacations is an award winning travel agency and independent travel agent company. We have a storefront location and virtual locations, with a great in-office staff and a team of over 300 independent travel advisors who work all across the country. Click here to learn more. #TravelWithUs #GlobalAdventures #ExploreEverywhere
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Since 2002, Vincent Vacations has built a reputation for excellence in the travel industry, helping thousands of travelers from Arkansas and beyond discover the world by sea. Our cruise agents are not only passionate about travel—they’re also certified and recognized for their expertise in a wide range of cruise styles, including:
Ocean cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, and beyond
River cruises through Europe, Asia, and the Americas
Expedition cruises to remote destinations like Patagonia
Yacht-style and sailing vacations for intimate, luxury escapes
With Vincent Vacations, every detail is taken care of—flights, transfers, pre- and post-cruise stays, excursions, and even travel insurance. We’re not just a travel business; we’re your trusted partner in creating unforgettable cruise experiences. 🚢
Why Choose Vincent Vacations for Cruise Travel in Arkansas
Experience and Industry Recognition
With a legacy dating back to 2002, Vincent Vacations has built a reputation as a trusted leader in the travel industry. Our team’s deep roots in cruise planning mean we understand every detail that makes a vacation unforgettable. 🌟
As a Travel Agent, What Would I Sell?
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in Arkansas and anywhere in the US!
“Years of experience translate into seamless travel, personalized service, and peace of mind for every client.”
Our world, one adventure at a time. Our travel agents all around the world. We focus on community over competition. Click here to learn more. #TravelWithUs #GlobalAdventures #ExploreEverywhere
We’ve helped thousands of travelers from Arkansas and across the country discover the world by sea, earning recognition for our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
Vincent Vacations has partnered with over 1,450 of the top cruise lines, tour operators, specialty suppliers, destination specialists, tourism boards, air consolidators, car rental companies and hoteliers, providing our agents a wide range of unique privileges that help close sales and build client loyalty. Click here to learn more.
Certified and Award-Winning Cruise Agents
Our cruise agents aren’t just passionate about travel—they’re certified and award-winning professionals with specialized training in ocean cruises, river cruises, expedition voyages, yacht charters, and more. 🏆
Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a group expedition, our agents bring a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to every booking.
Local Expertise with National Reach
While we’re proud to serve Arkansas travelers, our reach extends far beyond state lines. Our agents have firsthand experience with destinations around the world, from the Caribbean to Europe, Alaska to Patagonia. 🌍
What This Means for You
You get the best of both worlds: local, personalized service from agents who understand your needs, combined with the resources and connections of a national travel business.
Whether you’re booking a cruise from Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, or anywhere else in Arkansas, you’ll enjoy the same high level of expertise and support as travelers from across the country.
Lindsey Vera
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love!
I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures.
I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
Types of Cruise Vacations Offered
Ocean Cruises: Luxury and Family-Friendly Options
From the sun-kissed Caribbean to the majestic fjords of Alaska, Vincent Vacations offers a wide selection of ocean cruises tailored to every traveler. 🌊
Luxury lines with spacious staterooms, gourmet dining, and world-class entertainment
Family-friendly ships featuring kids’ clubs, water parks, and activities for all ages
Adults-only sailings for a more serene and sophisticated experience
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
River Cruises: European and International Destinations
Explore the heart of Europe, Asia, and beyond with intimate river cruises that glide through scenic waterways. 🚢
“River cruises offer a front-row seat to historic cities, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes.”
Our agents can help you choose from:
European river cruises along the Danube, Rhine, and Seine
Exotic itineraries in Asia, including the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers
Specialty wellness and culinary-themed voyages
Expedition Cruises: Adventure and Discovery
For the adventurous traveler, expedition cruises unlock remote destinations and unique wildlife encounters. 🐧
Marla Finley
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
I'm so thankful I took the leap and joined the Vincent Vacations Team! Fantastic company, fantastic training, fellow agents and so much fun! Looking forward to 2025!
Popular Expedition Destinations
Patagonia: Sail among glaciers, fjords, and sub-polar forests
Antarctica: Witness penguins, seals, and dramatic ice formations
Galápagos: Explore volcanic islands and rare species
These small-ship voyages offer immersive experiences, expert guides, and unforgettable moments in nature’s most pristine corners.
Yacht-Style and Sailing Vacations
Experience the ultimate in privacy and luxury with yacht-style and sailing vacations. ⛵
Charter a fully crewed catamaran for a group of friends or family
Choose from sailboats or power catamarans, each offering a unique onboard experience
Customize your itinerary with stops at secluded beaches, vibrant ports, and hidden coves
Private and Group Charters
Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, or destination wedding, private and group charters offer flexibility and exclusivity. 🎉
Book an entire ship or yacht for your group
Customize every detail, from dining to activities
Enjoy private events, welcome receptions, and personalized service
“A private charter turns your cruise into a one-of-a-kind celebration.”
Kristin Williams
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality!
This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents!
I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
How Vincent Vacations Cruise Agents Can Help You
Personalized Cruise Itinerary Planning
Your dream cruise starts with a plan that’s as unique as you are. Our agents take the time to understand your travel style, interests, and budget, crafting a custom itinerary that fits your needs perfectly. 🗺️
“From your first port to your final sunset, every detail is tailored to your preferences.”
Whether you want a relaxing river cruise, an adventurous expedition, or a luxury ocean getaway, we’ll help you choose the right ship, cabin, and destinations for an unforgettable experience.
Exclusive Cruise Deals and Amenities
Booking with Vincent Vacations means access to special offers and perks you won’t find elsewhere. 🎁
Onboard credits for dining, excursions, or spa treatments
Private welcome receptions and hosted sailings
Complimentary pre-paid gratuities and specialty dining experiences
Exclusive shore excursions and group rates
Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel Arrangements
We handle every aspect of your journey, from flights and transfers to pre- and post-cruise hotel stays. ✈️
What’s Included
Flight bookings and airport transfers
Hotel reservations with preferred rates
Ground transportation and local tours
Custom packages for families, groups, or solo travelers
Our goal is to make your entire trip stress-free, from the moment you leave home to the day you return.
Onboard and Shore Excursion Recommendations
Maximize your cruise experience with expert advice on the best onboard activities and shore excursions. 🌍
Guidance on must-see ports and hidden gems
Recommendations for family-friendly, romantic, or adventure-focused excursions
Tips for making the most of your time onboard, from dining to entertainment
“Our agents know the ships and destinations inside and out, so you can explore with confidence.”
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Travel with peace of mind knowing our team is here for you every step of the way. 🛡️
24/7 support for emergencies, changes, or questions
Expert advice on travel insurance options and coverage
Assistance with documentation, visas, and special requests
Unique Benefits of Booking with Vincent Vacations
Access to Exclusive Cruise Line Partnerships
Vincent Vacations enjoys strong relationships with leading cruise lines, unlocking exclusive offers and perks unavailable to the general public. 🚢
Exclusive Partnership Advantages
Benefit
Description
Special Rates
Discounted fares and promotional pricing tailored for our clients
Priority Booking
Early access to popular sailings and cabin categories
Group Travel Benefits
Custom group packages with added amenities and savings
Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays
Enjoy a stress-free start to your vacation with complimentary or discounted hotel stays before your cruise departure. 🏨
Private Welcome Receptions and Hosted Sailings
Celebrate your cruise with exclusive welcome receptions and special hosted sailings designed to connect you with fellow travelers and enhance your experience. 🎉
“Our private events set the tone for a memorable and personalized cruise adventure.”
Onboard Credits and Specialty Dining Experiences
Maximize your cruise value with onboard credits that can be applied to specialty dining, spa treatments, or excursions. 🍽️
Indulge in gourmet meals beyond standard dining options
Relax with spa services using your cruise credits
Enhance excursions with upgraded experiences
Custom Excursion and Experience Credits
Vincent Vacations offers customized excursion credits allowing you to personalize your shore activities and create unique memories at each port. 🏞️
Examples of Custom Experiences
Private guided tours with local experts
Exclusive wine tastings and culinary classes
Adventure activities like snorkeling, hiking, or wildlife encounters
Cruise Destinations Served by Vincent Vacations
Caribbean and Mexico Cruises
From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the vibrant ports of Mexico, Vincent Vacations offers unforgettable ocean cruises to some of the world’s most popular destinations. 🌴
Explore tropical islands like Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the Bahamas
Discover Mexico’s coastal gems, including Cozumel, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas
Enjoy white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural experiences
Alaska and Pacific Northwest Expeditions
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska and the Pacific Northwest with expedition cruises that take you deep into nature’s wonders. 🏔️
“From glaciers and fjords to wildlife and rugged coastlines, every day is an adventure.”
Unlock VIP Perks You Can't Get by Booking Direct
As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, we offer you exclusive financial benefits that simply aren't available to the general public. For ocean and river cruises, this means we can instantly elevate your experience with valuable extras like generous onboard credits, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary category upgrades. On select 'Signature Hosted Sailings,' you will enjoy an even higher tier of service, including a dedicated onboard host to ensure your trip is flawless, a private welcome cocktail reception to meet fellow VIP travelers, and arguably the most valuable perk of all: an exclusive shore event or a private car and driver in select ports - completely complimentary - giving you a deeply immersive experience without the crowd.
Book with our cruise travel agency for the best perks and value! We create custom curated vacations. Everything from flights, group travel, pre and post trip, excursions, we do it all.
Sail through Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm, and the Inside Passage
Spot whales, bears, eagles, and other wildlife in their natural habitats
Explore charming coastal towns and historic sites
Europe and Mediterranean River Cruises
Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and scenery of Europe with intimate river cruises along iconic waterways. 🌊
Heather Huber
Certified Cruise Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
Popular River Cruise Routes
Danube: Vienna, Budapest, and the Black Sea
Rhine: Amsterdam, Cologne, and the Rhine Gorge
Seine: Paris, Normandy, and the French countryside
Volga: Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Russian heartland
Each cruise offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes, historic cities, and local flavors.
South America and Patagonia Cruises
Discover the dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity of South America with cruises to Patagonia and beyond. 🌍
Sail through the Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego
Explore the glaciers, fjords, and sub-polar forests of Patagonia
Visit remote ports and experience the region’s unique culture and wildlife
South Pacific and Maldives Yacht Cruises
Escape to paradise with luxury yacht cruises in the South Pacific and the Maldives. 🏝️
Sail between secluded atolls and pristine islands
Enjoy private beaches, world-class diving, and gourmet dining
Experience the ultimate in relaxation and exclusivity
“A yacht cruise in the Maldives is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind in paradise.”
How to Book Your Cruise with Vincent Vacations
Contacting a Local Cruise Agent in Arkansas
Start your cruise journey by connecting with a dedicated Vincent Vacations cruise agent right here in Arkansas. 📞
Reach out by phone or online form for a personal consultation
Our agents are based in cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and Rogers
Get matched with an expert who understands your travel style and preferences
Requesting a Free Cruise Quote
Receive a no-obligation, custom cruise quote tailored to your needs. 🎯
“Our quotes include all-inclusive pricing, so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden fees.”
Share your travel dates, destination, and group size
Get detailed pricing for cabins, flights, and add-ons
Compare options side-by-side to find your perfect match
Customizing Your Cruise Package
Make your cruise truly yours with a fully customized package. 🌟
What You Can Customize
Choose your preferred cruise line, ship, and cabin type
Add pre- and post-cruise hotel stays
Include flights, transfers, and ground transportation
Select shore excursions, specialty dining, and onboard activities
Our agents work with you to create a seamless, all-in-one itinerary that fits your budget and dreams.
Finalizing Booking and Travel Details
Once you’ve chosen your ideal cruise, we’ll handle every detail to ensure a smooth booking process. ✅
Secure your reservation with confidence
Receive all travel documents and confirmation details
Get expert advice on travel insurance, documentation, and special requests
Enjoy 24/7 support leading up to and during your cruise
Client Success Stories and Testimonials
Family Cruise Vacations
Many families have found their perfect vacation with Vincent Vacations, creating memories that last a lifetime. 🌟
“Our family cruise was everything we hoped for and more. The kids loved the activities, and the adults enjoyed the relaxation and great food. Vincent Vacations made it all so easy!”
Custom itineraries that cater to all ages
Seamless coordination of flights, transfers, and onboard activities
Special touches like welcome amenities and family-friendly excursions
Romantic Honeymoon Cruises
Couples trust Vincent Vacations to plan unforgettable honeymoon cruises that set the tone for a lifetime of adventure. 💖
What Makes Our Honeymoon Cruises Special
Private romantic dinners and sunset cruises
Spa packages and couples’ excursions
Personalized welcome amenities and special surprises
“Our honeymoon cruise was magical. From the moment we boarded, everything was perfect. Vincent Vacations truly understands romance.”
Group and Multi-Generational Cruises
Whether it’s a family reunion, anniversary celebration, or a group of friends, Vincent Vacations excels at organizing group and multi-generational cruises. 🎉
Custom group packages with exclusive amenities and savings
Private events and hosted sailings for special occasions
Flexible itineraries that cater to diverse interests and ages
“Our multi-generational cruise was a huge success. Everyone had a fantastic time, and the planning was stress-free thanks to Vincent Vacations.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Travel in Arkansas
What Types of Cruises Are Available?
Vincent Vacations offers a diverse range of cruise options to suit every traveler’s taste and adventure level. 🚢
Ocean Cruises: Explore vast oceans with luxury liners visiting tropical and exotic destinations.
River Cruises: Glide through scenic rivers in Europe, Asia, and beyond, enjoying intimate and cultural experiences.
Expedition Cruises: For the adventurous, discover remote locations such as Antarctica and Patagonia with expert guides.
Yacht and Sailing Vacations: Enjoy personalized, intimate cruises on elegant yachts or sailboats.
How Do I Choose the Right Cruise for My Needs?
Choosing the right cruise depends on your preferences, travel style, and budget. Consider these factors: 🎯
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruise
Factor
What to Think About
Destination
Are you drawn to tropical beaches, historic cities, or remote wilderness?
Ship Size
Do you prefer large ships with many amenities or smaller vessels with intimate experiences?
Travel Companions
Family-friendly, romantic, solo traveler, or group trip?
Activities
Want adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or gourmet dining?
Our owner is the president of an ASTA Chapter. The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is the largest association representing the travel industry in the world, accounting for over 80% of all travel sold. Click here to learn more. #TravelWithUs #GlobalAdventures #ExploreEverywhere
Our cruise experts at Vincent Vacations guide you through these choices to create the perfect itinerary.
What Are the Best Times to Book a Cruise?
The best time to book depends on your destination and flexibility. ⚓
Early Booking: Secure the best cabins and enjoy early-bird discounts by booking 6-12 months in advance.
Last-Minute Deals: If your dates are flexible, last-minute offers can provide excellent savings.
Seasonal Considerations: Peak seasons offer the best weather but can be more crowded and pricier; off-season cruises often have lower rates.
Can Vincent Vacations Help with Special Requests?
Absolutely! Our cruise agents are equipped to handle a wide range of special requests to make your trip seamless and enjoyable. ✨
Dietary accommodations and meal preferences
Accessibility needs and mobility assistance
Celebration arrangements like birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoons
Custom shore excursions and private tours
Travel insurance and documentation assistance
“No request is too big or small — we advocate for you every step of the way.”
Conclusion
Choosing Vincent Vacations as your cruise travel business in Arkansas means partnering with experienced, certified, and award-winning cruise experts who have been serving travelers since 2002. 🚢
Our local agents understand your unique travel preferences and provide personalized service to make every cruise—from ocean and river voyages to expedition and yacht-style adventures—a seamless and memorable experience.
With Vincent Vacations, your dream cruise is within reach—whether it’s your first voyage or your tenth, we’re dedicated to helping you explore the world’s most beautiful destinations with confidence and joy. Contact your local Arkansas cruise agent today and start your unforgettable journey.
Get a FREE Quote Now!
Click below to contact us and get a FREE cruise quote coming from Arkansas today.
A vacation in Arkansas has as much to do with rejuvenation as relaxation. The waters of Eureka Springs and Hot Springs have long been known for their healthful qualities, and the state offers additional ways to make visitors feel better: fishing on a scenic lake, walking a wooded trail, contemplating the beauty of a mountain road. Other activities may seem more silly than holistic (petting an alligator, for instance, or watching the World Championship Duck Calling Contest), but all of our research indicates that having fun can be good for you. Arkansas is also home to the Clinton Library, the largest archival collection on American presidential history in the U.S.
Arkansas is also restorative in the sense that it tries to preserve a lot of its past. Sometimes that takes place through historic forts, vintage buildings and presentations of traditional music and crafts; sometimes through the general sense that life moves at a relaxed pace reminiscent of previous decades. Those who like the high energy and sophisticated entertainment of big cities may want to go elsewhere, but if you want to take it easy and enjoy beautiful, rural scenery, Arkansas is a good place to do that.
Geography
Much of the state is covered by mountains—the Ouachita Mountains in the western part of the state and the Ozark Mountains (with a higher average elevation) in the northwest. The southern part of the state is flatter than the northern Ozark Plateau region. The eastern side, bordered almost entirely by the Mississippi River, is known as the Arkansas Delta region.
History
Arkansas' early residents found that the area's rich bottomlands were good for growing crops. By AD 700, these Native American farmers were raising enough food to support the relatively advanced Mississippian or Temple Mound Builder culture that came to dominate the area. They lived in large villages and often constructed elaborate ceremonial earthworks (some of which can be viewed at Toltec Mounds State Park, near Little Rock). But by the early 1600s, the large villages had been abandoned. When French explorers arrived in the late 1600s, they found only small Caddoan villages strung along the riverbanks.
The French created the first European settlement in 1686, but it didn't lure many settlers. During the 1700s, the area was under Spanish control. In 1800, it went back to France and soon after became part of the U.S. as a result of the Louisiana Purchase. Under new management, so to speak, Arkansas saw a wave of settlers arrive. The rich lands along the Mississippi River attracted slave-owning planters and brought the Southern plantation tradition to eastern Arkansas. Settlers from Appalachia came into the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, probably because it was much like the lands they had left. During the Civil War, Arkansas was divided: Although it seceded, nearly 10,000 of its residents fought for the Union.
Arkansas was driven by an agricultural economy well into the 20th century. Not until the 1950s, in an effort to combat declining revenues and population, did the Arkansas Legislature back a plan to attract industry to the state. Today, Arkansas still grows a lot of rice, cotton and soybeans and is one of the largest poultry producers in the world. It also manufactures electronic equipment and wood-related products.
Arkansas is home to a number of major corporations, including Wal-Mart Stores, J. B. Hunt (trucking) and Tyson Foods. These are found in the northwestern part of the state near the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, and the combination has helped create a prosperous, fairly urbane enclave complete with abundant white-collar jobs and its own airport. Arkansas' overall economy has also been strengthened by the many retirees who have moved to Hot Springs and mountain resorts.
Snapshot
Arkansas' main attractions are historic sites, scenic forests, hills and mountains, Eureka Springs, mineral baths, Hot Springs National Park, festivals, boating, hunting, fishing, waterskiing, the Ozarks, a diamond mine, a small theme park, Thoroughbred horse racing, the Wal-Mart headquarters and eclectic Visitors Center, and the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park.
Travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery and an unhurried atmosphere will have a great time in Arkansas. Those who seek the bustle and sophistication of big cities, who are interested solely in coastal or winter sports or who have a low tolerance for rural locales and folk culture will find the state less to their liking.
Potpourri
Ernest Hemingway spent some time in Piggott, in far northeast Arkansas, the hometown of his second wife, Pauline. The Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum preserves the home of Hemingway's inlaws and a barn/studio where the author worked.
Hatchet Hall, in Eureka Springs, was the final home of Carrie Nation, the axe-wielding prohibitionist who terrorized saloons at the turn of the 20th century.
As its name indicates, Texarkana is partly in Texas and partly in Arkansas.
Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto is believed to have passed through Arkansas in the 1540s and may have visited a Native American village in the eastern part of the state. Parkin Archaeological State Park (northwest of West Memphis) commemorates the site. Visitors can watch the ongoing excavations of the settlement—it's a chance to see how history is pieced together from shards.
Craft making wasn't always as alive and well in the Ozarks as it is today. The old skills had practically disappeared in the late 1950s when University of Arkansas Extension Service agents began bringing in instructors to revive craft-making as a way to increase incomes of rural people. Today, one of the state's biggest draws is the annual craft fairs in northwest Arkansas. Thousands of tradesmen and visitors come to the area each spring and fall to enjoy the twice-yearly fairs, which coincide with the changing seasons.
Travelers enamored of the alleged healing power of quartz crystals will want to stop in Mount Ida, the Quartz Crystal Capital of the World. You can buy the sparkling stones in shops along the road or rent a pick at the hardware store and find them yourself at quarries in the Hot Springs/Mount Ida area.
As far as we know, Arkansas is the only state where opposing political candidates actually went to war against each other. In the 1870s, two rivals for the governorship both claimed victory; they backed up their claims with armed troops, who fought a few small battles. President Ulysses S. Grant settled the conflict.
Alma calls itself the Spinach Capital of the World and has staked its claim with a huge concrete statue of Popeye.
Arkansas leads the nation in the production of artificial fishing lures.
Famous Arkansans (besides Bill Clinton) include Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, actor/filmmaker Billy Bob Thornton and country-music legend Johnny Cash.
Wyatt Earp spent some time in Arkansas, where in 1871 he was charged with horse theft in Van Buren. He escaped the charges and went on to pursue his legendary career in law enforcement. Long before Bill Clinton, Arkansas' first presidential candidate was actually William Hope "Coin" Harvey, who ran as a third-party candidate against Franklin D. Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover in 1932. His campaign headquarters were in Monte Ne, a famous resort of the time known for its likeness to both Eureka Springs and Hot Springs.
Vincent Vacations - Authorized Arkansas Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 883-0460
No-Obligation Arkansas Vacation Quote Request Form
Popular Locations & Brands - Experiences All Over The World!
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
Our motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Romance Travel
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Group Travel
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
Family
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Disney
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
And SO Much More!
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own.
All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US!
Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team.
We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service.
We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group.
Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
Start Your Next Trip With Vincent Vacations Today!
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
