Things To Do
in Jonesboro
Jonesboro is a city in northeastern Arkansas, known for its rich history dating back to the early 19th century. It is the largest city in Craighead County and serves as a regional hub for education, healthcare, and commerce. Jonesboro features a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities, offering residents and visitors a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience.
The city is home to Arkansas State University, attracting a diverse population of students and professionals.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk or bike ride at Crowley's Ridge Nature Center to enjoy the serene beauty of the area. Observe the local wildlife and reconnect with nature.
Visit the Arkansas State University Museum to uncover local history and culture. Grab lunch at a nearby café and absorb the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Jonesboro.
End your day with a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the regional flavors and maybe catch some live music afterward.
Begin with a visit to the Jonesboro Public Library to read and relax in a peaceful environment. Attend any scheduled morning events or workshops.
Explore the local shops along Main Street and find unique treasures. Take a break at a coffee shop and enjoy a good book or good conversation.
Dine at one of Jonesboro's famous BBQ restaurants. After dinner, take a stroll through the neighborhood to enjoy the evening air.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability of living compared to bigger cities.
- Access to good educational institutions, including Arkansas State University.
- Rich cultural scene with local festivals and events.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Variety of outdoor activities and parks.
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors.
- Higher crime rate compared to national averages.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Hot and humid summers, which may not be appealing to everyone.
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Jonesboro
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Offers hiking trails, fishing, picnicking, and boating on the lake.
A 14-mile trail for walking, running, and cycling that passes through parks and natural landscapes.
Provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation near a scenic lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jonesboro with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jonesboro
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful lake views and various nature and wildlife photo opportunities.
Has a rooftop view that provides a stunning panoramic view of Jonesboro.
Features picturesque green spaces and architectural beauty for photo opportunities.
Food in Jonesboro
Jonesboro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Southern cuisine, the crispy and flavorful fried catfish is a must-try. Visit the Fish House for a delicious platter served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.
Must-Try!
Jonesboro's BBQ ribs are renowned for their tender, smoky goodness. Head to Big John's Shake Shack for finger-licking ribs paired with classic sides like mac and cheese and baked beans.
This quintessential Southern beverage is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Try the refreshing sweet tea at Becky's Kitchen for an authentic taste of the South.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jonesboro better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, the Jonesboro Farmers' Market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and tasty street food. Don't miss the food trucks serving up local delicacies.
Join the lively Downtown Food Truck Festival showcasing diverse cuisines from local vendors. Indulge in a variety of street foods including Southern BBQ, Cajun delights, and more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jonesboro, it is important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Be mindful of personal space and avoid invading someone's physical boundaries.
Cultural norms in Jonesboro emphasize politeness and courteous communication. It is common to greet others with a smile and engage in friendly small talk as a sign of respect.
In Jonesboro, it is essential to respect the local customs and traditions of the community. Being open-minded and showing an interest in the local culture demonstrates respect for the community and its members.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jonesboro with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jonesboro
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jonesboro, United States, tipping is a common practice in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and salons. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
Payment in Jonesboro, United States, is typically done using a variety of methods including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods have become increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jonesboro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Jonesboro, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. It's a popular time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer in Jonesboro brings hot and humid weather, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and water sports. Be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall is a stunning time to visit Jonesboro, as the leaves change color and the landscape becomes a beautiful tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. It's a great time for scenic drives and fall festivals.
Winter in Jonesboro can be chilly, with occasional snowfall. It's a quiet time to visit, with fewer tourists and the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful winter landscapes.
Jonesboro at Night
Hiking in Jonesboro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful state park that offers various hiking trails through forested areas, along with scenic vistas of Crowley’s Ridge.
Features trails that wind through wooded areas and along the lake, providing opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.
Located a bit further out, this expansive national park offers numerous trails for hiking, with stunning views of the river and surrounding bluffs.
Although it's primarily in Colorado, it’s a popular destination for hiking and offers diverse trails and breathtaking views, near Jonesboro.
A remote wilderness area that offers hiking opportunities with rugged terrain and beautiful natural scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jonesboro through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jonesboro by plane.
Located approximately 70 miles southwest of Jonesboro, MEM is a major international airport serving the Memphis area and is a key hub for cargo and passenger flights.
Located about 130 miles southwest of Jonesboro, LIT serves as the primary airport for Little Rock and offers a variety of domestic and limited international flights.
Approximately 150 miles northwest of Jonesboro, XNA serves the Fayetteville-Bentonville area and provides both domestic and a few international flight options.
Located around 220 miles north of Jonesboro, STL is a major international airport serving St. Louis and the surrounding region with a wide range of flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Jonesboro, representing a significant portion of the population.
The second largest demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A growing demographic group, reflecting the increasing diversity in the city.
A smaller demographic group, representing various cultures and communities.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories, highlighting the diversity of the community.
A demographic group that contributes to the historical and cultural tapestry of the region.
A very small demographic group, often underrepresented in the broader census data.
The Soul of Jonesboro
Discover the essence of Jonesboro through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Jonesboro has a strong basketball culture with local schools having competitive teams and many recreational leagues available.
American football is extremely popular, with local high schools and colleges attracting significant community support during the season.
Baseball enjoys popularity at both youth and adult levels, with several leagues and teams representing the community.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Jonesboro, with numerous youth leagues and local clubs.
Track and field events are commonly held at local schools, showcasing the talents of young athletes.
Volleyball is popular in schools and recreational settings, with many girls' teams participating in competitive leagues.
Golf is a favored pastime, with various golf courses available for both casual and serious players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jonesboro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants in Jonesboro offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Places like Mellow Mushroom and Roots Juicery provide excellent plant-based options.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating menus at eateries like Newk's Eatery and Chow at One Eighteen, which offer a range of delicious gluten-free selections.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jonesboro with these cultural adventures.