Parks, Barbecue and a Touch of Tunica

Some trips feel like a quick escape. Others feel like a little vacation—and this one leaned that way. On September 10, we left home in Alexander at 7:30 a.m. with a plan to explore three Delta-region Arkansas state parks, sample some world-class barbecue and finish with a bit of nighttime fun across the Mississippi line.

Stop 1: Louisiana Purchase State Park

Our first destination was Louisiana Purchase State Park, tucked deep in the swamps of eastern Arkansas near Brinkley. A long wooden boardwalk leads through the wetlands to the exact site where surveyors began plotting the Louisiana Purchase territory back in 1815. Cypress knees poke up through still waters, dragonflies hover over the path, and the quiet there feels ancient. Bring bug spray, a camera and an appreciation for history. It’s one of the most peaceful spots in the state.

Stop 2: Mississippi River State Park

Next up was Mississippi River State Park near Marianna, within the St. Francis National Forest. It’s a scenic park offering fishing, camping and great overlooks of Bear Creek Lake. We stretched our legs, took some photos, and chatted with a ranger at the visitor center about the park’s unique location. It’s the only Arkansas state park that directly touches the Mississippi River.

Lunch: Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna

No trip to the Delta is complete without good barbecue, and we found it in spades at the world-famous Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna. It’s a small, unassuming spot that’s earned national fame, and for good reason. Mr. Jones’ sandwiches are simple perfection—tender pork on white bread, with a bit of slaw if you like, plus chips and a cold drink on the side. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you why the South takes its barbecue seriously.

Stop 3: Delta Heritage Trail State Park

Our third park stop was Delta Heritage Trail State Park, where a converted rail line now serves as a long, scenic trail for biking and hiking through the heart of the Delta. We spent some time perusing the exhibits at the visitor center before leaving and heading toward the Mississippi River bridge at nearby Helena. The park is still expanding, eventually connecting more than 80 miles of trail, and it’s worth a visit whether you walk a mile or twenty.

Evening Fun: Tunica, Mississippi

After our park-hopping, we decided to extend our adventure just across the state line to Tunica, Mississippi, where we checked into Fitzgeralds Casino for some evening slot play. The bright lights, ringing bells, and a few lucky spins made for a fun change of pace after a day of quiet parks and country roads. We topped it off with a great dinner at Dominick’s Food & Spirits in the casino: Southern Shrimp & Grits for Keith and Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup for Theresa.

Breakfast Stop: Blue and White Café

Before heading home on September 11, we made our traditional stop at the Blue and White Café in Tunica, a Southern classic that’s been serving locals and travelers since 1924. Theresa ordered her favorite breakfast plate with French toast and bacon, while I went for sausage, eggs, biscuits and sawmill gravy. The coffee was hot, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was pure small-town comfort.

Trip Stats

Total Time: 7:37 a.m. (Sept. 10) – 3:07 p.m. (Sept. 11)

Total Miles: 412

Highlights: Three state parks, one world-famous diner, a casino night and a hearty Southern breakfast

Reflections

This two-day loop through the Delta reminded us that travel doesn’t have to take you far to feel like an adventure. Between the history, the barbecue and the lights of Tunica, we saw three different sides of the South, all in one short trip.

If you’re looking for an easy getaway with a little bit of everything, this route’s tough to beat.