Home to the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, Fayetteville is more than football and collegiate life. You’ll find an extensive network of bike trails throughout the city that connect to the 40-mile Razorback Greenway. At Centennial Park, a state-of-the-art cyclo-cross facility, visitors can ride a course that has hosted international championships. Immerse yourself in Fayetteville’s impressive arts scene, from the oldest and longest-running music venue in Arkansas, George’s Majestic Lounge, to the Walton Arts Center and TheatreSquared. For a variety of flavors, head to Food Trucks on College (lovingly referred to as the “Yacht Club” by locals) or the weekly farmers market. The Fayetteville Ale Trail includes stops at more than a dozen breweries and a hard cidery.
Hidden Gems in Fayetteville
Northwest Arkansas is full of surprises—if you know where to look. So here are some unexpected surprises that make a vacation to Northwest Arkansas unforgettable.
Dickson Street Bookshop
Wander and explore aisles of floor-to-ceiling bookshelves crammed with thousands of used books on every subject imaginable at this beloved indie bookstore. The collection includes out-of-print and first-edition books, which are charmingly organized “From Aeronautics to Zoology (and sometimes Aardvarks to Zymurgy).”
Trip Ideas & Things to Do in Fayetteville
Every city in Northwest Arkansas has its own story, and the best way to experience it is to dive in. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, local flavors, arts and culture, or hidden gems, there are trip ideas and things to do in Fayetteville with your name on them.
University of Arkansas Athletics
With 49 national championships and over 250 conference titles, the University of Arkansas Athletics offers nonstop excitement every season. From tailgating in Victory Village and the energy of Hogtown to the roar of the crowd at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium and buzzer-beaters at Bud Walton Arena, gameday in Fayetteville is packed with tradition, pride, and unforgettable moments—whether you’re cheering on football, basketball, baseball, or softball.
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is more than a scenic stroll—it’s a vibrant destination where nature, art, and education come together. Home to Arkansas’ only butterfly house, 12 themed gardens, and a Monarch Waystation, this year-round attraction invites visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and be inspired. From interactive kids’ camps to dreamy wedding venues, it’s a place where unforgettable moments bloom.
Annual Events in Fayetteville
Plan your trip to Fayetteville, Arkansas, around these events and annual happenings in Northwest Arkansas.
December: Lights of the Ozarks
These annual mountain bike and gravel races feature some of the toughest courses and biggest prizes of the U.S. cycling season.
Getting to Fayetteville
We’ve got your how-to for traveling to and around Northwest Arkansas.
Flying to Northwest Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), located between Fayetteville and Bentonville, is the primary airport in the area, offering nonstop service to more than 23 cities across the country.
More regional airports are found throughout Northwest Arkansas, including:
- Bentonville Municipal Airport
- Eureka Springs/Carroll County Municipal Airport
- Fayetteville Airport at Drake Field
- Huntsville Municipal Airport
- Rogers Municipal Airport
- Siloam Springs Municipal Airport
- Springdale Municipal Airport
Drive Time To & From Northwest Arkansas National Airport
Fayetteville is 25 miles from the Northwest Arkansas National Airport; expect a 35-minute drive to and from the airport.
Real-Time Driving Information
Check out iDriveArkansas.com or download the iDrive Arkansas app to find the latest traffic conditions across the state. The site also provides updates on construction projects, traveler information reports, and more. You can even use iDrive to:
- Report litter
- Submit issues
- Find Adopt-a-Highway information
- Share feedback
- Stay informed on road-related programs
Drive Time Around Northwest Arkansas
Fayetteville to Bella Vista: 35 miles / 42 minutes
Fayetteville to Bentonville: 30 miles / 40 minutes
Fayetteville to Eureka Springs: 45 miles / 60 minutes
Fayetteville to Holiday Island: 55 miles / 1 hour, 20 minutes
Fayetteville to Huntsville: 28 miles / 40 minutes
Siloam Springs to Huntsville: 50 miles / 1 hour, 15 minutes
Approximate Drive Time to Northwest Arkansas
- From Joplin: 1 hour, 30 minutes
- From Branson: 1 hour, 45 minutes
- From Tulsa: 2 hours
- From Springfield: 2 hours, 20 minutes
- From Little Rock: 2 hours, 45 minutes
- From Oklahoma City: 3 hours, 20 minutes
- From Kansas City: 3 hours, 35 minutes
Stop by and Say Hi at our Visitor Information Center
EXPERIENCE FAYETTEVILLE VISITORS CENTER
21 S. Block Ave., Fayetteville
479-521-5776