Things to Do in Fayetteville, AR: A Comprehensive Guide
When visiting Fayetteville, Arkansas, you’ll find a vibrant city with a rich history, diverse attractions, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun-filled weekend, Fayetteville has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your time in this charming city.
Explore the Historic Downtown
Start your Fayetteville adventure by exploring the historic downtown area. With its unique blend of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, it’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon. Don’t miss the Fayetteville Underground, a network of underground tunnels that once housed businesses during the Civil War. Today, it’s a shopping and dining destination with a twist.
| Attraction | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Fayetteville Underground | Historic underground shopping and dining area |
| Van Winkle Distillery | Visit the oldest distillery in the state and sample their spirits |
| Old Main | Historic building on the University of Arkansas campus |
University of Arkansas Campus
Fayetteville is home to the University of Arkansas, and the campus itself is a sight to behold. Take a self-guided tour of the beautiful architecture, including Old Main, the oldest building in the state. Don’t miss the Arkansas River Trail, which runs through the campus and offers stunning views of the river.
Outdoor Activities
With its stunning natural beauty, Fayetteville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy:
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Arkansas River Trail: This 30-mile trail offers a variety of paths for hiking, biking, and running. You can even take a riverboat tour to see the area from a different perspective.
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Mount Magazine State Park: Just a short drive from Fayetteville, this state park features stunning views, hiking trails, and camping sites. It’s the highest point in Arkansas and offers a chance to see the state from above.
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Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: Located in Bentonville, just a short drive from Fayetteville, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It features a stunning collection of American art and is set in a beautiful natural setting.
Local Cuisine
Fayetteville has a thriving food scene, with a variety of restaurants and dining options. Here are some of the best places to eat:
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Elote Cafe: A popular spot for breakfast and lunch, Elote Cafe serves up delicious Mexican-inspired dishes.
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Wise Guy’s Pizza: This local favorite offers a variety of pizzas, sandwiches, and salads.
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La Piazza: A cozy Italian restaurant with a great selection of pasta, pizza, and desserts.
Special Events
Fayetteville hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including:
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Fayetteville Film Festival: Held in April, this festival showcases independent films from around the world.
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Arkansas Ozark Folk Festival: This annual festival features music, art, and crafts from the Ozark region.
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Fayetteville Roots & Blues Festival: Held in September, this festival celebrates blues music and features performances from both local and national artists.
With so much to see and do, Fayetteville is a fantastic destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just good food and fun, Fayetteville has it all.
