Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Pine Bluff, AR

  • Published 2023/01/18

Pine Bluff is the ninth biggest populated city in Arkansas.

Arkansas, commonly known as “The Natural State” or “The Land of Opportunity,” is home to some of the most spectacular sights and attractions.

It is undeniably rich in rivers, lakes, and relatively natural woods, all of which endear nature lovers, bird watchers, and adventurers.

Let’s discover the city’s greatest places to visit and the best things to do in Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Appreciate the Murals of Pine Bluff

Beautiful mural at Main street pine bluff

Paul Sableman (Flickr user: pasa47), CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you have an hour or so to spare in Pine Bluff and want to view a few fascinating murals, a short trip to the Murals of Pine Bluff would be a terrific place to go.

Pine Bluff Downtown Development commissioned the festive artworks in 1992 to restore the city’s stagnant downtown section.

Some of the city’s buildings include murals commemorating Pine Bluff’s history.

A multitude of colorful murals pays honor to well famous people, major events, and key businesses.

There are roughly 12 huge murals in the location that showcase multiple aspects of Pine Bluff life.

The majority of them are conveniently placed on Main Street, close to the courthouse, although there are a few more that are dispersed.

Discover Several Railroads at the Arkansas Railroad Museum

Railroads played an important role in the history and development of Arkansas and Pine Bluff, just as they did in many other states, and the Arkansas Railroad has been displaying that history for decades.

If you are a train enthusiast, this museum is a must-see in Pine Bluff.

This well-known museum can be found at 1700 Port Rd, Pine Bluff, AR.

St. Louis Southwestern, also known as Cotton Belt, is a railway featured prominently in several of the museum’s train exhibits.

The museum’s most impressive component is the Cotton Belt Steam, which was built in 1942 and is the last coal steam-powered built in Arkansas.

Within and surrounding the museum, there are 17 railway lines, as well as exhibits of diesel engines, transport trucks, telegraph gear, and railroad-related artifacts.

Try Southern Cuisines at Sam’s Southern Eatery

Sam’s Southern Eatery was formed on the concept that delicious Southern cuisine should be accessible to everyone.

They wanted to serve their unique dishes and prove to the food industry that superb flavor and huge proportions can be sold for a very low price.

Their menu is diverse, from appetizers and salads to seafood and burgers.

They started their first shop in Louisiana in 2008 and have since expanded to fifty-one sites with over 750 people.

Their success is based on providing high-quality cuisine, healthy eating habits, and substantial quantities at reasonable rates.

Go Bird Watching at the Gov. Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center

The Gov Mike Huckabee Delta Rivers Nature Center is a mixture of a hiking route, bird-watching site, nature photography spot, and ecological teaching center.

They’re famed for their incredible diversity of species and are crown jewels that most people overlook.

The Arkansas and Mississippi Delta Rivers are among the most significant natural ecosystems in the United States.

It has an animal park, a variety of unique displays, and a particular area for teenagers with a multitude of new interactive activities that will keep them entertained.

A visit to the Delta Rivers Nature Center would be an excellent opportunity to come up to speed while also having a great time.

Learn More at the Arts & Science Center of Southeast Arkansas

A visit to the Arts and Science Center of Southeast Arkansas will be a wise choice if you’re looking for a one-stop shop that will provide you and your travel companions with a full understanding of science, the arts, and the area’s distinctive history and culture.

Arts & Science Center of Southeast Arkansas was established in 1968 and was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) in 2001 and 2016.

The facility is clean and well-kept in contrast to the permanent displays of items.

A supervised tour is an ideal way to see this center in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, since it will offer you facts and comprehension of the current displays.

You will also be provided with numerous first-hand art and science activities to make it more enjoyable.

Visit The Arts & Science Center of Southeast Arkansas at 701 S Main St, Pine Bluff.

Relax and Dine at the El Sol Mexican Restaurant

This well-known Mexican restaurant is situated at 3801 S Camden Rd in Pine Bluff.

The restaurant not only has rotating specials, but the décor is bright and pleasant, along with a welcoming family environment.

Chimichangas, burritos, and enchiladas are among the menu’s many Mexican staples, filled with traditional tastes and spices.

Their menu features a wide range of interesting dishes that combine classic Mexican ingredients with new continental influences.

With such a diverse selection to browse from, each meal enhances the last.

Immerse yourself in their laid-back atmosphere, and savor the dishes, beverages, decor, and overall experience.

Play Arcade Games at Jack & Jill Fun Zone

If you’re visiting Pine Bluff with your family, especially when you’re bringing the kids, you can’t miss out on Jack & Jill Funzone.

Spend some time at the family entertainment center, which promises to be a lot of fun.

It is Pine Bluff Arkansas’s Original Party/Play Provider, with a 10,000-square-foot indoor, safe, and simply fantastic play center.

The Jack & Jill Funzone includes different arcade games, mini-golf, inflatable houses, a laser zone, and more activities are available for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Children with disabilities are given extra care at the amusement park, where there will be less lighting, noise, congestion, and music with their Special Needs Day event, among other features.

Go for a Walk at Lake Saracen Walking Trail

This 5.63-kilometer out-and-back path is located at 200 Lake Saracen Dr. Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

It takes an average of 1 hour and 25 minutes to accomplish this course, which is considered basic.

At the southeastern end of the route, there are two designated accessible parking in the paved parking area off of Lake Saracen Drive.

People who bring motorized equipment and even stroller users will be able to explore this course.

Although this is a popular track for mountain biking, long-distance runs, and trekking, it may still be quiet at certain times of the day.

The path is available all year round and is a lovely place to explore at any time.

Try and Taste the Steak in Colonial Steakhouse

Colonial Steak House has been proudly serving the residents of Pine Bluff since 1974, and its purpose has been the same since then: to offer the greatest quality steaks with exemplary service.

It is one of Pine Bluff’s most upscale dining establishments, serving both steak and seafood.

This well-known eatery is located at Pine Bluff, AR, 111 W 8th Ave.

The restaurant has a high-end air to it, yet it is not exclusive, and it welcomes families.

The prices are a touch more than many other restaurants in town, but they are still reasonable and reflect the exceptional quality of the cuisine, as well as the large quantities.

Locals go to the restaurant in search of a fancy dinner for a special occasion or just the greatest steak in Pine Bluff.

Go Golfing at the Pine Bluff Country Club

This famous tourist attraction can be found at 1100 Country Club Ln, Pine Bluff, AR.

From the widest yards, the 18-hole “Pine Bluff” course at the Country Club measures 6,649 yards for a par of 71.

Pay a visit to Pine Bluff Country Club if you enjoy golfing.

Regardless of ability level, all players are warmly welcomed at the golf course.

Take a minute while golfing to appreciate the fresh air that passes through the big pines and oak trees in the area.

The golf course also offers different amenities in addition to golf, like the pool and a tennis court.

Dine with Friends and Family at Chef Lee

Chef Lee is a popular favorite because of its excellent buffet selection, packed with superb original flavors.

They’ve selected a fantastic location at 502 Mallard Loop in Pine Bluff.

The restaurant has a beautiful family environment and offers a wide variety of cuisine to suit all preferences.

Although it is largely a buffet restaurant, freshly prepared food is continually served, created with fresh ingredients, many of which are produced locally.

It’s a terrific spot to dine at any time of day because the whole buffet is open for both lunchtime and nighttime.

Participate in Recreational Activities at the Pine Bluff Regional Park

Rise early to delight your sight and breathe in the calm and pleasant environment in the Pine Bluff regional park.

If you’re looking for something else than a stroll, this park offers a variety of leisure experiences.

It has an 18-hole golf course, softball field, archery range, picnic spaces, a pond, and a lot of other recreational facilities.

Pine Bluff Regional Park is safe and is dedicated to improving the community’s quality of life by providing leisure and recreational activities for the benefit of our people’s wellbeing and happiness.

This purpose is accomplished via the provision of high-quality parks and recreational facilities, as well as the development of tourism possibilities that benefit both our people and local businesses.

Check Out Glass Pieces at the James Hayes Art Glass Company

Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, James Hayes owns and runs James Hayes Art Glass Company.

He sought a new medium to showcase his artistic skill after getting an art degree from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, in 1988.

At the Arkansas Arts Center Museum School three months later, he found glassblowing.

James Hayes is a multi-award-winning glassblower who studied at Murano, Italy, Columbus, Ohio, and the Pilchuck Glass School in Seattle, Washington.

Original vases, chandeliers, stemware, bowls, and other lighting fixtures, as well as Christmas ornaments, are among the most popular James Hayes glass pieces.

While Pine Bluff, Arkansas, is home to some well-known restaurants, museums, and railroads, there are a few great spots to visit nearby.

The capital of Arkansas, Little Rock, is just a couple of miles away from Pine Bluff.

Find out about some of the nearby tourist attractions that are worth seeing.

Appreciate Nature at Little Rock Audubon Center

Granite Mountain is a historic African-American enclave in southeast Little Rock, south of Fourche Creek, where the center is located.

The Little Rock Audubon Center always has something going on, including inside and outside teaching programs, strolling, birdwatching, lectures, and far more.

It’s a unique habitat rich in wildflowers, forests, and animals, surrounded by the Fourche River Swamps and the Natural stone Mountains.

The center’s priority is on educating in the fields of conservation, preservation, and the local flora and wildlife, with more than 2,000 acres of land.

You’ll be able to get out and experience many of the things you’ve just heard about, thanks to a network of well-marked trails that run throughout the park.

Place Your Bets at Saracen Casino Resort

If you feel lucky and want to win big, you can head out to Saracen Casino Resort just right off Saracen Resort Drive.

This Native American and African American-themed casino features an 80,000-square-foot gaming area with over a thousand slot machines, 40 game tables, and a sophisticated poker room area.

You’ll get to experience first-class amenities and personalized service as you arrive and enjoy hours of gaming action.

You can choose from a wide range of slot machine games from the classic 777 reels, and digital table games to modern video machines; see if you can hit the daily jackpot and win with progressive slots.

Play and enjoy some live-action baccarat or roulette or take your seat for a high-end game of Poker with tournaments, variations, and high-limit options you can enjoy.

Get ready to feast after playing because the casino has award-winning restaurants offering sumptuous fares.

Try some great juicy steaks at Red Oak Steakhouse or go for an ultimate sports bar experience with cold beers and game-time dishes at Legends Sports Bar.

Satisfy your palate with platefuls of all-you-can-eat buffet selections at Quapaw Kitchens Buffet or go for something casual like chicken and burgers at Saracen Express.

Enjoy casino games and good eats at Saracen Casino Resort.

Discover Rich History at Jefferson County Historical Museum

History buffs who want to learn about the region’s history will enjoy a visit to Jefferson County Historical Museum.

You’ll find this museum inside the historic 1906 Union Station train depot, a National Register of Historic Places landmark located on East 4th Avenue.

Step inside to see various artifacts featuring Native American culture and rich heritage.

Take time to browse through the exhibits depicting Pine Bluff’s earlier days from developments in agriculture, transportation, and the city’s early settlers.

Likewise, visit The Honor’s Gallery and learn about the men and women who hailed from Jefferson County and served in the army from World War I to the Afghanistan War.

Discover the moments of history at the Jefferson County Historical Museum.

Visit the Delta Rhythm & Bayous: Freedom and Blues Exhibition

Are you into the blues vibes and music? Then, you’ll have a delightful visit to the Delta Rhythm & Bayous: Freedom and Blues Exhibition.

This attraction is inside the Pine Bluff Visitor Information Center at the UAPB Business Incubator Building on South Main Street.

It was opened to the public in 2019 and welcomes visitors daily with bookings for a tour.

You’ll find interesting exhibits about African American Ingenuity that birthed the Blues in the city and how it spread to Greenville, Mississippi, and around the globe.

Learn about the racial and social factors that shaped this music genre through visual art displays, photos, old records, and musical instruments.

Listen to the narrative and the music and discover how the city played a role to influence renowned artists to catch the blues music.

Get immersed in local arts, culture, and music at the Delta Rhythm & Bayous: Freedom and Blues Exhibition.

Join the Locals at the Wetlands and Wildlife Festival

Enjoy fun attractions with the family at the Wetlands and Wildlife Festival.

This whole-day event is held every last Saturday in October at the Delta Rivers Nature Center on Black Dog Road.

It was originally known as the Boo on the Bayou and has been an annual local celebration for over 20 years.

Hear about conservation works, learn outdoor skills and participate in various activities.

Your family will also enjoy lots of games and door prizes, likewise, kids can have candy treats and enjoy the costume contest.

You can also catch hunting and cooking demonstrations at the Wetlands and Wildlife Festival.

Enjoy the Wonderful Outdoors at Byrd Lake Nature Trail

The Byrd Lake Nature Trail is one of Pine Bluff’s outdoor locations you’ll enjoy especially if you love the outdoors.

This 0.5-mile trail loop starts from Interstate 530 in Pine Bluff and meanders upland through a pine-hardwood forest.

Enjoy trekking past the woods, find time to connect with nature, or spot some wildlife.

When you reach the lower end of the trail, you’ll catch a calming view of Byrd Lake at the overlook.

The area also gives you a glimpse of the border between the Mississippi Alluvial Plain and the Coastal Plain.

You can stay on the benches at the overlook, take snapshots of the surrounding nature, go bird-watching, or simply enjoy the scenic lake view.

Go trekking at Byrd Lake Nature Trail.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Explore the Little Rock Zoo

A chimpanzee at Little Rock Zoo

Nngowen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Little Rock Zoo, located in Little Rock, Arkansas, was established in 1926.

The distance between Pine Bluff and Little Rock is approximately 63.3 kilometers.

It covers 33 acres and is the home of approximately 725 animals, representing more than 200 species.

A siamang at Little Rock Zoo

Nngowen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The animals can be seen in themed locations around the Little Rock Zoo.

Some exhibitions are based on animals’ native habitat, while others put together related creatures.

The Little Rock Zoo wants to build an enlightening place to educate the public about ecosystems and provide the animals with a more natural environment.

Final Thoughts

Knowing all of the fun things to do in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, you’ve probably already planned out your trip.

Travel here to renew your heart with adventure and get the chance to select from a variety of vacation options around the city, where you can fully appreciate the spectacular tourist attractions.

Activities are offered for everyone in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, if you want to spend your entire trip in a park, forest, or mountain, or whether you just want to dip your toes in the water on a brief day trip to the beach or lake.

Pine Bluff is a place where you will undoubtedly have a good time.

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