Mena, Exploring the Gateway of the Famous Attractions of Arkansas
Holding the county seat of Polk County, Mena, Arkansas is a city with over 5,000 residents according to the 2010 census. The city is also part of the Ark-La-Tex socio-economic region. Arthur Edward Stilwell, Kansas City Southern Railway’s founder, also worked on the founding of Mena alongside the railway. He named the area after his friend’s wife, FolminaMargaretha Janssen-De Goeijen. One of Mena’s parks, Janssen Park, was also named after her. Today, the city accommodated hundreds to thousands of tourists every year, so expect plenty of hotels and lodging spaces in the area.
Best Time to Visit
With the colorful festivities happening from June to August, anytime between these months are the best times to visit Mena, AR. In June, the town’s signature event, theAnnual Lum&Abner Festival, features two days of live entertainment, arts and crafts, and sports tournaments. By August, the city holds their annual Queen Wilhelmina Rod Run that has been running for over 40 years now. The temperatures are pleasant during this season but expect to blend in with the crowd as tourism shoots up as well. If you’re looking for discounted Mena, AR hotels, drop by in November.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Other than being the frequent venue of festivities, Janssen Park also offers its visitors with relaxing scenery and fresh air. Art enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting the Mena Art Gallery and Rich Mountain Community College. Rejuvenate afterward at cozy rooms at ABears Den Bed & Breakfast, Limetree Inn, or Rainey Day Resort Bed & Breakfast.