Magnolia

Magnolia is a city in the Timberlands region of southern Arkansas and the county seat of Columbia County. With a population of approximately 12,000, it is home to Southern Arkansas University (SAU), known for its world-class rodeo team and agricultural business program. The city derives its name from the approximately 150-year-old magnolia trees that surround the downtown courthouse.

Magnolia's downtown area is clean and vital, featuring several murals chronicling the city's history. The Wilson Memorial Garden, just off the square, showcases botanical collections and waterfalls. The city is located off Highway 79, southwest of Pine Bluff, with its business district at the intersection of Highways 79 and 82 East.

Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 90s°F. Spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons. Winters are mild.

By Car / Road

Magnolia is located off Highway 79, southwest of Pine Bluff. Bounding south at the intersection of Highway 79 and Highway 82 East, you'll find the business district. The closest major cities are Texarkana, TX; Little Rock, AR; and Shreveport, LA.

Magnolia is large in acreage, but the bulk of its commerce, residences, and facilities are located radially from the court square. Key streets include North St, Jackson St, Vine St, Main St (US Highway 371 S and 82 E), and US Highway 79.

• Magnolia Trees. The approximately 150-year-old magnolia trees surrounding the downtown courthouse give the city its name.

• Downtown Murals. Several murals chronicling Magnolia's history adorn downtown buildings.

• Southern Arkansas University (SAU). Known for its world-class rodeo team and agricultural business program.

• Wilson Memorial Garden. Just off the square, featuring waterfalls and a vast collection of botanicals.

• Lake Columbia west of the city. Fishing and water sports.

• Logoly State Park north of the city.

• Magnolia Arts, 116 S. Washington. ☏ +1 870-901-3600. Art center with exhibits and events.

• World Championship Steak Cook-Off (third weekend in May). Featured on the Food Network. A popular stop for Arkansas politicians.

• Backyard BBQ, 1407 E Main St. Offers some of the best baby back ribs in the state with awards to prove it.
• Chen Chen, 309 Fredrick St. ☏ +1 870-234-3100. Asian cuisine.
• Marlar's Cafeteria, 2116 Vine. ☏ +1 870-234-4122. Home-style cooking.
• Chain restaurants including Dairy Queen, KFC, and McDonald's are well-represented.

• Budget: Budget motels along the main highways, with rates from $55-75 per night.
• Mid-range: Hotels near the downtown area and university, with rates around $80-120 per night.
• Upscale / heritage: Limited upscale options in Magnolia; Shreveport and Little Rock offer more luxury accommodations.

• Murphy's Jewelers, 107 South Court Square. ☏ +1 870-234-3072. Retail jewelry.
• Khaki's, 108 N. Court Square. ☏ +1 870-234-1225. Clothing.
• Sara's, 106 N. Court Square. ☏ +1 870-234-4122. Clothing.

• Pine Bluff (65 miles northeast). Historic city with the Delta Rivers Nature Center.
• Shreveport, Louisiana (90 miles south). Casinos, dining, and cultural attractions.
• Texarkana (70 miles west). Twin city straddling the Texas-Arkansas border.
• El Dorado (60 miles southeast). The "Queen City of South Arkansas" with the Murphy Arts District.