Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Marion, AR

  • Published 2022/09/09

Incorporated in 1851, Marion is a city in Arkansas that offers vivid sceneries for the world to see.

This city lies within Crittenden County and has been the county’s seat since 1836.

It offers a dainty city life experience, having the second largest land area in its state.

With its delicious food selection and warm locals, it will be a suitable choice for you to stay in the area.

If you want to break free from stress, this can be your dwelling place where you can relax and take a breather.

Here are the best things to do in Marion, Arkansas:

Uncover the Past at the Sultana Disaster Museum

Exhibits at Sultana Disaster Museum

Thomas R Machnitzki ([email protected]), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Sultana Disaster Museum is the place to go if you enjoy learning about history.

You can find this impeccable museum along Washington Street.

It presents the story of the greatest maritime tragedy in the country’s history, which took place on April 27, 1865.

Sultana is the paddle-wheel steamboat that exploded and burned on the Mississippi River.

Over 2,100 people overloaded Sultana that day, which caused it to sink near the city, where the museum is now found.

This accident wiped out more than half of everyone in the boat—a painstaking fact to ponder.

Now, the Sultana Disaster Museum reveals the events that led to such a catastrophe.

You can learn more about the tragedy through the victims’ stories by checking out the museum’s displays.

Warm up at Marion Recreational Complex

Drop by Marion Recreational Complex if you need to shake things up and take a moment to relax.

You can reach this public space by walking along Complex Road.

Its land area houses five ball fields, a pavilion, a fishing pond, and a walking trail.

If you are with your children, you can bring them to the playground.

Its spacious landscape makes Marion Recreational Complex an excellent picnic area.

Feel at Home at Fairfield Inn & Suites

Located on Hannah Lane, Fairfield Inn & Suites offers everything you may need to have a pleasurable stay and enjoy what Marion offers.

Each of its bedrooms has all the supplies to make you feel at home.

Opt for one of their stylish suites to level up your stay.

The hotel also has a great dining area, where you can fuel up and energize before you start a long day.

When staying at Fairfield Inn & Suites, you can keep in shape by swimming at the pool or breaking a sweat in the recreation area.

Look for Great Deals at Dollar General

Along Service Road, you will find Dollar General, where you can shop until you drop.

You can find items from popular brands at affordable prices within this store.

As Dollar General offers household supplies ranging from basic fixtures to ornaments, homeowners will definitely want to check out an item or two.

The store also provides a wide range of items, including categories like beauty, apparel, toys, and electronics.

This place will surely interest shoppers of all ages, whether they’re shopping for daily essentials or just want to browse the selection.

Please Your Appetite at Tacker’s Shake Shack

Located on East Military Road, Tacker’s Shake Shack is a must-visit diner that’s been serving Marion since 1977.

Its vintage-inspired design is perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos.

This diner is known for its classic American fare, with menu offerings that include burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes, and ice cream.

Those with huge appetites can try the Sultana Challenge and eat a four-level burger to win a free shirt.

Tacker’s Shake Shack is a great place to dine with the whole family.

Pamper Yourself at The Mane Event Salon

Unveil the most beautiful version of yourself at The Mane Event Salon, located along Interstate 55.

Whether you’re interested in freshening up your look with a haircut or dye, this salon will surely get the job done.

They also offer soothing massages, perfect for relaxing after a long day.

Look good and feel good while you’re on vacation by treating yourself to a pamper day at The Mane Event Salon.

Revamp Your Wardrobe at Backwoods

Backwoods on Shafer Street is a great place to find awesome additions to your wardrobe.

This boutique specializes in women’s apparel that exudes elegance and charm.

Its racks display fashionable cardigans, sweaters, earrings, and the like.

Whether you’re shopping for a formal or casual occasion, you can assemble a complete outfit at Backwoods.

The store also has sections for men and kids.

You can also check out the gifts area if you’re shopping for presents.

Grab a Slice at Pizza Inn

Your trip to Marion won’t be complete without trying the mouth-watering pizzas at Pizza Inn on AR-77.

Open since 1958, this pizzeria is among the best in America and is a must-try for pizza lovers.

It provides interesting flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.

Their pizza dough is always freshly handmade daily, which you’ll surely be able to tell at first bite.

Pizza Inn also offers dishes such as salads and pasta to complement its delicious pizza.

Practice Your Swing at Cypress View Golf and Recreation Club

If you are fond of golf, visit Cypress View Golf and Recreation Club on Club Circle and play a round or two.

This 18-hole course offers a fun playing experience for golf enthusiasts.

Professional players are welcome to join the tournaments that it hosts.

Before heading home, drop by the golf shop and check out the merchandise items they have on sale.

You can also check out The Grill at Cypress View if you want to get energized after playing for quite some time.

At Cypress View Golf and Recreation Club, you can experience what absolute leisure feels like!

Watch a Show at the Marion Performing Arts Center

You can find the famous Marion Performing Arts Center on Parrot Drive.

This entertainment area sits within the vicinity of Marion High School.

The facility can accommodate a large audience of up to 922 people.

Don’t miss out on the chance to watch a live show at the Marion Performing Arts Center when you’re in town!

If you aren’t able to catch a performance, you should still add this site to your itinerary for its historical significance.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Appreciate Music through the Years at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music

Exterior view of Stax Museum of American Soul Music

University of College / Shutterstock.com

Appreciate how music has evolved over the years at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

This impeccable museum is situated along Mclemore Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee, only 15 minutes from Marion.

It houses recording equipment and the roots of soul music.

Jim Stewart, a banker, founded Satellite Records in 1957 for his love of music.

He got financial help from his older sister Estelle Axton to help build the recording studio.

After a few years, they renamed it Stax, a combination of their last names.

Upon moving to Mclemore Avenue, it continued to produce award-winning hits.

However, due to unfortunate events, Stax lost everything it had in 1968.

To honor Stax’s significant contribution to the music industry, a museum was built for it.

Now, you can roam around the spot and see all the singles and albums Stax released on its walls.

You can hop on group tours to make your visit to the Stax Museum of American Soul Music more memorable.

Make Chilling Memories with Historical Haunts Memphis

Historical Haunts Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee is where the horror starts.

You only need to drive 15 minutes outside Marion to participate in their spooky ghost tours.

Paranormal investigators created these ghost tours due to unexplained sightings within the area.

You and your travel companions can roam around a haunted bus, spooky pub, and an actual crime scene that will freak you out.

Historical Haunts Memphis encourages early reservations to ensure you won’t miss out during your trip!

Get on a Cruise with Memphis Riverboats

Riverboats in Mississippi River

duckeesue / Shutterstock.com

Book a trip with Memphis Riverboats if you wish to explore the Mississippi River and see its wonders.

It’s ocated on Riverside Drive in Memphis, Tennessee, just 15 minutes from Marion.

This family business was established for Memphis Queen II, which they built for Captain Ed Langford in the 1950s.

Scenic view of Memphis Riverboats

Claudia Botterweg / Shutterstock.com

You can hop on a cruise if you want to go sightseeing, have dinner, or throw a party with your loved ones.

There’s also the option to avail of its private charters for exclusive access to its vessel.

Explore the grandeur of the Mississippi River with Memphis Riverboats!

Memphis Riverboat cruise

Gary J. Wood from Toronto, ON, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take Some Risks at Southland Casino Hotel

If you want to spice things up, try your luck at Southland Casino Hotel.

Situated on Ingram Boulevard in Memphis, it’s only a seven-minute drive from Marion.

You can play table games such as 3 Card, Dai Back, Blackjack Match Progressive, and the like.

The place also offers studio games and digital casino games.

Since the casino is housed in a hotel, you can also explore its other facilities to make the most of your visit.

Check out the food selections at the in-house restaurant for a fantastic dining experience.

At Southland Casino Hotel, the sky’s the limit for happiness and fun!

Go Camping at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

View of Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park during fall

Bonita R. Cheshier / Shutterstock.com

If you want a nature-filled adventure, take a trip to Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.

Located on Riddick Road in Millington, Tennessee, it offers outdoor activities for everyone.

It’s only 30 minutes from Marion, making it a perfect side-trip destination.

The park extends over 12,539 acres, where you can enjoy biking, hiking, birding, and other fun activities.

Birds resting on a log at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Bonita R. Cheshier / Shutterstock.com

You can also go camping or rest in their cabins after a long day of adventure.

Check out the on-site gift shop for souvenirs before departing the area.

Reconnect with nature by visiting Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.

View of Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Thomas R Machnitzki (thomasmachnitzki.com), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Final Thoughts

Marion is a large city that offers countless adventures.

With all the best things to do in Marion, Arkansas, it will be regretful not to explore this impeccable city.

Waste no time, plan your trip, and take a much-needed vacation at this charming destination!

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