Northwest Arkansas is perfect for family vacations, offering beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and biking on the Oz Trails. You can also enjoy delicious local food, from Southern barbecue to fresh farm-to-table meals and international cuisine. We visited the area for the first time last month and were surprised by its beauty. In this post, I want to share some of the fun things we did so you can plan your own trip. From our experience I can honestly say, that Northwest Arkansas is a great place for families to create lasting memories together!
Disclaimer: This blog post is in collaboration with Arkansas Tourism
If you enjoy outdoor activities and spending time outside as much as possible, then the best times to visit Arkansas are spring (especially March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for hiking and enjoying the scenery. Spring brings blooming flowers and flowing waterfalls, while fall offers beautiful foliage colors. After talking with some locals, we learned that summers can be hot, which is perfect for water activities, and winters are generally mild, although northern areas may see occasional snow.
Accommodations for your trip to NW Arkansas:
We stayed at the beautiful Airbnb Porte Orange – a newly-built, modern home in South Fayetteville. It was perfect for our family. The house was clean, and it was stocked with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Additionally, it had a covered parking spot and was conveniently located near the downtown area with restaurants and many walking trails.
Best Family-Friendly Activities for Your Trip to Northwest Arkansas:
Walker Park: The park’s calm vibe and its close proximity to downtown Fayetteville make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy city life. It was the perfect spot for a picnic dinner while the kids ran around and had fun.
Mount Sequoyah: This spot offers amazing views just minutes from downtown Fayetteville on Mount Sequoyah’s peaceful 32-acre property. It’s ideal for a short scenic walk, a picnic, or watching a sunset.
Hit the Trails:
- Lake Fayetteville Trail: This scenic trail circles Lake Fayetteville, offering opportunities for walking, jogging, and wildlife spotting.
Devil’s Den State Park: During our visit, we enjoyed hiking on the Yellow Rock Trail and Devil’s Den Trail. These trails are relatively short, about 2-3 miles each, offering gorgeous views of the Ozark Mountains and featuring fun caves and waterfalls along the way. It’s the perfect destination for a scenic outdoor adventure in Arkansas!
Visit Terra Studios: as it’s known for the Bluebird of Happiness. Located just 13.5 miles southeast of Fayetteville, it’s a perfect spot to explore beautiful art in a serene setting and unleash your creativity. It features art by over 100 local artists, including sculptures, murals, and fountains in beautiful gardens and galleries. We had an enjoyable visit as we explored this unique place where there’s so much to see and enjoy. It’s easy to navigate on your own, with signs guiding you through. The gift shop and gallery are full of fascinating artwork even for the boys, and entry is FREE for all. Besides wandering the art park, you can also join one of their many art classes.
Dickson Street Bookstore: Delve into literary treasures at Dickson Street Bookstore, a cozy spot in Fayetteville’s entertainment district offering a vast selection of new and used books.
Catch a Game: Experience the excitement of a Northwest Arkansas Naturals baseball game at Arvest Ballpark. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, post-game fireworks, and the tradition of kids running the bases. Trust, me your kids will remember this forever. They also have the best fireworks we have ever seen.
Visit Wilson Park Castle, this is a truly unique playground with castle-themed structures and interactive features perfect for all ages. During our visit, we were pleasantly surprised by the variety of amenities available, including a swimming pool, basketball court, spring-fed pond, gazebo, and greenhouse. The park also offers shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, swings, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, and a scenic 0.9-mile walking trail. It’s definitely one of my favorite spots and the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with family and friends in Fayetteville, Arkansas!
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs is a remarkable sanctuary dedicated to providing a lifelong home for abused and neglected big cats. This non-profit organization offers a variety of experiences, including a 45-minute tram tour, wildlife talks, and self-guided walks to observe the animals up close. You can feel the genuine care and compassion for these creatures throughout the refuge, with shaded benches, a gift shop, and a small outdoor food stand available for visitors. The refuge also has an on-site high end end hospital, ensuring the animals receive excellent care. For those wanting an immersive experience, Turpentine Creek offers cabins, camping sites, and even a tree house for overnight stays. With informative boards sharing stories about the cats and their rescues, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination that will for sure leave a lasting impression.
Zipline Adventure: Soaring through the treetops at Eureka Springs Zipline was an absolute blast for our family and definitely a highlight of our trip! We had the choice between the Full 11 cable course or the shorter beginner 3 cable course. We opted for the 11 cable course, which was perfect for our family with a 5-year-old. They can accommodate smaller kids too! The guides were super friendly and made sure we felt safe every step of the way. It was a thrill like no other flying from platform to platform. Overall, it exceeded our expectations and made our trip to Eureka Springs unforgettable! This is a 10/10 experience, and I highly recommend it.
War Eagle Cavern: Embark on a guided tour of War Eagle Cavern, nestled on the shores of Beaver Lake. Explore underground formations and enjoy nature trails with scenic lake views.
Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway: Step back in time at the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway to enjoy a nostalgic ride on their Excursion Train or enjoy the dinner aboard their elegant Dining Car. Witness their 1940s diesel locomotive in action and explore fascinating stationary steam locomotive exhibits. Be sure not to miss the operational turntable where engines are rotated, and explore the unique end-of-the-line wye. Although we missed the tour train, we’re looking forward to return one day for that memorable experience. Even after arriving late and missing the train departure, we had a delightful time exploring the surroundings and chatting with the local conductor. If you find yourself in the area, we highly recommend visiting the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway for an unforgettable journey into the past!
The Christ of the Ozarks: On our way from Eureka Springs to Fayetteville, we made a stop at Christ of the Ozarks. This monumental statue of Jesus, perched atop Magnetic Mountain near Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is truly awe-inspiring. The accompanying museums, which are both informative and captivating, offer free admission to visitors. The immense size of the statue is humbling, providing an impressive view from its vantage point. There are also gift shops and hiking trails in the area. Make sure to check their website for opening hours, as some attractions are only available during The Great Passion Play events.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: is a must-visit in Northwest Arkansas, combining art and nature beautifully. Founded by Alice Walton and opened in 2011, it’s a FREE museum showcasing American art amid scenic woodlands and gardens. During our visit, we were mesmerized by the Exquisite Creatures exhibit, which features stunning artworks of insects, birds, shells, and reptiles. Despite some outdoor areas being closed due to recent tornado damage, we enjoyed exploring the indoor galleries filled with fascinating art and architecture. Crystal Bridges is a true highlight of the area and the best part is that it’s family friendly, and we can’t wait to return to see more.
Amazeum: is a fantastic spot for families, with over 50,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits and learning spaces. Inside, you’ll find interactive areas like the 3M Tinkering Hub, General Mills Lift, Load and Haul, and a Walmart-sponsored market. Outside, there’s room for year-round activities and events. One of our favorite parts was the Hershey’s Lab, where we did chocolate experiments and tasted candies. It’s clean, well-kept, and definitely worth a visit if you’re in Bentonville, AR with kids!
There’s so much to do and explore in Northwest Arkansas! These are just a few of our favorite spots. Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure where every corner offers new discoveries and memorable experiences. Add this magical place to your travel bucket list!
Below, I’ll share a few of the places we tried or that were highly recommended by you all on my Instagram page, so enjoy!
Best Places to Eat in Northwest Arkansas
Breakfast Options:
- Arsaga’s Mill District
- A family-owned coffee roastery nestled in the Ozark Mountains, known for its warm atmosphere and great coffee.
- Little Bread Company
- A bustling bakery crafting dozens of made-from-scratch items daily, offering a vibrant spot for breakfast and community gatherings.
- Prelude Breakfast Bar
- Colorful and relaxed, serving a variety of breakfast dishes alongside caffeinated beverages and lunch options.
- Stone Mill Bread Co.
- Famed for its special flavored breads made with the finest ingredients and a dedication to traditional baking techniques.
- 7 Brew
- Transforming drive-thru coffee into an enjoyable experience with premium coffees and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lunch Options:
- City Park Fayetteville
- Trailside restaurant and bar with scenic views, perfect for a relaxing lunch amidst Fayetteville’s natural beauty.
- JJ’s Brewing Company
- Offers a diverse menu including fried catfish and the renowned JJ’s Burger, creating a classic yet unique dining experience.
- Hammontrees Grilled Cheese
- Known for its creative grilled cheese sandwiches using a variety of breads, cheeses, and innovative toppings.
- Daily Beet
- Committed to serving nutrient-dense, flavorful foods made from locally sourced and organic ingredients.
- Sparky’s Roadhouse Cafe (Eureka Springs)
- Casual eatery known for award-winning burgers, a vast beer selection, and a lively atmosphere.
Brunch Options (Bentonville):
- The Buttered Biscuit
- Honest breakfast made with high-quality ingredients, offering a delightful Southern dining experience.
- Crepes Paulette
- Handheld crepes filled with savory and sweet fillings, complemented by sippable soups and refreshing beverages.
- Eleven at Crystal Bridges
- Located within Crystal Bridges Museum, offering locally sourced and sustainable dining options from coffee to evening bites.
Dinner Options:
- Sassy’s Red House
- Famous for its BBQ, known as the “Best BBQ in SEC Country,” offering a true taste of Southern hospitality.
- Wood Stone Craft Pizza
- A wood-fired pizza restaurant emphasizing locally sourced ingredients, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails.
- Lake Fayetteville Food Trucks
- Explore authentic cuisine at a bustling food truck court near Lake Fayetteville, perfect for a casual dining experience.
- JJ’s Grill Fayetteville
- Enjoy live music alongside a menu of hearty meals and drinks, creating a lively dining atmosphere.
- The Rail
- Your go-to neighborhood spot for pizza and beer, known for its inviting ambiance and delicious pizzas.
- Parkside Burgers
- Rustic-chic alehouse offering creative burgers, sandwiches, and a selection of draft microbrews.
Let me know in the comments if I am missing anything else, but overall, this trip was fun and enjoyable. We can’t wait to return for more outdoor adventures!
Little Rad Adventure 