Historic Washington State Park

Historic Washington State Park is at jct. US 278 and SR 195 at 100 S.W. Morrison. This restored historical village showcases 19th-century buildings and typical lifestyles of southwest Arkansas. More than 30 structures include the 1857 Augustus M. Crouch House and the 1874 Hempstead County Courthouse, which serves as the park visitor center. Various buildings are open for tours, depending on the day's interpretive theme. The structures include examples of Southern Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate and Federal-style architecture. Horse-drawn surrey rides are available select days, weather permitting. Parking is available behind the courthouse.

Christmas and Candlelight on the first two Saturdays in December is a highlight. Period decorations and 3,000 luminarias deck the entire park for this holiday event, which features strolling minstrels and carolers, candlelight tours of the buildings, surrey rides and free refreshments. The Jonquil Festival held in March is said to be one of the largest spring festivals in the state. Civil War Weekend is held the first weekend in November.

Note: Some 150 people live in Washington in private residences; not all buildings are open to the public.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 2 hours minimum.