Road Trip Through the Heartland | A Cross-Country Drive β Little Rock
π² A Glass Chapel Hidden in the Forest | Stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki Frame ποΈ After leaving Texas, we headed east into Arkansas β a often-overlooked "hidden gem" of a state that gifted us a dreamlike, up-close encounter with nature. β¨ A Silent Miracle in the Glass Forest: Anthony Chapel in Hot Springs We woke early and drove into the woods north of Hot Springs, searching for the chapel tucked deep in the forest β Anthony Chapel. Walking into that grove, pine needles underfoot, and seeing that all-glass structure rising tall among the trees β I held my breath. The trees were its walls, sunlight filtering through leaves and glass, casting dappled shadows like something out of Hayao Miyazakiβs Princess Mononoke. No crosses, no ornate decor β just clean lines blending into nature. Sitting on a bench inside, with only the sound of wind and birds, brought a deep, quiet calm. πΈ An absolutely perfect spot for soft, aesthetic travel photos β think K-drama vibes! ποΈ Exploring Arkansasβs Capital: Little Rock In the afternoon, we drove just over an hour to Little Rock, the state capital. Compared to the morningβs fairytale forest, the city offered a laid-back, relaxing energy. Our first stop was the grand Arkansas State Capitol. Like many state capitols, it features a white dome reminiscent of the U.S. Capitol. Strolling across the lawn, watching fountains spray in the distance, it felt like the city was preserving a slower, old-school American pace. π Must-Visit Spots in Little Rock: ποΈ State Capitol β Free entry, perfect for history and politics enthusiasts π Big Dam Bridge β The longest pedestrian-and-bike-only bridge in the U.S., with great city views! π¨ River Market District β A artsy neighborhood full of boutiques, murals, and restaurants Little Rock isnβt flashy, but it carries a different kind of American spirit β simple, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature. If you enjoyed this travel share, stay tuned for more updates! π Next stop: crossing Mississippi into Louisiana πΆ #USA #OffTheBeatenPath #Arkansas #StudyAbroadTravel #RoadTrip #Little Rock
