Mena blends small-town charm with big outdoor adventure
Those living in Mena, a small city of about 5,400 residents located near the heart of Polk County, get access to nature that tourists will drive for miles to experience. The Ouachita Mountains, a long, popular range filled with streams for fishing and trails for hiking and off-roading, are just northwest of the city. State parks and forested campgrounds flank the rest of the area, drawing out-of-towners and locals alike for outdoor recreation and weekend getaways. In town, there is just about everything anyone could want: local shops and restaurants, Walmart, parks, and a historic downtown district.
Tourism and manufacturing drive the local economy
While tourism is a big part of Mena’s economy, Nidec Motor Corporation is another major employer, along with multiple smaller manufacturing companies.
Ranch homes and bungalows dominate Mena’s housing stock
Most homes in Mena are ranch-style or bungalows built toward the end of the 20th century. There are some 1920s-era Victorian-inspired homes, often in need of repair. Houses near downtown tend to be smaller and sit on petite lots, while those near city lines often boast large yards, a little more square footage and carports or garages. Yards are typically landscaped with grass and mature trees. Prices range from about $100,000 to about $400,000. Fixer-uppers can be found for less than $100,000. Land is also available; small parcels are typically priced between $4,000 and $7,000 and larger properties range from $14,000 to $60,000.
Public schools and a local college serve students of all ages
Mena Public Schools covers the city and has a B rating on Niche. Kids attend Louise Durham Elementary, which has a B rating and serves kindergarten through second grade; B-rated Holly Harshman Elementary for third through fifth grade, B-rated Mena Middle and B-minus-rated Mena High. Arkansas offers School Choice, and students can attend a public school in a non-resident district. University of Arkansas Rich Mountain Community College is on the city’s north side and offers associates degrees, transfer and technical degrees, adult education courses and workforce training. It also participates in dual credit programs with local high schools, including Mena High.
Mena Lake and Ouachita Mountains are local favorites
The Ouachita Mountains are nearby and popular for hiking, mountain biking, boating and fishing. Mena Lake is on the city’s east side and is also popular for boating and fishing. Aubrey D. Tapley Park features multiple baseball and softball fields, a walking and biking trail, soccer fields, and two playgrounds. Lee McMillan Memorial Park has ball fields, a playground and an outdoor pool. Janssen Park is the city’s first green space and home to a historic log cabin that has been a city mainstay since the 1850s. It also has two ponds, picnic tables and open fields for playing and exercising. The Ouachita County Club offers a public nine-hole golf course.
Walmart, local shops and restaurants and a hospital cover essentials
Residents pick up groceries and essentials at James Super Saver Foods and Walmart. Restaurants are located throughout the city, including local favorites Chopping Block Steakhouse, loved for its burgers, steaks and cozy vibe, and Skyline Café, a classic diner serving classic American dishes. Mena Silver Screen Theater is a small local movie house where residents catch the latest blockbuster. Mena Regional Health is the local hospital located on the city’s northeast side and includes an emergency room.
Seasonal events offer outdoor fun and community spirit
The city hosts multiple events throughout the year. The Fourth of July Celebration features live music, bounce houses, food and fireworks. The Ouachita Mountains Jeep Jam takes place in October and has off-roading on mountain trails and live music, food trucks and an obstacle course in Tapley Park.
Weather and transportation considerations
Summer temperatures in Mena are usually in the 80s and 90s with high humidity. Winter temperatures are often in the 50s. Tornadoes are not a regular occurrence but are possible.
Due to the lack of a fixed bus route in Mena, residents get around by car. State Highway 8 and U.S. Highway 71 run through the city and connect to nearby communities.
