Searcy is a picturesque city in the heart of White County, Arkansas. The city has a rich history, a welcoming community, and a thriving tourism scene.
Each year, this charming destination attracts thousands of visitors who come to explore its historical significance, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.
Searcy’s history dates back to the 19th century when it was founded as a pioneer settlement along the Little Red River. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving community while preserving its historical charm.
The city is also home to Harding University that is a prominent educational institution which adds a youthful vibrancy to the area.
Searcy is a magnet for tourists due to its fascinating blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and warm Southern hospitality. The city boasts attractions like the Searcy Art Gallery, and the Searcy Pioneer Village, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s rich heritage.
Nature enthusiasts are drawn to the nearby Greers Ferry Lake and the Little Red River, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and relaxation.
The city’s climate is characterized by four distinct seasons with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Searcy is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are at their prime.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an outdoor adventurer, Searcy offers something for everyone in a welcoming and picturesque Southern setting. From scenic parks to unique local attractions, here are the 16 most fun things to do in Searcy, Arkansas.
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1. Main Street Searcy
Main Street Searcy is a vibrant part of our community. It was established in 1984. It’s the heart of Searcy’s historic downtown. This special street is known for its charming atmosphere and unique shops.
In the past, Main Street Searcy faced some tough times as businesses moved away. But in 1984, it joined the Main Street America program and things started to change. This program aimed to revitalize downtown areas across the country.
Main Street Searcy has many interesting facts. It hosts events like the Get Down Downtown festival, attracting locals and visitors. This street is also home to the historic Rialto Theater which has been entertaining folks since 1922.
Main Street Searcy continues to be a vibrant and exciting part of our community with its revitalization efforts and preserves our history while looking towards the future and explore new things to do in Searcy.
Address:
200 W Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
2. Harding University Campus
Harding University’s campus was founded in 1924. It is a hub of academic excellence and community life. The university’s history is steeped in Christian values and a commitment to providing quality education.
Dr. George S. Benson and a small group of dedicated individuals laid the foundation for this institution in 1924. Since then, it has grown into a respected center for education and faith.
The campus is known for its picturesque beauty and features historic buildings, lush green spaces, and modern facilities. The Administration Building was constructed in 1934 and is a standout landmark with its iconic clock tower.
With a strong emphasis on faith, Harding University is also famous for its Bible lectureships. It is a tradition that started in the 1920s that attracts religious scholars and thinkers to explore new things to do in Searcy.
The Ganus Athletic Center wass dedicated in 2017 and adds a modern touch to the campus with state-of-the-art sports facilities. The campus continually evolves while staying true to its Christian heritage that makes it a unique and thriving institution for students and visitors alike.
Address:
915 E Market Ave, Searcy, AR 72149, United States
3. Searcy Art Gallery
The Searcy Art Gallery was established in 1969. It is a prominent cultural institution in Searcy, Arkansas. It serves as a hub for the local arts community that enriches the town’s cultural landscape.
The gallery was founded by a group of passionate local artists with a mission that has always been to promote the arts and provide a space for artists to display their work.
One interesting fact about the gallery is its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, from traditional paintings to contemporary sculptures.
The gallery’s annual events includes juried art shows and exhibitions and draw visitors from both Searcy and beyond. This makes it an essential part of the local art scene and offering a place to enjoy new things to do in Searcy.
Over the years, the Searcy Art Gallery has played a pivotal role in fostering artistic talent that offers art education programs, and contributing to the town’s vibrant cultural identity. This establishment stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to the arts.
Address:
300 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
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4. Searcy Parks & Recreation
Searcy Parks & Recreation has been an integral part of the community’s well-being and leisure. The department’s history is rich with the goal of providing diverse recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
Searcy Parks & Recreation was established in 1965 and manages and maintains numerous parks and facilities within the city. These spaces offer a wide range of activities, from picnicking in Lion’s Den Park to cooling off at Berryhill Park’s splash pad.
The department is committed to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle and hosts events such as youth sports leagues and community fitness programs.
One highlight is the annual Searcy Get Down Downtown festival, organized by the Parks & Recreation department. It attracts thousands of visitors to enjoy unique things to do in Searcy that includes live music, food, and family-friendly activities.
Searcy Parks & Recreation has been a significant contributor to the city’s quality of life and offers opportunities for fun, fitness, and community engagement for nearly six decades.
Address:
801 S Elm St, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
5. Berryhill Park and Splash Pad
Berryhill Park and Splash Pad is a popular recreational spot in Searcy, Arkansas. This modern addition to the city’s park system provides a great place for families to beat the heat during the hot Arkansas summers.
The park was established in 2009 and boasts a fantastic splash pad that offers refreshing water fun for children. It’s a safe and enjoyable way for kids to cool off and play in the water.
One interesting fact is that the splash pad is free to the public which makes it accessible to all families. It’s equipped with various water features and interactive elements that keep kids entertained for hours.
Berryhill Park features a playground, picnic areas, and green spaces that makes it an excellent location for a family day out. With its commitment to affordable, family-friendly entertainment, Berryhill Park and Splash Pad has become a beloved recreational destination in Searcy.
Address:
501 Davis Dr, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
6. Searcy Pioneer Village
Searcy Pioneer Village is a living history museum that provides a glimpse into the rich heritage of Searcy, Arkansas. It offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors to learn about the area’s history and early pioneer life.
The village was established in 1967 and consists of various historic buildings that includes a log cabin, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and more. Each item present at the village is furnished with authentic artifacts from the 19th century.
Throughout the year, the village hosts events and demonstrations that bring history to life. Visitors can witness traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing and candle making, and learn about the daily life of pioneers.
Searcy Pioneer Village is not just a place for history enthusiasts but also an educational resource for schools and the local community. It preserves the town’s heritage which ensures that future generations can connect with the past in a meaningful way.
Address:
1200 Higginson St, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
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7. Searcy Farmers Market
Searcy Farmers Market is a vital part of Searcy, Arkansas. It is a hub for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. The farmers market was founded in 1975 and has a rich history of supporting local farmers and promoting healthy, sustainable living.
One interesting fact about the market is its commitment to providing a space for local farmers and artisans to sell their products. This helps the community access fresh, locally grown food and handmade crafts.
The market typically operates from May to October and offers a wide variety of goods that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
In addition to the delicious and unique products, the market also hosts events and live entertainment that creates a lively and vibrant atmosphere for visitors to experience charming things to do in Searcy.
Searcy Farmers Market has been a vital part of the community for decades and connects residents with local farmers and artisans while fostering a sense of togetherness.
Address:
124 E. Woodruff, Searcy, AR, 72143, United States
8. Riverside Park
Riverside Park is a scenic and historic gem in Searcy, Arkansas. This beautiful park along the Little Red River has a rich history and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
The park was established in 1956 and provides a tranquil escape with its picturesque riverfront location. It’s a favorite spot for fishing, picnicking, and bird-watching.
Riverside Park is equipped with amenities like walking trails and picnic areas that makes it a perfect place for families and nature enthusiasts to spend quality time outdoors and explore unique things to do in Searcy.
Over the years, it has been a central gathering place for the community and a site for numerous events and activities that includes local festivals and holiday celebrations.
The park’s well-maintained facilities and natural beauty make it a cherished destination for both residents and visitors that offers a peaceful and relaxing experience along the Little Red River.
Address:
160 Riverside Park Rd, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
9. Old Hippy Antique Mall
The Old Hippy Antique Mall is a unique and vibrant antique emporium located in Searcy, Arkansas. This quirky and fascinating establishment has a captivating history and offers an array of vintage treasures for collectors and enthusiasts.
The Old Hippy Antique Mall was established in 2007 and is housed in a former 1940s Ford dealership building that provides a vintage backdrop for the eclectic items it contains.
The mall boasts a wide range of antique and collectible items, from retro furniture and clothing to rare books and memorabilia. It’s a paradise for those with a penchant for nostalgia.
The mall offers a diverse selection of antiques and collectibles by over 60 vendors that ensures that there’s something to pique the interest of every visitor to explore unique things to do in Searcy.
The Old Hippy Antique Mall has become a beloved destination for antique aficionados and adds a touch of nostalgia to the Searcy community while preserving the history and charm of bygone eras.
Address:
1216 S Benton Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
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10. Searcy Rialto Theater
The Searcy Rialto Theater is a historic landmark and cultural treasure in Searcy, Arkansas. This iconic theater has a rich history and continues to entertain and engage the local community.
The Rialto Theater was established in 1922 and has originally served as a silent movie theater. It was built during the golden age of cinema, and its ornate design reflects the opulence of that era.
The theater has a long-standing tradition of hosting a wide range of events, from movie screenings and live performances to community gatherings and special events. It has been a cornerstone of entertainment in Searcy for nearly a century.
Today, the Rialto Theater retains its classic charm while also embracing modern technology and amenities that provides a unique cinematic and live performance experience for visitors.
As a historical and cultural institution, the Searcy Rialto Theater continues to be a beloved venue which connects the community to the magic of the silver screen and live entertainment.
Address:
100 W Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
11. Searcy Sports Complex
The Searcy Sports Complex is a significant sports and recreational facility in Searcy, Arkansas. This modern complex has a brief but dynamic history and offers a wide range of athletic opportunities for the local community.
The Searcy Sports Complex was established in 2008 and features baseball fields, soccer fields, and a playground that makes it a versatile hub for sports and family activities.
The complex is well-equipped to host various sports events and tournaments that attracts athletes from Searcy and beyond to experience new things to do in Searcy.
Youth sports leagues and teams often use the facilities at the Searcy Sports Complex that promotes an active and healthy lifestyle among local children.
The establishment of the complex has significantly contributed to the development of sports in Searcy which provides a safe and well-maintained space for athletic endeavors.
The Searcy Sports Complex has become an essential part of the city’s recreational landscape since its inception and is committed to sports and community engagement.
Address:
1209 Queensway St, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
12. Kibo Midnight Oil Coffeehouse
Kibo Midnight Oil Coffeehouse is a beloved coffee shop in Searcy, Arkansas. The coffeehouse has become a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike and has a rich history and a unique atmosphere.
Kibo Midnight Oil Coffeehouse was founded in 2000 and is a combination of great coffee and community engagement. The coffeehouse regularly hosts live music events, poetry readings, and open mic nights, fostering a cultural hub for the town.
Since its establishment, Kibo Midnight Oil Coffeehouse has been dedicated to supporting local artists and musicians, providing a platform for them to showcase their talents.
The coffeehouse’s cozy and inviting ambiance and is committed to arts and culture, has made it a central part of Searcy’s social scene.
Over the years, it has become a cherished spot for relaxation, creativity, and connecting with the local community that makes it a must-visit destination for coffee lovers and those seeking cultural enrichment in Searcy.
Address:
801 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
13. Hourglass Escape Rooms
Hourglass Escape Rooms is a thrilling and innovative entertainment venue in Searcy, Arkansas. It wa established in 2016 and has a short but exciting history. It has quickly become a popular destination for individuals and groups looking for a unique and challenging experience.
One interesting fact about Hourglass Escape Rooms is that it offers an immersive and interactive adventure where participants solve puzzles and riddles to “escape” within a set time frame. It’s like being inside a real-life puzzle or mystery.
The escape rooms are designed with different themes and difficulty levels that provides a variety of experiences for players. Themes range from historical mysteries to thrilling adventures.
The establishment has become a hotspot for team building, birthday parties, and family fun. It offers an engaging and memorable way to spend time with friends and loved ones and explore new things to do in Searcy.
With its commitment to creativity and brain-teasing challenges, Hourglass Escape Rooms has contributed to the entertainment scene in Searcy. It offers a unique and stimulating form of recreation for its community.
Address:
1308 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
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14. White County Fair
The White County Fair is an annual event that holds a special place in the hearts of Searcy and the surrounding communities. It was established in 1937 and has a rich history spanning over eight decades.
It has grown to become one of the most anticipated and cherished traditions in the region. The fair provides a fascinating window into the area’s agricultural heritage.
It showcases livestock exhibitions, 4-H activities, and other agricultural displays that preserves the importance of farming and animal husbandry in the community.
The White County Fair has evolved to include exciting attractions such as carnival rides, live entertainment, delicious fair food, and even a demolition derby. These additions have made it a fun-filled experience for attendees of all ages.
The fair typically takes place in September and draws thousands of visitors from near and far. It celebrates local culture, showcases talent, and fosters a sense of community spirit.
The White County Fair is an annual tradition and continues to be a beloved event that brings people together and highlights the rich history of Searcy and White County.
Address:
802 Davis Dr, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
15. Super Bowl And Arcade
The Super Bowl was established in 1966. It is an annual American football championship game. It’s a huge deal in Searcy, Arkansas, like everywhere else. People gather to watch and enjoy snacks.
Searcy’s history is enriched by its vibrant arcade scene. The city’s first arcade, “Game World,” opened in 1983. It was a hotspot for kids and teenagers that offers various games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and pinball. The arcade culture grew, and new arcades popped up over the years.
Interestingly, Searcy hosted the Super Bowl XXXI in the city’s brand-new stadium in 1997. It was a memorable event, as fans from Searcy and beyond flocked to watch the game together and explore charming things to do in Searcy.
Searcy still cherishes its arcade legacy. Today, gamers of all ages visit arcades to enjoy both classic and modern games that makes it a vibrant part of the city’s entertainment scene.
Address:
825 S Main St, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
16. Tailwater Fishing Company
The Tailwater Fishing Company is a key part of Searcy, Arkansas’s fishing scene. This company was established in 2015 and offers all the fishing gear you need.
In the past, fishing enthusiasts had to search for equipment in various places. Tailwater Fishing Company simplified it all by bringing everything together in one place.
One interesting fact is that this store specializes in fly fishing gear, and it’s a hotspot for both beginners and seasoned anglers. They provide expert advice and host workshops that makes it a hub for learning and enjoying the art of fly fishing.
Tailwater Fishing Company’s store is a treasure trove of fishing equipment, from rods and reels to clothing and accessories. It’s not just a store; it’s a community hub for fishing enthusiasts in Searcy which makes this establishment an important part of the city’s outdoor recreation.
Address:
1304 W Center Ave, Searcy, AR 72143, United States
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Conclusion
Searcy, Arkansas, maybe a small town, but it’s brimming with character and exciting activities. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying the local culture, Searcy has something for everyone.
Make sure to explore these 16 fun attractions and things to do in Searcy, Arkansas to make the most of your visit to this charming Southern gem.