As the weather warms, energy swirls and Arkansans begin to scratch the travel bug, I am now in place to offer up monthly guidance for Arkansas’ hidden gems. I have long been a travel enthusiast in addition to my literary passion, so please allow me to write about a few hidden gems and destinations around our beautifully spectacular, wondrously diverse and “southernly” hospitable state.
Being a native of the Arkansas Delta — yes, I was raised there — I would be remiss if I didn’t launch this series in the region that is near and dear to my heart. So many good things and people have delta roots, much like the fertile soils that boast the highest quality crop in the state.
As you plot out your spring travel adventures or daily social media page visits, try the following:
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Delta Dirt Distillery
430 Cherry St., Helena
Hailing from a decades-long entrepreneurial family owning and operating vegetable farms, Harvey Williams had the unconventional idea for most delta-owned businesses to create a craft distillery that would produce ultra-high-quality vodka to rival that which was currently offered on the market. After careful industry research, scientific study and gaining investor support, Williams took residence on Cherry Street in historic downtown Helena and the rest is history.
To date, Williams has created one of the most sought-after destinations for discriminating vodka enthusiasts in a multi-state region. Friends have ventured down for a girl’s day trip, and Delta Dirt has earned national attention, having received the honor of double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Experiencing this jewel of a business is worth a trip to Helena. If you can’t quite wait to sample their award-winning spirits, you can find it in select retail locations throughout the state.
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Cypress Corner BBQ
8298 Highway 1, Lexa
Being a self-described delta girl, I wouldn’t dare write a carefully curated gem of an article without mentioning a culinary mainstay that is sure to delight your senses and make you and your travel crew delta regulars: Cypress Corner BBQ.
I once had a colleague who, after we dined, re-approached the counter and made a doggy-bag, ordering seconds just to take home.
I once asked a restaurant family member the secrets to the sauce, and she answered with just enough partial details to not actually answer the question. However, she did share that the homemade barbecue sauce is a family recipe that has been around for years; I know it has been served up for years since I was a kiddo.
Meat options include pork and beef, and the side dishes — namely baked beans and potato salad — rival your grandmother’s. Finally, what Southern joint is complete without the obligatory fried pie? You don’t have to take my word for it. Check them out yourself.
Once you travel over, down or up to the delta, you will likely feel that you’ve entered a time chamber, but given the complexities we continue to face, I am not so sure this is a bad thing. Safe travels to you!
Angela Frierson Shirey is the vice president of community development for Arkansas Capital Corporation, as well as a strategy consultant, philanthropic advisor and “rural expert.”