Let’s take a short but classic ride through western Arkansas as we roll west along U.S. Highway 64, covering about eight miles from the friendly small town of Alma to the historic heart of Van Buren.
Our journey kicks off right at the intersection where Arkansas Highway 162 meets U.S. Highway 64 in Alma. This area serves as a little commercial hub for the town — think local eateries, gas stations, and a handful of shops that capture that small-town charm we all appreciate. As we head out of Alma, the roadside scenery quickly shifts from clustered storefronts to wide open stretches typical of the Arkansas River Valley. Rolling fields, scattered trees, and the occasional farmstead give this part of U.S. 64 a laid-back, rural feel that’s easy to enjoy, even on a short drive.
About halfway along our route, we approach the interchange with Interstate 540. This is where things pick up a bit — traffic increases, and the urban edges of Van Buren start to show themselves. After crossing under I-540, we roll into Van Buren proper. The roadside here is lined with strip malls, familiar chain restaurants, and local businesses that reflect Van Buren’s role as a regional shopping stop. A little further in, we pass the western end of Arkansas Highway 162, marking a shift back to a more classic small-town setting as we near the city’s historic core.
In the last stretch of our drive, U.S. 64 eases into Van Buren’s well-preserved downtown. Here, the modern commercial vibe fades into handsome brick facades, old storefronts, and echoes of the city’s past as a key river port and railroad town. Our ride wraps up at the intersection with Arkansas Highway 59 west, just steps from antique shops, local cafes, and the Van Buren train depot — a perfect spot to park, stretch, and soak in some authentic Arkansas history before heading off on your next leg of the journey.
🗺️ Route Map
0 Comments