El Dorado - A Great Community
AHEC South Arkansas

The city of El Dorado is located in South central Arkansas (Map) with a population of approximately 25,000. El Dorado serves a business and commercial trade area of over 75,000 people. Named after the legendary lost city of gold, El Dorado became a major regional city in Arkansas with the discovery of oil in the 1920's. It is the largest city in Union County.

Beautifully restored 1920's and 1930's businesses are located in the downtown district called "Main Street" with amenities such as color awnings, replica light posts, flowering Bradford pear trees, and old­fashioned park benches. The area also boasts the County Courthouse Square which has more ornate columns than any other structure in the state! Fantastic restaurants and specialty shops compliment this unique Old South character. Modern and progressive schools, shopping areas, and other life-style necessities are also available in El Dorado. These amenities reflect a community where you can raise your family and participate in community activities while enjoying all the conveniences of city life. Educational facilities include excellent public schools, private schools, and the South Arkansas Community College, a two-year state community college. Southern Arkansas University, a four-year state university, is located in the city of Magnolia just 30 miles west of El Dorado.

El Dorado is conveniently located near several major southern cities: approximately 300 miles from Dallas and New Orleans, 252 miles from Baton Rouge, 230 miles from Memphis, 117 miles from Little Rock, and Just 90 miles from Shreveport.

In addition to its convenient location to other major cities, El Dorado is just minutes from the beautiful piney woods of South Arkansas. These woodlands, which abound El Dorado with many national forests, have much to offer those who love the outdoors, including exceptional hunting and fishing, state parks, numerous waterways, and historical sites.

Other Attractions Include:

† The South Arkansas Arts Center with visual, performing and allies arts as well as theatrical performances, children's and educational programs

† The South Arkansas Symphony.

† HealthWorks Fitness Center with indoor Olympic size swimming facilities.

† Two eighteen-hole golf courses.

† Several annual community festivals.

† A revitalized downtown area with over 60 specialty shops and restaurants.

† Outdoor recreation with the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, Ouachita River, Calion Lake, and Moro Bay State Park only minutes away with great hunting and fishing.

†The Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources.