A day trip is the best way to escape and do something fun for a few hours. Some of the best day trips can lead you off the beaten path into small towns that offer some unique experiences. Russellville Arkansas is the perfect town for a day trip destination, and it has a one-of-a-kind experience that will have you taking day trips to Russellville every year.

Located just over an hour from Little Rock off Interstate 40, this River Valley town is known for its natural beauty and four of the most pristine state parks in Arkansas.

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There is plenty to do in Russellville that would keep you entertained for an entire day, but on this day trip, you are here to witness the Balloons Over Russellville event. This event takes place over three days, but we recommend attending on Saturday April 30, 2022.

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But before you get started with the excitement for the day, stop by the Old South Restaurant and eat a hearty breakfast. Located at 1330 East Main Street, this diner has been serving up the same down-home meals for over 70 years.

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We recommend the Pancake Combo because it’s delicious, and it will remind you of your mama’s cooking.

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So, now that you are nice and full, head over to the Russellville Soccer Complex for the Tenth Annual Balloon Festival. This is truly a unique experience, and it is worth the day trip to Russellville.

Facebook This is a family-friendly event, so bring the kids as well as the fur baby to enjoy a day of fun in Russellville. Admission and parking are free, but there are fees for a few of the activities.

The event starts at 7 a.m. with balloon flights. This is the best way to see the beauty of the town of Russellville. Sailing through the sky in this Spring themed balloon is breathtaking.

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At 10 a.m., take your fur baby on the one mile charity walk along the scenic trail inside the soccer complex. The pup will meet some new puppy friends, and you will get a t-shirt for your participation.

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Y’all, this is so cool! There is a Chainsaw Carving Competition that takes place between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. You can stop by and check out the incredible carved pieces from the artists.

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There is so much more to do at the event including helicopter rides and tethered balloon rides. There are tons of vendors and food trucks, and there is live music and a KidZone for additional entertainment.

Facebook Be sure to check the website for a complete list of the events.

Don’t leave before the finale - the Balloon Glow is a must-see event. It starts at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m., and this is the best time to take some amazing pictures of the balloons. This one-of-a-kind experience will have you coming back for more.

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So, would you take a day trip to Russellville to see the balloon festival? 

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This is a family-friendly event, so bring the kids as well as the fur baby to enjoy a day of fun in Russellville. Admission and parking are free, but there are fees for a few of the activities.

Be sure to check the website for a complete list of the events.

Check out the event website for more information. All balloon events are weather permitting.

And when you’re in Russellville for another day trip, Lake Dardanelle has some fun activities that you can do in a day. 

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Address: Russellville, AR, USAAddress: Old South Restaurant, 1330 E Main St, Russellville, AR 72801, USAAddress: Russellville Soccer Complex