Sherwood Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, food, accommodations and transportation in Sherwood, Arkansas. Read now for our recommended itinerary and travel tips.


Introduction to Sherwood

Sherwood is a vibrant city in Central Arkansas that offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions. The city was named after a distinctive tree that was found throughout the area during the early 19th century. Today, Sherwood is renowned for its enchanting parks, thrilling outdoor adventure, and historic sites. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll highlight the best places to visit, food and drink spots to explore, accommodations, transportation options, and travel tips.

List of Places to Visit in Sherwood

Here are some of the best tourist destinations in Sherwood you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sherwood History & Heritage Center - Located at the heart of the city, the Sherwood History & Heritage Center houses fascinating displays and exhibits showcasing the history of the area. You can learn about the pioneer lifestyle and how Sherwood transformed over time into a thriving city.
  • Old Mill - Offering visitors stunning views and historic surroundings, the Old Mill is a charming and picturesque spot to take a leisurely stroll. You may recognize it from the opening scene of the classic movie, “Gone with the Wind.”

Natural Attractions of Sherwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sylvan Hills Sports Complex - This impressive park features several sports fields, walking trails, a lake, and picnic areas. It is a great place to relax with friends and enjoy the scenery.
  • Lake Cherrywood Park - This secluded park offers a serene atmosphere and has a vast range of recreational activities for visitors to indulge in. Fishing, paddle boating, and birdwatching are some popular things people do here.
  • Wilderness Lake Preserve - If you’re looking for an authentic natural adventure, you will want to explore the wilderness trails at the Wilderness Lake Preserve. This nature reserve boasts a picturesque lake and is a favorite for hiking, birdwatching, and taking stellar Instagram photos.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sherwood

Sherwood offers a wide variety of hiking and biking trails to suit all skill levels; here are some excellent trails for you to try:

  • Little Rock River Trail - The 12-mile trail runs alongside the Arkansas River and boasts magnificent views of downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock while providing a smooth path for bikers and hikers alike.
  • Two Rivers Park Trail - The 1000-acre park is home to over 1,500 plant and wildlife species. The 10-mile unpaved trail near Little Maumelle River is a peaceful place to come across wildlife while cycling or trekking.

Best Things to Do in Sherwood: Activities and Tours

Here are some activities to do while in Sherwood:

  • Zipline Adventure - Experience Sherwood’s wilderness from unique angles by zipping through treetops and scenic landscapes.
  • Arkansas River Cruise - Cruise down the Arkansas River to relish stunning views of the Little Rock skyline.
  • Arkansas Symphony Orchestra - Witness excellent musical performances by the most accomplished musicians in the region at the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sherwood

Here is a week-long itinerary for Sherwood that includes many exciting attractions:

Day 1-2: Start your tour by exploring the Sherwood History & Heritage Center and Old Mill. On day two take in the natural surroundings of Lake Cherrywood Park and Sylvan Hills Sports Complex.

Day 3-4: The next couple of days bring you to nature with a picturesque hike at the Wilderness Lake Preserve, followed by a bike ride on the Two Rivers Park Trail.

Day 5-6: Embrace adventure by enjoying a zipline experience or an Arkansas River Cruise. End the day listening to music at the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

Day 7: Cap off your wonderful week-long trip by selecting some souvenirs to take home with you at the Battlefield Antiques Mall and experiencing culinary delights at local restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Sherwood

Sherwood is an expert at providing some delicious dishes!

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish - The statewide staple, “Fried Catfish,” is Sherwood’s most famous dish. The mouth-watering dish is often served with hush puppies, coleslaw, fries, or okra.
  • Smoked Pork Belly - Smoked Pork Belly is a fan-favorite and often served in BBQ joints and diners around town.

Local Beverages

  • Diamond Bear Brewery - The first brewery in Little Rock, Diamond Bear, offers beer enthusiasts a variety of handcrafted signature beer options. You can take tours and sample some of the delicately brewed beers.
  • Petit & Keet - Petit & Keet offers patrons exquisite cocktails, delectable wine selections, and world-class appetizer dishes.

Where to Stay in Sherwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sherwood has a range of lodging options, from affordable hotels to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Candlewood Suites North Little Rock - Offers guests pet-friendly rooms at reasonable rates and free access to a 24-hour gym and indoor pool.
  • Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock - For travelers looking for an upscale option, Wyndham Riverfront’s prime location for stunning views of the river and city. Its rooms, restaurants, and bars offer first-class comfort and amenities.

What to Buy in Sherwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make your trip memorable by bringing back some Arkansas trinkets for your loved ones:

  • Arkansas Razorback Merchandise - As the state’s most well-known sports team, Arkansas Razorback merchandise is a popular choice for a souvenir.
  • Boudin Sausage - A tasty Cajun delicacy that originated in Louisiana but is now found around Arkansas.

Local Culture and Customs of Sherwood

When venturing any place new, it is critical to be aware of local customs. A few things to keep in mind in Sherwood are that small talk and politeness go a long way. You’ll easily blend in by greeting others you come across, giving that warm Southern hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Sherwood

The best time to visit Sherwood is from March to May when the weather is mild, and the trees are blooming, making for the perfect Instagram moment. The temperature tends to stay in the 60s and 70s, making it ideal weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sherwood

Do:

  • Get your picture taken at the Old Mill to create timeless memories.
  • Get your adrenaline going with a ziplining experience.

Don’t:

  • Don’t over-pack; Sherwood is a straightforward drive, and you can always buy gear and souvenirs while here.
  • Don’t forget to bring bug spray when heading out to the wilderness trails and parks in Sherwood.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sherwood

Sherwood is a safe community in which to live and visit. Nevertheless, travelers should exercise caution when exploring the city late at night, particularly in urban areas.

Health in Sherwood

Be sure to carry bug spray when visiting the parks in Sherwood as mosquitoes can be present in the area. Additionally, make sure you stay hydrated, wear sunscreen when venturing out in the sun and humidity, and carry enough drinking water when hiking or cycling trails.

Getting to Sherwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sherwood

The nearby airports include Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock and Memphis International in Tennessee.

Bus Stations Near Sherwood

Trailways, Greyhound, and Rapid bus companies all operate convenient bus routes to Sherwood, enabling visitors to arrive with ease.

Other Options

Renting a car is an excellent option as Sherwood is easily accessible from the major highways and interstates surrounding the city.

How to Get Around in Sherwood

Traveling around Sherwood is quickest and easiest by car, however hailing a taxi service or utilizing public transport is also an option through the Rock Region Metro.

Where to Go Next from Sherwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

With its central location, Sherwood is an incredible launching point for a variety of nearby attractions in Arkansas. Here are some of the top destinations:

  • Bentonville is about a three hour drive and famous for the fantastic Crystal Bridges Museum. It’s also where Walmart was started.
  • Memphis, Tennessee, is a two-hour drive away and boasts blues music greats, Graceland, and the FedEx Forum.

Conclusion

Sherwood is the perfect location for a trip full of fun and adventure. With its wonderful parks, scenic beauty, rich heritage, and great cuisine, this city is a must-visit for anyone hoping for a unique holiday experience. We hope this comprehensive guide will aid in planning your Sherwood trip.