Day trippin’: Visit Historic Hardy, Ark.

 Hardy, Ark. — Travelers will find themselves right at home in Hardy, Arkansas. A relaxing, peaceful, friendly little town situated on U.S. Highway 63. Settled in the 1880’s, pioneers were drawn to the area not only for its beauty, but because the area supported their need for food, water, and shelter. After the railroad came through the area along the Spring River, the town was born. When a post office was established for the railroad camp in 1883, a town name was needed. The name chosen was “Hardy”, in recognition of James Hardy, Jr., a subcontractor for the new railroad. Hardy had saved his boss’s life from a gang of angry railroad workers and in gratitude; the boss asked that the new post office be named “Hardy.” Many descendants of the original settlers still make Hardy their hometown.

 People from nearby Memphis became frequent vacation visitors in the 1920’ and 1930’s. The town grew and became a popular escape from the warm city to the cooler mountain climate.

 Today one of Arkansas’ best float streams is the scenic Spring River that is fed by the icy waters of the Mammoth Spring. The river’s “white water shoals and rushing falls challenge the canoeist’s skills while the constant water flow from the spring makes it a good canoeing, kayaking, and rafting stream year-round.” Year-round trout fishing adds to the “flavor of desire” to visit the area. The Spring River flows through Hardy and, eventually, into the Mississippi River.

 Hardy is an irresistible stopping place for travelers. It’s hard to resist stopping to stroll down through the vintage Main Street shops. You’ll still see native craftsmen practicing their artistry in pottery, leatherworking, musical instruments, woodworking, quilts and more. And, there are antique shops that will catch the interest of just about everyone. Hardy is a small town of about three hundred households. Much of the town’s activities are centered on the visitor’s interest.

 There are special events throughout the year. For the weary traveler there is a Bed & Breakfast, there are hotels, motels, as well as RV & camping sites. Visitors will find a varied selection of places to eat and shop. Main Street in historic Hardy is the place to be on the third Friday of the month. Participating shops along the Main Street will stay open late for your shopping pleasure. On Friday and Saturday nights visitor’s can enjoy “good ol’ country music” at the Hardy Junction Music Hall. At the Dulcimer Store Jeff and his friends get together to play acoustic music. The “pickin’ and jamming” is on Wednesday afternoons.

 “Whether your taste runs to fine antiques and collectibles or charming Ozark crafts, you can shop for days in Hardy Arkansas. Historic downtown Hardy is lined with unique shops stuffed with delights.” For more detailed information about your trip Hardy, Arkansas, check out oldhardytown on the web.

 Hardy is an irresistible stopping place for travelers who cannot resist stopping to stroll down through the vintage Main Street Shops and buildings.

Re-Posted with permission from http://www.waynesvilledailyguide.com/