Arkansas is located in the southern U.S. and is called the “Natural State” due to its abundant parkland and outdoor recreation areas. The state has a population of about 3 million people. Little Rock is both the capital and largest city, serving as a cultural, economic, and government hub.
10 Largest Cities in Arkansas
1. Little Rock (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Pulaski County
- Area: 121.3 square miles
- Population: 203,792 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 501
- ZIP Codes: 72201-72227
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.7465° N, 92.2896° W
Location and History
Little Rock, the capital and largest city of Arkansas, is located along the southern banks of the Arkansas River in central Arkansas. It was founded in 1821, shortly after the establishment of Arkansas Territory, and became the state capital when Arkansas achieved statehood in 1836. The city’s name comes from a small rock formation along the riverbank known as “La Petite Roche” by French explorers. Little Rock played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement, notably during the 1957 desegregation crisis at Little Rock Central High School. Today, Little Rock serves as the state’s political, economic, and cultural hub.
Major Landmarks
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Commemorates the 1957 desegregation crisis, a pivotal event in Civil Rights history.
- William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum: Houses archives and exhibits related to the presidency of Bill Clinton.
- River Market District: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and the Arkansas River Trail.
- Old State House Museum: Arkansas’s original state capitol, now a museum showcasing state history.
- Big Dam Bridge: The longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America.
Major Highways
Little Rock is a major transportation hub, with several interstate highways running through the city. Interstate 30 connects Little Rock to Texarkana in the southwest, while Interstate 40 links the city to Memphis in the east and Fort Smith in the west. Interstate 430 and Interstate 440 serve as beltways around the city, easing traffic flow. U.S. Highway 67/167 provides an important route north toward Missouri, while U.S. Highway 70 runs parallel to I-40, offering an alternative route across the state.
2. Fort Smith (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Sebastian County
- Area: 68.3 square miles
- Population: 89,728 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 479
- ZIP Codes: 72901-72919
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.3859° N, 94.3985° W
Location and History
Fort Smith is located in western Arkansas, along the Arkansas-Oklahoma border, at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers. Established as a military fort in 1817, Fort Smith was originally intended to maintain peace between Native American tribes and settlers. The fort later played a significant role during westward expansion and became known for Judge Isaac Parker, the “Hanging Judge,” who presided over the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas during the late 19th century. Today, Fort Smith is a key commercial and transportation hub, with industries such as manufacturing and healthcare driving its economy.
Major Landmarks
- Fort Smith National Historic Site: Preserves the original military fort and courthouse where Judge Parker presided.
- Miss Laura’s Visitor Center: A former bordello turned tourist center, offering a glimpse into the city’s frontier history.
- Fort Smith Museum of History: Showcases the city’s rich history, including its role in the Wild West.
- Fort Chaffee: A military training base with a museum highlighting its historical significance, including Elvis Presley’s time stationed there.
- Belle Grove Historic District: A neighborhood of beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes.
Major Highways
Fort Smith is well-connected to the rest of Arkansas and neighboring Oklahoma by major highways. Interstate 40 runs through the northern part of the city, connecting Fort Smith to Little Rock and Oklahoma City. Interstate 49 runs north-south, linking Fort Smith to Fayetteville and eventually Louisiana. U.S. Highway 71 and U.S. Highway 64 also provide important regional connections, while Arkansas Highway 22 offers access to nearby towns and communities.
3. Fayetteville (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Washington County
- Area: 55.2 square miles
- Population: 96,765 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 479
- ZIP Codes: 72701-72704
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.0822° N, 94.1719° W
Location and History
Fayetteville is located in the Ozark Mountains in northwestern Arkansas and is home to the University of Arkansas, the state’s flagship university. Established in 1828, the city has grown into a major educational and cultural center. Fayetteville’s history is deeply tied to the university, which was founded in 1871. The city played a significant role during the Civil War, with the Battle of Fayetteville taking place nearby in 1863. Today, Fayetteville is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities, and the Razorback sports teams.
Major Landmarks
- University of Arkansas: Known for its historic Old Main building and as the home of the Arkansas Razorbacks.
- Fayetteville Square: The heart of downtown Fayetteville, hosting a farmers market, shops, and restaurants.
- Wilson Park: A popular park with walking trails, gardens, and a unique stone castle sculpture.
- Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: A beautiful garden showcasing native plants and flowers from the Ozark region.
- Fayetteville National Cemetery: A historic cemetery honoring Civil War soldiers and veterans from subsequent conflicts.
Major Highways
Fayetteville is served by several major highways that provide access to other cities in Arkansas and beyond. Interstate 49 runs north-south through the city, connecting Fayetteville to Fort Smith and the rest of the Northwest Arkansas region. U.S. Highway 71 runs parallel to I-49 and provides access to smaller towns. Arkansas Highway 16 offers an east-west route, linking Fayetteville to other communities in the Ozark Mountains.
4. Springdale (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Washington and Benton Counties
- Area: 47.3 square miles
- Population: 87,496 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 479
- ZIP Codes: 72762-72766
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.1867° N, 94.1288° W
Location and History
Springdale is located in the northwest corner of Arkansas and is part of the rapidly growing Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metropolitan area. Founded in the mid-19th century as a small farming community, Springdale became a major center for the poultry industry in the 20th century, home to the headquarters of Tyson Foods, the world’s largest processor of chicken. Springdale’s growth has been driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and its proximity to the University of Arkansas. Today, the city continues to thrive as a center for business, education, and culture in northwest Arkansas.
Major Landmarks
- Shiloh Museum of Ozark History: Highlights the history and culture of the Ozark region, with exhibits on early settlers and Native Americans.
- Arvest Ballpark: Home to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Kansas City Royals.
- Tyson Foods Headquarters: The headquarters of the largest poultry producer in the world, a key player in the local economy.
- Jones Center for Families: A large community center offering ice skating, swimming, and other recreational activities.
- Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: A nearby botanical garden showcasing the flora of the region.
Major Highways
Springdale is located along several major highways that connect it to the rest of Arkansas and neighboring states. Interstate 49 runs through the city, providing easy access to Fayetteville and Rogers. U.S. Highway 71 also passes through Springdale, serving as an important north-south route. Arkansas Highway 265 runs parallel to I-49, offering an alternative route through the region, while U.S. Highway 412 provides an east-west connection.
5. Jonesboro (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Craighead County
- Area: 80.5 square miles
- Population: 79,859 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 870
- ZIP Codes: 72401-72405
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.8423° N, 90.7043° W
Location and History
Jonesboro, located in northeastern Arkansas, serves as the economic, cultural, and educational hub for the region. It was founded in 1859 as a railroad town, named after State Senator William A. Jones. The city is home to Arkansas State University, which significantly contributes to the local economy and culture. Jonesboro’s economy is also driven by manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Its location on Crowley’s Ridge, a unique geological formation, gives it a distinctive landscape, and the city has grown into one of the largest in the state.
Major Landmarks
- Arkansas State University: A major educational institution with a vibrant campus and the Red Wolves athletic teams.
- Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center: Offers exhibits and hiking trails showcasing the unique geology and wildlife of Crowley’s Ridge.
- Craighead Forest Park: A large park with lakes, walking trails, and outdoor recreation areas.
- Bradbury Art Museum: Located on the Arkansas State University campus, featuring contemporary art exhibitions.
- Historic Downtown Jonesboro: A charming area with shops, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year.
Major Highways
Jonesboro is connected by several key highways, making it an important transportation hub in northeastern Arkansas. U.S. Highway 63 runs through the city, linking Jonesboro to Little Rock in the south and Missouri to the north. U.S. Highway 49 provides an important north-south route, while Arkansas Highway 1 offers access to other communities along Crowley’s Ridge. The future extension of Interstate 555 will further enhance connectivity for the region.
6. Rogers (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Benton County
- Area: 38.0 square miles
- Population: 71,527 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 479
- ZIP Codes: 72756-72758
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.3320° N, 94.1185° W
Location and History
Rogers is located in the northwest region of Arkansas, part of the booming Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metropolitan area. Established in 1881, Rogers grew rapidly due to the arrival of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railway. The city is known for being the location of the first Walmart store, opened in 1962 by Sam Walton. Today, Rogers is a commercial and residential center, with major retailers and businesses contributing to the local economy. The city is also known for its access to outdoor recreation, with the nearby Ozark Mountains and Beaver Lake.
Major Landmarks
- Beaver Lake: A large reservoir offering boating, fishing, and camping, located just outside the city.
- Daisy Airgun Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Daisy Manufacturing Company, a famous maker of BB guns.
- Rogers Historical Museum: A museum preserving the history of Rogers and the surrounding area.
- Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area: Arkansas’s largest state park, offering hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
- Pinnacle Hills Promenade: A popular shopping and entertainment district in Rogers.
Major Highways
Rogers is served by Interstate 49, which runs north-south through the city, providing easy access to Fayetteville and Bentonville. U.S. Highway 62 runs east-west through Rogers, connecting the city to other towns in the Ozark Mountains. Additionally, U.S. Highway 71 provides an important route for regional travel, while Arkansas Highway 12 leads to nearby Beaver Lake and Hobbs State Park.
7. Conway (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Faulkner County
- Area: 45.6 square miles
- Population: 69,183 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 501
- ZIP Codes: 72032-72035
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.0887° N, 92.4421° W
Location and History
Conway, located in central Arkansas, is known as the “City of Colleges” due to the presence of three higher education institutions: the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College. Founded in 1872 by Colonel Asa P. Robinson, the city grew as a railroad town and educational center. Its proximity to Little Rock has fueled its growth as a suburban city with a strong local economy centered around education, manufacturing, and technology. Conway has a vibrant cultural scene, and its educational institutions attract students from across the region.
Major Landmarks
- University of Central Arkansas: A major educational institution with a diverse range of academic programs and a vibrant campus life.
- Hendrix College: A nationally ranked liberal arts college known for its academic rigor and beautiful campus.
- Cadron Settlement Park: A historic site along the Arkansas River, preserving the remains of an early settlement.
- Conway Symphony Orchestra: Offers regular performances, contributing to the city’s rich cultural life.
- Toad Suck Park: A popular recreational area along the Arkansas River, known for its annual Toad Suck Daze festival.
Major Highways
Conway is conveniently located along several major highways, making it easily accessible from Little Rock and other parts of Arkansas. Interstate 40 runs through the city, connecting Conway to Little Rock to the south and Fort Smith to the west. U.S. Highway 65 provides a key north-south route, while Arkansas Highway 64 runs east-west, offering access to smaller towns and scenic routes in central Arkansas.
8. North Little Rock (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Pulaski County
- Area: 54.7 square miles
- Population: 66,895 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 501
- ZIP Codes: 72114-72124
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.7695° N, 92.2671° W
Location and History
North Little Rock is located across the Arkansas River from Little Rock and is part of the greater Little Rock metropolitan area. Originally known as Argenta, the city was officially renamed North Little Rock in 1917. Its history is closely tied to the development of the railroads, with the city serving as a major hub for rail transportation in the region. North Little Rock is also known for its vibrant downtown area and recreational facilities, including the popular Arkansas River Trail. The city has grown as a residential and commercial center, with easy access to the amenities of Little Rock.
Major Landmarks
- Dickey-Stephens Park: Home to the Arkansas Travelers, a minor league baseball team.
- Verizon Arena: A major venue for concerts, sports, and entertainment events.
- The Old Mill: A historic site featured in the opening scenes of the film Gone with the Wind.
- Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum: Home to the USS Razorback submarine and other naval exhibits.
- Burns Park: One of the largest municipal parks in the country, offering golf, hiking, and sports facilities.
Major Highways
North Little Rock is served by several major highways that connect it to the rest of the metropolitan area and beyond. Interstate 40 runs through the city, linking it to Little Rock, Memphis, and Fort Smith. Interstate 30 provides access to downtown Little Rock, while U.S. Highway 67/167 serves as a major north-south route through central Arkansas. Additionally, Arkansas Highway 107 runs through the city, providing connections to nearby communities.
9. Bentonville (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Benton County
- Area: 31.5 square miles
- Population: 58,818 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 479
- ZIP Codes: 72712-72716
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.3729° N, 94.2088° W
Location and History
Bentonville, located in the northwest corner of Arkansas, is best known as the headquarters of Walmart, the world’s largest retailer. The city was founded in 1837 and named after U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton. Bentonville remained a small agricultural community until the mid-20th century, when Sam Walton opened the first Walmart store in 1962. The presence of Walmart has spurred rapid growth and transformed Bentonville into a global business hub. Today, the city is known for its upscale amenities, cultural institutions, and proximity to outdoor recreation in the Ozark Mountains.
Major Landmarks
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: A world-class museum featuring a collection of American art from colonial times to the present.
- Walmart Museum: Located in downtown Bentonville, this museum showcases the history of Walmart and its founder, Sam Walton.
- The Momentary: A contemporary art space offering exhibits, performances, and cultural events.
- Bentonville Square: The heart of downtown, featuring restaurants, shops, and the Walmart 5&10 store.
- Slaughter Pen Mountain Bike Park: A popular destination for mountain bikers with trails winding through the Ozark landscape.
Major Highways
Bentonville is served by Interstate 49, which connects the city to the rest of the Northwest Arkansas region, including Fayetteville and Rogers. U.S. Highway 71 also passes through the city, providing a major north-south route. Additionally, Arkansas Highway 12 runs east-west through Bentonville, offering access to nearby communities and scenic routes in the Ozarks.
10. Pine Bluff (Arkansas)
City Facts
- County: Jefferson County
- Area: 46.6 square miles
- Population: 41,475 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 870
- ZIP Codes: 71601-71613
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.2284° N, 92.0032° W
Location and History
Pine Bluff is located in southeastern Arkansas, along the Arkansas River. The city was founded in 1839 and grew as a center for cotton agriculture and river commerce. Pine Bluff played a significant role during the Civil War as a supply center for Confederate forces, and the city was briefly occupied by Union troops. During the 20th century, Pine Bluff developed into an industrial city with a focus on manufacturing and agriculture. Today, Pine Bluff is known for its historic sites, cultural institutions, and proximity to the Delta region.
Major Landmarks
- Arkansas Railroad Museum: Features historic locomotives and exhibits on the history of railroads in Arkansas.
- Delta Rivers Nature Center: Offers exhibits on the natural history of the Arkansas Delta and outdoor activities.
- Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Historical Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving the history of the region.
- Simmons Bank Field: Home to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions football team.
- Saenger Theatre: A historic theater that has been restored and now hosts live performances and events.
Major Highways
Pine Bluff is connected to the rest of the state by several major highways. U.S. Highway 65 runs north-south through the city, providing access to Little Rock and Louisiana. U.S. Highway 79 runs east-west, connecting Pine Bluff to Stuttgart and Fordyce. Additionally, U.S. Highway 63 passes through the city, linking it to other parts of southeastern Arkansas. Interstate 530 connects Pine Bluff directly to Little Rock, facilitating travel and commerce between the two cities.