NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

Few places combine the amenities of city life, the friendliness of small towns and the raw, rugged beauty of the outdoors like the communities of Northwest Arkansas. There’s a reason the area has been growing by leaps and bounds over the past decade or two. Everywhere you go up here, you find something different to see or do, from fine art museums and local galleries, to great food and craft beer, to the best mountain biking and hiking anywhere in the country. And if you haven’t seen Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville or Springdale lately, you don’t know what you’re missing.

WHAT WE LOVE:

More than any other single attraction, we love the proximity of these communities to one another, putting everything within easy reach of the visitor. You don’t even have to drive much to get around: just hop on the Razorback Greenway and bike your way from Fayetteville on the south end, through Springdale, Lowell and Rogers, and ending in Bentonville on the north end. In the span of just 36 miles, you can experience a little bit of everything.

The Greenway is an easy, largely off-road ride taking the biker through arts and entertainment districts, shopping opportunities and the various downtowns. Attractions in Fayetteville within easy reach of the trail include Creative Center and Theatre Squared at Spring Street, the University of Arkansas, Lake Fayetteville and bar row on Dickson Street. In Springdale, check out Walter Turnbow Park or the Shiloh Museum of Arkansas History at West Johnson Avenue. Stretch your legs along Lake Springdale, followed by lunch at Odd Soul.

Starting in Rogers? Fuel up at Scooter’s Coffee, then check out Catherine’s Trail or The Railyard Bike Park, after which you’ll want to visit The Rail Pizza for grub. Or, hop off at Natural State Beer Company just south of West Village Parkway to rehydrate. Finally, in Bentonville, take a break at Compton Gardens, snap a selfie at the Crystal Bridges Overlook or visit 8th Street Market. No matter where you go, you’ll find a new surprise around every bend of the trail.

WHERE TO COOL OFF:

Of all the places to beat the heat in NWA, the one that’s most surprising is the Sam Walton Museum on the downtown square in Bentonville. The free (and surprisingly fascinating) self-paced tour exits through Spark Cafe Soda Fountain, where ice cream bliss awaits.

Of course, if you want something stronger, may we suggest traipsing over to Rogers for a draw from Ozark Beer Co. in their swanky new taproom. It’s in the city’s Entertainment District, so you’re free to take it with you to explore good eats and drinks throughout the neighborhood.

Experience the outdoors in climate-controlled comfort with a trip to the amazing J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center in Springdale. This 32,000-square-foot Arkansas Game and Fish Commission facility sits on more than 61 acres, offering live wildlife and fish, interactive exhibits and even a range for testing your marksmanship skills. It’s a fun and free attraction that’s great for every member of the family.

OTHER SPOTS TO VISIT:

Sassafras Springs Winery (Springdale) is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch, augmented by the place’s award-winning wines. Right up the road is Saddlebock Brewery, another good picnic spot that you can even paddle up to thanks to the creek that runs right alongside the brewery.

No guide to this part of Arkansas is complete without talking about the mountain biking trails. For beginners and families, visit Lake Atalanta Trails (Rogers) or Runway Bike Park and Pump Track (Springdale). For the more experienced, try Mount Kessler (Fayetteville), the spectacular Coler MTB Preserve (Bentonville) or perhaps the most famous of all, Bentonville’s Slaughter Pen. Whatever your level, you’ll find a run that suits your skills.

War Eagle Cavern (Rogers) features a beautiful natural entrance on the shores of Beaver Lake. The cave is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly and great for all ages.

GOOD FOOD, GREAT TIMES:

NWA is home to a great selection of breweries. Stop by the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce or go online to get your beer passport and travel the Ale Trail to sample the best of the local brews.

If you can get a seat, Pedaler’s Pub (Bentonville) is a landmark of some renown. Find it on the Downtown Trail, a stone’s throw from the Razorback Greenway, cooking up wonderful pizzas to fuel your ride.

NWA offers some of the best farmers markets in the region. In Fayetteville, find the market in the funky downtown not far from great local bars and restaurants. In Rogers, snag your goodies at the market, then find two unique attractions nearby — the Daisy Airgun Museum and the Rogers Historical Museum. And in Bentonville, the market takes up the entire town square, ringed by local merchants, bike shops and boutiques.

Want some unique lodging but can’t decide your style? Check out Hog Valley RV & Treehouse Resort in Fayetteville for the ultimate in options. Got an RV? Prefer a cabin? Want to pitch a tent? Hog Valley has you covered, plus they offer treehouses for a truly special experience.

If you like to eat where the locals eat, there are plenty of longstanding spots sure to satisfy. For fried chicken, visit the Monte Ne Inn (Rogers) or AQ Chicken House (Springdale). For breakfast, try the Buttered Biscuit (Bentonville). For great casual grub, sample the burgers at Hugo’s or the headliner at The Catfish Hole (both in Fayetteville). And if you want to fancy it up, The Preacher’s Son and The Hive (Bentonville), are ready when you are.

DEVIL’S DEN, West Fork

There are few truly wild places still left in this world, places where you are reminded of your relative place in the universe. Devil’s Den is one of them.

WHAT WE LOVE:

No place epitomizes The Natural State better than Devil’s Den. Whether you’re a tenderfoot, someone who likes basic amenities or want to leave civilization entirely, this is the place.

DON’T MISS:

Devil’s Den is the OG of Arkansas mountain biking, and few biking routes can match its Monument Trails. Bring the best you’ve got, you’ll need it.

BELLA VISTA

Bella Vista often falls under the radar for funs things to do. That’s a shame, as this quiet little hamlet offers everything you’d expect in a premiere recreational resort community.

WHAT WE LOVE:

If golf is your gig, then the city’s seven courses are sure to please, including a driving range, 9-hole tracts and beautiful 18-hole courses.

DON’T MISS:

See nature and architecture meld at the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, designed by Arkansans E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings in the Prairie School style of Frank Lloyd Wright.

SILOAM SPRINGS

There’s something mystic about the water around Siloam Springs. But don’t take our word for it; visit this Benton County gem and experience the refreshment for yourself.

WHAT WE LOVE:

For small-town charm, you can’t top Siloam Springs’ tidy and walkable downtown. Cruise the farmers market, pack a picnic to the memorial amphitheater or tour the city’s museum.

DON’T MISS:

Check out Siloam Springs Kayak Park, an engineered waterway that runs alongside the Illinois River. This family-friendly, alcohol-free park caters to kayakers from beginner through skilled.

DON’T MISS:

Mother Nature may take top billing in NWA, but the arts scene is a close second. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (Bentonville) is a breathtaking anchor to the arts up here, offering world-class exhibits in a natural landscape. Its sister facility The Momentary (Bentonville) is a contemporary art space for visual and performing arts, culinary experiences, festivals, artists-in-residence and more. Or, see what’s going on at the Walton Arts Center (Fayetteville) or take a summer evening art walk (Rogers).

Public art is everywhere in these communities, as you’ll see by a self-guided tour of murals in Fayetteville (urec.uark.edu/outdoors) Rogers (visitrogersarkansas.com), Bentonville, (visitbentonville.com) and Springdale (downtownspringdale.org). Vist the websites listed for maps.

At night, immerse yourself in the music scene with plenty of venues offering live performances. From the landmark George’s Majestic Lounge on Dickson Street (Fayetteville) to national touring acts at Rogers’ Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion (AMP) to a hundred bars and small venues, NWA’s hills truly are alive with the sound of music.

EUREKA SPRINGS

Sometimes you want your vacation slow and quiet. Other times, you want to shake things up a bit. If this describes you, head to Eureka Springs where you’ll find refreshingly cool, laid-back natural scenery balancing the technicolor weirdness that is the trademark of this welcoming hamlet. Great for a couples getaway, fun for a girl- or bros-only weekend and appropriate for families of all sizes and configurations, a trip to Eureka Springs is one you’ll never forget.

WHAT WE LOVE:

There are precious few places that truly accept you as you are, but Eureka Springs is one of them. Artsy types reside next to bikers here, as do the young and the young at heart. Haunted hotels? Check. Underground bars? Yep. Pride marches and the Great Passion Play? It can only happen here.

Stroll the city’s famous Main Street, hewn out of the side of a mountain, as you browse eclectic shops and bright art galleries. Take in the scene below from the Balcony Bar and Restaurant at the Basin Street Hotel or catch a show at The Aud, the city’s 100-year-old performance venue. Vist the farmers market by day and take an evening stroll downtown under the stars, surrounded by the music that pours out of every doorway. Whatever your bliss, Eureka Springs fits the bill.

DON’T MISS:

Those with a spirit for the wild will want to visit nearby Beaver Lake. A manmade reservoir with 487 miles of natural shoreline, the lake features caves, limestone bluffs blanketed by various species of trees, and hidden swimming holes that provide the perfect cooling-off spot during an Arkansas summer day.

As big as it is, Beaver Lake provides endless entertainment options, including multiple marinas, campgrounds and parks. It’s also got great fishing, thanks to Beaver Dam. Completed in 1966 after six years of construction, the dam impounds a significant portion of the White River where it provides excellent cold-water fishing in the river tailwater.

OTHER SPOTS TO VISIT:

Fill your days with great outdoor activities, equipped by Float Eureka for stand-up paddle craft or Trigger Gap Outfitters for all other kinds of float and canoe adventures (ask about local swimming holes while you’re at it).

For a different kind of diversion, saddle up at Keels Creek Stable for a relaxing trail ride. Or, if mountain biking is your thing, check out Lake Leatherwood, Great Passion Play and Marble Flats offering downhills and cross-country courses for all abilities See oztrails.com for all the details.

If you’re looking for a prime slice of what makes the Ozarks special, make a beeline for Holiday Island. Golf the 18-hole championship course, rent a boat at the marina or take a dip in nearby Table Rock Lake. Whether for a day or a week, you won’t find a more picturesque spot anywhere in the Ozarks.

All of the activity that awaits in Eureka Springs can be rough on the body. Rejuvenate after a long day on the lake or trail with a soothing spa treatment at the Grand Central Hotel Spa. Restored to its 1880s majesty, the Grand Central Hotel Spa provides the ultimate in elegance and attentive service.

WHERE TO COOL OFF:

Although at high altitude compared to the rest of the state, Eureka Springs is still in Arkansas, which means serious heat in the summer. Fortunately cooling off is as easy and close as Lake Leatherwood, a Eureka Springs landmark for decades. The 1,610-acre park boasts an 85-acre spring-fed lake, formed by one of the largest hand-cut native limestone dams in the country. The dam and several park structures were built in the early 1940s by the WPA.

Visitors can also stay cool on the trails, 25 miles of designated hike and bike paths in all. Arrive early to launch your kayak or canoe or get a shady spot and try to catch dinner — the lake is home to bluegill, crappie, bream, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

For generations, Lake Leatherwood has been the preferred recreation spot in Eureka Springs, and after one visit you’ll easily understand why.

CHECK THIS OUT!

Satisfy both the wine drinkers and the beer snobs in your party by visiting Keels Creek Winery, Gotahold Brewery, Railway Winery and Eureka Springs Brewery. These artisan spots will have you raising a glass and toasting the summertime in no time.

Take a side trip to Springfield, Mo., and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, billed as the largest immersive wildlife attraction in the world. Wonders of Wildlife offers one-of-a-kind educational experiences for all ages, promoting opportunities to explore the great outdoors and learn about wildlife up close. Learn more at wondersofwildlife.org.

Relax in rustic style at Bear Creek Cabins in St. Joe. Long on scenery and quiet, Bear Creek provides a relaxing oasis to help recharge your batteries. In addition to the cozy accommodations, Bear Creek Cabins are near everything the area has to offer, so you won’t be far from your next adventure.

Just across the Missouri border lies the spectacular Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, a 10,000-acre outdoor paradise nestled into the Ozark landscape. Book a fly-fishing adventure, tackle the hiking and biking trails, take in a watchable wildlife tour or just sit on the porch and take in the stunning view.

Eureka Springs’ food options are as eclectic as the citizenry. Enjoy gourmet fare (Le Stick Nouveau, Rogue’s Manor) to dive bar casual (Cathouse Lounge, Rowdy Beaver Den) and a lot of stuff in between (Wanderoo Lodge, Local Flavor). Fancy a funnel cake? Try Funnel Cake Factory. Hungry for breakfast, lunch or just a slice of pie? Visit The Filling Station; you can’t go wrong with a place proclaiming, “Many have eaten here, few have died.”

DIAMOND LAKES/HOT SPRINGS

Running through the heart of the state you’ll find the Diamond Lakes Region, a string of glittering waters and stately forests to feed your wild side. Some of the best outdoor recreation can be had here, from boating, waterskiing and fishing to camping and trails that cater to your individual pace. You’ll also find cities and towns bursting with new things to see and do, from mom-and-pop diners to nationally famous pizza; souvenir stands and unique lodging to gangster hideouts and casino action. Be it just the two of you or the whole family, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this special region of Arkansas.

WHAT WE LOVE:

The water bodies here are the obvious headliners, but choosing between the attractions, comprised of five lakes and two rivers, is kind of like choosing between multiple flavors of ice cream — your favorite will kind of depend on your mood in that moment. Lake Hamilton, being right on Hot Springs’ back doorstep, boasts abundant amenities such as boat rentals, lakeside cottages and lots of great restaurants within easy reach. At Lake Catherine, you can enjoy the benefits of a state park, including campgrounds and nature trails. Wanna get lost? The behemoth Lake Ouachita in the beautiful Ouachita National Forest is the place. And for a resort experience that still embraces nature, dazzling DeGray Lake and its attendant lodge and restaurant (and golf course) fit the bill.

WHERE TO COOL OFF:

Beat the heat by taking the area brewery tour. Sample the suds in air-conditioned comfort of Hot Springs’ Superior Bathhouse Brewery, which lays claim to the world’s only thermal water brewery located in a national park, and SQZBX, also home to great pizza. Visit Bubba’s on Lake Hamilton, a huge lakeside restaurant with a menu as big as its footprint. And for something a little more off the beaten path, try Stud Duck in Lonsdale. Extra credit for trying The Ohio Club’s proprietary brews Madden’s No. 1 and Schultz, brewed right across the street at Superior. Double extra credit for visiting Crystal Ridge Distillery in Hot Springs.

OTHER SPOTS TO VISIT:

Check out the acclaimed Garvan Woodland Gardens or treat the kids to a day at Mid-America Science Museum, both in Hot Springs. Or for something a little faster-paced, a day at the state’s only amusement park, Magic Springs, is sure to thrill every member of the family.

Build your perfect picnic or supply the camp for an epic grill with a stop at Kara’s Packing in Lonsdale (try the brats and tamales); Clampit’s Meat Market and Country Store in Hot Springs Village and Keeney’s Food Market in Malvern. Or skip the prep and pick up lunch from any of these longstanding favorite establishments.

Hike with your hound! Lake Catherine State Park’s trails are dog-friendly. Check out the 2.6-mile Horseshoe Mountain loop or the 3.5-mile Dam Mountain loop trails.

While in Mount Ida, you’ll find multiple crystal mines for digging your own treasures. You’re also not far from Story, Arkansas, and the Bluebell Cafe, near the acclaimed Womble Trail. The tiny mountain diner offers great food, provisions and a traditional bluegrass jam session on weekends.

DON’T MISS:

Rent some bikes and grind out some miles through Hot Springs’ Northwoods Trails followed by cool down and all-inclusive pampering on Bathhouse Row (may we recommend Quapaw Bath and Spa).

Looking for a way to burn some energy while getting rich and famous? Look no further than Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, one of the only public diamond mines in the world. More than 33,100 diamonds have been found by park visitors since 1972, when the park was founded, including the 40.23-carat Uncle Sam, the largest diamond ever unearthed in the U.S. You keep what you find, but even if you strike out, relaxing poolside at the on-premises water park or at nearby Lake Greeson will make you feel like a million bucks.

FUN FOR ALL AGES:

Communities in this area of the state include Hot Springs, Mount Ida, Glenwood, Lonsdale, Malvern and Murfreesboro, as well as several small towns each with their own charm.

A visit to Mel’s Dairy Bar is a trip to hallowed ground. The Malvern institution has been serving up huge burgers and delicious milkshakes forever, it feels like. Find it south of downtown on U.S. Highway 67; there’s no sign, so look for the little yellow building and all the patrons’ cars.

Hot Springs is loaded with good places to eat — some favorites include nationally awarded Deluca’s Pizza (try the cheeseburger, too); the truly excellent McClard’s Bar-B-Que; Fisherman’s Wharf for great seafood; and killer breakfasts at The Pancake Shop (be early or be prepared to wait).

See the Ritz Theatre in Malvern light the night with neon downtown once more. The building dates to 1938 and was facing an uncertain future when a local college bought and renovated it into a performance space.

Spend a day frolicking in the Ouachita National Forest enjoying the Little Missouri Falls (N34 25.297, W93 55.125) and Crooked Creek Falls (N34 25.620, W93 53.135). Easy to hike to and great on a hot day!

Mount Ida is RV Central, with dozens of hookups and campground operations in the area. While Hot Springs gets all the publicity, Mount Ida gives you just as much scenic beauty, plus access to Lake Ouachita, without the crowds or traffic of the city.

Small Towns, Big Fun

Whoever said you can’t have fun in a small town never visited Arkansas! Get lake views in Heber Springs, camp out in Greenbrier or take in shopping and a show in El Dorado for good times and warm hospitality. All right here and right around the bend.

HEBER SPRINGS

One of the most underrated spots for outdoor recreation in Arkansas, Heber Springs features high-quality H2O recreation from both Greers Ferry Lake and the Little Red River.

WHAT WE LOVE:

Mesmerizing Bridal Veil Falls resides along a 0.5-mile trail loop that’s accessible year-around by most. Find this tranquil photogenic spot off Highway 25 on Bridal Veil Falls Road.

DON’T MISS:

The World Championship Cardboard Boat Races is a popular community festival that’s one part engineering, one part swashbuckling and whole lot of fun. Catch it July 1 and 2.

WHILE YOU ARE THERE:

Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at Eagle Bank Park, which anchors Main Street. The fountain there is a great place to take a keepsake photo. Or, let the young’uns run off some energy at Spring Park in the heart of town, offering a huge playground area, picnic areas and a large pavilion.

Check out the William Carl Garner Visitor Center at the dam, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Learn the natural history of the area dating back to prehistoric times. You’ll also hear the words of President John F. Kennedy, who dedicated the $47 million dam in one of his last public appearances before his 1963 assassination.

You didn’t hear this from us, but if you’re looking for secret delicacies, check out the Woodgrove Antique Mall and make your way to the back, where you’ll find the hidden Tea Room. Home to a variety of sandwiches and truly outstanding pie, it’s something worth discovering.

If you’re going to go, go first-class with Lindsey’s Resort on the Little Red River. This beautiful facility offers log cabins, campgrounds, a restaurant and a charming lodge. Boat rental and guided fishing trips (baited or fly) round out an unforgettable vacation experience.

The Greers Ferry National Fish Hatchery, located below the dam, is a popular destination for tourists. Operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the hatchery primarily raises rainbow trout, which thrive in the tailwater below the dam.

GREENBRIER

Easy to find and not far from home, Greenbrier offers many adventures that are unusual for a community its size, right in the center of the state.

WHAT WE LOVE:

Woolly Hollow State Park provides plenty of natural scenery and outdoor recreation. Lake Bennett is a central attraction offering fishing, boating and access to surrounding trails.

DON’T MISS:

Visit Riddle’s Elephant & Wildlife Sanctuary in nearby Quitman. No, seriously, there are elephants in Central Arkansas and the rescues can be found here. Call ahead for tour info.

WHILE YOU ARE THERE:

Inside the state park take a dip in Lake Bennett at the swim beach. It charges a nominal fee to swim, but worth it for families as lifeguards are on duty. Afterward, follow the park’s Cabin Trail and view Woolly Cabin, an original 1882 one-room family homestead.

Anytime is a great time for pizza. Grab a tasty pie at Mojo’s Pizza, a family-owned local favorite.

Park your RV in one of the 47 sites at Miller’s Outpost and RV Park and enjoy full hook-ups, private restrooms and showers, a dog park, playground and horseshoe pit.

Find your souvenir at one of the city’s antique malls. These menageries feature treasures from days gone by to suit every taste.

Don’t let hunger slow you down at Woolly Hollow State Park. The on-premises snack bar offers a variety of refreshments, including hot dogs, hamburgers, corn dogs, snow cones, ice cream, cold drinks and snack items for the perfect picnic or pick-me up.

Looking to paddle the Cadron? Get to know your creek segments! Beginners and families should check out County Road 610 (Mile 8.2) or Highway 124 (Mile 12.7) for easier currents and lots of places to fish or view wildlife. Thrill-seekers should put in between Hartwick Mill Bridge (Mile 17.2) and Pinnacle Springs Campground (Mile 26). Visit the good folks at Cadron Creek Outfitters for more tips on this great waterway.

EL DORADO

Situated near the Ouachita River and the Timberlands Region of South Arkansas, this former oil town now booms with music, shopping and good times.

WHAT WE LOVE:

The Murphy Arts District (MAD) has transformed the city into a concert, performance and festival destination. Music of every genre can be heard here; check out who’s playing at eldomad.com.

DON’T MISS:

Don’t overlook El Dorado’s award-winning Main Street. Family, friends or just the two of you will enjoy this walkable district which features a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants and unique lodging.

KEEP COOL IN THE CASINO:

Ride your hot streak into the cool confines of Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff for an exciting vacation getaway. The fabulous Saracen offers plenty of attractions for any length of stay.

One look at the massive casino floor and it’s easy to forget you’re in the Arkansas Delta. Try your luck at one of 2,300 slot machines, poker room and 50 tables ranging from roulette to blackjack to craps. Special promotions and giveaways add to the gaming excitement.

The food options are every bit as varied as the wagering. Take a break from the action at Legends Sports Bar located right off the casino floor. Home to Saracen’s sports book, Legends offers a 25-foot video wall showing all your favorite sporting events and even boasts its own on-site brewery, SCBC.

At night, be sure to book a table at the acclaimed Red Oak Steakhouse. This world-class dinner experience offers a menu featuring dry-aged prime beef, bison and even true A5 Kobe steaks. Don’t pass on the other items; the Saracen Spring Salad, Arkansas root beer glazed pork belly appetizer and lobster mac side dish are all highly recommended. And the on-site pastry team elevates any of the menu’s desserts to high culinary art.

Luck ain’t always a lady, but you’ll find a good time always awaits at Saracen Casino Resort.