Things to Do in Northwest Arkansas | What to Do in Fayetteville

Experience

Surrounded by the scenic Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville is the entertainment capital of Northwest Arkansas. With our thriving arts scene, legendary live music and nightlife, culinary treasures, and events and attractions for all ages, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Fayetteville! Enjoy nearly anything you can imagine, from Razorback athletic events to winding mountain roads made for motorcycles. We’ve got enough outdoor activities to last a lifetime, and a system of cycling trails befitting of the only Bike City in the United States.  When you experience Fayetteville, brimming with historic sites, boutiques, and family-friendly activities, you’ll find enough variety to keep your entire group all smiles.

We invite you to explore our unique corner of Arkansas and immerse yourself in our thriving community. With its small town feel and big time culture, Fayetteville’s full of attractions that just might find you extending your stay!

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The Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center, located on the Historic Downtown Square, is the go-to place to learn about the best things to do and events going on while you’re in town! The Visitors Center offers a public restroom, a water bottle refilling station, a seating area, and local art on display, plus videos and wall maps showcasing attractions throughout Fayetteville. As the neon sign says, all are welcome! Be sure to make this your first stop and pick up a free Visitor’s Guide, Fayetteville Ale Trail passport, maps, and brochures to help you get around. Plus, browse a unique assortment of locally made merchandise and one-of-a-kind souvenirs!

Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center

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Spend an afternoon bonding with the family at Arkadia Retrocade, where parents can relive their arcade days on games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, and kids can ditch the PlayStation for the afternoon to enjoy the timeless strategies of games like Tetris and Asteroids. The classic, stand-up arcade machines are straight out of the ‘80s: vintage, out-of-service machines, fixed up and installed in the Retrocade! $5 - cash only - covers you for all-day game play, no quarters necessary.

Arkadia Retrocade

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You won’t want to miss this museum that flies! In a way, it’s literal -- Fayetteville’s Arkansas Air & Military Museum is an unusual one in that many of the historic aircraft on display can still take flight. Residing in an all-wood hangar listed on the Arkansas Register of Historic Places, this largest aviation museum in Arkansas is a fascinating glimpse into the colorful history of aviation in the state, bursting with original artifacts and aviation memorabilia. Small but mighty, this tucked-away gem is an experience the entire family can enjoy.

Arkansas Air and Military Museum

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Stroll along the iconic Dickson Street in downtown Fayetteville long enough and you’ll stumble upon ArtCourt, a one-of-a-kind destination that celebrates the intersection of art and sports! Amidst a street full of bars and shops, the space suddenly opens up along the sidewalk into a basketball court, transformed by a vibrant and colorful mural that covers every inch of the space. Look closely at the colorful patterns underfoot and you’ll hardly believe that they were painted by hand! ArtCourt is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to come and play basketball, relax in the shade, or simply admire and explore the vibrant and dynamic art space. Be sure to snap a selfie in this oh-so-Instagrammable space and everyone you know will wish that they’d gone to Fayetteville too!

Art Court

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As if the lush landscaping and vibrant themed gardens (all twelve of them!) of our beloved Botanical Garden of the Ozarks right here in Fayetteville aren’t enough, BGO also boasts the only Butterfly House in the state of Arkansas and over 70,000 visitors annually. In true Fayetteville fashion, BGO is a lovely, whimsical, and must-see destination where you can revel in the peace of the outdoors and connect with nature - and each other! Enjoy a leisurely stroll, join a guided tour, or stop by for an event and enjoy the enchanting beauty of the Garden.

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

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Boulders & Brews is an indoor rock climbing gym and coffee shop located in downtown Fayetteville, Arkansas. The combination indoor bouldering joint and coffee shop is the perfect mix of adrenaline and relaxation, offering a full range of climbing options plus delicious coffee and snacks (all sourced locally!). Inside, you’ll find bouldering walls for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers, including the first Kilter Board in Arkansas and an adjustable spray board. Boulders & Brews specifically caters to new climbers, so it’s a great place to meet new locals and challenge yourself physically! After an exhilarating climb on the gym wall’s slabs, vertical faces, overhangs, and roof, you can unwind in the coffee shop and enjoy a delicious latte or snack in the sunny, airy facility. Boulders & Brews is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and challenging workout, a brand new experience to bring back home, or a place to gather with friends. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a complete beginner, Boulders & Brews is for you!

Learn more and see pricing

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Not only did a future United States President and Secretary of State call this now-museum in Fayetteville, Arkansas their first home, they got married right in the middle of the living room!

The Clinton House is a small, unassuming house museum situated just south of the University of Arkansas campus. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the home located at 930 West Clinton Drive holds a special place in American history that reaches far beyond the bounds of Fayetteville.

Admission to the Clinton House Museum is free and includes access to the First Ladies Garden, oodles of campaign memorabilia, and a full-scale replicaa of Hillary's 1975 wedding dress (the orginal was purchased at Dillard's in the Northwest Arkansas Mall).

Plan a visit to the Clinton House Museum

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Fay Jones was an internationally known architect who lived and worked in Fayetteville. His works, including the acclaimed Thorncrown Chapel, can be found throughout Northwest Arkansas and beyond. An apprentice of Frank Lloyd Wright, Jones received the AIA Gold Medal, the highest honor awarded by the American Institute of Architects.

Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, the Fay and Gus Jones House is a living expression of Jones' architectural ideals. Designed in 1956 as his family home, it reflects his ability to merge structure with landscape. The home features a large boulder and a spring-like waterfall in the entryway, which also served as Jones' home studio.

Guided tours of the Fay and Gus Jones House offer a unique opportunity to experience Jones’ world firsthand. Tours are by reservation only.

Fay & Gus Jones House

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This self-guided beer tour gives both visitors and locals a glimpse into the unique craft brewery culture of Northwest Arkansas. The Fayetteville Ale Trail currently features 9 stops, each of which will commemorate your visit with a personalized stamp in your passport! Passports are available for no cost at any Ale Trail location or at the Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center. Completed passports can be redeemed for a free prize!

Fayetteville Ale Trail

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If you're a bookworm, a history buff, or just looking for a unique destination to explore in Fayetteville, give the Fayetteville Public Library a second look! While a public library may not be your typical vacation destination, FPL is truly in a class of its own. This modern, spacious library offers a wide variety of resources and services for visitors of all ages and interests, while the building - including an impressive standalone event center - is architecturally interesting and the programming unique. From its extensive collection of books and multimedia materials to its state-of-the-art technology and community programs, the Fayetteville Public Library is the perfect place to discover something new and exciting. While you’re there, see if you can spot the bees on the rooftop, twirl from swings on the terrace, and discover the airplane hanging from the ceiling! Conveniently located in downtown Fayetteville, the library is also just a short walk away from some of the city's best restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Fayetteville Public Library

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Sometimes known as simply “The Square” to locals, Fayetteville’s Historic Square is a popular walkable, history-filled, family friendly location where you’ll never run out of things to do, places to shop, or food to eat! Two hours of free parking will afford you enough time to stroll the gardens, drop by our Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center, grab a local beer and a bite to eat - with time to spare! Make a day of it and enjoy a classic Fayetteville experience by picking up local produce at the Farmers’ Market, taking in the holiday spectacle that is Lights of the Ozarks, soaking in the local culture at First Thursday, or stopping by the annual Block Street Block Party.

Fayetteville Farmer’s Market

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For a unique and exciting way to release some tension in Fayetteville, check out the NWA Smash Lab, located at 1882 N Pluto Dr. Here, you'll find a one-of-a-kind destination to let loose and unleash whatever needs releasing in a safe, controlled and wickedly fun environment! With a wide range of items to destroy, from plates to electronics to furniture, the NWA Smash Lab offers the ultimate stress-relief experience. An afternoon of letting off some steam at the Smash Lab is both an unconventional way to unwind and an unforgettable Fay-cation experience!

NWA Smash Lab

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A unique experience for groups up to eight people. This house museum was created by two folk musicians who provide a delightful story and song experience along with a quirky collection. Kelly and Donna Mulhollan are accomplished musicians who perform as the duo Still on the Hill. They also host the Ozark Instrument Museum and Exotic Instrument Museum, including dozens of handmade instruments, each with a story more delightful than the last. The museum is free, but donations are welcome. To arrange a visit, call 479-582-2291 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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This family-friendly wonderland of art is home to the iconic Bluebird of Happiness and houses a six-acre art park, gallery, art classes and demonstrations. Replete with sculpture gardens, large-scale murals, sparkling glasswork, fantastical creatures, and playful fountains that are loved by visitors of all ages, Terra Studios inspires creativity in all who visit. Even your dog friends are welcome - when accompanied by conscientious owners prepared to clean up after them, of course! Terra Studios is a wildly popular Northwest Arkansas tourist attraction, and the non-profit welcomes you to visit - for free! - all year round.

Terra Studios

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Nestled in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the Wilson Park Castle is a whimsical and captivating landmark that has been enchanting visitors for decades! Completed in 1981, the charming stone structure boasts intricate details, medieval vibes, and a fantastic sensory experience. The castle and its surrounding structures are built from native stone, with pops of color provided by bits of ceramic tile, colorful rocks, and natural shells. The intricate, imagination-inspiring Castle at Wilson Park is surrounded by detailed gardens and overlooks a spring-fed pond. The unique structural piece is completely interactive and invites kids and adults alike to walk, wonder, play, climb, explore, and peer through its many nooks and notches. It's honestly irresistable! 

Learn more about the Wilson Park Castle

Where to Celebrate Valentine's, Galentine's & Palentine's Day in Fay

From romantic nights on the town to brunch with your galentines, Fayetteville is full of options for celebrating Valentine's Day (or not)! You'll find restaurants featuring special Valentine's dinner menus, live music, arts and crafts, dance parties, and plenty of reasons to imbibe. Romantic interest or not, there's plenty of love to be shared with all the folks in your life this V-Day! Find a list of options for marking the occasion this Valentine's Day in Fayetteville below, and be sure to check out our event calendar to see everything happening around town. Valentine's Feline the Love: Valentine's Card Making Cat Cuddles Included Friday, February 7 - 6:30-8:00pmThe Smitten Kitten NWA524 W Sycamore St | Fayetteville, AR A Wine & Chocolate Pairing Night Find the Perfect Pair Thursday, February 13 - 6:30pmUrban Cellar Winery21 W. Mountain Street #228 | Fayetteville, AR Valentine's Pottery Wheel Date Night Throw Down Friday, February 14 - 4:00-6:00pm & 6:30-8:30pmCreative Community Center505 W. Spring Street | Fayetteville, AR Sweetheart Swing Dance Get Tickets Friday, February 14 - 6:00-10:00pmArkansas Air & Military Museum4290 S School Ave | Fayetteville, AR Valentine's Date Night with Funk Factory Get Tickets Here Friday, February 14 - 9:00pmGeorge's Majestic Lounge519 W Dickson St | Fayetteville, AR Valentine's Day Couple PaintingLearn More Saturday, February 15 - 4:00pm-6:00pmCreative Community Center505 W. Spring Street | Fayetteville, AR Starrlight Jazz Club Billy Stritch & Gabrielle Stravelli February 15 - 7:30pmWalton Arts Center295 W Dickson St | Fayetteville, AR Candlelight: Romantic Classics Get Tickets Saturday, February 15 - 8:30pmTheatreSquared477 West Spring St | Fayetteville, AR Galentine's + Palentine's Classes/Workshops/Bingo... Choose your fun! February 4th, 6th, 13th, 14th...Ozark Charcuterie & Wine Bar3 E Mountain St | Fayetteville, AR Musical Bingo: Songs Love & Heartbreak Black Hearts & Love Ballads Wednesday, February 12 - 7:00pmPuritan Coffee & Beer205 W Dickson St | Fayetteville, AR Be My Anti-Valentine DJ Night Get Tickets Wednesday, February 12 - 8:30pmGeorge's Majestic Lounge519 W Dickson St | Fayetteville, AR Pajamas & Prosecco Galentine's Party Pop the Bubbly Wednesday, February 12 - 6:30-8:00pmSonrisa Boutique426 S Government Ave | Fayetteville, AR Galentine's Day: GURL GANG Cocktails, mocktails, florals, and friends Thursday, February 13 - 5:30-7:30pmEden’s Botanicals3959 N Steele Blvd | Fayetteville, AR Cacao & Cocktails A Night of Sweet Indulgence Thursday, February 13 - 7:00-9:00pmMount Sequoyah150 N Skyline Dr | Fayetteville, AR Galentine's Day Jewelry Workshop Get Tickets Thursday, February 13 - 6:30-8:00pmStarr Theater at Walton Arts Center495 W. Dickson St. | Fayetteville, AR Galentine's Karaoke Sing the Night Away Thursday, February 13 - 7:00-10:00pmBig Box Karaoke115 N. Block Ave | Fayetteville, AR Valentine’s Sux Party No roses. No chocolate. No conversational hearts. Friday, February 14 - 2:00-10:00pmCrisis Brewing Company210 S Archibald Yell Blvd | Fayetteville, AR Tease, Tease, Tease: A Sabrina Carpenter Night Dance All Night Friday, February 14 - 8:00pmJJ's Live3615 N. Steele Blvd | Fayetteville, AR Galentine's Mah Jongg & Mimosas Get Your Tickets Friday, February 14 - 1:00-4:00pmTheatreSquared477 W. Spring Street | Fayetteville, AR Holentine's Day Maddy Kirgo and Avery Lee & the Sweeties Friday, February 14 - 7:00pmGar Hole Records519 West Poplar Street | Fayetteville, AR   BONUS: Take the Cake (Class) or Choose Tea for Two  Here's a couple we can all enjoy! Sign up now to make a Valentine's unicorn, fox, or llama cake with Rick's Bakery.  Enjoy cookies, scones and a pot of tea at Savoy Tea Co.

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Tuesday Nights, June-August

Terrific Tuesday Nights at BGO

June, July, and August Tuesdays from 5:00 to 8:30pm If you’re looking for a gorgeous location to spend a summer night in Fayetteville, one you'll find recommended again and again is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks! There are countless reasons to make frequent visits to this Fayetteville gem, including to visit its twelve themed gardens and the region’s only native butterfly house—but you might not realize one of the best excuses to come to the BGO is for the fun and FREE Terrific Tuesday Nights that take place throughout the summer season. Terrific Tuesday Nights at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is a series of family-friendly programming celebrating Fayetteville's beautiful summer evenings, open to the public at no charge. On Tuesdays during the months of June, July, and August, gates will be open between 5 and 8:30pm for the community to gather and enjoy an evening outdoors in the Ozarks. Picnics, blankets and lawn chairs are welcome, but please leave your non-human friends at home for this one! For more information about Terrific Tuesday Nights, visit the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks website: bgozarks.org.

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A Night at the Ball Museum

Located inside of a residential home, the Ozark Ball Museum provides a unique experience for Fayetteville visitors. Owners Kelly and Donna Mulhollan are local folk musicians who perform as the duo Still on the Hill. They invite groups of up to eight people to join them inside their own home for an exploration of every ball you could ever imagine. They also host the Ozark Instrument Museum and Exotic Instrument Museum, including dozens of handmade instruments, each with a story more delightful than the last.

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Fayetteville Ranks Top 10 Places to Live

For the eighth-consecutive year, Fayetteville was named one of the top ten best places to live in America by U.S. News & World Report. Of course, what makes Fayetteville a great place to live also makes it one of the best weekend getaways! With year-round events, live music and the best nightlife in Northwest Arkansas, an amazing culinary scene, boutique shopping and attractions for all ages, it’s no wonder Fayetteville has been garnering national attention as a travel destination. This year, Fayetteville was ranked as the tenth best city to live in the 2023-2024 U.S. News “Best Places To Live.” As the article stated, "People from all over the world call Fayetteville home. Newcomers often comment on the friendliness of Fayetteville residents. People wave and smile at each other in the street, and community events are well-attended. With dozens of volunteer organizations and nonprofits, there's an abundance of ways to get involved in the community. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville attracts outdoorsy types with its abundance of state parks, acres of community green space, playgrounds, parks and walking trails. The metro area also boasts a first-class performing arts center, an active local food movement, live music venues and a dynamic festival scene." Other cities in the top ten were: Green Bay, WI Huntsville, AL Raleigh & Durham, NC Boulder, CO Sarasota, FL Naples, FL Portland, ME Charlotte, NC Colorado Springs, CO According to U.S. News, cities were ranked on affordability, job prospects and a high quality of life. They also factored in a public survey, U.S. Census Bureau data and rankings of the best high schools and hospitals.

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Visitor’s Guide

Check out our Fayetteville Visitor’s Guide full of insider tips and guides to hotels, dining, entertainment, the arts, and more

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