Dardanelle has small-town living in the Arkansas River Valley
Dardanelle is one of the oldest cities in Arkansas. For much of the 19th century, it was an important shipping hub on the Arkansas River between Little Rock and Fort Smith. Today, this quiet community of around 4,500 situated south of the Dardanelle Lock and Dam offers homebuyers quick access to natural attractions, including Lake Dardanelle and Mount Nebo State Park. In town, there are many parks, restaurants and annual events. "It’s a cute little town," says Sheyla Solis, a Realtor with Live Love Arkansas who grew up in the area. Solis says that Dardanelle is more residential, but those wanting more acreage can look on the city's outskirts.
Outdoor attractions, golfing and festivals are available to locals
At 1,350 feet, Mount Nebo is one of Arkansas' highest peaks, and the park it sits on is girded with more than 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Lake Dardanelle was formed with the construction of the dam and now covers 34,000 acres, its shores dotted with campsites and parks. Lake Dardanelle State Park, about 8 miles away, has a fishing pier, boardwalk and trails. The public Lion’s Den Golf Club, owned by former professional golfer and Dardanelle resident John Daly, features a 6,000-yard par 72 layout.
In town, green spaces include Merritt Park, which has baseball diamonds, a playground, a skate park and a disc golf course. The Carolyn McGee Community Center offers sports courts and a stage. Veterans Memorial Park, adjacent to the river, has ball fields, a picnic area and a playground.
Annual events include the Free State of Yell Fest, which features carnival games and live music. The Hispanic Heritage Festival in the Valley also has musical performances and food stalls.
Lower-cost homes with low HOA activity
Homes include ranch styles, New Traditionals, bungalows and Victorians. Many are on gridded streets with smaller lot sizes and large oak trees accenting lawns. Some properties back onto the Arkansas River and have private docks. Solis says that very few homes are in HOAs. Solis adds that the city attracts a mix of families and commuters to nearby job centers. The median housing price is about $185,000, lower than the state and national medians. Land is also available.
Tyson Foods and health care are top industries
A small port still operates on the north bank of the Arkansas River, but other industries have eclipsed shipping in Dardanelle. Tyson Foods operates a plant on the city's southwestern edge, and the facility takes steps to ensure waste and odors do not affect residents. Other important employers include the Dardanelle Regional Medical Center and the International Paper container plant in nearby Russellville.
Weather risks in Dardanelle
Flood maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency show a risk of flooding near the Arkansas River. The last major floods that affected the area were in 2019, causing damage to roads and infrastructure. Tornadoes and other severe storms can also be factors.
Dardanelle Public Schools serves local students
Dardanelle Public Schools has an A-minus on Niche. Students can start at Dardanelle Primary School and then move on to Dardanelle Elementary; both schools have a B-plus. Pupils continue to Dardanelle Middle School, which earns a B. Dardanelle High School has an A-minus and offers advanced placement courses in computer science and biology.
Dining spots dotted throughout Dardanelle; Walmart for shoppers
Restaurants, including chains and local spots, are concentrated on Union Street, Front Street and Highway 22. Tarasco’s serves Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos and caldo. Fowler’s Restaurant has burgers, sandwiches and wings. Kasper’s offers steak, seafood and pasta dishes. Walmart has a location on Highway 22, along with smaller convenience and dollar stores. More big-box retailers are to the north in Russellville.
Highway 27 links to Russellville and I-40, with airport access further
Union Street turns into Highway 27, connecting to downtown Russellville and the entrance to Interstate 40. Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport is 82 miles southeast.
