The holiday season shines a little brighter in Fayetteville when Lights of the Ozarks Powered by SWEPCO returns to the Historic Downtown Square. Beginning Friday, Nov. 20, 2026, more than 500,000 LED lights will transform downtown Fayetteville into a festive winter wonderland, creating one of Northwest Arkansas’ most treasured holiday traditions. Best of all, Lights of the Ozarks is free and open to the public. The lights will shine nightly from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. through Jan. 1, 2027, giving you plenty of opportunities to bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa and take a stroll around the Square. Celebrate Light Night in Downtown Fayetteville The holiday season officially begins with Light Night on Friday, Nov. 20, at 6 p.m. Join the celebration as Fayetteville flips the giant switch and lights up the Square for the first time this season. The evening will include live music, special performances, and plenty of holiday merriment. While the lights are beautiful all season long, Light Night is a festive way to experience the excitement of their first glow. See the Lights All Season Long Once the Square is lit, the holiday display can be enjoyed every night through New Year's Day. Stroll among the twinkling trees and displays while holiday music sets the mood, or warm up with seasonal treats and hot cocoa from vendors and food trucks around the Square. It takes a lot of work to create Fayetteville's holiday display. Each year, employees with the City of Fayetteville Parks Maintenance Division dedicate more than 3,300 hours to decorating the Downtown Square, installing more than 500,000 LED lights from October through mid-November. Don't Miss the Lights of the Ozarks Parade One of Fayetteville's favorite holiday traditions returns on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 6:30 p.m. for the Lights of the Ozarks Parade. The parade travels along East Avenue, around the Square in a clockwise direction and north on Block Avenue. Find a spot along the route and watch as colorful floats, festive entries and holiday cheer make their way through downtown. Make a Night of It Downtown Lights of the Ozarks is more than an evening stroll around the Square. Make it part of a night out in downtown Fayetteville by pairing the lights with dinner, drinks or holiday shopping. Local food trucks are set up on East Avenue every night except Monday, offering seasonal treats and snacks to enjoy while you explore. Downtown restaurants are also just steps from the lights. For a meal with a view of the display, check out Cheers at the OPO, Faymosa, Guisinger or Tiny Tim's Pizza. A short walk from the Square, you'll find additional dining options including Hugo's, Big Box Karaoke, Vetro 1925, Taste of Thai, Calle Latin Cuisine, El Mezcal and Feed & Folly. Fayetteville's Outdoor Refreshment Area also makes it easy to keep the evening going. Lights of the Ozarks is entirely within the designated area, so patrons can take drinks to-go from participating downtown bars and restaurants and enjoy them in marked public areas while walking through the lights. Plan Your Visit to Lights of the Ozarks A little planning can make your visit even easier. Monday nights are the best time to drive around the Square to see the lights, since East Avenue is closed to traffic on other nights. If you'd rather get out and walk, there are downtown parking options within easy reach of the Square. Public restrooms are available Tuesday through Sunday from 5–10 p.m. inside Fayetteville Town Center at 15 W. Mountain. Restrooms are not available on Mondays. Bringing your four-legged family member? Well-behaved pets on a leash are welcome at Lights of the Ozarks. Doggy waste bags are available at the southwest corner of the Square at Block and Mountain. And don't forget to send a letter to Santa! A mailbox in front of the Visitors Center on Block Ave. is available 24/7 throughout the Lights of the Ozarks season, so kids can drop off their letters any time before Christmas. More Holiday Fun in Fayetteville Light Night and the parade are just two highlights of the Lights of the Ozarks season. Additional holiday activities will be announced as details become available. Whether you visit for Light Night, make the parade part of your holiday tradition or simply stop downtown on a winter evening, Lights of the Ozarks is a fun way to experience the holiday season in Fayetteville. Where to Stay During the Holiday Season Staying downtown gives you the best of both worlds: plenty of local restaurants and shops to explore, plus an easy walk to the Downtown Historic Square. If you prefer to be even closer to the mesmerizing lights, look for hotel options nestled right off the square or the Dickson Street area. Where to Eat, Drink, & Shop Near Razorback Stadium Turn the holidays into a full-day Fayetteville tradition, starting with festive sips and bites before strolling the Downtown Square during Lights of the Ozarks. Shop locally owned boutiques and gift shops for everyone on your list, take in the twinkling lights, and soak up the holiday spirit before settling in for a cozy dinner downtown. Historic Downtown Square | Fayetteville, Arkansas Light Night: Friday, November 20th, 6:00pm Lights of the Ozarks Parade: Thursday, December 3rd, 6:30pm Fayetteville Festivus TBD Lights Out & Goodnight: Thursday, January 1, 2027 at 1:00am Frequently Asked Questions When are the Lights of the Ozarks on? Lights of the Ozarks runs from Nov. 20, 2026, through Jan. 1, 2027. The lights are on nightly from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Is Lights of the Ozarks free? Yes! Lights of the Ozarks is free and open to the public. Are there additional sponsorship opportunities available for Lights of the Ozarks? Yes! If you have any questions about Lights of the Ozarks or would like to help in another way, please email Chloe Bell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Where can I park for Lights of the Ozarks? There are several public parking lots around downtown Fayetteville. Monday is the best night to drive around the Square, since East Avenue is closed to traffic on other nights. When is the Lights of the Ozarks Parade? The Lights of the Ozarks Parade is Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The parade travels through downtown Fayetteville, beginning on East Street, continuing around the Historic Downtown Square and north on Block Avenue. How can I enter the Lights of the Ozarks Parade? Organizations, businesses and groups interested in participating can complete the 2026 Lights of the Ozarks Parade registration through Downtown Fayetteville Coalition. Parade participation registration is available here through Friday, November 6th at 5pm. How can I become a vendor at Lights of the Ozarks? Vendors interested in participating during the 2026 Lights of the Ozarks season can submit an application through Downtown Fayetteville Coalition. Vendor space is limited, so interested businesses should fill out their application before Friday, September 25th at 5pm. Where can I find the latest Lights of the Ozarks information? For the latest dates, event announcements, vendors and parade information, visit the Downtown Fayetteville Coalition website and follow @downtownfayetteville on Facebook and Instagram.

Join Downtown Fayetteville Coalition and the City of Fayetteville Arts & Culture for an unforgettable - and FREE - experience in the Lower Ramble THURSDAY and FRIDAY NIGHT, October 23rd and 24th!

What is the Washington County Fair? As summer begins to wind down, generations of Northwest Arkansas families make their way to the Washington County Fairgrounds for one of the region's most beloved traditions. From midway rides and livestock shows to funnel cakes and friendly competition, the Washington County Fair has been bringing people together for nearly 170 years. Held August 25-29, 2026, at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville, the Washington County Fair is Arkansas' oldest and largest county fair. Founded in 1857, the fair continues to celebrate the agricultural heritage, community spirit, and traditions that have shaped Washington County for generations. A Fayetteville Tradition Since 1857 The Washington County Fair began in 1857 and has grown alongside Northwest Arkansas for more than a century and a half. Throughout its history, the fair has provided a place for local farmers, students, artisans, and families to gather, compete, and showcase their hard work. Today, that tradition continues through livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, horticulture displays, home economics competitions, arts and crafts entries, and student projects from local 4-H and FFA programs. For many exhibitors, the fair represents months of preparation and dedication. What You'll Find at the Washington County Fair The Washington County Fair combines the best parts of a county fair—livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, student projects, carnival rides, chances to win prizes playing your favorite midway games, vendors, and plenty of food—into one busy week at the fairgrounds. Visitors can enjoy: Carnival rides and midway games Livestock shows and agricultural exhibits 4-H and FFA student projects Home economics and horticulture displays Arts and crafts exhibits Local vendors and community booths Fair food favorites and food trucks Family-friendly entertainment and special events The exhibit buildings also provide a welcome break from the August heat and humidity while showcasing everything from baked goods and quilts to flowers, produce, photography, and handmade crafts created by local residents. Why Locals Love the Washington County Fair For many families, the Washington County Fair is simply part of growing up in Northwest Arkansas. It's where students showcase projects they've worked on all year, neighbors catch up with one another, and kids squeeze in a few more days of summer fun before heading back to school. Whether you're making your annual visit or experiencing the fair for the first time, it's easy to see why this event has remained a community tradition for nearly 170 years. Washington County Fair Admission, Hours & Location Dates: August 25-29, 2026 Location: Washington County Fairgrounds 2537 N. McConnell Avenue Fayetteville, AR 72704 Hours: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily Admission:$5 cash$7.50 cardChildren ages 5 and under admitted free Specials: $2 Tuesday: 𝘛𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘈𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵 25 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺. $2 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 (10:00 𝘈𝘔–10:00 𝘗𝘔).$2 𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 (5:00–10:00 𝘗𝘔). Buddy Night Thursday: 𝘛𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘈𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘴𝘵 27 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺. 𝘛𝘸𝘰 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 $30 𝘉𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘺 𝘕𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭. 𝘙𝘦𝘨𝘶𝘭𝘢𝘳 𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 5:00–10:00 𝘗𝘔. Tickets are available at the gate only and will not be sold online. Getting to the Fairgrounds The Washington County Fairgrounds is located at 2537 N McConnell Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72704.Parking: Free Where to Stay & Eat Nearby: Check out our Hotels near the Fairgrounds and nearby Restaurants & Bars to grab a bite right outside the gates! Visitors will find several hotel options within three miles of the Washington County Fairgrounds, including Hilton Garden Inn Fayetteville, Homewood Suites by Hilton Fayetteville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fayetteville-University of Arkansas Area, avid hotel Fayetteville West, and Comfort Inn & Suites Fayetteville-University Area. Popular restaurants include Catfish Hole, JJ's Grill Fayetteville, Southern Food Company, Noodles Italian Kitchen, and Sassy's Barbecue and Grille. Planning Your Visit to the Washington County Fair Visiting from out of town for the fair? Use our local guides to map out your perfect Fayetteville weekend: Find Places to Stay Explore Local Restaurants & Bars Discover Family-Friendly Activities See the Full Fayetteville Events Calendar For more information about the fair or to see a schedule of events, visit www.mywashcofair.com. Frequently Asked Questions About the Washington County Fair When is the Washington County Fair in 2026? The Washington County Fair takes place August 25-29, 2026, at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Where is the Washington County Fair located? The fair is held at the Washington County Fairgrounds, located at 2537 N. McConnell Avenue in Fayetteville, Arkansas. How much does it cost to attend the Washington County Fair? Admission is $5 when paying with cash or $7.50 when paying by card. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free. What are the hours of the Washington County Fair? The fairgrounds are open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Is parking free at the Washington County Fair? Yes. Free parking is available for all fair attendees. Can I buy Washington County Fair tickets online? No. Admission tickets are sold at the gate only and are not available for purchase online. What can I do at the Washington County Fair? Visitors can enjoy carnival rides, livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, 4-H and FFA projects, arts and crafts displays, vendors, fair food, competitions, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the week. Is the Washington County Fair family-friendly? Absolutely. The fair offers activities for all ages, including children's attractions, educational exhibits, livestock barns, midway rides, and entertainment. What makes the Washington County Fair unique? Founded in 1857, the Washington County Fair is Arkansas' oldest and largest county fair. For nearly 170 years, it has celebrated the agricultural heritage, traditions, and community spirit of Washington County and Northwest Arkansas. What hotels are near the Washington County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville?  Visitors will find several hotel options within three miles of the Washington County Fairgrounds, including Hilton Garden Inn Fayetteville, Homewood Suites by Hilton Fayetteville, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fayetteville-University of Arkansas Area, avid hotel Fayetteville West, and Comfort Inn & Suites Fayetteville-University Area.

Park Once. Explore More. One of the best things about visiting the University of Arkansas is that you don't have to venture far to experience some of Fayetteville's favorite places. Park once, lace up your walking shoes and spend the day exploring local restaurants, public art, entertainment and Razorback traditions—all within walking distance of campus. Whether you're in town for a Razorback game, campus tour, Parent’s Weekend or weekend getaway, these stops are an easy way to experience the best of Fayetteville. 1. Snap a Photo at Old Main No visit to the University of Arkansas is complete without a photo in front of Old Main. Built in 1875, the University's most recognizable landmark has welcomed generations of Razorbacks and remains one of the most photographed buildings in Arkansas. While you're on campus, take time to wander the Senior Walk, explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and soak in the energy that makes the University such an important part of Fayetteville. 2. Start Your Morning with Coffee Whether you're fueling up before a campus tour or easing into a day of exploring, there are plenty of great places to grab a cup of coffee within walking distance of the University of Arkansas. Stop by Lambeth Lounge inside Inn at Carnall Hall—the University's only on-campus hotel—for coffee and a light breakfast, or venture a few blocks farther to discover one of Fayetteville's many locally owned coffee shops. However you start your morning, you'll find plenty of inviting spots to sip, relax and plan the rest of your day. 3. Hunt for Public Art Some of Fayetteville's best surprises aren't inside museums—they're out in the open. Colorful murals, sculptures and creative installations, such as ArtCourt, can be found throughout downtown and campus. Check out this mural adventure guide and see how many pieces you can discover along the way. Don't forget to stop for a selfie with your favorite. 4. Get Lost in Dickson Street Bookshop There's something hugely satisfying about wandering the shelves of Dickson Street Bookshop. From vintage finds and Arkansas history to bestsellers and unexpected treasures, it's easy to lose track of time here. When you're finished browsing, step back onto Dickson Street and see where the day takes you. You might discover live music drifting from a patio, a local boutique or your next favorite restaurant. 5. Grab a Burger at Hugo's Hidden below street level just off the Downtown Square, Hugo's has been a Fayetteville favorite since 1977. Whether you're craving one of its famous burgers, fresh-cut fries or a cold beverage, it's the kind of place locals recommend again and again. And if something else is calling your name, there are close to 400 restaurants in Fayetteville to choose from! 6. Explore Fayetteville's Performing Arts District Just a short walk from campus, Walton Arts Center and TheatreSquared are at the heart of Fayetteville's performing arts scene. Whether you're catching a Broadway musical, enjoying a professional play or simply exploring downtown, these neighboring venues are worth a stop. Admire their distinctive architecture, go next door to the Walton Arts Center Alexander Gallery to browse the latest exhibition, or relax with a drink or bite to eat at The Commons Bar/Café inside TheatreSquared. It's a great way to experience Fayetteville's creative side, whether the curtain is about to rise or not. 7. Wander Around the Historic Downtown Square The Downtown Square is the heart of Fayetteville and one of the city's favorite gathering places. Browse locally owned shops, admire the seasonal landscaping, or simply relax on a bench and watch the day unfold. If you're 21 or older, you can also take advantage of Fayetteville's Outdoor Refreshment Area (ORA), which allows you to purchase a beverage from participating businesses and enjoy it as you explore designated areas of downtown. If you're visiting on a Saturday morning, don't miss the Fayetteville Farmers Market, where local growers, makers and musicians bring the Square to life. 8. Explore The Ramble Just a few blocks from the Downtown Square, The Ramble is one of Fayetteville's newest public spaces, designed to celebrate art, culture and community. This pedestrian-friendly corridor features public art, gathering spaces and year-round events, making it a fun place to slow down and explore. The Ramble contains two major park areas, the Upper Ramble, located between Dickson and Center streets, and Lower Ramble between Center and Prairie Street, just west of the Fayetteville Public Library. Stroll through the area, discover a new piece of public art or simply enjoy one of Fayetteville's newest additions to the city's cultural landscape. It's also a great place to connect with the Razorback Greenway if you're ready to keep exploring. 9. Ask a Local for Their Favorite Spot One of the best ways to experience Fayetteville is to ask someone who lives here. Whether it's a favorite brunch spot, hidden patio, hiking trail or live music venue, locals are always happy to share their recommendations—and chances are you'll discover a place that wasn't on your original itinerary. 10. Stop by the Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center Before you head home, stop by the Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center on the Fayetteville Square to pick up a souvenir, browse locally made gifts and grab information for your next visit. The staff is always happy to recommend restaurants, attractions and upcoming events, so don't be afraid to ask what's happening around town. Frequently Asked Questions How far is the University of Arkansas from Dickson Street? Dickson Street begins just steps from the University of Arkansas campus, making it easy to walk between campus, restaurants, shops and entertainment. Can I explore Fayetteville without a car? Absolutely. Many of Fayetteville's most popular attractions—including Dickson Street, the Downtown Square, Walton Arts Center, TheatreSquared and The Ramble—are within walking distance of the University of Arkansas. Where should I park when visiting the University of Arkansas? Public parking is available in several downtown garages and lots, as well as designated visitor parking areas on campus. Once you've parked, many of the destinations on this list are easy to reach on foot. How long does it take to walk from the University of Arkansas to the Downtown Square? Depending on where you begin on campus, it's about a 10- to 15-minute walk to the Downtown Square, with plenty to see along the way. What's the best time of year to explore this area? Any time of year is a great time to explore, but spring and fall are especially popular thanks to comfortable weather, Razorback events, outdoor dining and a full calendar of festivals and performances.

Looking for the best things to do in Fayetteville, Arkansas? Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, visiting the University of Arkansas, or exploring Northwest Arkansas, you'll find plenty of ways to fill your itinerary. From historic landmarks and world-class arts venues to local boutiques, outdoor adventures, live music, and family-friendly attractions, Fayetteville offers something for every interest and every season. Explore our vibrant downtown, discover the beauty of the Ozarks, enjoy the city's thriving food and entertainment scene, and experience the welcoming community that makes Fayetteville one of the region's favorite destinations. With so much to see and do, don't be surprised if you find yourself planning an extra day—or your next visit—before you leave.

You know what they say about Fayetteville. Wait, do you? If our little corner of Northwest Arkansas is still a mystery to you, this is your invitation into one of the Ozark Mountains’ best-kept secrets. Tell your friends… or don’t. Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a place of contrasts: a soulful, funky city booming with creative college energy and deep community roots. We’re weirdly outdoorsy, fiercely independent, and delightfully distinct. Care to see for yourself? What Is Fayetteville, Arkansas, Known For? Since 1871, the University of Arkansas has fueled Fayetteville with a creative adrenaline that influences everything. Yes, we’re an iconic SEC sports capital (go Hogs), but we’re also a refuge for artists and a playground for anyone with a bike or a pair of hiking boots. This is where neon-lit Dickson Street nightlife shares a border with world-class mountain biking, welcoming tailgaters and trail-riders all the same. What Makes Razorback Culture & SEC Game Days So Special? If you've spent any time around Fayetteville during football season, you already know. And if you don’t know, we invite you to get acquainted with our many game day traditions. But it goes beyond football. The University of Arkansas fields 19 varsity sports and has produced Olympic athletes, national championship track teams, and a fanbase that is, to put it gently, deeply committed. Around here, the Razorbacks are our professional sports team. That means every home game is elevated to spectacle, packed 72,000 strong inside Razorback Stadium. What Exactly is the "Keep Fayetteville Funky" Spirit? This isn't just a bumper sticker slogan, though you will absolutely see it on bumper stickers. The "Keep Fayetteville Funky" ethos is the reason local, independent businesses outnumber chains on Dickson Street. It's why you'll find record stores and maze-like bookshops thriving in the age of same-day delivery. You can see it in the award-winning architecture speckled throughout downtown, and you can definitely taste it in local eats made with love (and plenty of butter). Fayetteville is also one of the more progressive and LGBTQIA+-inclusive cities in the South, with a community that celebrates Pride loudly and proudly, the largest of its kind in Arkansas. We hate to name-drop, but even Vogue took note of our 2025 celebrations. How Close is Fayetteville to Nature? There’s a beautiful lack of breathing room between our most technical singletrack and the many bar doors of Dickson Street. You can spend your morning on the elite-level terrain of Centennial Park or the rocky drops of Kessler Mountain and find yourself back on a patio or dressed up for a show in the afternoon. A big part of this connective tissue is the Razorback Regional Greenway, a paved, 40-mile shared-use trail that runs through the center of the city. It connects campuses, coffee shops, and neighborhoods, allowing you to commute entirely on two wheels. But the cycling scene here goes far beyond the pavement. Fayetteville has spent years engineering a world-class mountain biking matrix directly into our urban layout, proving you don't need to head out into the middle of nowhere to get completely lost in the woods. Is Fayetteville Just a College Town? Calling Fayetteville "just a college town" is like calling the Ozark Mountains “just some hills.” Sure, the university is a massive part of the landscape, but the city has a whole life of its own outside of game days and academic pursuits—promise! You can see that independent spirit best in the events that bring the community together across every season: Mardi Gras Parade of Fools: A delightfully eccentric, colorful nod to NOLA featuring a parade and pub crawl. Fayetteville Strawberry Festival: A sweet springtime tradition with dancing, competitions, and live music. NWA Pride: The largest Pride celebration in Arkansas, packed with entertainment, events, and a grand parade. Gulley Park Concert Series: Lawn chairs, cold drinks, and free music under summer skies. Fayetteville Restaurant Week: Ten days of mid-summer specials and prix fixe menus showcasing our independent culinary scene. Falltoberfest: An autumnal block party welcoming sweater weather with local beer and live tunes. Lights of the Ozarks: A glittering celebration of holiday lights on the Square, plus Santa’s workshop and hot cocoa. What Are the Top Things to Do and Places to Explore in Fayetteville? As the Creative Capital of Northwest Arkansas, we’re a bit of a cultural chameleon. That’s to say, whatever your style, you’re bound to find a show, exhibit, or play you’ll love. If you're searching for the best things to do in Fayetteville, here’s a good place to start. What Should I See on Dickson Street & the Downtown Square? Dickson Street is the beating, karaoke-singing, pool shooting, drink-slinging heart of Fayetteville's entertainment scene, and it’s been that way for a long time. This stretch connects the University of Arkansas to the historic downtown Square. Adding to the charm of Dickson Street and its neighboring blocks is their inclusion in the Outdoor Refreshment Area (ORA), our designated "sip and stroll" district. Instead of being glued to a single bar stool, you can order a drink in a dedicated to-go cup and carry it with you onto the sidewalks and into over 100 participating spots. Call us Las Faygas. By day, Dickson Street and the Square are home to boutiques, galleries, cafés, the famous Dickson Street Bookshop, and plenty of patios for long-lunching. No trip here is complete without a Saturday morning at the Fayetteville Farmers Market. It's the oldest market in Arkansas, showcasing incredible local agriculture and makers since 1973—and providing the perfect excuse to eat pastries for breakfast. Where Can You Find Live Music and Local Art Around Town? Fayetteville sits geographically between Kansas City, St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, Austin, Dallas, and Tulsa—a musical crossroads that has made it a natural touring stop historically. Some of the nation’s best-known names in music have played on Dickson Street: Willie Nelson, Lucinda Williams, and many modern talents. The anchor of the live scene is George's Majestic Lounge, which opened in 1927 as a restaurant, bar, and general store. It’s the oldest and longest-running live music venue in Arkansas. Consequence of Sound ranked it among the 100 greatest music venues in America and named it Best Hometown Venue in the Southeast in 2023. TheatreSquared, Fayetteville’s premier professional regional theatre, has racked up major global honors over the years, including a prestigious 2022 Obie Award. Its building is a piece of art in its own right, taking home both the American Architecture Award and the International Architecture Award for its design. For larger productions, the Walton Arts Center on Dickson Street brings national Broadway tours, symphony performances, and major acts to a world-class venue. Fayetteville wears its art on its sleeves with colorful murals blanketing the sides of downtown buildings. Check out the interactive 3D work by Leon Keer at the Fayetteville Public Library (2025), Jason Jones's "Enjoy Local" on Mountain Street (2015), or the striking "Bearly Illegal" by Ernest Zacharevic (2017). Where Are the Best Places to Eat and Drink in Fayetteville? Around here, there’s a table for every taste. There are neighborhood mainstays whose classic menus never (ever!) change, white-tablecloth dining by candlelight, and global flavors from Thailand and Mexico to Belgium and Jordan—not to mention a local coffee culture that takes its craft seriously. Very seriously. The Fayetteville Ale Trail links eight craft breweries, and the city has enough independently owned restaurants to fill a week of meals without a single repeat. In fact, we might just call it… Restaurant Week. Need a little inspiration? Take a peek at some of our dining guides. Where to Find the Best Burgers in Fayetteville, Arkansas Best Thai and Vietnamese Restaurants in Fayetteville, Arkansas Top Brunch Spots in Fayetteville, AR: Where to Eat This Weekend Fayetteville’s Favorite Elevated Happy Hours: A Local’s Guide for Visitors Fayetteville Food Truck Courts: Where to Eat Outside and Eat Well Best Restaurants & Bars with Outdoor Patios in Fayetteville, AR A Local’s Guide to Mexican Food in Fayetteville, Arkansas What Are the Best Outdoor Activities and Trails in Fayetteville? It doesn't take long to notice that Fayetteville is obsessed with bicycles. That's mostly because the city paved the way for it—and while that sounds like a bad dad joke, our world-class trail network is nothing to laugh about. If you’re not a cyclist, there are plenty of ways to float, fish, hike, or climb your way around the great outdoors of the Ozarks. What Makes Fayetteville Such a Big Deal for Cycling? In 2021, Fayetteville was named the very first UCI Bike City in the United States for its commitment to developing cycling at every level. That means global cycling experts put our city on the same tier as legendary bike destinations like Paris, Copenhagen, and Tokyo.Fayetteville has over 110 miles of interconnected multi-use trails inside city limits for absolute beginners and competitive cyclists. The 40-mile Razorback Regional Greenway starts at Mile Zero right here in Fayetteville and connects north through Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville, passing coffee shops, breweries, public art, and some of the prettiest countryside in Northwest Arkansas. The crown jewel for serious riders is Centennial Park at Millsap Mountain, a cycling-activated park that hosted the 2022 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, only the second time the event has ever taken place outside of Europe. The park features over 20 miles of purpose-built trails, from the beginner-friendly Learner's Permit loop to the technical World Cup XC course that brings in pro riders multiple times a year. Better yet, it all connects! The 20-mile Fayetteville Traverse links downtown, the University of Arkansas, Kessler Mountain Regional Park, and Centennial Park into a continuous loop you can access from various trailheads across town. Where Are the Best Places to Hike in and Around Fayetteville? You don't need a car to get into good hiking. The Lake Fayetteville Trail is a serene spot to “get lost” well within the city limits. The loop offers beautiful views along a mix of paved paths and natural singletrack, shared peacefully by walkers, runners, bikers, and bird watchers. Oh, and did we mention there's disc golf? Kessler Mountain Regional Park offers close to 22 miles of hand-built multi-use trails across 620 acres of wooded mountaintop. The trail names — Spellbound, Western Myth, Serpentine — give you a sense of the epic landscape: ancient hardwood trees, moss-covered boulders, and the sweet sound of nothing at all. To experience the Ozarks proper, head just south of town to Devil's Den State Park. It's a rugged playground of bluffs, giant rock crevices, and geological formations, but the undisputed crowd-pleaser here is the 3-mile Yellow Rock Trail, which rewards a moderate climb with an overlook so stunning it’ll make you forget you're out of breath. If you’re looking to put your endurance to the test, the park also serves as the launchpad for tough multi-mile grinds like the 15-mile Butterfield Hiking Trail. Fayetteville FAQs: Rapid Fire Round What’s the closest airport? Do I fly straight into Fayetteville?Technically, Fayetteville has a lovely little airfield (Drake Field), but unless you own a private jet, you're flying into Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA). It’s about a 35-to-40-minute drive northwest of town. Can I get around without renting a car?If you plan your trip around the downtown Square, Dickson Street, and the U of A campus— absolutely. This area is incredibly walkable, and you can rent an e-bike to cruise the Razorback Greenway, which cuts right through the center of town and into scenic Kessler Mountain trails. If you want to tackle deep Ozark trailheads like Devil's Den State Park or take a day trip to the Buffalo National River, you're going to need four wheels. If you want to tackle deep Ozark trailheads like Kessler Mountain or take a day trip to the Buffalo National River, you're going to need four wheels. Is Fayetteville dog-friendly?Absolutely. If your dog loves exploring wooded trails, running around 50+ city parks, patio-hopping with the humans, and getting plenty of attention, they’re going to love it here. Plenty of our local breweries and outdoor restaurants are pup-friendly—just be sure to keep them on a leash while you're out exploring. How’s the weather?Spring and autumn get a lot of love for their blooming dogwoods and fiery Ozark foliage, but every season has something special in store. Summer brings long, hot days perfect for river floats and late-night patio sessions, while winter welcomes crisp days, festive events, and wintry landscapes.