A Perfect Day in Batesville
This charming little Arkansas town in North Central's Independence County is much more than meets the eye.
8 a.m.
Time for Breakfast
Start your day at The Pinto Coffee & Comida. The eclectic spot serves up “Mexican dishes with a Southern flair” and they’re known for mocha lattes, cold brew and teas. Breakfast is served until 10:30 a.m., but coffee, bagels, scones, oatmeal and light snacks are served all day. (100 E. Main St. | ThePintoCoffee.com)
10 a.m.
Discover a Local Legend
Next stop: the Mark Martin Museum. For those of you not well-versed in NASCAR lore, Martin was a small-town Arkansas boy who went on to be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017 after a successful 40-year career. At the museum, visitors get the chance to see eight of his race cars, his race notebooks and more than 100 trophies. The museum is open Monday-Saturday and admission is free. True fans can find the dirt racetrack in town where Martin got his racing start. (1601 Batesville Blvd. | MarkMartinMuseum.com)
12:30 p.m.
Lunch is Served
Natalie’s is a lunch hot spot among Batesville locals. The eatery features friendly service and tasty Southern food. Menu favorites include the cheesy chicken spaghetti, mac and cheese and the paninis. The restaurant also caters to vegan and vegetarian diets. (3050 Harrison St. | 
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2 p.m.
Shop ’til You Drop
There’s no shortage of unique shopping in Batesville. Stop by the Southern Belle Flea Market (1009 Heber Springs Road) for a smorgasbord of interesting finds. For the bookworms out there, Paper Chase (136 W. Main St.) offers a hefty selection of new and used books. If you’re in the market for art, you must visit Gallery 246. (243 E. Main St.)
3 p.m.
See a Movie
Check out Melba Theater, a thoughtfully renovated single-screen theater that opened in 1870. You can catch a flick for just $4 Thursdays through Sundays, with the occasional weekday movie. (115 W. Main St. | MelbaTheater.org)
7:30 p.m.
Head Out on the Town
After freshening up back at your room (and maybe a nap — you're on vacation, after all), grab a ride to 109 Main for dinner and live music. This restaurant boasts a big-city feel with its impressive menu including lemon chicken piccata and panko-crusted fried artichoke hearts. Linger a little longer with a Moscow Mule (or your drink of choice) and enjoy the music. (109 E. Main St. | )
