Texarkana, Arkansas sits right on the Arkansas/Texas state line—literally. It shares a name, history, and downtown with its sister city, Texarkana, Texas. Together, they form one community that spans two states. It’s a setup that confuses people at first, but locals are used to explaining how it works: two city governments, two police departments, two mayors—but one shared life.
People live on one side of the state line and work on the other. Kids grow up crossing the line without thinking twice. Visitors come for the novelty and leave remembering the energy, the food, the art, and the kindness they found here.
Take your photo on the state line—everybody does. But stick around. The real magic’s in the murals, the music, and whatever’s happening on stage that night.
Because our city spans two states, Texarkana maintains two separate governments—but we function as one, with strong coordination between Arkansas and Texas leadership. Locals like to call Texarkana "Twice as Nice."
Our most iconic building—the 1930s-era federal courthouse—literally sits on the Arkansas-Texas border.
From public art installations to multi-day events, Texarkana’s cultural life is driven by community pride and an ever-growing network of creatives on both sides of the line.
With easy access to trails, green spaces, and water activities, Texarkana is ideal for visitors seeking recreation and natural beauty during their stay.
Texarkana’s dining scene reflects its Southern roots and regional influences, offering everything from handmade tamales and fried catfish to comfort food brunches.
Texarkana got its start in the 1870s, when the Cairo & Fulton Railroad pushed south to the state line. It quickly became a hub—a place where routes, goods, and people converged. That founding energy still shapes the city today.
The Arkansas side has always had its own rhythm. It’s home to historic neighborhoods, locally owned restaurants, and generations of families who’ve stayed rooted while welcoming visitors in. You’ll find live music and festivals at places like the Front Street Festival Plaza, public art and galleries supported by the Texarkana Arts & Historic District, and restored spaces like the 1928 Municipal Auditorium at Texarkana Arkansas’ City Hall.
You don’t have to go far to find green space either—Bobby Ferguson Park offers open trails and water views, and Jefferson Park is a go-to for dog owners. Whether you’re catching a show at Fat Jack’s, stopping by the 1894 Gallery, or grabbing lunch from a local spot that’s been here for decades, you’re seeing a side of town that knows exactly what it brings to the table.
Texarkana, Arkansas is easy to get to and affordable to explore. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, a class reunion, a wedding, or a big family event, you’ll find plenty of lodging, local flavor, and venues full of character. Centrally located between Dallas, Little Rock, and Shreveport, Texarkana, Arkansas also makes an ideal base for exploring the region.
Ready to experience Texarkana, Arkansas for yourself? Plan your visit today.
