Located on a little over seven square miles of land, the small town of Mountain View, AR, welcomes visitors every year for its annual Folk Festival. Arkansas, known for its natural beauty, has stunning wilderness, vast wildlife, and scenic views.
And because of its proximity to the White River, it also beckons fishermen from all over. Let’s look at this town in the Ozarks of northern Arkansas.
Where Is Mountain View, AR?
Mountain View, AR, the largest city in Stone County, was founded in 1873. It’s located along the intersections of Highways 14, 66, 9, and 5 in northern Arkansas. This town sits just east of the Ozark National Forest, a little more than a two-hour drive north of Little Rock.
According to the 2020 US Census, Mountain View has about 2,800 residents. Most people find work in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Because so many visitors come to the annual festivals and enjoy the outdoor activities, hotels and restaurants are some of the primary employers.
What Is Mountain View, AR, Known For?
In April, Mountain View hosts the annual Arkansas Folk Festival. The town prides itself on the title “Folk Music Capital of the World.”
Blanchard Springs Caverns, the White River, and the Ozark National Forest provide great outdoor recreation. So whether you like folk music or the outdoors, Mountain View, AR, has something for you.
Traveler’s Tip: Head southwest from Mountain View into Ouachita National Forest and explore some of the best ways to spend a day in Hot Springs, AR.
5 Best Things to Do in and Around Mountain View, AR
Don’t let the small population keep you from visiting. You’ll find many activities to keep the whole family entertained.
From hiking, biking, and fishing to enjoying the history and folk music of the area, the town may steal your heart. You might even find yourself coming back for another visit.
Here are the five best things to do in Mountain View, AR.
1. Shop from Local Craftspeople at Ozark Folk Center
- Address:
1032 Park Ave
Mountain View, AR 72560
- Hours:
Tues – Sat: 10AM-5PM
Why You Should Visit: One of the highlights of visiting Mountain View, AR, is the Ozark Folk Center. More than 20 local artisans share their wares and skills between April and October.
The Craft Village opens from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Check out the amazing artistry of broom makers, potters, weavers, woodcarvers, and more. Go ahead and pick up all of your holiday gifts here early.
2. Tour a 1920s Schoolhouse at Stone County Museum
- Address:
206 School Ave
Mountain View, AR 72560
- Hours:
Open mid April – October
Thurs – Sat: 1PM-4PM
Why You Should Visit: Stone County Museum is home to a model of the Stone County Academy, an old barbershop chair and shoeshine stand, and pictures of and items artifacts from the early settlers.
The well-arranged and organized exhibits make your time here well spent. Plan on spending 45 minutes to 2 hours exploring the museum.
3. See a Movie at the Stone Drive-In
- Address:
808 Theatre Ln.
Mountain View, AR 72560
Why You Should Visit: Take a step back in time and head over to the Stone Drive-In Theatre. Showtime always starts at dark.
They don’t accept credit cards, so make sure to bring cash. Or you can order online before arriving and pay with a credit card. It costs $3 for ages 4 to 11 and $5 for ages 12 and up. Tune in to the radio and enjoy a movie night from your car.
4. Conquer Your Fear of Heights at Loco Ropes
- Address:
1025A Park Ave
Mountain View, AR 72560
- Hours:
Tues – Sat: 10AM-2PM
Why You Should Visit: Enjoy a fun afternoon at Loco Ropes, swinging from the trees and free-falling from the tower. Zipline through the natural beauty of Arkansas or climb Planks Peak.
Participants must measure 43 inches tall. The Tower and Treetop Adventures occur Tuesday to Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. You can find Loco Ropes at the Ozark Folk Center State Park.
5. Have a Picnic at Washington Street Park
- Address:
314 King St
Mountain View, AR 72560
Why You Should Visit: Washington Street Park is an excellent spot for a picnic lunch. Afterward, you can hit the walking trail or grab ice cream at a local shop.
It’s also a great place to hang out on a Friday night and listen to the local bluegrass players. The pickers bring this small town to life. If you do go out, make sure to take a lawn chair to enjoy the serenade.
Add Mountain View to Your Itinerary
If you love folk music or bluegrass music, don’t miss the annual festival in April. But if you can’t come then, make sure to plan your stay for a weekend when you can enjoy the live music at Washington Street Park.
You may also appreciate the beauty of the Natural State during your stay in Mountain View, AR. Come relax, settle down for a few days, and enjoy the hospitality the town excels in.
Doesn’t it sound like the perfect little town to visit?
