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El Dorado, Arkansas

El Dorado, Arkansas

El Dorado lived up to the promise of its name when oil was discovered a mile west of the city in 1921. The resulting gush of population and prosperity led to an architectural boom still reflected in a self-guided walking tour of the city's restored downtown, now filled with shopping and dining opportunities. Downtown also includes the Rialto Theater, Arkansas's only working art deco theater, and the historic John Newton House, which hosts the annual Mayhaw Festival. Two other popular El Dorado events are Showdown at Sunset, the reenactment of a 1902 gunfight on the Union County Courthouse square, and MusicFest, which features a variety of national and local musical acts. The arts are served in the city by the South Arkansas Arts Center. Visitors who want to know more about the South Arkansas oil boom will find exhibits, films and a park with full-size derricks and other oilfield equipment at the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in nearby Smackover.

Outdoor recreational opportunities in the El Dorado area include the South Arkansas Arboretum State Park, Moro Bay State Park, and the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

South Arkansas Arboretum State Park

Covered picnic area, five miles of walking trails; Arkansas native flora; Tour Guides may be available with advance request

El Dorado, AR State Parks

El Dorado Downtown

Directions: U.S. 167 to Main Street Exit. Three miles to downtown. Boutiques and shops on historic square; walking tour of architecturally significant buildings, many financed by South Arkansas oil boom and the timber industry

El Dorado, AR Historic Downtowns

Ginger's Flea Market

Directions: Business Hwy 82, Turn Left On Washington Antiques, glassware, furniture, jewelry, collectibles, coins, tools

El Dorado, AR Flea Markets

John Newton House

Restored 1849 historic home; only house open to the public in El Dorado that was built before the Civil War; decor reflects the time period; tours by appointment;

El Dorado, AR Historic Homes


Things to do near El Dorado, AR

City of Murals

Thirteen striking murals painted on downtown businesses creating an outdoor gallery that depict the history of Pine Bluff and...

Pomeroy Planetarium

Directions: Located in the Neal Museum of Natural History Presents numerous requested programs to a wide variety of groups a...

Arkansas Railroad Museum

Restored steam locomotive 819, a 4-8-4 built in Pine Bluff in 1942. Railroad memorabilia from various Arkansas railroads on d...

South Arkansas Arts Center Theatre

207-seat auditorium hosts live productions and symphony concerts. ...

Camden Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 3 days...