NWA Welcome Wagon

AHOY FRIENDS!

Step aboard as we journey through the heart of a region celebrated for its unique blend of art, history, and natural beauty. From world-class museums to serene parks and thrilling outdoor trails, this overview highlights the places and pivotal moments that have shaped a vibrant cultural hub.

TOUR ITINERARY

🌳 Tanyard Creek

Begin your tour in Bella Vista at this peaceful creekside trail. Famous for its series of small, cascading waterfalls and a charming swinging bridge, it offers a serene escape into the Ozark wilderness.

⛪ Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel

Find peace in this stunning all-glass and wood chapel. Designed by architect E. Fay Jones, the chapel's dramatic arches and towering spires are a true architectural masterpiece, nestled beautifully within the surrounding forest.

🌬️ Blowing Springs Park

Experience a unique natural phenomenon at the park's namesake cave, which releases a steady stream of cool air in the summer. A premier destination for mountain biking and hiking, this park is a perfect blend of adventure and geological wonder.

🏛️ Bentonville Square

Discover the vibrant heart of the city. This bustling downtown square is surrounded by world-class restaurants, boutique shops, and historic buildings, serving as a hub for community events and a gateway to the region’s biggest attractions.

🛒 Walmart Museum

Step back in time to where it all began. Located in Sam Walton’s original 5&10, this museum tells the story of how a small-town idea grew into a global retail giant. Explore historical artifacts, a recreated office, and the classic Spark Café.

🏦 Bentonville People's Bank Robbery

Learn about a quirky piece of local history at the site of a botched 1907 bank robbery. This downtown spot commemorates a moment when the community's quick thinking led to the robbers being captured, turning a tense event into a legendary tale.

🔬 Amazeum

Ignite curiosity and creativity at this interactive children’s museum. The Amazeum is a paradise for hands-on learning, with a variety of exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math, designed to engage and inspire all ages.

🎨 Crystal Bridges

Immerse yourself in five centuries of American art at this stunning museum. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the building itself is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. Explore a permanent collection of iconic works and stroll along the scenic outdoor trails dotted with sculptures.

🏞️ Lake Atalanta

Enjoy a day of recreation at this beautifully revitalized city park. With a serene lake for fishing, miles of paved and mountain bike trails, and a fun splash pad for kids, Lake Atalanta is a perfect family-friendly destination.

🎭 The Grove Comedy Club

Prepare for an evening of side-splitting laughter at this intimate venue. The Grove brings nationally touring comedians to Northwest Arkansas, offering a unique night out with great food, drinks, and a high-energy atmosphere.

📜 Shiloh Museum of Ozark History

Take a step back in time at this regional history museum. Explore a collection of historic buildings, including an 1850s log cabin and a 1930s barn, that bring the everyday lives of early Ozark inhabitants to life. The museum also houses an extensive collection of artifacts and photographs.

🎶 The Odd Soul

Savor unique food and drinks in a rustic, Prohibition-era-style saloon. The Odd Soul is a vibrant downtown hub that features a fantastic menu and a steady stream of local and regional live music.

⚾ Arvest Ballpark

Catch a baseball game at this modern minor league stadium, home of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Enjoy affordable family fun, classic ballpark food, and a fantastic view of future major league stars in a lively atmosphere.

👟 Walter Turnbow Park

Experience the new heart of downtown Springdale. This modern park features a stage for live music and a splash pad, serving as a central hub for community events and festivals along the Razorback Greenway.

🎓 University of Arkansas

Walk the historic campus of Arkansas's flagship university. Don't miss the iconic Old Main building, the vibrant Greek Theatre, and the unique Senior Walk, where the names of over 200,000 graduates are engraved in the sidewalks.

🏡 The Stonebreaker Hotel

Discover a peaceful retreat on historic grounds in Fayetteville. This newly opened hotel beautifully blends a minimalist, modern design with a meticulously preserved 1890s Victorian house and barn, offering a unique blend of old and new.

🌸 Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks

Lose yourself in this beautiful 44-acre public garden. Featuring 12 display gardens and the state’s only butterfly house, the gardens are a serene escape for all ages, with trails connecting to Lake Fayetteville.

🍇 Sassafras Springs Vineyard

Unwind at this picturesque winery and event venue. Wander through the beautiful vineyards, enjoy a wine tasting in the rustic tasting room, and admire the unique stone "chapel ruins" that make for a truly romantic setting.

LET'S GO!!! 🚐

Your journey through the region's past, present, and future ends with a deeper understanding of its incredible spirit. Whether you came for the art, the history, or the adventure, we hope you leave inspired by this vibrant community.

⚠️Friendly Reminder

The operating hours provided are a general overview. Hours can vary by business and day, and are subject to change without notice due to special events or seasonal updates. While Soul Compass has provided this handy overview of current hours, we still encourage visitors to check with each business directly prior to arrival to confirm availability.

🌅 Smooth Sailing!