Fayetteville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Fayetteville, Arkansas with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fayetteville

Nestled in the Ozarks of Arkansas, Fayetteville is a charming college town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With an intriguing history, vibrant arts and culture scene, and breathtaking outdoor activities, Fayetteville is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an authentic American experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and more in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

List of Places to Visit in Fayetteville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fayetteville has a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. Here are some culturally important attractions you won’t want to miss:

  • Clinton House Museum: A historic house museum celebrating the story of Bill Clinton and Hillary Rodham’s early years in Fayetteville.
  • Arkansas Air & Military Museum: Featuring a variety of military vehicles, from helicopters to airplanes, and exhibits that celebrate local military heroes.
  • Fayetteville Historic Square: A vibrant historic district with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
  • TheatreSquared: A world-class theater company in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, with a varied calendar of plays, musicals, and other live performances.

Natural Attractions of Fayetteville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, Fayetteville is the perfect choice for you. Here are some of the best natural attractions the city has to offer:

  • Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: A stunning 86-acre park featuring a vast collection of native plants and gardens to explore.
  • Mount Kessler: An ideal hiking and mountain biking destination with over 26 miles of trails, offering stunning views of the Ozarks.
  • Lake Fayetteville: A 194-acre lake with boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, surrounded by scenic trails and parklands.
  • Devil’s Den State Park: A natural wonderland featuring hiking trails, rock climbing, and camping opportunities, nestled in the heart of the Ozark mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fayetteville

Fayetteville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for hiking and biking adventures. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Razorback Greenway: A 36-mile trail that runs across northwest Arkansas, connecting Fayetteville with several neighboring cities.
  • Mt. Sequoyah Woods Trail: A popular 5.5-mile hiking and biking trail that runs through the beautiful forested lands of Mt. Sequoyah.
  • Lake Fayetteville Trail: A 5.5-mile trail that circles around the lake, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding hills.
  • Slaughter Pen Trail: A challenging 40-mile single-track trail network for advanced mountain bikers, featuring technical terrain and breathtaking views of the Ozarks.

Best Things to Do in Fayetteville: Activities and Tours

Fayetteville offers endless opportunities for fun, adventure, and exploration. Here are some of the best activities and tours you can enjoy in the city:

  • Dickson Street: A vibrant entertainment district with a variety of bars, clubs, restaurants, and live music venues.
  • Fayetteville Ale Trail: A self-guided tour of the best local breweries and taprooms in the city.
  • Fayetteville Farmers Market: A popular open-air market held every Saturday on the historic square, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music.
  • Arkansas Missouri Railroad: A heritage railroad offering scenic train tours through the Ozarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fayetteville

If you’re planning to spend a week in Fayetteville, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic Fayetteville Square
2 Hike at Mount Sequoyah Woods Trail and dine at a local restaurant on Dickson Street
3 Visit Clinton House Museum and the Arkansas Air & Military Museum
4 Spend the day at Devil’s Den State Park and go camping
5 Take a scenic train tour on the Arkansas Missouri Railroad
6 Enjoy a day of fishing, boating, and hiking at Lake Fayetteville
7 Visit the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks and enjoy a craft beer on the Fayetteville Ale Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Fayetteville

Fayetteville’s cuisine scene is a testament to the city’s unique blend of Southern hospitality and farm-to-table dining. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish: A Southern classic dish served crispy and hot with coleslaw and hushpuppies.
  • Burgers: Fayetteville is home to many fantastic burger joints, such as Hugo’s, which serves up juicy burgers with unique toppings.
  • Barbeque: Try some mouthwatering barbeque platters at Sassy’s Red House or Penguin Ed’s.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Fayetteville is home to many award-winning breweries and taprooms. Some of the best include Fossil Cove Brewing Company, Columbus House Brewery, and Ozark Beer Company.
  • Wine: Visit one of the local wineries such as Tontitown Winery or Sassafras Springs Vineyard for a relaxing wine-tasting session.

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

Fayetteville offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Chancellor Hotel: A boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Fayetteville.
  • Mermaids Guesthouse: A charming Victorian-style bed and breakfast offering a relaxing and elegant stay.
  • Mount Sequoyah Retreat and Conference Center: A peaceful retreat center with cozy lodges and breathtaking views of the Ozarks.

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

Take a piece of Fayetteville back home with you by purchasing some locally made souvenirs and products, such as:

  • Fayettechill Clothing Company: Visit the flagship store for this local brand that offers outdoor-inspired clothing and accessories.
  • Crystal Bridges Museum Store: Peruse handcrafted jewelry, pottery, books, and art inspired by nature and crafted by regional artists.
  • Ozark Natural Foods Co-op: Purchase locally made snacks, honey, seasonal produce, and handmade soaps.

Local Culture and Customs of Fayetteville

Fayetteville has a unique mix of Southern charm and laid-back vibes. Here are some of the unique cultural customs of the town:

  • Hospitality: Southern hospitality is alive and well in Fayetteville. Don’t be surprised if locals smile and say hi as you pass by.
  • College Football: Fayetteville is home to one of the most passionate fan bases in college football, so join the Razorback Hogs fans for a game if you can.
  • Arts and Culture: Fayetteville’s thriving arts and culture scene is evident with the many galleries, murals, and events happening throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Fayetteville

Fayetteville has mild to hot summers and chilly winters. Spring and fall are considered the best times to visit, as temperatures are pleasant, and the outdoor landscapes come alive with blooming flowers and changing fall colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fayetteville

Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you have the best experience possible in Fayetteville:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine: Fayetteville is famous for its southern hospitality and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Do bring appropriate outdoor clothing: The Ozarks host dozens of outdoor activities, so bring comfortable clothing perfect for hiking or biking.
  • Do make time to enjoy the arts and culture scene: Fayetteville is home to world-class art galleries, live theater, music, and festivals throughout the year.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings: Respect Fayetteville’s nature, and keep it clean for others to enjoy.
  • Don’t drink and drive: Fayetteville has a strict zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Using a designated driver or public transportation is highly encouraged.

Safety and Health

Fayetteville is generally a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Here are a few tips to stay safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in Fayetteville

  • Be aware of your surroundings: As anywhere, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.
  • Lock your car: Petty theft may occur, especially downtown, so lock your car and do not leave any valuables inside.

Health in Fayetteville

  • Stay hydrated: The summers are hot and humid, so it is essential to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
  • Protect against ticks: Ticks are prevalent in the Ozarks, so it’s vital to take steps to protect yourself, like wearing long sleeves or pants and using insect repellent.

Getting to Fayetteville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fayetteville is easy to access, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Fayetteville

  • Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport: Located just outside of Fayetteville, serving over 650,000 passengers with direct flights to major US cities.

Bus Stations Near Fayetteville

  • Greyhound Bus: Located in downtown Fayetteville, with connections to other major cities across the country.

Other Options

  • Car: Fayetteville is easy to navigate by car, and there are multiple car rental options available.
  • Bike: Fayetteville is a bike-friendly city, and public bike-sharing programs are available throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Fayetteville

Fayetteville has an excellent public transportation system and is easy to navigate by car or bike. Here are some options to consider:

  • Razorback Regional Greenway bike trail: This 36-mile biking trail connects to Fayetteville’s major attractions, shops, and neighborhoods.
  • Razorback Transit: Fayetteville’s public bus system provides transportation to surrounding areas, including the University of Arkansas campus and the popular business district on Dickson Street.
  • Taxi/rideshare services: Private taxis, Uber, and Lyft services are available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Fayetteville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fayetteville is a perfect base from which to explore the Ozarks and nearby towns. Here are some popular destinations to visit after discovering Fayetteville:

  • Eureka Springs: A charming Victorian town located just 45 minutes from Fayetteville, known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, unique redoubts, and sculptures.
  • Bentonville: Located just 25 miles north of Fayetteville, this town is home to the world-famous Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Amazeum Children’s Museum, and a vibrant downtown area.
  • Ozark National Forest: Located just an hour’s drive from Fayetteville, this is Arkansas’s largest national forest, filled with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic views.

Conclusion

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a delightful blend of art, culture, history, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you will be able to enjoy all the best things the town has to offer. From exploring its rich history and world-class arts scene to hiking, biking, and experiencing Southern hospitality, Fayetteville offers a truly authentic American experience that you don’t want to miss.

Block Street in Fayetteville, in the historic downtown square area Block Street in Fayetteville, in the historic downtown square area