Jonesboro, Arkansas, combines university attractions, outdoor recreation, local dining, arts, and family-friendly activities in one easy-to-explore city. You can spend the morning learning about Northeast Arkansas at Arkansas State University, head outdoors at Craighead Forest Park in the afternoon, and finish with dinner or entertainment downtown. A little planning helps you get much more from your visit.
Quick Answer
The best things to do in Jonesboro include visiting the free A-State Museum and Bradbury Art Museum, exploring Craighead Forest Park and Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center, fishing or kayaking at Lake Frierson State Park, attending an A-State event, exploring downtown, and trying locally owned restaurants and shops.
Key Takeaways
- A-State Museum, Bradbury Art Museum, and the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center offer free admission.
- Craighead Forest Park is one of the city’s best all-around outdoor destinations for hiking, biking, fishing, camping, playgrounds, and picnics.
- Lake Frierson State Park, about 10 miles north of Jonesboro, is a good choice for fishing, paddling, hiking, and a quieter nature break.
- Check current calendars before traveling because concerts, university events, festivals, and museum exhibitions change throughout the year.
- Jonesboro has public transit through GOJO, but a car remains useful when combining downtown attractions with parks outside the central area.
Top Attractions in Jonesboro
Jonesboro has a useful mix of cultural, university, and outdoor attractions, so the best stops depend on how much time you have and what you enjoy doing.
Arkansas State University Museum
Start with the A-State Museum on the Arkansas State University campus. Its exhibits explore Northeast Arkansas and the northern Mississippi River Delta through history, culture, wildlife, hands-on activities, and recreated environments. Visitors are also welcomed by “Mona,” a full-size mastodon skeleton replica.
Admission is free. Current museum visiting hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., although university holidays can affect the schedule.
Bradbury Art Museum
Art lovers should visit the Bradbury Art Museum at the Fowler Center on the A-State campus. The museum presents changing contemporary-art exhibitions and educational programs. Admission and parking are free, including designated disability parking spaces.
The museum normally opens Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., but it closes between exhibitions and when Arkansas State University is closed. Check the current exhibition schedule before making a special trip.
Craighead Forest Park
Craighead Forest Park is one of the most versatile outdoor attractions in Jonesboro. The 692-acre city park offers fishing, camping, playgrounds, disc golf, basketball, birdwatching, picnic areas, biking, and walking opportunities.
The city’s current trail information lists approximately 13 miles of updated mountain-bike trails, a 2.4-mile chat trail around the lake, and a 3.2-mile paved road around the park. This makes the park useful for everyone from casual walkers to experienced mountain bikers.
Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center
Next to the southern boundary of Craighead Forest Park, the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center explains the geology, wildlife, plants, and natural history of Crowley’s Ridge. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission operates the 17,033-square-foot facility on 160 acres.
Inside, you can explore interactive exhibits, wildlife displays, films, and a two-story diorama. Outdoor areas include prairie, woodland, pond, and trail environments. Admission is free.
Lake Frierson State Park
For a quiet outdoor side trip, drive about 10 miles north of Jonesboro to Lake Frierson State Park. The park sits beside 335-acre Lake Frierson and is best known for fishing, kayaking, camping, picnics, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
The park has a visitor center, launch ramp, fishing pier, playground, campsites, and nature exhibits. Fishing boats and kayaks may be available, although rental availability can change.
A-State Sports and Entertainment
If you enjoy college sports, check the Arkansas State Red Wolves schedule for events at Centennial Bank Stadium and other campus facilities. Centennial Bank Stadium is primarily associated with A-State football and also hosts selected special events.
For major indoor concerts and touring entertainment, First National Bank Arena is the university’s main multipurpose entertainment venue. The Fowler Center is another strong option for music, theater, dance, and university performances.
Note: Museum exhibitions, university schedules, concerts, and venue hours change throughout the year. Check the official venue calendar before traveling for a specific event.
Itineraries for Every Type of Visitor
You do not need a complicated schedule to enjoy Jonesboro. Grouping attractions by area and interest keeps driving time low and gives you more time at each stop.
One-Day Jonesboro Itinerary
Begin your morning on the Arkansas State University campus with the A-State Museum. If the Bradbury Art Museum is open, add it before lunch because the two attractions are close enough to combine easily.
Spend the afternoon at Craighead Forest Park. Walk around the lake, use one of the park trails, fish, or visit the nearby Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center. Finish your day in downtown Jonesboro with dinner and, when available, live music or another local event.
Family-Friendly Itinerary
Families can pair the hands-on exhibits at A-State Museum with Craighead Forest Park’s playgrounds and open outdoor space. The Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center is another strong stop because its exhibits make local geology and wildlife easier for children to understand.
If your family wants more recreation, the Earl Bell Community Center has sports facilities and a rock-climbing wall. Current climbing-wall hours and fees are listed by the City of Jonesboro.
Outdoor-Focused Itinerary
Start early at Craighead Forest Park for hiking or mountain biking, then visit the adjoining nature center. If you have most of a day available, continue north to Lake Frierson State Park for fishing, paddling, a picnic, or a short hike.
Food, Art, and Evening Itinerary
Begin with the Bradbury Art Museum, browse local shops and antiques later in the afternoon, then head downtown for dinner. Check the Downtown Jonesboro and A-State event calendars for live music, theater, sports, festivals, or touring performances.
Pro Tip: If you only have one day, concentrate on the A-State campus, Craighead Forest Park, and downtown Jonesboro. Lake Frierson is better when you have extra time or specifically want fishing and paddling.
Upcoming Events in Jonesboro
Jonesboro’s event schedule changes constantly, so a live calendar is more useful than a static list of generic festivals. The Jonesboro Tourism & Visitors Bureau events calendar is a good starting point for current concerts, performances, community events, markets, and seasonal activities.
For downtown-specific events, Downtown Jonesboro Alliance currently lists events such as Jonesboro Fall Fest on October 10, 2026, and Downtown JoyFest on December 5, 2026. Arkansas State University also maintains calendars for campus activities, sports, the Fowler Center, and First National Bank Arena.
Current 2026 A-State listings also include the A-State Open marching-band competition at Centennial Bank Stadium on October 10 and The Red Clay Strays at First National Bank Arena on November 8. Schedules can change, so confirm dates and ticket requirements before attending.
- Use the tourism calendar for citywide events and visitor activities.
- Check Downtown Jonesboro Alliance for downtown festivals and business-district events.
- Use Arkansas State University’s calendars for Red Wolves sports, concerts, performances, and campus events.
Outdoor Activities and Parks
Jonesboro offers more outdoor variety than the original article suggests. You can mountain bike, walk, fish, kayak, camp, watch wildlife, play disc golf, climb indoors, or spend a quiet afternoon beside a lake.
| Place | Best For | Useful Details |
|---|---|---|
| Craighead Forest Park | Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, disc golf, playgrounds | 692 acres; about 13 miles of updated mountain-bike trails plus lake and paved routes |
| Lake Frierson State Park | Fishing, kayaking, camping, picnics | 335-acre lake about 10 miles north of Jonesboro |
| Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center | Wildlife, nature education, trails, family visits | Free admission; 160-acre site adjoining Craighead Forest Park |
| Earl Bell Community Center | Basketball, volleyball, tennis, indoor climbing | Rock-climbing wall and several indoor recreation facilities |
Warning: If you fish at Craighead Forest Lake and are age 16 or older, the City of Jonesboro states that you must carry a valid fishing license. Fishing rules can change, so check current Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations before your trip.
Summer heat and humidity can also make afternoon outdoor activities uncomfortable. Carry water, use sun protection, and consider doing longer walks or bike rides earlier in the day.
Dining and Shopping Experiences
Jonesboro’s dining options range from casual downtown restaurants to steakhouses and newer gastropub-style venues. For a special dinner, Omar’s Uptown on South Main Street serves steaks, seafood, and Creole-Cajun-inspired dishes in an upscale setting.
Brickhouse Grill, also downtown, combines food, a bar, and late-night entertainment. Another current option is Lebowski’s Brewing Co., which opened in 2025 and offers gastropub-style food and scheduled live music.
Cregeen’s Irish Pub has long been associated with downtown Jonesboro, but current online sources conflict about its operating status. Because of that uncertainty, it should not be the restaurant you build a trip around without checking its latest status first.
For antique shopping, The Fancy Attic Antique & Decorative Mall remains a current option in Jonesboro. Downtown Jonesboro also has locally owned retailers and specialty businesses that are easy to combine with restaurants and evening entertainment.
The Mall at Turtle Creek should no longer be treated as an operating enclosed-mall attraction. A tornado severely damaged the property in March 2020, and most of the former mall structure was later demolished. As of July 2026, redevelopment plans are moving forward for the former mall site. Target, JCPenney, and Dillard’s remain in the area, but visitors looking for a traditional enclosed mall experience should not expect the old Mall at Turtle Creek.
The Bradbury Art Museum, which the original article grouped with shopping, is better treated as a separate cultural attraction because it is an art museum rather than a retail destination.
Practical Tips for Visiting Jonesboro
Getting Around
Jonesboro has public transportation through GOJO, the city’s current transit system. It provides fixed-route service, paratransit, connections to Arkansas State University, and real-time trip information through its digital tools.
A car is still useful for travelers who want to combine downtown, Craighead Forest Park, and Lake Frierson State Park in one visit because those attractions are spread across the area.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions
You can build a surprisingly affordable Jonesboro itinerary. A-State Museum, Bradbury Art Museum, and the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center currently offer free admission. Walking around Craighead Forest Park can also fill several hours without requiring an expensive attraction ticket.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies by attraction. Bradbury Art Museum lists free parking and disability parking spaces. Craighead Forest Park has accessible recreational facilities, including its family fishing area and an accessible playground. Contact a venue directly if you need specific information about ramps, paths, seating, restrooms, or mobility assistance.
How Long to Stay
One full day is enough to see several highlights, especially if you focus on A-State, Craighead Forest Park, and downtown. Two days give you more time for Lake Frierson, longer outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and an evening performance or sporting event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Jonesboro?
Spring and fall are convenient choices for travelers who want to spend plenty of time outdoors because temperatures are generally more comfortable than during the hottest part of summer. However, event schedules may make any season worthwhile. Check the weather and current event calendar before choosing your dates.
Are there any local customs or etiquette to be aware of?
Jonesboro does not require any unusual visitor etiquette. Normal courteous behavior works well. Be respectful of university facilities, follow posted park and trail rules, keep noise reasonable in residential areas, and follow individual restaurant or event policies.
Is public transportation available in Jonesboro?
Yes. Jonesboro’s public transit system is now branded GOJO. It operates fixed routes, paratransit services, and connections to Arkansas State University. Real-time route and trip-planning information is available through the city’s GOJO tools.
What are the hotel options in Jonesboro?
Jonesboro has a mix of full-service hotels, limited-service chains, extended-stay properties, and budget accommodations. If you plan to attend an Arkansas State University event, staying near campus can reduce driving. For downtown dining and nightlife, compare properties based on distance to Main Street and your transportation plans.
Are pets allowed in Jonesboro parks and public areas?
Policies depend on the property. Craighead Forest Park’s campground specifically welcomes pets on a leash. Arkansas State Parks generally require dogs to remain leashed and under direct physical control in pet-friendly areas. Museums, nature centers, indoor facilities, and individual trails can have different rules, so check the specific attraction before bringing a pet.
How many days do you need in Jonesboro?
Plan one day for the main highlights or two days if you want to include Lake Frierson, longer outdoor activities, shopping, and an evening event. A two-day visit also gives you more flexibility when museum hours or weather affect your plans.
What are the best free things to do in Jonesboro?
Good free options include A-State Museum, Bradbury Art Museum, and the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center. You can also walk or enjoy many public recreation areas at Craighead Forest Park without buying an attraction ticket.
Is Jonesboro good for families?
Yes. Families can combine interactive museum exhibits, playgrounds, easy outdoor recreation, wildlife education, fishing, and community events. A-State Museum, Craighead Forest Park, and Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center make a particularly convenient family-friendly combination.
Conclusion
Jonesboro works best when you mix its university attractions, parks, local food, and community events instead of treating it as a single-attraction destination. Visit A-State Museum and Bradbury Art Museum for culture, spend time outdoors at Craighead Forest Park or Lake Frierson, and leave room for downtown dining or an evening event. With one or two well-planned days, you can experience many of the city’s strongest attractions without rushing.
Sources
- City of Jonesboro: Craighead Forest Park — park acreage, activities, facilities, and recreation information.
- Arkansas State University Museum — museum admission, hours, exhibits, and visitor information.
- Bradbury Art Museum — current hours, free admission, parking, and visitor details.
- Arkansas State Parks: Lake Frierson State Park — lake recreation, fishing, camping, and park facilities.
- Arkansas Game and Fish Commission: Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center — facility size, admission, exhibits, grounds, and programs.
- City of Jonesboro: GOJO Public Transit — current public-transportation services and trip-planning information.
