Northern Arkansas

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Photo provided by Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

The Ozark Mountains are one of the highlights of the Natural State. The northwest region is packed with charming towns, natural springs and winemaking valleys.

Disappear into the great outdoors of the Ozark Mountains, a beautiful region located in Northwest Arkansas. This corner of the state offers a thrilling combination of natural beauty, engaging art galleries and relaxing pursuits. Soak in thermal springs, sip on fine wines and hike into tranquil wilderness, all within the same corner of Arkansas.

Start your journey to the region in Bentonville to appreciate local history and art. The Museum of Native American History charts five different time periods for the American Indian nations who have lived in Arkansas for millennia. Marvel at the art and architecture of stunning Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which covers 500 years of American painting and sculpture.

Fayetteville is one of the largest cities in the state and offers a combination of trendy shops and cultural attractions. Watch Broadway shows at the Walton Arts Center and stroll around the peaceful Botanical Garden of the Ozarks.

Trek into the wilderness of Northwest Arkansas. The Ozark Highland Trail is the longest marked route in the region, winding for 218 miles (350 kilometers) through dramatic scenery. Join shorter trails such as Pedestal Rocks Loop and the Lost Valley Trail for more accessible hikes.

Hiking is only one way to explore the Ozark region. Paddle along Buffalo National River through gorges and forests, looking for elk grazing on the banks. Swim, sunbathe and fish on the shores of tranquil Beaver Lake near the border with Missouri.

Relax and rejuvenate in the springs that bubble up through the Ozarks. Atmospheric Eureka Springs is home to Thorncrown Chapel, which was built from glass and wooden beams. Take a dip here in Grotto, Harding and Magnetic Springs, just a few of the geothermically heated baths scattered through the town.

Stop in Altus to try Arkansas’s wines. Vineyards such as Mount Bethel and Chateaux Aux Arc offer tasting sessions in scenic locations.

North Arkansas Regional Airport offers non-stop flights to over a dozen destinations around the U.S. Fly here in fall and spring to see colorful foliage in the mountains or summer for watersports on warmer days.

Where to stay in Northern Arkansas

Eureka Springs featuring art and interior views

Eureka Springs Historic District

4.5/5(220 area reviews)

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this well-preserved turn-of-the-century resort community features the Eureka Springs Railroad Depot and Flatiron Flats at 2 Center St.

Eureka Springs Historic District
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Downtown Bentonville

5/5(37 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Bentonville, The Walmart Museum and The Momentary are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Bentonville
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Sylvan Shores

5/5(28 area reviews)

While visiting Sylvan Shores, you might make a stop by sights like Beaver Lake and White River.

Sylvan Shores
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Eden Isle

5/5(1 area review)

While visiting Eden Isle, you might make a stop by sights like Greers Ferry Lake and Eden Isle Marina.

Eden Isle
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Beaver Shores

Beaver Shores might not have many top sights, but Horseshoe Bend Marina and Horseshoe Bend Public Use Area are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Beaver Shores
Fayetteville showing markets and flowers

Downtown Fayetteville

While visiting Downtown Fayetteville, you might make a stop by sights like Walton Arts Center and Fayetteville Downtown Square.

Downtown Fayetteville

Popular places to visit

Cities near Northern Arkansas