The Northwest Arkansas Visitors Guide is published annually by the Northwest Arkansas Tourism Association.
Kalene Griffith, President
Brandon Kelley, Vice President
Sandy Martin, Treasurer Wes Oliver, Secretary
The Northwest Arkansas Tourism Association (NATA) is the official nonprofit organization established for the purpose of encouraging and stimulating tourism travel and vacation business to and within the Northwest Arkansas region. It is one of 12 regional associations in the state created by Arkansas Tourism and includes Benton, Washington, Carroll and Madison counties. In addition to promoting the Northwest Arkansas region overall, NATA also represents, promotes and markets the fourcounty area’s many attractions, destinations and tourism entities. To learn more, visit NorthwestArkansas.org.
NATA is guided by a Board of Directors made up of Northwest Arkansas tourism and hospitality industry leaders.
BENTON COUNTY
Northwest Arkansas Tourism Association
P.O. Box 2865
Bentonville, AR 72712
NorthwestArkansas.org
This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission. Contents ©2023. All rights reserved.
David Faulkner
Pinnacle Hills Promenade
Kalene Griffith President Visit Bentonville
Megan Feyerbend Feyerbend Photoartists
Brandon Kelley Vice President
Discover Bella Vista
Alison Nation Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
J.R. Shaw Past-President
Destination Rogers
CARROLL COUNTY
Dean Lee
Greater Berryville Chamber of Commerce
Leatherwood
Madison Dawson Eureka Springs CAPC
Kent Butler
Great Passion Play
Sandy Martin Treasurer
Arts Council of Eureka Springs
Tanya Smith
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
MADISON COUNTY
Adam Leslie Withrow Springs
State Park
Nancy Marsh
Madison County Health Coalition
Brandi Holt
Huntsville EDTC
WASHINGTON COUNTY
Wes Oliver Secretary
Springdale
A&P Comission
Molly Rawn
Experience Fayetteville
Rachel Miller
Theatre Squared
Jennifer Wilson
Walton Arts Center
Mark Zaiger
Northwest Arkansas
Naturals
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS:
SILOAM SPRINGS City of Siloam Springs 400 N. Broadway, Siloam Springs 479.238.0940 DiscoverSiloam.com
SPRINGDALE Springdale Advertising & Pomotion Commission 202 W. Emma Ave., Springdale 479.872.2222 ExploreSpringdale.com
ARKANSAS STATE WELCOME CENTERS
Bentonville Welcome Center 13750 Visitors Center Drive, Bella Vista 479.853.3111 Siloam Springs Welcome Center 2000 U.S. 412, Siloam Springs 479.524.4445
FAYETTEVILLE Experience Fayetteville 21 S. Block Ave., Fayetteville 479.521.5776
ISLAND Holiday Island Suburban Improvement District 110 Woodsdale Drive, HJoliday Island 479.270.1393
HUNTSVILLE Huntsville City Hall 208 E. War Eagle, Huntsville 479.738.6607
BELLA VISTA Discover Bella Vista POB 5003, Bella Vista info@discoverbellavistaar.com
For more information, please visit our website
ROGERS Visit Rogers 317 W. Walnut St., Rogers 479.636.1240
EUREKA SPRINGS Eureka Springs Advertising & Promotion Commission 479.253.7333 EurekaSprings.org Eureka Springs Historical Museum Visitor Information Center 95 S. Main St., Eureka Springs
Welcome to Northwest Arkansas! You’ll quickly see it’s a destination unlike any other–not only in Arkansas, but in the world. Composed of four counties and 11 distinctly diverse cities bordering Missouri and Oklahoma, this slice of the Ozarks offers endless opportunities for exploration.
Easy to reach via plane, train, car or motorcycle, this corner of the state features internationally ranked bike trails and world-class arts and entertainment. With an established yet emerging culinary and craft-brew scene, the region is perfect for weekend or week-long getaways–and anything in between. There’s truly something for everyone.
Within Northwest Arkansas, there are destinations with a big-city feel like Fayetteville–where visitors can explore the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks or the Clinton House Museum; mid-sized locations
like Bentonville–home to The Walmart Museum and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House; and quirky small towns like Eureka Springs, where you can find the celebrated Thorncrown Chapel designed by architect E. Fay Jones and acclaimed Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
In between hundreds of miles of mountain biking and cycling trails, you’ll find scenic byways, charming train rides and picturesque golf courses. Outfitters, hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, breweries and wineries all eagerly await visitors from near and far.
Flip through these pages to find inspiration for your own uniquely authentic trip to Northwest Arkansas. Bella Vista, Bentonville, Berryville, Eureka Springs, Fayetteville, Holiday Island, Huntsville, Lowell, Rogers, Siloam Springs and Springdale look forward to seeing you!
With glittering lakes, scenic golf courses, wandering streams, beautiful nature trails and 200+ stylish vacation rentals, Bella Vista is an ideal location for your next civilized outdoor getaway. In fact, Airbnb released a list of the top fall destinations and Bella Vista was ranked #2.
You might start with the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright mentored architect, E. Fay Jones. A modern take on the Gothic cathedral, the Chapel’s vaulted walls of steel and glass offer inspiring views of the forested hillside overlooking Lake Norwood.
Next up, explore the Back 40, Little Sugar and Blowing Springs trails systems. With more than 100 miles of
handcrafted trails designed to delight hikers, bikers and runners of every skill level, you’ll never run out of adventures to discover.
For day two, try a few rounds at one of Bella Vista’s seven meticulously maintained pro-level golf courses, take a walk through history at the Veterans Wall of Honor, or just relax with a flight of local varietals and a lakeside brunch on Loch Lomond.
And finally, as an exclusive perk for overnight visitors, don’t forget to request a guest pass to one of Bella Vista’s seven pristine private lakes perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing and floating until the dinner bell rings toward sunset.
A distinctive experience brimming with natural beauty, culture and a strong sense of community, Bentonville is a cycling and arts destination.
Whether touring Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Momentary, the Scott Family Amazeum, The Walmart Museum, or viewing one of the 130+ pieces of public artwork, you’ll have an unforgettable time!
If mountain biking is your reason for visiting Northwest Arkansas, look no further than Bentonville’s slice of the OZ Trails. Cyclists and hikers can also join mountain bikers on more than 40 miles of connected trails on the Bentonville Trails
A variety of lodging options await you in Bentonville: campgrounds, cabins, Airbnbs, hotels and B&Bs. Not-to-miss is the 21c Museum Hotel: a unique hotel, art museum and restaurant.
For mountain bikers, camp at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve after spending the day on more than 17 miles of trails. The Bike Inn offers rooms, van camping and glamping pods as well as biking-centric amenities such as a Muc-Off bike wash station.
In Bentonville, you’ll be greeted with both the simple life vibe of days past and the modern must-have amenities found in most urban centers.
Crystal Bridges | Five centuries of American art
The Momentary | Contemporary visual & performing arts
In historic Berryville, the “hometown feeling” is alive and well. Enjoy a walking tour of the picturesque downtown and explore fascinating museums and distinctive shops. The city is often a central rendezvous destination for motorcycle ride groups and has 12 city parks for fun outdoor adventures like ATV riding, biking and hiking.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kings River is popular with canoeists and kayakers, providing 50 miles of easy floating water. Deep pools provide great fishing for smallmouth bass, channel catfish, rock bass and other fish. Open year-round, Pension Mountain is a 390-acre park developed on a natural spring preserve with scenic views of bluffs and mountainous forests. One side of the mountain hosts trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, while the other has been developed for four-wheelers and ATVs.
Great for both cave enthusiasts and first-timers, Cosmic Cavern is a locally owned show cave offering guided tours. Two bottomless lakes, cave bacon and many other natural formations await visitors year-round in this refreshing 64-degree cave. When you’re done, pan for gems and explore the rock shop!
The Carroll County Heritage Center Museum is in the historic downtown public square. It contains three stories of Berryville’s unique past, telling the story of generations of local residents. Features in the museum include a real moonshine still, a funeral parlor scene, a one-room school, an old general store and a local genealogy library.
Learn more at Berryville.com
A well-preserved Victorian village rich in culture and historical charm – with an entire downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places – Eureka Springs welcomes all visitors with open arms.
The highlight of Eureka Springs’ outdoor treasures is the 1,610-acre Lake Leatherwood City Park, which includes an 85-acre spring-fed, pristine lake. For other relaxing outdoor activities, consider the Blue Spring Heritage Center: the largest spring in Northwest Arkansas, pouring 38 million gallons of water each day into its trout-stocked lagoon.
If you’re lucky enough to visit while there’s a show at The Aud—a historic venue built in 1928— make sure to catch a live performance. Eureka Springs offers a variety of additional performance venues such as the
Hoe-Down Music Theater, Intrigue Theater, The Great Passion Play and the Opera of the Ozarks
For a unique experience, choose one of the historic hotels located downtown, including the 1905 Basin Park Hotel, which is built into the side of a mountain; the stately 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa; the intimate Palace Hotel & Bath House Spa; or the wrought-iron-draped New Orleans Hotel
The more curious at heart can stay in an array of eclectic places, including Eureka Springs Treehouses, Caves, Castles & Hobbits and Turpentine Creek - a premier big cat sanctuary with unique safari and lodging experiences.
Learn more at EurekaSprings.org
Plan a visit to Eureka Springs and you’re sure to be surprised. Our historic downtown, artsy vibe, and unique surroundings make for a destination unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. So come see us soon. A curiously good time awaits.
Fayetteville is home to the University of Arkansas Razorbacks and a place where culture and nature meet and free spirits thrive.
Fayetteville is a great getaway for any nature lover. 40 miles of paved walking and biking trails run throughout the city and connect with the 37-mile Razorback Regional Greenway. Visitors can start at “Mile Zero” located at renowned Mount Kessler
With an extensive network of trails for all skill levels, Fayetteville was awarded the “Bike City” label by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and is also an International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Ride Center. A state-of-the-art cyclo-cross and mountain bike facility, Centennial Park is open to the public and visitors can ride the course that has hosted international championships.
Live events and performing arts also thrive in Fayetteville, especially on Dickson Street and downtown Fayetteville Here you’ll find George’s Majestic Lounge: the oldest and longest-running livemusic venue in Arkansas. The Walton Arts Center and TheatreSquared are also part of Fayetteville’s impressive cultural scene.
“Local” is key here, and dining options range from formal to street eats at the Yacht Club: a food truck court, located just off College Avenue. The city caters to every taste, and the Fayetteville Farmers’ Market consistently receives national accolades. The Fayetteville Ale Trail takes you off the beaten path on a tasting tour of delicious craft brews at 15 breweries – including a hard cidery.
Symphony of Northwest Arkansas
Paul Haas, Music Director
OCT 29, 2022
DEC 10, 2022
sonamusic.org
JAN 7, 2023
MAR 11, 2023
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As the United States’ first city to be designated as a UCI Bike City, finding adventure on two wheels in Fayetteville is easy to do. It’s an honor being recognized with such a prestigious designation and we’re eager to see you out on our trails. So, saddle up and come Experience Fayetteville! experiencefayetteville.com
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The planned community of Holiday Island is situated on the edge of Table Rock Lake: a 53,000-acre pristine lake with more than 800 miles of shoreline.
Equipped with several access points and a full-service marina that is open to the public, the Holiday Island Marina also offers rentals, including kayaks, canoes and boats. Additional activities include fishing, sailing, swimming, scuba diving, tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, canoeing and kayaking.
Golfers–both novice and experienced–will delight in the 18-hole course and the nine-hole executive course. These 27 holes are nestled in the beautiful, wooded hills and
scenic valleys surrounding Table Rock Lake. Once you’ve made par, grab breakfast, lunch or dinner at the grill and lounge.
Holiday Island boasts an array of lodging options, from vacation home rentals to camping. The Holiday Island Campground features sites with full water, sewer and electric hookups. You will also find one to four bedroom vacation condos, townhomes and home rentals in Holiday Island – all of which come with a fully equipped kitchen. Some even offer a hot tub to soak away your aches from a day of outdoor adventures.
Learn more at HolidayIsland.us
Looking for a day excursion off the beaten path? Then it’s time to meander the backroads of Huntsville. The area has more gravel roads than paved roads—which will lead the adventurous traveler to spectacular waterfalls and secluded swimming holes.
Check out the Kings River Falls Natural Area, about 30 minutes south of Huntsville. Open year-round, the falls are accessed by a short hike that meanders along the Kings River. After a leisurely walk, you’ll reach the Kings River Falls and its secluded pool of emerald green water. Perfect for any season, you’ll see blooming dogwoods in spring, locals swimming during the hot summer months and spectacular foliage during the fall.
The McIlroy Madison County Wildlife Management Area (WMA) provides the perfect back country road trip to
chase waterfalls. Make sure to download routes beforehand, as cell service is limited. In one afternoon, you can visit three amazing sites located near the roadside: Glory B Falls, Eagle’s Nest Falls, and Road 299 Falls. Glory B Falls is a 16-foot waterfall with ample photo-worthy opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for soaring eagles at Eagle’s Nest Falls: a 41-foot-high waterfall. And lastly, enjoy access to both the top and bottom of the 21-foot Road 299 Falls
Sweden Creek Falls Natural Area is a mix of woodlands, glades and bluffs. There are hiking segments on both the top and bottom of this 80-foot waterfall–the largest waterfall in Arkansas. If you make the hike after a rain, be prepared to get a little muddy and wet.
Learn more at HuntsvilleArkansas.org
If you plan to ride the Razorback Greenway–More than 36 miles of trail, consisting of 19+ individual trails that connect Bella Vista to Fayetteville–Lowell is a great stopping point, since it’s geographically located in the center.
The Grove Comedy Club has become a must-stop for nationally known comedians, featured on nationally recognized television channels and frequented by top entertainers. Next door is GOAT Lab Brewery, a German-inspired tap room that is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
You’re also sure to find plenty of laughter at Fast Lane Entertainment: a giant indoor facility featuring two bowling alleys, dozens of arcade games for every skill level, laser tag,
a bumper car track, virtual reality gaming and the only indoor roller coaster in Northwest Arkansas. Grab a bite to eat or drink at the full restaurant and bar while you’re visiting.
For outdoor fun, check out the Hickory Creek Marina Fish & Ski Center: a full-service marina situated in a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park. Nestled between Big Hickory and Little Hickory Creeks, it’s the perfect spot for fishing, boating and water skiing.
In addition to these great year-round activities, Lowell also hosts a variety of great city festivals, including Mudtown Days and the “Slow and Lowell” Kansas City BBQ tournament.
Learn more at DiscoverLowell.com
If you’re traveling to Northwest Arkansas by plane, then visiting Rogers is easy, since it’s home to the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA). A city with both small-town charm and premium entertainment, you’ll love exploring the museums, outdoor activities and abundant live music in Rogers.
Start by challenging your skills on Monument Trails at Hobbs State Park – where you can even camp overnight at the Karst Loop, which is only accessible via hike or bike. You can also wrap up your day of biking at Railyard Bike Park, which has lights that allow for night riding. For more outdoor fun, visit War Eagle Cavern to walk along unique trails, go spelunking, watch bats and experience the Moonshiners Mystery Shack, a miners maze and gemstone panning.
From farm-to-table and breweries–like the awardwinning Ozark Beer Company, located downtown in a historic building–there are plenty of great dining options in Rogers as well. Or, if you’re interested in learning culinary skills firsthand, consider taking a class at the Honeycomb Kitchen Shop downtown.
While downtown, visit the Railyard Park, which features a splash pad, playground, live music and events–as well as a seasonal farmers market on Saturdays. Additional live outdoor entertainment can be found at the newly renovated Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP): a world-class outdoor venue featuring national and international acts.
In historic Siloam Springs, you’ll find a postcard-worthy small college town, featuring Victorian buildings and parks with fountains, foot bridges and gazebos along the lovely banks of Sager Creek.
A National Register of Historic District, downtown Siloam Springs includes a pipe and cigar store, bike shop, quilt store and restaurants. Discover the region’s history at the Siloam Springs Museum, where visitors are transported to 1839 when Simon Sager settled the area.
Visit City Lake Park, where bikers of all skill levels will find more than six miles of multi-use soft surface trails and a bicycle skills course and pump track.
If you love adventure, Siloam Springs Kayak Park is a must. With waves for beginners and advanced kayakers alike, this free park allows visitors to bring their own equipment throughout the year. You can also bring chairs and lunch for a river-side picnic.
For mesquite-grilled hand-cut stakes, head to Callahan’s Steak House, which has been a staple for over 25 years. You can also find local produce, artisan crafts, pasture-raised meats and delicious baked goods at the year-round downtown Farmers Market.
As the most central location in Northwest Arkansas, Springdale is in the heart of the action. Whether you’re exploring by bike, car, rail or air–on a FlyARH helicopter tour–there are many unique attractions waiting to be discovered.
If your time in Springdale centers around the great outdoors, visit the J.B. & Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center: a 32,000 square-foot facility highlighting the wonders of nature in Arkansas. Mountain biking enthusiasts should try riding on the Best Trail Ever at Fitzgerald Mountain or at Runway Bike Park, the nation’s largest pump track. If you’re more interested in distance cycling than thrills, you’ll enjoy the beautiful
40-mile Razorback Greenway that runs through downtown Springdale.
The Arvest Ballpark is home to the Northwest Arkansas Naturals minor-league baseball team and the perfect location for a family-friendly evening. Or, for another action-packed evening, head over to Parsons Stadium to catch the Rodeo of the Ozarks (held annually each June).
If a relaxing rail journey is more your speed, step back in time on a train ride through the Boston Mountains with the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad. Both the three-hour and day-long excursions take passengers through a quartermile long tunnel and trestles more than 125 feet high.
Northwest Arkansas is blessed with a world of natural wonders that invite visitors to enjoy unforgettable outdoor adventures. Here, you can hike, run, bike, climb, paddle, float, swim, water ski, dive and fish. You can relax while enjoying the gorgeous vistas of the Ozarks or get up close to splashing waterfalls. You can even go spelunking or (for the less adventurous) take a guided cave tour.
Northwest Arkansas is wellknown for mountain biking–and for good reason. OZ Trails is an impressive network of more 400 miles of singletrack throughout the region. All the 11 Northwest Arkansas cities offer mountain biking adventures ready for you to explore.
Bentonville is a starting point for the Razorback Greenway, which makes it a great location to begin your MTB journey. Within one block of the city square you’ll find the Slaughter Pen trailhead, which provides trails for everyone–from beginner to expert. Thrillseekers also flock to Coler Mountain Bike Preserve (five minutes from downtown), which features 17+ miles of
flow, cross-country, rock, dual slalom, and flyover trails, along with stone, wood, metal, and jump features.
Bella Vista’s Little Sugar, the Back 40 and Blowing Springs trail systems combine to offer more than 100 miles of worldclass singletrack to hikers, bikers and nature lovers of all kinds. Carefully crafted to show off the natural beauty of the Ozark wilderness, Bella Vista’s trails provide nearly endless photo opportunities in front of lakes, waterfalls, rock overhangs and treelined creeks.
Mountain biking is king in Eureka Springs, too. Carved into the Ozark hillsides, the town has some of the steepest courses in the region. Lake Leatherwood City Park and The Great Passion Play grounds present an array of downhill-only trails that cater to all skill levels. Lake Leatherwood also includes 25 miles of cross-country trails that weave up and down the hillsides.
True to its name, downtown Eureka Springs has an abundance of natural springs
Horseback Riding, Eureka Springs Mountain Biking, OZ Trails
running through it. Seven miles northwest of downtown you’ll find the breathtaking Blue Spring Heritage Center: 33 acres of crystal-clear natural springs and pools, a trout-filled lagoon, gardens, a massive rock overhang, walkways, and scenic overlooks.
Northwest Arkansas offers abundant water-based activities, too. Centrally located, Beaver Lake is a great place to start your water adventures. With nearly 500 miles of coastline, the large man-made reservoir is nationally renowned for bass fishing. The lake is also a terrific place for snorkeling and scuba
A few miles north of Huntsville, about halfway to Berryville, is the stunning Kings River
Overlook, perfect for a family outing. A half-mile trail leads you to spectacular views of the winding Kings River from about
diving. You can even explore underwater ruins of a longsubmerged resort town called Monte Ne, which includes a complete amphitheater. Beaver Lake also includes hiking trails through tall bluffs and meadows, picnic spots and countless swimming areas.
200 feet up. You can also take short side trips to a small cave and a waterfall.
If you’re in search of additional waterfalls, you’ll find plenty in Northwest Arkansas. The area around Huntsville has several: Glory B Falls, Eagle’s Nest
Waterfall (41 feet, with a large shelter cave), and a little farther out you’ll find Triple Falls, Tea Kettle Falls, Hemmed-inHollow Trail, and Glory Hole
Waterfall Trail. All of these falls can be reached via fairly short, easily navigable trails. As you go, keep an eye out for bald eagles and other wildlife.
Avid kayakers will love Siloam Springs Kayak Park, which has a 700-foot section of engineered rapids that includes two major drops, plus chutes, ladders, waves and calm pools.
Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks, Fayetteville
The course is appropriate for multi-person rafts as well and the park includes an ADAdesigned riverbank, climbing boulders, a picnic area, walking trails and a rain garden.
For a more relaxing experience, take a stroll through the lush Lake Fayetteville Park: 450 acres of outdoor recreation located about halfway between downtown Fayetteville and Springdale. Within the park, you’ll find the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: a collection of 12 themed gardens, including the Ozark Native Garden and an enchanting Butterfly Garden
A casual, scenic diversion awaits five miles south of Holiday Island. Built in 1943, the 550foot long Beaver Bridge is the only wooden suspension bridge open to traffic in Arkansas. Also referred to as the “Little Golden Gate of the Ozarks,” The historic structure has only one lane, so traffic must take turns. Take a leisurely drive, motorcycle or bicycle ride over the bridge, then walk the nearby Poker Bluff Trail: a flat, half-mile that provides close-up views of the White River, the bridge and the hills beyond.
No matter what your interests, Northwest Arkansas offers a bounty of outdoor adventures for every traveler.
When you’re at Arkansas’s 52 state parks, the possibilities are endless. Biking trails, scenic hikes, kayaking, championship fishing - it’s all there and ready to be explored!
Arena, is a regular participant in March Madness, and the baseball squad, which has its own 10,000-capacity venue, Baum Stadium, is routinely ranked in the Top 10 nationally.
Northwest Arkansas is known for outdoor adventures and the breathtaking views found in its rugged Ozark terrain, but the region also offers both participatory and spectator sports.
The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville offers the ultimate college sports experience. Razorback football games are the marquee attraction, where home fans in the 76,000-seat Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium band together for the ritual Hog Call. But that’s not all. The basketball team, which plays in renowned Bud Walton
For a spectator experience that will have you cheering right out of the chute, Sky High Arena in Huntsville hosts the annual Madison County IPRA Rodeo, which draws the country’s best riders, ropers and clowns. Mitchusson Park includes the 18-hole Windy Ridge Disc Golf Course, which leads players through course consisting of wooded areas and an open field.
Reynolds Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville
In Springdale, Arvest Ballpark is the home stadium of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, the Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. In the off season, the venue hosts festivals, car shows and other events. Springdale’s wealth of participatory activities includes Northwest Arkansas’ only yearround ice-skating rink at the Jones Center and the Ozark Climbing Gym
The region’s golf hub is Bella Vista, renowned for seven beautiful and challenging courses that range from the traditional Scottish links of the Scotsdale Golf Course to the Brittany Golf Course, a ninehole executive layout that can also play as a par-3.
Racket and paddle sports enthusiasts will want to make a trip to Matrix Racquet Club in Lowell. This impressive complex features a total of 34 indoor and outdoor courts for tennis, pickleball and padel tennis.
Visitors to quirky Eureka Springs can take a pause from exploring for a different kind of fun at the city’s Community Center, which is walkable from downtown hotels. The facility
Jones Center, Springdale
Arvest Ballpark, Springdale
offers indoor pickleball and basketball and a wellequipped fitness center.
For a step into classic Americana, KingPins in Siloam Springs combines bowling, an arcade and glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. Bob Henry Park has sand volleyball and a skate park. The town’s Family Aquatic Center is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Bentonville has a large park system that runs the recreational gamut. Memorial Park, just east of the historic district, features a skate park, sand volleyball courts and a dozen tennis courts. For pickleballers, the Bentonville Community Center has eight outdoor courts and Osage Park has four.
The 24 parks in Rogers include skate parks, splash pads, big colorful
playgrounds for kids, and other activities. At the DEFY Rogers indoor trampoline park, visitors can pogo to their heart’s content and engage in extreme dodgeball, trapeze, parkour and more.
In Berryville, the Community Center has a multi-purpose gym and a pool, with day passes for only $4. And at the Holiday Island Recreation Center you can play pickleball, tennis, horseshoes, miniature golf, ping-pong and then some.
Whether you’re a player, spectator—or both—Northwest Arkansas has you covered.
The Northwest Arkansas arts and entertainment scene has enjoyed remarkable growth in the last decade. From state-ofthe-art performing arts venues to museums that highlight innovative work and the area’s rich heritage, it’s easy to plan a culture-filled getaway to Northwest Arkansas.
Start in Bentonville, where you’ll be wowed by the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, an architectural wonder tucked into a natural ravine amid 120 acres of natural Ozark forest. Inside, you’ll find a first-class array of exhibitions. Additionally, The Bentonville Film Festival, which was founded by actress Geena Davis, is celebrating its eighth year in 2022.
Over in Rogers, you’ll find a premier large venue: the 9,500-capacity Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP), which presents a wide variety of top-tier acts. Downtown, you can snap a photo next to the World’s Largest BB Gun, which rises 25 feet on the side of the Daisy Airgun Museum
In Fayetteville, visitors can take in a diverse blend of performing and visual arts. Just a quarter mile to the east is the busy Walton Arts Center, which features performing arts and galleries. The nearby TheatreSquared houses a much-heralded professional theater company.
Eureka Springs has long been known for bohemian art and culture in the region. The Aud (short for Auditorium) has staged concerts by such legends as B.B. King, Willie Nelson and Emmylou Harris. The Great Passion Play presents dramatic reenactments of the last days of Jesus Christ in a 4,000-seat amphitheater.
In Siloam Springs, John Brown University offers films, plays and orchestral concerts. Additionally, the Memorial Park Chautauqua Amphitheater hosts performances by local and regional and touring artists.
In Lowell, the Grove Comedy Club maintains a year-round slate of renowned touring
The Walmart AMP, Rogers
TheatreSquared, Fayetteville
comics like Kevin Nealon and Jon Lovitz. Springdale is home to the 425-seat Arts One Presents (formerly Arts Center of the Ozarks), which stages plays, music performances, visual arts and more.
Bella Vista’s Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is quite a sight, with 15 gothic arches towering 50 feet on a wooded hilltop overlooking Lake Norwood.
History buffs won’t want to miss the Saunders Museum in Berryville, as the small space displays some of the most rare and valuable firearms from America’s rugged past. Be sure to check out Polk Square in Huntsville, which hosts the Madison County Fair, Western Roundup Days, cars shows and other events.
Collectively, Northwest Arkansas offers visitors a vibrant arts and entertainment scene that’s well worth exploring!
Singers and musicians from across the nation come together for a series of truly inspired performances at Inspiration Point in Eureka Springs
A delicious and eclectic dining scene awaits you in Northwest Arkansas, with restaurants ranging from upscale to down-home. No single culinary style defines the region, but rest assured you’ll find excellent barbecue and Southern food, a bounty of classic and New American places, plus lots of international options.
Taco lovers will find their bliss at Taqueria El Rancho and Antojitos Arcoiris (translation: Rainbow Snacks).
In Bella Vista, try brunch al fresco at Duffer’s, grab a burger on the 18th green at BV Bar & Grill, pick up some Chicago deep
dish at Gusano’s or crack open a brew and jam with a local band at JJ’s Grill
Funky Eureka Springs—population 2,000—punches way above its weight in the dining arena. Its streets are lined with intimate eateries, like Mud Street Cafe, Local Flavor Cafe, Oscar’s Cafe and more. You won’t want to miss Grotto Wood-Fired Grill & Wine Cave, which is known for its dryaged steaks and built into a hillside.
In Rogers, Southern-cuisine aficionados can’t go wrong with the signature dish at Catfish
John’s Monte Ne Inn Chicken serves fried chicken and other
delicacies family style. You’ll also want to visit the upscale Modoko Asian Kitchen and the no-frills Saiwok Vietnamese Street Food
Bentonville is home to The Hive – nationally recognized for James Beard-nominated chef Matt McClure’s refined cuisine that incorporates the traditional foods of Arkansas. The Preacher’s Son – housed in a beautifully restored church building–serves elevated meals with regionally sourced ingredients. For a meal on the go, stop by the 8th Street Market: a community-focused food hub that focuses on small and midsize local farmers.
Fayetteville boasts a robust dining scene. Mockingbird Kitchen promises modern Ozark cuisine. The Farmer’s Table Cafe is the home of the epic Arkansawyer breakfast described as “that down-home Ozark country breakfast!” Think eggs, grits, biscuits and gravy, plus bacon. BBQ fans can get their fill at Herman’s Ribhouse, Sassy’s Red
House, Penguin Ed’s and several other stops.
Springdales’s long-standing AQ Chicken House is famous for its pan-fried chicken. The city also features the state’s only hard cidery, Black Apple, and Neal’s Café–which was recently inducted into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame.
In the town of Huntsville, you’ll find the classic slice of Americana known as Granny’s Kitchen In Berryville, you can’t miss the yellow awning that marks the “original” Ozark Cafe–nor will you forget its hearty biscuits and gravy.
JT’s Tri Tip Grill in Lowell is hailed as a hidden treasure that brings a backyard grilling atmosphere to the table. And in Holiday Island, the folksy My Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery lovingly serves hearty, home-cooked meals.
Northwest Arkansas visitors can count on being well-fed, Ozark-style.
Grotto Wood-Fired Grill & Wine Cave, Eureka Springs
After you’ve worked up a sweat on the trails, stop by these breweries:
Core Brewery Taproom in Springdale is the official craft brewery of Razorbacks Athletics. They serve an array of lagers and fruity beers as well as their award-winning “Scarlet Letter” seltzers on tap. Named after one of Northwest Arkansas’ most recognizable animals, Hawk Moth Brewery & Beer Parlor in Rogers is known for serving its diverse creations in distinctive individually made “oil can” containers.
If rivers, waterfalls and lakes are on the agenda, rehydrate at these spots after your time on the water:
Named for the legendary bird, Ivory Bill Brewing Co. in Siloam Springs is famous for making its beers using a traditional open fermentation process instead of the closed method most American brewers use. Run by German-born Bill Adams, Lowell’s GOAT Lab Brewery which gets its name from Adams’ pets (a goat and a Labrador Retriever) is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
Reflect on your experiences at the world-class museums and entertainment at one of these breweries:
Ozark Beer Company is part of the Rogers Entertainment District where visitors can stroll a 10-block area with
Core Brewery Taproom, Springdale
open containers between participating restaurants and businesses. District cups are also compostable. Or stop by the biergarten at Eureka Springs Brewery and watch (or play!) disc golf.
The avid hotel by IHG in Fayetteville carries the IHG Green Engage certification, a program that helps travelers prioritize hotels that pay attention to their carbon footprint, energy and water consumption, and waste reduction rates.
Ditch the car and spend the weekend in the saddle. Bella Vista’s 400+ unique and stylish vacation rentals are located right inside the trail system.
Started by the Rios family, YeYo’s El Alma de Mexico in Bentonville hosts an authentic Mexican menu. All the vegetables used in the meals come from the family’s own farm just outside town. The meats are also locally grown.
Chef Chrissy Sanderson at Mockingbird Kitchen in Fayetteville partners with local growers and artisans to create her delicious menu items. Many menu items are gluten free, and vegan and vegetarian diets can be accommodated.
Local Flavor Cafe in Eureka Springs offers a variety of made-from-scratch meals. Sixth-generation native Chef Britt Evans can easily accommodate vegetarian and vegan requests.
Dogwood Festival
Apr. 28-30, 2023, Siloam Springs
This award-winning festival draws an estimated 35,000 attendees with live music, rides and more than 200 vendors of all kinds.
SUMMER
Fayetteville Roots Festival
August 2023, Fayetteville
Sapthaswara
Dec. 11, 2022, Bentonville
Northwest Arkansas’ Indian community comes together in December for a celebration of the region’s diversity by showcasing music from the subcontinent, from classical to folk music.
Ozark Mountain Music Festival
Jan 19-22, 2023, Eureka Springs
Basin Park Hotel is the scene of this four-day festival in January built around Ozark Mountain music fusing Bluegrass, folk, urban and American Roots music.
Festival of the Arts
May 2023, Eureka Springs
May Festival of the Arts is packed with one-of-a-kind art exhibits, demonstrations, performances, culinary arts, free music in the park.
Close out the summer with this amazing music festival that celebrates the genius and diversity of classic American music.
Rodeo of the Ozarks & Parade
Opening day is June 28, 2023, Springdale
Join the crowds at Springdale’s rodeo grounds to cheer on those competing in heart-pounding events such as roping, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and more.
Mudtown Days
June 2023, Lowell
Ward Nail Park, an 80-acre park, provides the generous space for this 40+ year fun-filled weekend celebrating the history of Lowell.
FALL FORMAT Festival
September 2023, Bentonville
FORMAT is a multidisciplinary experience set on 250 acres and featuring more than 80 live music acts with two dozen visual, performance and institutional artists from around the world.
Bikes, Blues & BBQ.
October 2023, Rogers.
Bikes, Blues and BBQ is the world’s largest charity motorcycle rally that benefits women, children and the under-served members of the Northwest Arkansas community.
Taste of Rogers
October 2023, Rogers
Northwest Arkansas’ finest chefs meet its dedicated foodies for small bites, decadent desserts and delightful drinks during this festival focused on the region’s most popular menus.
Ozark Folk Festival
November 2023, Eureka Springs
The Ozark Folk Festival celebrates its 75th year in 2022–including the Barefoot Ball and 3 days of headliners.
November 2023, Bella Vista Annual running race on Bella Vista’s beautiful mountain bike trails, with 5, 13, 20, and 40 mile courses available.
For a full event round up, visit northwestarkansas.org
Key
• Dining/Brewery
• Outdoor/Biking
REGION-WIDE:
Events (54, 55)
Beaver Lake (34, 38) •
Kings River (14, 26, 40) •
OZ Trails (11, 37, 38) •
BELLA VISTA
Back 40, The (8, 40) •
Berksdale Golf Course (8) •
Blowing Springs Park (40) •
Brittany Golf Course (44) •
Duffer’s (51) •
Little Sugar Trail System (8, 40) •
Mildred B Cooper Memorial Chapel (8, 48) • •
Papa Mike’s (51) •
Scottsdale Golf Course (44) •
BENTONVILLE
21c Museum Hotel (11) •
Amazeum, The (11) • •
Bike Inn, The (11)
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve (11, 38) •
• Arts/Museum/Entertainment
• Lodging
BERRYVILLE
Cosmic Cavern (14) •
Ozark Cafe (50) •
Pension Mountain (14) •
• Sports/Recreation
• Attractions
Saunders Museum (14, 48) • •
EUREKA SPRINGS
1886 Crescent Hotel (17) •
1905 Basin Park Hotel (17) •
Aud, The (17, 46) •
Belle of the Ozarks (17) •
Blue Spring Heritage Center (17, 38) • •
Eureka Springs Brewery (53)
Eureka Springs Treehouses, Caves, Castles & Hobbits (17) •
Great Passion Play (17, 46) • •
Great Passion Trails (38) •
Grotto Wood-Fired Grill & Wine Cave (50) •
Hoe-Down Music Theater (17) •
Intrigue Theater (17) •
Lake leatherwood City Park (17, 38) •
Local Flavor Cafe (50, 53) •
Mud Street Cafe (50) •
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (11, 46) • •
Hive, The (50) •
Momentary, The (11, 46) •
Osage Park (45) •
Preacher’s Son, The (50) •
Shift Outdoors (11, 38) •
Slaughter Pen Trail (11, 38) •
Walmart Museum (11) • •
YeYo’s El Alma de Mexico (53) •
New Orleans Hotel (17) •
Nibbles (50) •
Oscar’s Cafe (50) •
Palace Hotel & Bath House Spa (17) •
Turpentine Creek (17) •
FAYETTEVILLE
Avid Hotel by IHG (53) •
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks (42) •
Centennial Park (20) •
Dickson Street (20) •
Farmer’s Table, The (50) •
Fayetteville Ale Trail (20) • •
Fayetteville Farmers Market (20) • •
George’s Majestic Lounge (20) •
Herman’s Rib House (50) •
Lake Fayetteville Park (42) •
Mockingbird Kitchen (50, 53) •
Mount Kessler (20) •
Penguin Ed’s (50) •
Razorback Regional Greenway (20) •
Sassy’s Red House (50) •
TheatreSquared (20, 46) •
University of Arkansas, The (20, 43) • •
Walton Arts Center (20, 46) •
Beaver Bridge / “Golden Gate of the Ozarks” (42) •
Holiday Island Campground (25) •
Holiday Island Marina (25) •
Holiday Island Recreation Center (45) •
My Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery (51) •
Poker Bluff Trail (42) •
HUNTSVILLE
Road 299 Falls (26)
Eagle’s Nest Falls (26, 40)
Glory B. Falls (26, 40) •
Glory Hole Waterfall Trail (40)
Granny’s Kitchen (51) •
Hemmed in Hollow Trail (40)
Kings River Falls Natural Area (26) •
Kings River Overlook (26, 40) •
McIlroy Wildlife Management Area (26) •
Mitchusson Park (43) •
Sweden Creek Falls Natural Area (26) •
Tea Kettle Falls (40) • •
Triple Falls (40) • •
Windy Ridge Disc Golf Course (43) •
Fast Lane Entertainment (29) •
Goat Lab Brewery (29, 52) •
Grove Comedy Club (29, 46) • •
Hickory Creek Marina Fish & Ski Center (29) •
JT’s Tri Tip Grill (51) •
Matrix Racquet Club (44) •
Razorback Greenway (29) •
Catfish John’s (51) •
Daisy Airgun Museum (46) • •
DEFY Rogers (45) •
Hawk Moth Brewery & Beer Parlor (52) •
Karst Loop (30) •
Lake Atalanta Park (30) •
Modoko Asian Kitchen (50) •
Monte Ne Inn (51) •
Monument Trails (30) •
Pig Trail (30) •
Railyard Bike Park (30) •
Railyard Park (30) •
Saiwok Vietnamese Street Food (51) •
Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion (30, 46) •
War Eagle Cavern (30) •
SILOAM SPRINGS
Antojitos Arcoiris (51) •
Bob Henry Park (45) •
Callahan’s Steak House (34) •
Chautauqua Amphitheater (34, 46) •
City Lake Park (34) •
Family Aquatic Center (45) •
Ivory Bill Brewing Co. (52) •
John Brown University (34, 46) •
KingPins (45) •
Siloam Springs Kayak Park (34, 40) •
Siloam Springs Museum (34) • •
Taqueria El Rancho (51) •
SPRINGDALE
AQ Chicken House (51) •
Arkansas & Missouri Railroad (37) •
Arts One Presents (46) •
Arvest Ballpark / Northwest Arkansas Naturals (37, 43) •
Best Trail Ever (37) •
Black Apple Hard Cidery (51) •
Fitzgerald Mountain (37) •
FlyARH (37) •
Fratelli’s Italian Grill (51) •
J.B. & Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center (37) •
Jones Center, The (37, 44) • •
Mama Z’s Cafe (51) •
Medium by CACHE, The (36) • •
Neal’s Cafe (51) •
Ozark Climbing Gym (44) •
Parsons Stadium / Rodeo of the Ozarks (37) •
Razorback Greenway (37) •
Runway Bike Park (37) •
