From superb outdoor adventures to Confederate history and blues festivals, Helena is the perfect place for a daytrip or weekend getaway. Helena, officially Helena-West Helena, is nestled between the western bank of the Mississippi River and the hilly Crowley’s Ridge. Its rugged countryside sits in stark contrast to the sprawling wetlands characteristic of Arkansas and Mississippi.
Founded in 1833, Helena played an important role during the American Civil War and was the site of the 1863 Battle of Helena. Today, some 25 interpretive sites retrace the events of the Civil War. Find a re-created plantation house and refugee dwelling at Freedom Park and look for a replica cannon at Court Square Park. Walk on the ramparts of New Fort Curtis and take a poignant stroll through Confederate Cemetery.
See more war-related artifacts in addition to Native American tools at the Helena Museum of Phillips County. Exhibits at the Delta Cultural Center Depot Museum showcase the city’s cultural offerings, with a focus on its musical heritage.
Spend some time admiring downtown Helena’s historic buildings. Among these are the Victorian-style Pillow Thompson House, the Edwardian Inn and Estevan Hall. Look for bullet holes in the walls of Moore-Hornor Home, which was used as a hospital after the Battle of Helena.
The city’s riverside setting makes it an excellent destination for outdoor activities. Relax on the grassy lawns of Helena River Park, wander along Levee Walk and join fishing and canoeing trips on the river. Hike, swim and spot wildlife at Buck Island. Head north of the city to find St. Francis National Forest, a large woodland area popular with bikers, campers and picnickers, which merges with Mississippi River State Park.
Delta blues thrives in Helena and the town’s festivals celebrate the musical genre with pride. Artists such as B.B. King and Buddy Guy have headlined October’s King Biscuit Blues Festival. Other festivals include April’s Jazz on the Levee and May’s Arkansas Delta Family Gospel Festival.
Helena is less than a 2-hour drive from Mississippi International Airport. A fun way to reach Helena is via The American Queen, a Mississippi River steamboat that stops in the city in the summer months.
