FROM DOWNTOWN
MAIN STREET, UPTOWN ARTS AND CLOSE-TO-TOWN NATURE.
LET SEARCY SURPRISE YOU!
WELCOME TO
SEARCY
Welcome to Searcy, Arkansas! Winner of Season 4 Small Business Revolution Main Street competition featured on HULU. A town where you never meet a stranger, and you’re always greeted with a smile. Our community is vibrant and thriving with a mixture of history, art, culture, parks, sports, and education nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. We can’t wait to show you some southern hospitality when you visit. Stop into our Courthouse in the newly revitalized Main Street District and say hello. You’ll be standing in one of the oldest working courthouses in the United States. Visit our Chamber of Commerce and let them tell you about the must-visit places in town. And if you’re looking for a new community to call home, Searcy may be just what you’re searching for. Welcome.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome - - - - - - - - 1 Discover Searcy - - - - 2-3 City Map - - - - - - - 4-5 City Adventures - - - - 6-7 Outdoor Adventures - - 8-9 Arts & History - - - - - 10-11 Local Favorites - - - 12-13 Little Red River Map - 14-16
THANK YOU
Main Street Revolution - - - - - - - - - - - 17 Festivals - - - - - 18-19 Driving Tour - - - - 20-21 AgriTourism - - - - 22 Events - - - - - -24-25 Services - - - - - 27-30
for your continued support
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Al Fowler (Cover), Sandra Parham Turner, Wally Jarratt, Arkansas Parks and Tourism, Dewayne LaForce, Jeff Montgomery, Al Fowler, ddh Photo, Kenneth Mills, Julia Rippey, Jennifer Skinner and Michelle Rohlman.
HOSPITALS • CLINICS • SPECIALISTS
2323 South Main Searcy, Arkansas 72143 (501) 268-2458 visitsearcy.com
The Searcy community came together to pray over Unity Health and all healthcare workers who are working to keep our communities safe.
Unity-Health.org
Greers Ferry Lake & Little Red River Tourism Association visitgreersferrylake.com
This brochure was paid for with a combination of state funds and private regional association funds. © Searcy Regional Chamber and Greers Ferry Lake & Little Red River. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA | 10,000 | 05/2020
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DISCOVER
SEARCY
Founded in 1838, Searcy has always been a hub for family, new opportunity and a vibrant life. A NEVER-ENDING STORY
With abundant waterway access, steamboats carried pioneers and entrepreneurs who quickly called the city home. Named after Tennessee native and Arkansas pioneer, Richard Searcy, the town has roots from across the early U.S. In fact, city architect Israel Moore designed the community with the street names reflecting his hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Searcy is rich with history, stemming from Searcy Landing, which was a major trading center, to the Battle of Whitney Lane that took place on the banks of the Little Red River. Searcy has always been resilient and quickly became a diverse economic nucleus for industry, agriculture, education and healthcare. Searcy is home to Harding University, which has been an integral part of the community since its origins as Galloway Women’s College in 1889, and today is home to more than 4,000 students from 50 states and 54 foreign countries. More than 170 years later, Searcy remains a symbol of family, faith and freedom. The city continues to thrive and welcome people from all corners of the world.
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN TREASURES
Charming brick walkways invite you to explore not only the history of our buildings, but also the dynamic arts & theater in downtown Searcy where you can experience Art Alley, colorful murals, and the craftsmanship of stainedglass art, woodworking, and a variety of crafting lessons. Shop in boutiques, eat lunch at cozy cafés, browse through the farmers’ market, enjoy the neon lights of the Rialto theater, and awaken your senses at the local coffee brewery. If you’re looking for hometown ‘feel good’ performances with uptown high-stepping reviews, then grab your seat at one of our local dinner theaters!
TAKE AN ADVENTURE
If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast. Cast your line or kayak down the cool waters of the Little Red River or Barnett Lake. Take a hike along a bluff trail or mountain bike through a local Park. Enjoy a ‘Walk Through History’ tour or stroll the Harding University campus to enjoy their championship sized trees, fountains and flower gardens. Or if the greens are calling, head over to The Course at River Oaks for an afternoon round of golf. 2
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DOWNTOWN
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MURALS 1. Triple Scoop 2. Visions of Elbert 3. Appalachian Trail 4. Savor & Sip 5. Thank You & Ol’ Glory 6. Origins 7. Wild Sweet Williams 8. Natural Notes 9. Pride-Progress-Potential 10. The Daily Citizen 11. Searcy Wings 12. Together We Can Do So Much 13. Art Alley 14. Bee Kind
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TAKE A
STROLL Enjoy the fragrant flowers of our butterfly gardens, bigger than life local art, championship sized trees and all our natural beauty. ART ALLEY & DOWNTOWN ART PROJECTS
Art Alley has transformed a downtown alleyway into a creative destination. You can walk the alley anytime, however one Friday night a month the Art Alley comes to life with local artists, musicians, and food vendors. Make plans to come out to watch the artists paint live, eat, listen and hang out with friends and family. You can also walk the downtown area and view one of the many downtown murals. See the downtown map on page 4 for details.
HARDING UNIVERSITY
Begin at the front-lawn fountain, and stroll around the beautiful campus with origins from the late 1800’s. Be greeted by a myriad of flowers and captivating landscape design, unique architecture and plenty of history at the campus that greets students from around the world.
HISTORIC SPRING PARK
Spring Park is a quiet city oasis in the middle of historic downtown Searcy. Developed around the White Sulphur Springs and known as a health resort, the original town plot, including the park, was donated to the public in 1880.
BERRYHILL PARK
Experience Berryhill Park with a morning run on the lighted trail. Take to the tennis courts, volleyball pit and softball field for exciting competition. Pack a picnic basket and take advantage of the seven acres of luscious green grass.
TAKE THE FUN INDOORS
Continue your adventure indoors at Searcy Skate, Super Bowl, Zion Rock Climbing Gym or the Searcy Swim Center for family-friendly fun. If your Zen is calling, then enjoy one of many yoga classes at NOOMA or the Searcy Athletic Club. 6
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GRAB YOUR
GEAR
Set yourself free! Go kayaking, fishing or explore a biking/hiking trail to uncover the adventurous you! TAKE REFUGE
Bald Knob Wildlife Refuge and Henry Gray Hurricane Lake Wildlife Refuge are located a short 17 miles away. Combined they offer over 32,000 acres for the outdoor enthusiast to enjoy fishing, bird watching, hunting and camping. The area is the largest staging area in Arkansas for Northern Pintails with over 200,000 recorded in a single day.
FIND YOUR INNER ANGLER
The Little Red River runs along the edge of Searcy. Make a trip downtown to Beyond Boundaries Outfitters or Sunrise Outfitters. Both locally owned outdoor stores can help you get all your fishing gear to land a feisty rainbow trout. There are several access points, the nearest being Riverside Park Road, but you’ll need to go to Ramsey Access or Dripping Springs to catch trout.
MILES OF TRAILS
Hike 6 miles of trails showcasing boulders, cliffs, river views and river access at Riverside Park! Pack a picnic, take a board game break at the pavilions and relax in the sunshine. Feeling more adventurous? Try the Lercher 15 trails. This family-owned trail system features 17 miles of mountain biking/hiking trails in Beebe. Daily and annual rates, the ranch features a break room, hot showers, picnic areas and a bike wash station.
A DAY AT THE LAKE
Lake Barnett, formerly known as White County Lake, is one of the AGFC’s most picturesque fishing spots. This serpentine lake winds for nearly 3 miles through forested hills, with rock bluffs and ledges that tower over much of the shoreline. The lake is the perfect place for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. 8
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INDULGE IN
HISTORY
Experience a pioneer’s lifestyle, stand on the edge of a battlefield, or see biblical artifacts from 2,000 years ago.
THE BLACK HOUSE
RIALTO MOVIE THEATER
Take a step back in time – The historic Rialto Movie Theater was built in the 1920’s and renovated in 1940. This Art Deco beauty is on the National Register of Historic Places and still shows movies daily and features weekly matinées.
The historic, Victorian-style Black House – a piece of art in itself – is home to the Searcy Art Gallery with six major exhibits a year. Built in 1858, the house holds some of the original Black Family’s furnishings and stunning woodwork with plenty stories to share. The gallery’s gift shop showcases local hand-made jewelry, woodcarvings, watercolor paintings and more.
LINDA BYRD SMITH MUSEUM OF BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY PIONEER VILLAGE
Step into a living village, recreated as an 1800’s settlement, with items of historic interest gathered from across White County. Visit one of their three annual seasonal festivals where volunteers wear period clothing and show how settlers lived.
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With more than 100 artifacts displayed, the museum can be a resource for students to provide context and a better understanding of their biblical studies. The museum showcases items such as storage jars, perfume bottles, coins, weapons, wine skins and other artifacts from daily life in the ancient world. Other displays include excavation tools, and a timeline from 2000 B.C. to 700 A.D.
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LOCAL
FAVORITES Searcy’s cafés, boutiques, and vintage markets are a favorite for locals and are bound to be some of your favorites, too. ONE FLAWLESS LATTE
A caffeine boost is just what you need to keep up with your Searcy to-do list. Try Stu’s Brew, Kibo Midnight Oil and Savor + Sip for specialty coffees and teas. While you’re at Savor + Sip try one of their savory or sweet crepes. C’est délicieuse.
SAVOR SEARCY
Finding a family favorite for dinner is easy at Rock House Grill or KJ’s Restaurant. Looking for a taste of a different culture? Fuji’s Steak House, Venezia’s Italian Grill, Guacamole Mexican Grill, Whilma’s Filipino Restaurant and Greek House will please any worldly tastes.
PULL UP A CHAIR TO ENJOY A CLASS
Take a break at Wellspring Spa and Yoga Studio or NOOMA. Head downtown for a class in stained glass art at Glass from the Past, try your hand at making a one of kind piece of jewelry at The Artistry or sign up for a sewing class at Make Do.
ONE OF A KIND
Looking for one of kind piece that has a story? – The Bees Knees, Freeway Emporium, The Monk’s Habit Antique Shoppe and Old Hippy Antiques are some of the area’s most popular antique markets and won’t disappoint. The Vault specializes in the latest rage, vintage clothing.
UNIQUE COLLECTIONS
In search of something to spruce up your home or office? DoorFrames, Soiree Gifts LLC and The Boutique boast unique collections for all occasions! You’re sure to find your new go-to spot. There is nothing better than local service, local shopping and local love.
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SET THE
STAGE Lively, Authentic and Creative! You will be “WOWED” by first class performances! GET DOWN, DOWNTOWN
SPRING SING
Each Easter weekend, more than 12,000 people flock to Searcy for Harding University’s annual Spring Sing musical. The all-around-feel-good performances are produced and performed by students in social clubs, hosts, hostesses and ensemble.
CENTER ON THE SQUARE
Voted one of the top 5 live theaters in Arkansas, they offer dinner theater shows, matinees with lunch and musicals utilizing local talent, directors and volunteers from Searcy and White County, and the surrounding areas. Giving participants an opportunity to study and grow in their knowledge and theater experience. The always-entertaining Searcy Summer Dinner Theater offers dinner theater shows and musicals!
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This downtown festival is a free, fun-filled family event featuring musicians and artists from throughout the Mid-South. The weekend event is centered around the historic court square with a children’s area located in Spring Park that includes inflatables, games, rides and kid friendly entertainment. The Main Street event is held annually on the last week in September.
BEATS & EATS
A family friendly music festival that celebrates all things local and loved. Held on Saturdays four times a year in downtown Searcy. Each festival is themed and features local music artists, food trucks, fresh baked goods, and one of a kind treasures in art, woodwork, painting, upcycled and vintage treasures.
HOLIDAY OF LIGHTS
Searcy transforms into a special place during this time of year. The city parks, court square, local businesses and Harding University are a glow with the holiday spirit from Thanksgiving until after New Year’s. The festival kicks off with a lighting ceremony that concludes with the opening of the ice skating rink located in historic Spring Park. A favorite of the young and old alike, the Searcy Christmas Parade features lighted floats, animals and cars. And what Christmas would be complete without a visit with Santa at the Santa Hut located on the Square.
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LITTLE RED
Big Cre ek
RIVER
Ramsey Access
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RIVER MAP LEGEND
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Walk In Access
Rainbow Island
Sh oa l
River Access
Shoal
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Pa ng bu rn
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Horseshoe Bend
124 Dripping Springs R Access
Hwy. 167, 17 Miles
PANGBURN
16 BALD KNOB
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To S earc y, 1 5
Mile s
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SEARCY WINS!
WINNER OF SEASON 4 Searcy has had a lot to celebrate this year after winning Season 4 of the Small Business Revolution Main Street Competition. The win will make Searcy and six local businesses the focus of the streaming series’ upcoming season four, as well as the recipient of $500,000. Small Business Revolution is a reality show starring Amanda Brinkman, Ty Pennington and experts from small-business marketing company Deluxe Corporation. In the show, Brinkman, Pennington and their team work with a different small town each season, providing marketing advice and other support to business owners in that community. The race to become the top choice for this season’s show began in the fall of 2018, when roughly 12,000 nominations were put forward. After a nationwide vote, Searcy was chosen. The businesses that were selected include: ARganic Woodwork, El Mercado Cavadas-Ethnic Grocery Store, NoomaLife, Savor + Sip, Wilma's Filipino Restaurant and Zion Climbing Center. Each will be featured in an episode of the show.
Watch on HULU or visit www.gosearcy.com
HISTORIC DRIVING
TOUR
SMYRNA CHURCH
The oldest church building in Arkansas, the Methodist Church was founded in 1856 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. 1 JAYBIRD LANE
SPRING PARK SMYRNA CHURCH
SPRING PARK
Donated to the public in 1880, the park was developed around the white sulphur springs and known as a health resort. 113 E. PLEASURE AVE.
WHITE COUNTY COURTHOUSE
The 1871 Courthouse, the oldest Arkansas courthouse still being used for its original purpose, houses an 1855 clock tower bell resembling the Liberty Bell. 300 NORTH SPRUCE STREET
WHITE COUNTY COURTHOUSE RIALTO THEATER
RIALTO THEATER
This 1923 movie theatre landmark was renovated in amazing art deco style with 1940’s neon lighting. One of a few historic theaters showing films daily. 100 W. RACE
BLACK HOUSE BLACK HOUSE
The historic Victorian-style Black House is a piece of art itself, holding original furnishings, woodwork and presents the Searcy Art Galley exhibits as well. 300 E. RACE
OAK GROVE CEMETERY
OAK GROVE CEMETERY
Oak Grove is a cultural and historical cemetery, established in 1889. The confederate civil war general Dandridge McRae is buried here. 601 E. MOORE AVE.
PIONEER VILLAGE
This recreated 19th-century village features a log house, little red school, post office, smokehouse, barn and blacksmith shop. 1200 HIGGINSON ST.
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SEARCYCHAMBER.COM/ HISTORICAL-DRIVING-TOUR 21
Discover Your NEW Getaway in Searcy
FARM FUN
WHITE COUNTY FAIR
Since 1942, the White County Fair has held yearly livestock exhibits and competitions, shows, fair queen contests, talent contests, top name country musicians, a demolition derby, a wide variety of food, commercial vendors, rodeos and horse shows. There’s no doubt the fair provides a great time for the whole family. It’s even been recognized as one of the top ten county fairs in the nation.
RODEOS
Throughout the year there are numerous rodeos held at the White County Fair Grounds. From the Little Britches rodeos held year-round to state level barrel racing competitions, there are lots of opportunities to indulge your inner cowgirl or cowboy.
FARM FRESH
Fresh produce, fruit and farm animals are all part of the local farm scene. Take a drive out to U-pick Peach Orchard to hand pick one of their massive peaches. Harvest your very own Christmas Tree at Romance Farms or head out to Drippings Springs Farms to select your own fresh produce. Enjoy a riding lesson or a guided trail ride at Sunshine Acres Ranch. And you won’t want to miss the Certified Searcy Farmers Market that features locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, plants, and handcrafted items. 22
ANNUAL
EVENTS APRIL
Harding University Annual Spring Sing
Bald Knob Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration
MAY
AUGUST
Run Lizard Creek Mud Mayhem Race
Beats & Eats: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead
Pioneer Village Spring Fest
SEPTEMBER
65 Roses Bike Tour
Annual Shine Your Ride Car Show
JUNE
White County Fair
Searcy Summer Dinner Theater
JULY
Annual Classics & Antiques on the Square Pangburn Independence Day Celebration Judsonia Summer Blast July 4th Celebration
Get Down, Downtown Music Festival Funnel Cake 5k Chocolate Gravy Festival
OCTOBER
Annual Guns & Hoses Event for Jacob’s Place
NOVEMBER
Pioneer Village Fall Festival Holiday of Lights Festival Turkey Trot 5k Beats & Eats: Gather & Give Thanks
DECEMBER
Pioneer Village Old Fashion Christmas The Living Nativity Beats & Eats: New Year’s Eve Bash Ball Drop/Laser Light Show Lighted Christmas Parade Holiday Craft Fair
ONGOING EVENTS Farmer’s Market Tuesdays & Saturdays until Sept. First Friday Art Walk Monthly Summer Saturdays in the Village All Summer Center on the Square Performances Year round
Trick or Treat on the Square
Where community comes first!
SEARCY 2401 W. Beebe Capps Expy. | 800 E. Beebe Capps Expy. | 2801 E. Race St. BALD KNOB 159 Hwy. 167 CABOT 3084 Bill Foster Memorial Hwy. | 11 Prospect Court
www.firstcommunity.net
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SEARCY
SERVICES ATTORNEYS
VISITSEARCY
Bryant Law Firm 612 South Main Street (501) 368-0149
BAKERY
CITY
City of Searcy Advertising & Promotions Commission 401 W Arch Street (501) 268-2483
Joyful Baking Co. (501) 729-4389
BANKS
AgHeritage Farm Credit Services 2620 South Main Street (501) 268-3524 First Community Bank 2401 West Beebe-Capps (501) 207-6000 First Security Bank 314 North Spring (501) 279-3400
www.visitsearcy.com
2323 South Main . Searcy AR 72143 (501) 2682458 or scc@searcychamber.com
DINNER THEATER
Performing Arts Center on the Square 219 West Arch (501) 368-0111
GOLF COURSE
RiverWind Bank 411 Hartsfield Drive (501) 278-3082
River Oaks Golf Club of Searcy, LLC 1 Golf Course Drive (501) 279-4653
BOWLING
HOSPITALS
Super Bowl 825 South Main (501) 207-1142
Unity Health 3214 East Race Street (501) 268-6121
CHAMBER / ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
HOTELS / MOTELS
Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce 2323 South Main (501) 268-2458 Searcy Regional Economic Development Corporation 2323 South Main Searcy, AR 72143
Best Western Plus Searcy Inn 501 Willow Street (501) 279-9191
Day’s Inn 3109 East Race Avenue (501) 268-6171 Hampton Inn Searcy 209 South Poplar St. (501) 278-9922
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SEARCY
SERVICES Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Icon Lodging 3660 Ferren Trail (501) 279-9991 La Quinta Inn & Suites 504 North Poplar Street (501) 278-4200 M-Star Hotel 2203 East Race Avenue (501) 268-3511 Microtel Inn & Suites 3668 Ferren Trail (501) 268-1555 Quality Inn & Suites 3204 East Race Avenue (501) 268-0654
The Bee’s Knees 511 Alexis Drive (501) 278-5557 The Boutique 112 North Spring Street (501) 268-3434
ICE CREAM & FROZEN DESSERTS Chillz Treats LLC 2209 West Beebe-Capps (501) 203-0509 Creme & Sugar 3530 E. Race Ave (501) 279-1116
MOVIE THEATERS Rialto Theater 100 W Race Street (501) 268-6699
Searcy Cinema 8 2933 East Race Ave (501) 279-3644
MUSEUMS
Beyond Boundaries Outfitters 115 E. Center Ave. (501) 203-4002
Sunrise Honda Outfitters 800 Truman Baker Drive (501) 305-2900
POOL
Fuji Japanese Steakhouse 3548 East Race Avenue (501) 278-5878 Guacamole Mexican Grill 205 S. Poplar (501) 368-0422 Huckleberry’s Catfish 2613 East Line Road (501) 268-0194
RESTAURANTS
KJ’s Restaurant 616 HWY 367 (501) 729-4200
Brick Oven Pizza Company 1400 W Beebe Capps Expressway (501) 268-3399
GIFT & NOVELTY SHOPS
Stevens Art & Design Center – HU Campus 203 S Blakeney (501) 279-4000
Burrito Day 108 East Center Ave (501) 203-4334
Doorframes 208 N Spring (501) 203-0556
Linda Byrd Smith Museum of Biblical Archeology – HU Campus 203 S Blakeney McInteer Bible Center (501) 279-4000
Soiree Gifts LLC 1551 E. Race Ave. (501) 203-0731
Coltons 3002 East Race Avenue (501) 268-5777
Searcy Swim Center 525 Recreation Way (501) 279-1035
Black House Searcy Art Gallery 300 E Race Ave (501) 279-1018
Chasing Poppies Boutique 118 West Race Street (501) 278-0570
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OUTFITTERS/ SPORTING GOODS
Casa Brava 1801 East Beebe-Capps (501) 305-3231 Chick-fil-A Searcy 3683 East Race Ave. (501) 268-0232
Little Caesars Pizza 2412 Race Ave (501) 279-2400 Mazzio’s Pizza 3006 East Race Ave. (501) 268-9888 McAlister’s 3512 East Race (501) 279-7770 McDonald’s 600 South Main St. (501) 843-0069
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SEARCY
SERVICES
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Papa John’s Pizza 409 South Main Street (501) 268-4468
Taco Bell #521 3307 East Race (501) 268-1709
Pizza Hut 906 East Beebe Capps (501) 268-5868
Tacos 4 Life 3113 E Race Ave Suite 400 (501) 207-0141
Popeyes Chicken 1805 East Beebe-Capps (501) 368-8773
The Cookie Basket 106 E. Market (501) 827-8803
Rib Crib BBQ & Grill 3204 East Race Avenue (501) 279-0440
Tropical Smoothie Cafe 310 East Beebe-Capps (501) 305-3665
Rock House 1301 East Beebe-Capps (501) 268-3627
Western Sizzlin’ 3210 East Race Avenue (501) 268-2464
Savor & Sip Creperie and Coffeehouse 110 N. Spring St. (501) 305-0800
Zaxby’s 1303 East Beebe Capps (501) 305-3918
Sonic of Searcy #1 2005 East Race Street 1823 West Beebe-Capps 1201 North Maple Street (501) 268-1191
Searcy Skate & Family Entertainment Center 3579 Highway 367 South (501) 279-7170
Searcy
ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONS COMMISSION
Visit
Searcy
where hospitality is an
SKATING RINKS
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Paid for by the Searcy A&P Commission
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