Arkadelphia Life - 7

WELCOME

TO ARKADELPHIA

W

here else can you easily access two rivers,
drive a short distance to dig for diamonds,
enjoy the natural beauty of Arkansas by
camping or boating at a nearby state park
or experience fine dining and shopping? Well, Arkadelphia
of course!
The city is located along Interstate 30, about 65 miles
from Little Rock, 40 miles from the Crater of Diamonds
State Park, 25 miles from Hot Springs, and 10 miles from the
DeGray Lake Resort State Park. It is home to two renowned
institutes of higher learning - Henderson State University
and Ouachita Baptist University.
A premier family destination, Arkadelphia offers Feaster
Park, which includes picnic areas, a pavilion, outdoor
basketball courts, softball fields and access to Feaster Trail,
a paved and lighted trail that spans the length of the city
and is popular with walkers, joggers and bikers. And during
summer months, the Arkadelphia Aquatic Park is open to
allow locals and visitors the chance to cool off and enjoy a
day playing in the water.
Of historical interest is the DeSoto Bluff Trail, a short
quarter mile walkway with markers explaining the Caddo
Indian history. The trail ends at a cliff overlooking the
Ouachita River, complete with a pavilion, picnic site and area

to relax and breathe in the refreshing sights and sounds of
the Natural State.
Also when downtown in Arkadelphia, don't miss out on
the excellent shopping opportunities. The city features
numerous boutiques, businesses, eating establishments and
community spaces.
In addition, there are arts and culture opportunities in
the city, coordinated by the Arkadelphia Arts Center, which
hosts exhibits, productions and educational workshops
throughout the year.
Henderson State University offers plays and musical
performances in Arkansas Hall on the school's campus
and Ouachita Baptist University displays student art and
sculpture in the Hammons Gallery. OBU performing arts take
place in the OBU Jones Performing Arts Center on Ouachita
Street.
Arkadelphia means " arc of brotherhood, " according to
local legend, and was officially named in the late 1830s,
after William Blakely had made a home and several thriving
businesses in 1808 on the bluff overlooking the Ouachita
River.
Arkadelphia is a " great place to call home " and residents
invite visitors to " come and make great memories with us in
Arkadelphia. " s
ARKADELPHIA LIFE 2021

7
Arkadelphia Life

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Arkadelphia Life
