Helena Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Photo provided by Arkansas Parks and Tourism
Delve into American Civil War history, experience Delta blues and embark on biking and canoeing adventures in this city set on the Mississippi River.

From superb outdoor adventures to Confederate history and blues festivals, Helena is the perfect place for a daytrip or weekend getaway. Helena, officially Helena-West Helena, is nestled between the western bank of the Mississippi River and the hilly Crowley’s Ridge. Its rugged countryside sits in stark contrast to the sprawling wetlands characteristic of Arkansas and Mississippi.

Founded in 1833, Helena played an important role during the American Civil War and was the site of the 1863 Battle of Helena. Today, some 25 interpretive sites retrace the events of the Civil War. Find a re-created plantation house and refugee dwelling at Freedom Park and look for a replica cannon at Court Square Park. Walk on the ramparts of New Fort Curtis and take a poignant stroll through Confederate Cemetery.

See more war-related artifacts in addition to Native American tools at the Helena Museum of Phillips County. Exhibits at the Delta Cultural Center Depot Museum showcase the city’s cultural offerings, with a focus on its musical heritage.

Spend some time admiring downtown Helena’s historic buildings. Among these are the Victorian-style Pillow Thompson House, the Edwardian Inn and Estevan Hall. Look for bullet holes in the walls of Moore-Hornor Home, which was used as a hospital after the Battle of Helena.

The city’s riverside setting makes it an excellent destination for outdoor activities. Relax on the grassy lawns of Helena River Park, wander along Levee Walk and join fishing and canoeing trips on the river. Hike, swim and spot wildlife at Buck Island. Head north of the city to find St. Francis National Forest, a large woodland area popular with bikers, campers and picnickers, which merges with Mississippi River State Park.

Delta blues thrives in Helena and the town’s festivals celebrate the musical genre with pride. Artists such as B.B. King and Buddy Guy have headlined October’s King Biscuit Blues Festival. Other festivals include April’s Jazz on the Levee and May’s Arkansas Delta Family Gospel Festival.

Helena is less than a 2-hour drive from Mississippi International Airport. A fun way to reach Helena is via The American Queen, a Mississippi River steamboat that stops in the city in the summer months.

Quality Inn & Suites
Quality Inn & Suites
2.5 out of 5
1053 West Highway 49, West Helena, AR
The price is AU$128 per night from 2 Dec to 3 Dec
AU$128
includes taxes & fees
2 Dec - 3 Dec
Stay at this hotel in West Helena. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions J.R. House Athletic Complex and Pillow Thompson ...
7.4/10 Good! (314 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 31 Oct. 2024

Quality Inn & Suites
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel
Isle of Capri Casino Hotel
2.5 out of 5
777 Isle of Capri Parkway, Lula, MS
The price is AU$148 per night from 6 Nov to 7 Nov
AU$148
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Lula. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a casino. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
6.2/10 (949 reviews)
"Rooms were nice and clean. Service was great. Workers were polite and very accommodating."

Reviewed on 27 Oct. 2024

Isle of Capri Casino Hotel
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Clarksdale
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Clarksdale
2.5 out of 5
350 South State Street, Clarksdale, MS
The price is AU$132 per night from 6 Nov to 7 Nov
AU$132
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Book a stay at this business-friendly motel in Clarksdale. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Red's Lounge and New Roxy are ...
5.6/10 (323 reviews)
"It was a great visit. The Receptionist was very nice and friendly."

Reviewed on 20 Oct. 2024

Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Clarksdale
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cabin with 40 ft porch overlooking a pond.
Cabin with 40 ft porch overlooking a pond.
Marianna
Stay at this cabin in Marianna. Enjoy a garden, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker.
10/10 Exceptional! (52 reviews)
Fall Retreat
"The lodge and surrounding property were ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature! Wildlife abounds around the spring fed pond. We viewed the comet, enjoyed birds, deer, geese, and fish. The lodge is well appointed and comfortable. We definitely will return!"

Reviewed on 19 Oct. 2024

Cabin with 40 ft porch overlooking a pond.
Sunset Log Cabin
Sunset Log Cabin
Clarksdale
Stay at this cabin in Clarksdale. Enjoy free WiFi, in-room fireplaces, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Red's Lounge and New Roxy are located ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (9 reviews)
It was exactly as stated
"It was clean and comfortable"

Reviewed on 18 Jul. 2024

Sunset Log Cabin
Only a mile from historic downtown Clarksdale!
Only a mile from historic downtown Clarksdale!
Clarksdale
Book a stay at this golf cottage in Clarksdale. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and patios. Popular attractions Rock N' Roll & Blues Heritage Museum and Carnegie ...
10/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)
Great place and fun time.
"Great for a couple. Everything we needed."

Reviewed on 27 Oct. 2024

Only a mile from historic downtown Clarksdale!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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