Looking for cheap Flights to Texarkana Webb, Arkansas, USA (TXK) airport?

Texarkana, accessible via cheap flights to TXK airport (Texarkana Regional Airport), is a unique city straddling the Arkansas-Texas state line, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and dual-state charm. Often called the "Twin City," Texarkana serves as a hub for commerce, tourism, and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the Ark-La-Tex region, it blends historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and a lively downtown split between Arkansas and Texas. Discover the best things to do in Texarkana, AR, from exploring museums to enjoying riverfront parks and a bustling arts scene.

Texarkana’s story began in 1873 when the Cairo and Fulton Railroad reached the state line, naming the town after Texas, Arkansas, and nearby Louisiana. It grew as a railroad and cotton trade hub, with its unique state-line division shaping its identity. By 1880, it was a key stop for commerce, and its post office, famously straddling the state line, became a symbol of its dual nature. The city played a role in the Civil War and later thrived during the timber and oil booms. Today, Texarkana’s historic downtown, cultural festivals, and proximity to natural attractions like Wright Patman Lake draw visitors, while its economy supports manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.

Geography and Climate of Texarkana, Arkansas

Texarkana sits in Miller County, Arkansas, and Bowie County, Texas, along the Red River Basin in the Ark-La-Tex region. The city spans 42.2 square miles, with 41.9 square miles of land and 0.3 square miles of water, divided by State Line Avenue. Surrounded by rolling hills and pine forests, it’s near the Red River and Wright Patman Lake, offering ample recreational opportunities. Its location along I-30 and I-49 makes it a gateway to Dallas, Little Rock, and Shreveport. The landscape features flat plains and wetlands, with nearby Caddo Lake and the Sulphur River adding to its natural appeal.

Texarkana experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), with hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. Average highs range from 53°F in January to 93°F in July, with lows from 34°F to 73°F. The record high is 110°F (August 2011), and the low is -10°F (February 1899). Annual precipitation averages 49.6 inches, with spring being the wettest season. Snowfall is rare, averaging 2 inches annually. The climate supports year-round outdoor activities, though summer heat and occasional severe storms, including tornado risks, require preparation. Spring and fall are ideal for festivals and outdoor exploration.

Historical Adventures & Things to Do in Texarkana

Founded in 1873 at the junction of the Cairo and Fulton Railroad, Texarkana grew as a trade hub for cotton, timber, and railroads. Its state-line division created unique governance, with separate city halls and police departments. During the Civil War, it was a Confederate supply point, and post-war, it thrived on agriculture and industry. The 1903 Texarkana Fire destroyed much of downtown Arkansas, but rebuilding led to preserved historic districts. The city’s role in music history includes native Scott Joplin, the “King of Ragtime.” Today, the Texarkana Museum System preserves this legacy, with sites like the Museum of Regional History and the Scott Joplin Mural.

Texarkana’s history blends Native American roots, with the Caddo tribe, and its railroad-driven growth. The 1920s oil boom and World War II’s Red River Army Depot boosted its economy. Preservation efforts have saved landmarks like the Augustus M. Garrison House (1870s). The Texarkana Historical Society offers walking tours of State Line Avenue, highlighting its dual-state quirks. Annual reenactments, like Civil War encampments at Spring Lake Park, bring history to life. The Museum of Regional History showcases artifacts from the Caddo, railroads, and Joplin’s era, while the Ace of Clubs House, a 1885 clover-shaped mansion, offers tours of Victorian life.

Iconic Places to Visit in Texarkana

The Texarkana Post Office and Federal Building, straddling the state line, is a must-visit, with its famous photo-op sign. The Museum of Regional History, housed in a 1875 building, displays Caddo artifacts, railroad relics, and Scott Joplin memorabilia. The Ace of Clubs House, built with winnings from a poker game, features unique architecture and period furnishings. The Scott Joplin Mural in downtown Arkansas celebrates the ragtime legend. The Perot Theatre, a 1924 Beaux-Arts gem, hosts concerts and plays. Spring Lake Park, with its trails and lake, is a recreational hub. The Texarkana Farmers’ Market offers local produce and crafts. The Four States Auto Museum showcases vintage cars from the 1920s to 1970s.

Other highlights include the Draughon-Moore House, a historic home with guided tours, and the Texarkana Historical Marker, detailing the city’s founding. The State Line Avenue Bridge, a pedestrian-friendly crossing, symbolizes the twin cities. The Discovery Place Interactive Museum offers hands-on exhibits for families. Holiday Springs Water Park provides slides and pools for summer fun. The Texarkana Regional Arts Center, in a 1909 bank building, displays local art. The P.J. Ahern Home, a 1902 Victorian, hosts cultural events. The Bobby Ferguson Park, with its splash pad and playground, is a family favorite. The Arkansas Convention Center hosts trade shows and events.

Economy and Employment in Texarkana

Texarkana’s economy thrives on manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, with its strategic location along I-30 driving logistics. Major employers include Cooper Tire & Rubber, Domtar Paper, and CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System. The Red River Army Depot and Texarkana College support jobs in defense and education. Tourism, fueled by historic sites and festivals, generates seasonal employment in hospitality. The unemployment rate is around 4.2% (2024), with a workforce of 30,000 in the metro area. Retail along State Line Avenue and the Central Mall employs thousands. The port along the Red River supports industrial transport, with recent infrastructure upgrades enhancing trade.

Texarkana’s economic outlook is positive, with growth in healthcare and advanced manufacturing. The Texarkana Regional Economic Development Corporation promotes diversification, attracting firms in logistics and renewable energy. Tourism draws 500,000 visitors annually, boosted by events like the Four States Fair. Challenges include competition between Arkansas and Texas sides for business investment. Opportunities lie in I-49 expansion and cross-border collaboration. Texarkana College’s workforce training in welding, nursing, and IT supports job growth. The city’s low cost of living and business incentives make it attractive for startups and relocations.

Educational Centers & Learning Opportunities in Texarkana

Texarkana offers quality education tailored to its industrial and cultural needs, emphasizing workforce development and arts.

Higher Education and Trade Schools

Texarkana College, serving 4,000 students, offers degrees in nursing, welding, and business, with workforce programs aligned with local industries like Cooper Tire. The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana provides additional programs in health sciences and technical training. Trade schools like the Texarkana Welding Institute offer certifications in manufacturing skills. Adult education through Texarkana College includes GED programs, ESL, and hospitality training. Online programs via Texas A&M University-Texarkana, across the state line, offer degrees in education and cybersecurity, supporting the region’s economic needs.

K-12 and Adult Education

Texarkana Arkansas School District serves 4,300 students across 8 schools, with a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. Arkansas High School ranks in the state’s top 20% for reading (52% proficient) and math (45%). Extracurriculars include robotics, band, and Razorback sports. Private options include Trinity Christian School. Adult education at Texarkana College offers career workshops and community classes on local history and Caddo culture. The Texarkana Public Library provides lifelong learning programs, including art workshops and job skills training, fostering community engagement.

Outdoor Recreation & Adventures Near Texarkana, AR

Texarkana’s location in the Red River Basin offers diverse outdoor activities. Spring Lake Park features 5 miles of trails, fishing, and disc golf. Wright Patman Lake, 10 miles south, spans 30,000 acres for boating, kayaking, and camping. The Sulphur River Wildlife Management Area, 20 miles away, offers 16,000 acres for hiking and birdwatching. Atlanta State Park, 25 miles west, provides trails and lake access. The Texarkana Bike Trail, a 10-mile urban path, connects parks and downtown. Bringle Lake is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. The Red River offers fishing and scenic floats, with guided tours available. Holiday Springs Water Park provides summer recreation.

Fishing & Hunting in Texarkana, Arkansas

Wright Patman Lake is a fishing hotspot for bass, catfish, and crappie, with public boat ramps and piers. The Red River and Sulphur River offer catfish and alligator gar, with guided charters available. Bringle Lake provides urban fishing for bream and bass. Hunting in the Sulphur River Wildlife Management Area targets deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Atlanta State Park allows bowhunting for small game. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission licenses are required; seasons run fall to spring. Anglers use waders for river fishing, with non-felt boots recommended to prevent invasive species. The Texarkana Hunting Club offers guided trips and education.

Unique Places & Wildlife in Texarkana

Texarkana’s unique sites include the State Line Post Office, a National Historic Landmark, and the Photographers’ Island sign for dual-state photos. The Ace of Clubs House offers quirky architecture. Wildlife includes white-tailed deer, armadillos, and red-tailed hawks at Wright Patman Lake. The Sulphur River hosts alligators and river otters, viewable via guided tours. Spring Lake Park is a birdwatching hub for herons and egrets. The Texarkana Nature Center displays native species like turtles and snakes. Responsible wildlife viewing requires a 50-yard distance from large animals. The Joplin Memorial Park honors the musician with scenic gardens.

Best Shops & Boutiques in Texarkana, AR

Texarkana’s shopping along State Line Avenue and Central Mall blends local and chain stores. The Twisted Boutique offers Southern-style clothing and handmade jewelry. The Gallery at 216 sells Arkansas-made art and pottery. Books-A-Million stocks local history and Scott Joplin biographies. The Farmers’ Market, open Saturdays, features produce and crafts. Bella’s Boutique specializes in custom apparel. The Rusty Magnolia offers vintage decor and gifts. Texarkana Outfitters provides outdoor gear for fishing and hunting. Look for “Made in Arkansas” labels for authentic soaps, candles, and woodwork.

Top Dining Options in Texarkana

Texarkana’s culinary scene blends Southern BBQ, Tex-Mex, and global flavors, emphasizing local ingredients:

• Big Jake’s BBQ: Smoked ribs, brisket, and pulled pork; a local favorite.
• Taqueria El Rancho: Authentic tacos, tamales, and horchata; vibrant atmosphere.
• Cattleman’s Steakhouse: Prime steaks and seafood with Southern sides.
• Zapata’s Mexican Restaurant: Enchiladas and margaritas; family-friendly.
• Pecan Point Gastropub: Craft beers, burgers, and farm-to-table dishes.
• Twisted Fork: Southern comfort food with a modern twist; cozy setting.
• Bryce’s Cafeteria: Classic Southern buffet with fried chicken and pies.
• Amigo Juan: Tex-Mex with fajitas and queso; lively vibe.
• La Fogata: Mexican street food and fresh salsas; affordable.
• Reggie’s Burgers: Gourmet burgers and milkshakes; retro diner feel.

Camping & Lodging in Texarkana, Arkansas

Camping thrives near Texarkana: Wright Patman Lake offers 100 campsites with RV hookups and lake views. Atlanta State Park provides wooded sites and fishing access. Clear Springs Campground has full amenities near the Red River. Lodging options include:

• Hampton Inn Texarkana: Modern with pool and free breakfast; central location.
• Comfort Suites Texarkana: Spacious suites near I-30.
• Holiday Inn Texarkana: Upscale with dining and convention center access.
• Wyndham Garden Texarkana: Comfortable with fitness center and pool.
• Best Western Plus Texarkana: Affordable with proximity to downtown.
• Courtyard by Marriott: Modern amenities near Central Mall.

Festivals & Events in Texarkana

Texarkana’s events celebrate its dual-state identity. The Four States Fair and Rodeo in September features bull riding and concerts. The Scott Joplin Ragtime Festival in June honors the musician with performances. The Texarkana Wine Festival in May showcases local vintages. The Main Street Christmas Parade in December lights up downtown. The Railfest in May celebrates railroad history with live music. The Arkansas Side Oktoberfest brings German food and brews. The Dino Dig at Spring Lake Park offers family-friendly fossil hunts. The Texarkana Art Festival highlights regional artists year-round.

Museums to Explore in Texarkana

The Museum of Regional History features Caddo artifacts, railroad relics, and Joplin exhibits. The Ace of Clubs House offers Victorian-era tours. The Discovery Place Interactive Museum provides hands-on science exhibits. The Four States Auto Museum displays vintage cars. The Texarkana Historical Society offers walking tours of State Line Avenue. The Perot Theatre showcases cultural history through performances. The Regional Arts Center displays local art in a historic bank. Interactive programs at Discovery Place engage kids with STEM activities.

Travel Tips

Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK) offers flights to Dallas via American Airlines; car rentals are available but book early. Downtown is walkable, with free parking at museums. I-30 and I-49 connect to Dallas and Little Rock. Spring and fall are ideal for festivals and mild weather. Pack for summer heat and light layers for winter. Check museum schedules for guided tours. Fuel and ATMs are plentiful. Respect dual-state regulations, as laws differ across the line. Book lodging early for fair and rodeo seasons.

Transportation and Getting Around Texarkana

Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK) offers daily flights to Dallas. Texarkana Urban Transit District provides bus routes, with fares at $1. Taxis and rideshares like Uber are available. I-30 and I-49 ensure regional access. The Texarkana Bike Trail supports cycling. Downtown sidewalks are pedestrian-friendly. Amtrak’s Texas Eagle stops at Union Station, connecting to Chicago and Los Angeles. Parking is free at most attractions. Bikes are rentable at Spring Lake Park.

Infrastructure and Utilities in Texarkana

Texarkana’s infrastructure supports its dual-state economy. The Red River port handles industrial transport. High-speed internet via AT&T and Suddenlink serves businesses. Utilities are split: Texarkana Water Utilities (Arkansas) and Texarkana Water Department (Texas) manage water and sewer. Electricity comes from AEP Southwestern Electric. Waste collection is weekly. The city maintains 300 miles of roads and 15 parks. Public services include dual police and fire departments, with recent upgrades to fire stations. The Texarkana Public Library offers free Wi-Fi and programs.

Notable People and Culture in Media

Texarkana’s culture blends Southern charm, Native American heritage, and railroad lore. Notable figures include Scott Joplin, ragtime pioneer, and Ross Perot, businessman and presidential candidate. The city inspired the film “The Town That Dreaded Sundown” (1976), based on the 1946 Texarkana Moonlight Murders. Media mentions include Joplin’s music in “The Sting” (1973). Local culture thrives in festivals, Southern cuisine, and community events, with a diverse population embracing its dual-state identity.

Sports and Recreation in Texarkana

Spring Lake Park hosts baseball, soccer, and disc golf. The Texarkana Marathon in March draws runners through downtown. The Sportsplex by CHRISTUS offers indoor soccer and swimming. Youth sports include Texarkana Baseball Association and AYSO soccer. Holiday Springs Water Park is a summer favorite. Texarkana College’s Red Hawks compete in NJCAA sports, with strong baseball and softball teams. The Four States Fairgrounds hosts rodeos and motocross. Community events like the Railfest Run promote fitness.

Health Care & Wellness in Texarkana, AR

CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System and Wadley Regional Medical Center provide 400 beds, offering emergency, cardiology, and cancer care. Telemedicine supports rural patients. The Texarkana Wellness Center offers gym facilities and yoga classes. Community health programs include free screenings and diabetes workshops. Emergency air services connect to Little Rock. Dental and mental health services are available via community clinics.

Homes for the Elderly & Senior Living

Cornerstone Retirement Community offers independent and assisted living. Brookdale Texarkana provides memory care. The Texarkana Senior Center hosts fitness and social events. Home health services via CHRISTUS support elderly residents.

Government & Public Services

Texarkana, Arkansas, operates under a city-manager government with a seven-member Board of Directors. Texarkana, Texas, has a similar structure. Public services include dual police, fire, water, sewer, and waste management. The Arkansas side has 80 police officers and 5 fire stations. The city maintains 10 parks and a library. Economic development focuses on tourism and manufacturing, with cross-state collaboration.

Real Estate & Cost of Living in Texarkana

Texarkana’s real estate is affordable, with median home prices at $145,000, below the national $338,100. Annual appreciation is 5.8%. Rentals average $750/month. The cost of living index is 82, 18% below the national average, with low housing and grocery costs. No Arkansas state income tax benefits residents. Median household income is $45,000. The market favors buyers, with inventory in suburban areas.

Key Demographics & Statistics

Texarkana’s 2023 population is 29,387 (Arkansas side, 2020 census: 29,387; 2024 estimate: 29,200), with a metro population of 65,000. Median age is 38.5. It’s 60% White (Non-Hispanic), 30% Black, 7% Hispanic, 2% Asian. 98% are citizens, 95% U.S.-born. Households: 11,000 (median income $45,000). 40% married, 35% never married. Poverty rate: 20%. Workforce: 55% white-collar, 7% entrepreneurs. Commute: 15 minutes. Education: 35% high school, 15% bachelor’s. Diverse with strong African-American influence.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on September 17, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.