Fayetteville has long been the artistic epicenter of Northwest Arkansas, thanks in large part to the University of Arkansas, which — as the state’s oldest and largest college campus — has influenced Arkansas culture since its founding in 1871.

From live music on Dickson Street to performance arts at the Walton Arts Center and TheatreSquared, to the numerous galleries throughout the city filled with paintings and sculptures, Fayetteville has a strong tradition of being the arts and entertainment capital of Northwest Arkansas. In fact, visitors are always happy to discover the variety of art throughout the city.

Several large, public-art murals can be found in the Downtown & Dickson Entertainment District, which encompasses the area from the University of Arkansas campus to the Historic Downtown Square. Some of these include Jason Jones’ Enjoy Local mural next to the Fayetteville Town Center (a popular selfie destination), as well as his Shop Local mural on Archibald Yell Boulevard, south of the square.

With a public art event planned for August 2017, even more eye candy will soon be available to residents and visitors who enjoy walking the downtown area and Dickson Street, taking in large-scale art while they shop and eat.

Fayetteville businesses also are keen on decorating their buildings with art. The patio at Smoke and Barrel on Dickson features colorful murals on its walls (pictured above), and Puritan Coffee & Beer on Dickson displays art on its patio that was done by students of Asbell Elementary School in Fayetteville as part of Arts Feeds. Its title sponsor was The Stephen Colbert Americone Dream Fund, and its theme, which was chosen by the students, is Dreams and Perseverance.

Seriously, art is found everywhere in Fayetteville. From traffic boxes to storm drains, the city’s spirit is on display for all to enjoy. It’s one of the most popular things to see while you are in town. All you have to do is come here and take in the views.