things to do in northwest arkansas
Northwest Arkansas is a vibrant region filled with natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Here are some things to do in Northwest Arkansas:
Outdoor Activities
- Hike and Bike: Explore the Ozark Mountains on one of the many trails, such as the Razorback Regional Greenway, a 36-mile trail that connects Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville.
- Beaver Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, and water sports on this 28,000-acre lake.
- Buffalo National River: Experience canoeing, kayaking, or fishing on one of the few undammed rivers in the United States.
- Devil’s Den State Park: Hike, camp, and explore the park’s unique rock formations and caves.
Arts and Culture
- Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: Discover an extensive collection of American art, including works by Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and Georgia O’Keeffe.
- The Momentary: Explore this contemporary art space in Bentonville, featuring rotating exhibitions and installations.
- Walton Arts Center: Attend a performance or exhibition at this world-class performing arts center in Fayetteville.
- Eureka Springs: Visit this historic Victorian-era resort town, known for its art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Food and Drink
- Try some BBQ: Northwest Arkansas is famous for its barbecue, with popular spots like Whole Hog Cafe and Sassy’s Red House.
- Visit a brewery: The region is home to several craft breweries, such as Core Brewing & Distilling Co. and Bike Rack Brewing Co.
- Farmers’ Markets: Shop for fresh produce and local goods at one of the many farmers’ markets in the area.
- The Honeycomb Kitchen + Market: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and artisanal goods in this Bentonville eatery.
Other Attractions
- Clinton House Museum: Tour the historic home of Bill and Hillary Clinton in Fayetteville.
- Museum of Native American History: Learn about the region’s Native American heritage in Bentonville.
- Scott Family Amazeum: Engage in interactive exhibits and activities at this children’s museum in Bentonville.
- Rogers Historical Museum: Explore the history of Rogers and the surrounding area.
Festivals and Events
- Walmart Shareholders’ Meeting: Attend this annual event in June, featuring live music and celebrity appearances.
- Arkansas Air and Military Museum Air Show: Watch vintage aircraft take to the skies in June.
- Bentonville Film Festival: Celebrate independent filmmaking in May.
- Eureka Springs Food and Wine Weekend: Savor local cuisine and drinks in November.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Northwest Arkansas. The region offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers and foodies.