Everyone loves the idea of getting away from it all until they realize “it all” includes coffee shops, decent Wi-Fi, and a grocery store that doesn’t require a 45-minute drive. That’s where these hidden gems in the Ozarks come in. Spanning Missouri and Arkansas, the Ozarks are a refuge for those seeking natural beauty, where these 15 towns strike a sweet balance between retreat and convenience.
Leslie, Arkansas
Back in the early 1900s, Leslie was a bustling railroad hub. Today, the trains are long gone, but the town has traded steam whistles for cinnamon rolls and railcars for sourdough starters. While you’re here, Serenity Farm Bread is a must-visit. This wood-fired bakery draws a loyal crowd of carb pilgrims in search of crusty loaves.
Mountain View, Arkansas
Known as the “Folk Music Capital of the World,” Mountain View is a town of around 2,800 people where strangers become friends over a shared fiddle tune. Nature lovers aren’t left out, either. Just a short drive away is Blanchard Springs Caverns, a stunning underground cave system with cathedral-like chambers and crystal formations that look otherworldly.
Ponca, Arkansas
Ponca is wildly peaceful yet wonderfully reachable. Here, the mornings start with mist curling across Boxley Valley, where you might see wild elk grazing near 19th-century barns. Later in the day, you can also visit the Ponca Elk Education Center, which provides educational exhibits and resources on local wildlife. It’s the perfect place to buy a souvenir, too!
Calico Rock, Arkansas
What makes Calico Rock truly unique is its Ghost Town. Yep, you read that right. Along Main Street, you’ll find preserved buildings from the early 1900s—from jails to cotton warehouses to a funeral parlor. And when hunger strikes, local gems like Printing Press Cafe serve up hearty Ozark fare with a side of small-town hospitality.
Cotter, Arkansas
This town of just under 1,000 residents is affectionately known as the “Trout Capital USA”—and for good reason. The river here is legendary for its world-class trout fishing, with anglers reeling in cutthroat trout beneath the towering Cotter Bridge. And if you’re visiting with family, the Big Spring Park is a great place for a summer picnic.
Brinkley, Arkansas
Brinkley is a small town that houses 3,000 residents, so you can imagine how deeply rooted in tradition it must be. Mix that with affordable lodging along with easy access to both Little Rock and Memphis, and you’ve got yourself the perfect getaway. Bonus tip: bring binoculars because you might just spot a rare bird.
Salem, Missouri
Salem is a town where people have a strong sense of local culture. The Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center showcases regional history, while the Bonebrake Center of Nature and History offers educational programs right in town. If you’re around in September, don’t miss the Salem Chamber Rodeo, a lively event that showcases cowboy grit.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
For all its vintage flair, this town lives comfortably in the now. It’s got fiber internet, boutique B&Bs, and more crystal shops than you’d think could exist in one square mile. Want nature? Escape to Lake Leatherwood City Park, a 1,600-acre playground with some of the best mountain biking in the region.
Warsaw, Missouri
Say hello to Warsaw, a paradise for water babies. Start your day at Drake Harbor Recreation Area, a scenic waterfront park right off downtown, where you can stroll the Steamboat Landing Boardwalk. Or make it to the showstopper—Truman Lake, which has multiple marinas and public access points. It’s time to make those jet skiing dreams finally come true!
Van Buren, Missouri
Founded in 1833, the town of Van Buren can be easily reached via the U.S. Route 60. Its modern comforts, along with annual events like the Current River Bluegrass Festival and Old Time Music Festival, bring a scenic, toe-tapping way to experience the Ozarks’ musical heritage. And the 747 people there will only make your stay better.
