Travelers can now stop at an Arkansas Welcome Center for trip planning advice, tourism information and the opportunity to stretch their legs while on the road, according to a news release from the state of Arkansas.
After temporarily closing March 20 to prevent the spread of COVID-19, The Natural State's Welcome Centers are once again open to the public.
"Arkansas is one of the nation's most beautiful and inviting destinations," Stacy Hurst, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said in a news release. "Arkansas Welcome Centers offer our guests a friendly entry to The Natural State, as well as a rest and information stop to gather travel planning materials and advice."
To safely reopen, the centers are monitoring the number of visitors inside the building at one time, frequently cleaning restrooms and common areas, and requiring the use of face masks when a safe physical distance cannot be achieved.
"Arkansas Welcome Centers serve as a one-stop resource for travelers hoping to find information on the many attractions, restaurants and lodging options in the state, not to mention the many scenic trails, rivers and lakes that make The Natural State an appealing destination," Travis Napper, director of Arkansas Tourism, said in the release.
The centers are located at strategic points of entry on major highways and interstates coming into the state. Twelve of the 14 are a partnership between the Arkansas Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. One center, Mammoth Spring, is a partnership with Arkansas State Parks. All are staffed by certified U.S. Travel Association travel counselors.
Welcome center staff share their expertise of Arkansas with more than 1 million travelers annually, the release said. Each center offers free Wi-Fi as well as interesting exhibits spotlighting local history. Complimentary travel magazines and guides, various brochures and highway maps are available to guests. Arkansas Welcome Centers are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and are closed on major holidays.
Visit http://www.arkansas.com for planning information.