Northwest Arkansas Travel Guide - Best of NWA Top 10 Lists |October - Dec 2018 - Issue 12

Page 1



---- WELCOME ---A very big welcome to this quarter’s issue of The Best of Northwest Arkansas Top 10. We are so happy to report that our magazine project continues to grow. Our online edition, our blog and our social media network including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest all combine to make this possible. Our readers have come to depend on us as a trusted resource for what is going on in Northwest Arkansas. They are curious to know where to find the best restaurants, places to stay, and things to do, and they enjoy getting this information in an organized, timely fashion. Our weekly Things To Do list features live music, the art scene, biking on our more than 200 miles of trails, special events and so much more. Check it out before you plan your weekend activities. You’ll be glad you did! The first question people ask us after they know what the magazine is all about is, “How do you determine who is going to be on any particular Top 10 list?” In order to maintain the integrity of the magazine, the actual formula that we use must be kept confidential, however, the algorithm takes into consideration thousands of online reviews, select reader polls, and the covert experiences of our NWATravelGuide.com’s street team (they are much like mystery shoppers). Whether in print or online, the magazine is free for all to read. Ours is not a pay to play magazine. This practice avoids even a hint of impropriety, and operating in this fashion gives our readers confidence that they are truly reading about the very best NWA has to offer in any given category. You may be quite certain that if a business is on one of our Top 10 lists, that business is one where you can reliably expect a top

rated experience. When you’ve had a good experience whether dining, staying or playing, you quite naturally want to tell others about how great it was. Word of mouth, or today it would be word of text, is still the best advertising there is. While it is true that no one can pay to be on one of our Top 10 lists, we do accept some advertising, and we also accept sponsor partnerships for some sections of our blog. This is how we pay the bills. In this issue, you’ll find our expanded Christmas lists of things to do, Top 10 lists for each city, an expanded kids section and so much more. If you’re reading online, where most of our readers are, conveniently use the links to click through to those business that interest you. A magazine does not succeed without loyal supporters, and we are deeply grateful for your support, and we want to thank you for it. If you can think of a category that we haven’t covered in our Top 10 lists before, please submit it to us. You never know, it might end up in the next issue. All good things, Lynn West

Cover: Top two photos (Fayetteville and Bentonville downtown) courtesy of Arkansas Dept of Parks and Tourism

DISCLAIMER: The editorial content presented in the Top 10 guide is not provided by our advertisers. Opinions expressed herein are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers. Reasonable effort is made to present accurate information, however all information is presented without warranty. Further, we will not be liable to you in respect of any special, indirect or consequential loss or damage. LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Lanie Dills Publishing accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information and material contained in this magazine, on the NWATravelGuide.com website or any site you may access through this site. Additionally, the publisher accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by any business not listed in the Top 10 guide. IMPORTANT NOTE: Details in this publication are based on information supplied to us at

press time. Changes occur all the time in the hospitality industry. The Best of Northwest Arkansas Top 10 cannot accept responsibility for facts that become outdated or inadvertent errors or omissions. If we have missed or misstated something, please contact us at NWATravelGuide.com. ADVERTISER DISCLOSURE: No company can pay to be on one of our Top 10 lists. We do offer advertising as advertising helps support our website and gives us the resources to create new reviews that are free for all to enjoy. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: No part of this publication may be replicated, redistributed, or given away in any form without prior written consent of the author/publisher or terms relayed to you herein. If you would like to quote us, please do. Contact us, and provide a link back.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 1


BEST OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS TOP 10 ISSUE 12 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2018 EDITION

________________________________________________________ Top Text

Lynn West - Director and TopCo-founder text Lanie Dills - Publisher and Co-founder

BOARD OF ADVISORS Mike Abb – Creative director at Runway NWA and

Producer (music) at Abboriginal Productions

Kris Ashmore – Director of Business Operations for J. B. Hunt

Karen Wagaman – VP Downtown Development Rogers-Lowell Area C of C

Alan Dranow – Senior Director of the Walmart Heritage Group

Amy Lindsey – General Manager of XNA Airport Services Amber Perrodin – Downtown Springdale Alliance Roger Thomas – TeleComp CEO, Founding Board of the Amazeum Children’s Museum

Lanie Dills – Lanie Dills Publishing Terry Coberly – Former Mayor of Bentonville Kat Wilson – Visual Artist and Currently on Display at Crystal Bridges

Scott Schroen – Director at Oz Trails and

Owner/Operater at Timbernak

________________________________________________________

Graphic Artist – Cheryl Goldman

oto Courtesy oto courtesy of Ph

ph

Street Team who, for obvious reasons must remain anonymous. And a very special thanks to Tyler Vanden Heuvel, Ryan West, Adam West, Becky Welty, Bonnie Vanden Heuvel, Shea Powell, Steve Gunter, Linda Boothe, Nancee Gunter, Sherry Thomas, Luanne Bachman, Priscilla Rudd, Charles Rudd, Jamei Hopper, Chryl Hoyt, Connie Welty, Jane Miles, Rod Welty, Connie Welty, Valerie West, Vincent West, Liz B. Parker, Kathy Briggs, Jennifer Terry, JC Cross, Joan White, Allen Maronay, Debbie Alsup, Dana Hadaway and Zeek Taylor. For advertising, please contact us at sales@nwatravelguide.com

Contact us via our Website www.NWATravelguide.com photo courtesy of Copyright © 2018

PUBLISHED BY Lanie Dills Publishing

2 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Printed in USA

photo courtesy of

Bruce Shepard

Arkansas Dept of

Parks and Tourism


足足------ TABLE OF CONTENTS -足足 ----KIDS

15. Mexican........................................................42-43

Kids Eat Free

16. New Restaurants............................................44-45

Bentonville............................................................... 6

17. Rogers Burgers..............................................46-47

Fayetteville.............................................................. 7

18. Rogers Restaurants.........................................48-49

Rogers..................................................................... 8

19. Springdale Restaurants...................................50-51

Springdale............................................................... 9

20. Sports Bars....................................................52-53

Indoor Activites....................................................10-11

21. Thai..............................................................54-55

Outdoor Activities................................................12-13

22. Sushi.................................................................. 56 23. Vietnamese......................................................... 57

RESTAURANTS 1. BBQ..............................................................14-15

THINGS TO DO

2. Bentonville Restaurants...................................16-17

24. Christmas......................................................58-61

3. Bentonville Brunch Page.................................20-21

25. Gift Shops.....................................................62-63

4. Breakfast.......................................................18-19

26. Live Music.....................................................64-65

5. Burgers.........................................................22-23

27. Mountain Bike Trails......................................66-67

6. Catfish..........................................................24-25

28. Pet Friendly......................................................... 68

7. Centerton Top 5................................................. 26

29. Unique Hotels..................................................... 69

8. Chicken.........................................................28-29 9. Eureka Springs Restaurants.............................30-31

BUCKET LISTS

10. Fayetteville Restaurants...................................32-33

30. Bentonville.....................................................70-71

11. Fayetteville Brunch.........................................34-35

31. Eureka Springs..............................................72-73

12. Fayetteville Pizza............................................36-37

32. Fayetteville....................................................74-75

13. Iconic............................................................38-39

33. Rogers...........................................................76-77

14. Late Night.....................................................40-41

34. Springdale.....................................................78-79

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 3


NORTHWEST ARKANSAS Approximately 4 million visitors per year make the trip to Northwest Arkansas, and there are no signs that traffic is slowing down. If you are asking why, you’ve probably never been to this booming area! There are tons of amazing restaurants, things to do and places to stay in Northwest Arkansas. The Northwest corner of Arkansas is home to a number of towns and smaller communities, which together are commonly referred to as Northwest Arkansas or NWA. Bentonville, Bella Vista, Eureka Springs, Fayetteville, Lowell, Rogers, Siloam Springs and Springdale are the cities covered in this recently researched and up-to-date Top 10 NWA Travel Guide. Long known for its natural beauty and clean Ozark Mountain air, Northwest Arkansas has morphed into a cultural and business center rivaling the best in the world. The recently completed 36-mile Razorback Greenway, a primarily offroad trail system, links together six NWA cities and many community destinations including Walmart, J.B. Hunt, and Tyson Foods corporate headquarters. Additionally, the trail system also links to Arts and entertainment districts, historic sites, parks, residential communities and shopping areas. NWA invites its visitors to enjoy: • Awe-inspiring Museums Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a dazzling, world-class 1.2 billion dollar museum. • Breathtaking Natural and Manmade Wonders Beaver Lake, Ozark Mountains, Hiking & Biking Paradise • Championship Level Cycling Walking & Hiking trails Award-winning bicycle friendly communities, Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville

• Award-winning Chefs and Culinary Districts Bentonville, Fayetteville, Eureka Springs, Siloam Springs, Local & eclectic food • Vibrant Entertainment Districts Downtown & Dickson St. in Fayetteville, Downtown in Eureka Springs • Metropolitan Level Upscale Shopping Downtown Rogers, Fayetteville, Eureka Springs • Countless Unique Boutiques and Little Out-Of-The-Way shops Eureka Springs, Fayetteville, Springdale • Antiquing at Its best Fayetteville, Siloam Springs, Springdale, Eureka Springs • America’s Favorite Farmer’s Markets Fayetteville, Bentonville, Bella Vista, Rogers, Eureka Springs, Siloam Springs and Springdale Transportation Once in NWA: NWA is still in its infancy as far as mass transit is concerned. A rental car is the most efficient way to travel around town and from city to city. Executive car services and taxicabs are available as is the Ozark Regional Transit bus (app and Internet users can check RouteShout for scheduled stops). Additionally, many hotels offer shuttle and chartered bus service. Check out our website at NWATravelguide.com or our Facebook page for the latest information.

RESTAURANT PRICE KEY $ Budget $$ Midrange $$$ Upscale


photos courtesy of Bruce Shepherd


KIDS EAT FREE - BENTONVILLE Some have said this Kids Eat Free list is the new parents’ bible. We don’t know about that, but we do know that many readers across NWA have told us over and over how much they love having this handy reference so they can take the entire family out for a delicious meal, but at a greatly reduced price. It’s like subtracting one or two meals off the bill. Enjoy!

Everyday

Ron’s Hamburgers:

Bentonville Butcher & Pint:

All day, every day. (1 kid’s meal per adult meal purchase).

The Station Cafe:

Kids 12 and under eat FREE with the purchase of an adult meal. Dine in only! 5 p.m. - close

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink, after 3pm

Village Inn:

Monday free kid’s meal with paid adult entree.

Tuesday

Wednesday Firehouse Subs: Kids Eat FREE after 4 PM.

Buffalo Wild Wings:

After 3 PM: kids meals are $1.99 with adult entree purchase.

Thai Basil:

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s:

Ron’s Hamburgers:

One FREE kid’s meal per adult meal purchase.

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink,

5pm, dine-in only.

Big Whiskey’s

after 3pm

Monday

an adult entree, 4 pm - 1:00 am

Kids eat free all day (quesadilla or taco, chips & small drink) w/ purchase of adult meal

1 free kid’s meal per adult meal purchase, after

1 free kids’ meal and drink with the purchase of

Chick-fil-A:

Angus Jack: 4 - close. One free kids meal per adult combo.

The Flying Burrito Company:

Kids Eat FREE - Two kids per adult entree purchased at regular price.

Gusano’s Pizzeria:

Kids Night (kids 12 yrs & under) 8” Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza - $1.99, 5 PM to close.

Las Palmas:

Kids eat free with each adult purchase, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

The Flying Burrito Company: Whole Hog cafe:

Kids eat FREE with a purchase of an adult meal.

Denny’s:

Thursday

Gusano’s Pizzeria:

Ron’s Hamburgers:

Kids Night (kids 12 yrs & under) 8” Cheese or

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink,

Pepperoni Pizza - $1.99, 5 PM to close

after 3pm

Kids eat free 4-10 PM

Pizza Hut:

Saturday

5pm to close-children 12 and under get a free

All-you-can-eat buffet and salad bar (1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, drink included 5 -

kid’s meal per adult entrée

7:30 pm.

Kids eat free 4-10 PM

Ron’s Hamburgers:

Thai Cuisine:

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink,

Kids eat free all day 11 AM - 9 PM

after 3pm

Thai Basil:

Mama Fu’s (Bentonville):

One child’s meal free with the purchase of adult entrée.

McAlisters Deli

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink, after 4 pm

Natural Muse

Buy 1 get one Free. 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Panda Express:

Free kid’s meal with an adult purchase from 5-8 p.m. Plus each location will have fun activities for the kids to enjoy during this time.

6 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Denny’s:

The Flying Burrito Company:

Kids eat free during dinner and weekends.

purchased at regular price.

Sunday

Kids Eat FREE - Two kids per adult entree

Mama Fu’s Asian House:

One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase. Dine-in only.

Thai Basil:

Kids eat free during dinner and weekends.


KIDS EAT FREE - FAYETTEVILLE Everyday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Kids eat free all the time (one kid’s meal per adult entree) 12 & under. The Catfish Hole, all day (kids 4 and under)

Kids ages 12 and under eat free when an adult purchases a full price meal. (5 -9 PM)

Kids eat free w/purchase of adult meal 4-10 PM. Flying Burrito: Kids eat free all day (quesadilla or taco, chips & small drink) w/purchase of adult meal.

Boar’s Nest BBQ:

Cici’s Pizza:

Applebee’s:

Atlanta Bread Company:

Firehouse Subs on MLK:

Kids under 3 eat Free. Grub’s Bar & Grille: One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

Fayetteville & Rogers locations. Kids 12 & under eat free 4 PM until close. 1 per adult meal purchase. Fayetteville location offers free balloons & face painting.

JJ’s Grill:

Chick-fil-A:

Sassy’s Redhouse:

Denny’s:

Kids 10 & under get one FREE kid’s meal per adult meal purchase!

East Side Grill:

Noodles Italian Kitchen:

1 kid’s meal per adult meal, with purchase of a kid’s drink, all day for kids 12 and under All $3.99 kids meals are marked down to 99 cents every day with purchase of adult meal.

The Catfish Hole:

Every day kids ages 4 and under eat FREE with adult purchase.

Monday

Bliss Cupcake Café:

For children 10 and under - one free mini cupcake, frosting shot, or candy pretzel with purchase of a cupcake or cookie sandwich.

Colton’s Steakhouse:

Kids eat free after 4 pm. 2 per paid adult. Includes child’s drink.

Flying Burrito:

Kids eat free with each adult purchase, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Kids eat free 4-10 PM. One child per paid adult.

Flying Burrito:

Free kid’s entree with purchase of adult meal.

M-F 3-7 PM 1 free kids meal per paid adult. 2nd child 1/2 price off kids menu.

Las Palmas:

5 PM to close-children 12 and under get a free kids’ meal per adult entrée.

McAlisters:

1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, includes drink, after 4 pm

Mojitos:

Kids 12 and under eat free all day - one per adult meal.

Slim Chickens:

1 kid’s meal per adult meal - All day Arvest Ballpark, during home games, Kids eat free with Naturals Kids Club membership

Quiznos:

Free kid’s entree with purchase of adult meal.

Village Inn:

Monday free kid’s meal with adult entree.

Free kid’s meal with an adult purchase all day.

Quiznos:

Whole Hog Cafe:

Golden Corral:

Thursday

Kids eat free 5-9 PM. Kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase. Children 3 and under eat FREE from buffet with purchase of adult meal.

Hog Haus:

Golden Corral:

Hog Haus:

Panda Express:

Kids 12 & under eat free all day. (quesadilla or taco, chips & small drink) Up to 2 kids per paid adult meal.

Kids 12 and under eat free from 4-8 PM. One kid’s menu item per adult entree. Drinks not included.

Kid’s Night (kids 12 yrs & under) 8’’ Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza only $1.99 (5 PM to close)

La Huerta Mexican Restaurant:

4 PM - close: kids eat FREE!

M-F 3-7 PM 1 free kids meal per paid adult. 2nd child 1/2 price off kid’s menu.

Gusano’s Pizzeria:

Kids eat free 5-9 PM. Kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase. Children 3 and under eat FREE from the buffet with the purchase of an adult meal.

Kids Eat Free, 4 PM to close. Firehouse Subs (MLK location): 5 - 9 PM: one FREE kid’s meal per adult meal purchase!

Kids 12 & under eat free all day. (quesadilla or taco, chips & small drink) Up to 2 kids per paid adult meal. Kids eat free 5-9 PM kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase.

Golden Corral:

Kids Eat free w purchase of adult entree. One kid’s meal per adult meal.

Bariola’s Pizzeria:

after 4 PM: kids eat FREE off the kid’s menu with adult meal purchase. Dine-in only.

Mariachi’s Grill & Cantina:

One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

IHOP:

Quiznos:

Las Palmas:

Friday

5pm to close-children 12 and under get a free kids’ meal per adult entrée

Lucky Luke’s BBQ:

Kids Eat FREE with the purchase of adult entree.

Mojito’s Fayetteville:

Kids eat free, one child per paid adult all day Mon & Tues.

Pizza Hut (North College/South School):

All-you-can-eat buffet and salad bar (1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, drink included 5 7:30 pm

Free kid’s entree with purchase of adult meal.

Hog Haus Brewing Company:

Friday 3-7 PM: kids eat FREE with adult entree purchase.

Steak ‘n Shake:

Kids Eat Free all weekend. One free kid’s plate for every $8 spent. Dine-In only.

Saturday Denny’s:

Kids eat free 4-10 PM.

Golden Corral:

Red Robin:

Children 3 and under eat FREE from the buffet with the purchase of an adult meal.

Quiznos:

Steak ‘n Shake:

Kids eat free when you buy one adult entrée. Free kid’s entree with purchase of adult meal.

Kids Eat Free all weekend. One free kid’s plate for every $8 spent. Dine-In only.

Quiznos:

Free kid’s entree with purchase of adult meal.

Sunday

Buffalo Wild Wings:

until 9 PM: kid’s meals are $1.99 with adult entree purchase. Dine-in only.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit:

12 and under, 1 kid’s meal per adult meal, All day

Golden Corral:

Children 3 and under eat FREE from the buffet with the purchase of an adult meal.

Steak ‘n Shake:

Kids Eat Free all weekend. One free kid’s plate for every $8 spent. Dine-In only.

Quiznos:

Free kid’s meal with an adult purchase all day.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 7


KIDS EAT FREE - ROGERS Everyday Boar’s Nest BBQ:

Tuesday

Thursday

Kids eat free all the time (one kid’s meal per adult entree) 12 & under.

Atlanta Bread Company:

Moes Southwest Grill:

Grub’s Bar & Grille:

Fayetteville & Rogers locations. Kids 12 & under eat free 4 PM until close. 1 per adult meal purchase.

Kids eat Free (open to close)

One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase

Applebees:

JJ’s Grill:

5-9 PM - kids 12 & under eat free with the purchase of a full price adult entree.

One kid 12 and under eats FREE from the kid’s menu with each adult meal purchase.

On the Border:

Chick-fil-A:

Pinnacle Bar and Grill: Kids Eat Free 4-9 PM. Dine in only, limit of three free kid’s meals per one adult entree

Saturday

Free sundae with kid’s meal purchase.

Kids eat free with each adult purchase, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Quiznos:

Flying Burrito:

Free sundae with kid’s meal purchase.

Kids eat Free

Panda Express:

Genghis Grill:

Free kid’s meal with an adult purchase from 5-8 PM. Plus each location will have fun activities for the kids to enjoy during this time.

Free kid’s entree with purchase of an adult meal.

Monday

Kids eat free all day- any kid’s meal w/drink, age 12 and under

Colton’s Steakhouse:

Golden Corral:

one FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

Kids eat free 5-9 PM Kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase.

Golden Corral: Kids eat free 5 - 9 PM. Kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase.

Houlihan’s:

IHOP: Kids 12 and under eat free from 4-8 PM. One kid’s menu item per adult entree. Drinks not included.

Kids Eat Free 5-9 pm. every Monday for Kids 10 and under in November and December. Valid with purchase of an adult entree. Not valid with any other offer.

MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company: Kids eat free with each adult Entree Kids Margherita Pizza 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Flying Burrito:

Pinnacle Bar and Grill:

Kids eat Free

Kids Eat Free 4-9 PM. Dine in only, limit of three free kids meals per one adult entree

Mojitos Modern Mexican Grill: One FREE kid’s meal per adult meal purchase.

Pizza Hut: All-you-can-eat buffet and salad bar (1 kid’s meal per paid adult meal, drink included 5 - 7:30 pm.

Zaxby’s:

11 AM – 4 PM: kids meals are only $1.99 with adult meal purchase. Kids also receive a FREE 8oz milkshake. Limited time only.

Quiznos: Free kid’s entree with the purchase of an adult meal.

Steak ‘n Shake: Kids Eat Free all weekend. One free kid’s plate for every $8 spent. Dine-In only

Uncle Maddio’s Pizza: kids 12 and under for FREE. One FREE 6” Pizza only with 1 topping (with a purchase of one 9” pizza or larger)

Sunday Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: FREE a serving of soft vanilla ice cream in a crisp, crunchy wafer cone with meal purchase. Dine-in only.

Wednesday

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit:

Kids eat free w/ purchase of adult sandwich after 4:00 PM.

Flying Burrito: Kids eat Free.

Golden Corral: Kids eat free 5 - 9 PM. Kids under 10 eat free with adult meal purchase.

Jason’s Deli: Kids 12 and under eat free with purchase of adult meal. Two kid’s meals per adult meal purchased. Call ahead for participating locations.

TOP TEN

The Dixie Café:

Kids eat for 99 cents from 5 - 8 PM w/adult purchase.

Firehouse Subs:

8 NWA Travel Guide l

On the Border:

12 and under, 1 kid’s meal per adult meal, All day

Slim Chickens: 1 kid’s meal per adult meal - All day

Steak ‘n Shake: Kids Eat Free all weekend. One free kid’s plate for every $8 spent. Dine-In only.


KIDS EAT FREE - SPRINGDALE Every Day

Big Tony’s Pizzeria:

One child’s meal free with every $10 spent. Age 10 & under. Kid’s meal is Mini Cheese Pizza, Spaghetti, or Mac & Cheese with a drink and Cookie.

Fratelli’s Italian Grill: Kids Eat Free.

Monday

Angus Jack:

4 - close. One free kids meal per adult combo

Flying Burrito:

2 free kid’s meals per adult meal purchase. All day.

Las Palmas:

5 PM to close-children 12 and under get a free kids’ meal per adult entrée

Loafin Joe’s:

4:00 PM - close - Kids under 12 eat free with each adult meal

Pizza Hut:

Tuesday Kids 10 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet.

Wednesday Flying Burrito:

2 free kid’s meals per adult meal purchase. All day.

Jose’s Springdale:

Rib Crib:

Kids eat free 11 AM-10 PM, One kid’s meal per adult meal.

Wagon Wheel Country Cafe:

Thursday

Kids eat FREE afer 4:00 PM - 2 free kid’s meals per adult meal Kids eat FREE per one adult meal

The Venesian Inn:

Monday after 5 PM: one FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

Tuesday

Applebee’s:

Kids ages 12 and under eat free when an adult purchases a full price meal (4 PM - 10 PM)

AQ Chicken House:

Kids eat FREE in the PM with purchase of adult meal.

AQ Chicken House:

Kids eat FREE in the PM with purchase of adult meal.

Jose’s Southwest Grille:

One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

Sunday

Buffalo Wild Wings:

$1.99 kid’s meal with adult meal purchase.

Jose’s Southwest Grille:

One FREE kid’s meal per adult entree purchase.

Denny’s:

Kids eat free 4 - 10 PM, Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Flying Burrito:

2 free kid’s meals per adult meal purchase. All day.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 9


TOP INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS Although Northwest Arkansas is known for its natural beauty and its many fresh air activities for kids, it is also well known for its amazing indoor activities for children. From the world-class Amazeum in Bentonville to Quigley’s Castle in Eureka Springs and all sorts of exciting activities in between, NWA offers kids the opportunity to stay indoors and have a blast. Check out the list of fun indoor activities for kids below:

BENTONVILLE INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Bentonville Library Bentonville Community Center Bolt Escape Room Great Day Skate Place - Skating Rink Trike Theatre  - Theatre for Youth Painting With A Twist - Painting fun

MUSEUMS

Crystal Bridges Museum of American - Art - World-class art museum (free admission) Museum of Native American History - Incredible collection of Indian art (free admission) 1875 Peel Mansion & Historic Gardens - Museum and gardens Walmart Museum - World-class exhibit gallery highlighting the history of Walmart The Spark Café Soda Fountain is next door. The Amazeum - Hands-on, interactive museum for children and families.

CAVE SPRINGS INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Lockdown Escape Rooms

CENTERTON INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Kingdom Keys Christian Adventure Escape Room - Escape Room

EUREKA SPRINGS INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Intrigue Theater - Magical demonstrations, feats of astonishing mental capabilities, and other inexplicable mysteries. Ghost Tours - The Crescent Hotel hosts popular Ghost Tours.

MUSEUMS

Eureka Springs Historical Museum - Rich history of Eureka Springs Quigley’s Castle  - Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the Quigley’s Castle is completely made from stone, out of a woman’s desire to have her own home. The gardens are credited with approximately 30 species of flowers.

FAYETTEVILLE INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Arkadia Retrocade - Nearly 130 vintage arcade games that feature an array of classic games like Pac Man as well as newer games like Mortal Kombat. The arcade offers unlimited play for a set price. La Casa Pollo Rock Climbing Malco Razorback Cinema - A movie multiplex that screens primarily first-run Hollywood movies. Modern Mission - Outdoor Laser Tag - Indoor Battlefield  - Modern Mission brings tactical and outdoor laser tag combat to a whole new level NWA Escape Room Ozark Bowling - A bowling alley with 40 synthetic bowling lanes. Regal Fiesta Square 16 - A movie multiplex that screens primarily first-run Hollywood movies. Starlight Skatium - A 10,000 square-foot, hardwood skating rink, snack bar and plenty of seating. Terra Studios - A glass art studio and gallery that is famous for its handcrafted glass Bluebirds of Happiness. TheatreSquared - A professional theatre that is locally produced and provides nationally acclaimed production. Walton Arts Center - Arkansas’ premier center for performing arts and entertainment.

10 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS MUSEUMS

Arkansas Air and Military Museum  - Colorful history of aviation in Arkansas through numerous displays of original artifacts and aviation memorabilia. Clinton House Museum - Fayetteville’s first home of Bill and Hillary Clinton. Headquarters House Museum - Civil War home offering living history tours. (appointment only)

LOWELL

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Fast Lane Entertainment - A Family Entertainment Center that includes 32 bowling lanes, Lazer Tag, video games, arcarde and indoor roller coaster!

MUSEUM

Lowell Historical Museum - Rich history of Lowell.

ROGERS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Rogers Bowling Center - Offers 28 lanes of bowling with shoe rental. High Rise Extreme Air Sports - Ultimate Trampoline Park and Extreme Air Sports Center. Opry Glow Golf - WOW your kids with this amazing miniature golf activity. Glo Mini Golf is a glow in the dark mini golf course that will have your kiddos jumping for joy. Pinnacle Hills Cinema - Malco Theatres - 12 screen theatre showing first run movies. Rogers Towne Cinema - Malco Theatre showing first run movies.

MUSEUMS

Daisy Airgun Museum - The Daisy museum displays an expanded collection of air guns, antique furnishings, posters, postcards, photos, letters, advertisements, catalogs, promotional materials, and World War II items.

SILOAM SPRINGS INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Community Bowl  - A bowling alley with 16 different lanes, an arcade and a snack bar. Siloam Springs 6 - A six screen movie theatre that shows primarily first run Hollywood movies. MUSEUMS Siloam Springs Museum Society - A historical museum that seeks to educate visitors about the history of the local area.

SPRINGDALE INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Jones Center - Premier facility for recreation, learning, community events, and parties. Kyya Chocolate - Bean to bar chocolate factory. Tours are Mon - Fri by appointment and 4-day Camp Kyya in the summer for kids 6 - 16. Kids learn how to make chocolate from scratch. Ozark Climbing Gym Springdale Bowling Center - Bowling alley that offers full service dinner too. Sunset Cinema 9 - A 9 screen theatre discount movie theater, that shows second-run movies.

MUSEUMS

Shiloh Museum of Ozark History - A regional history museum focusing on the Northwest Arkansas Ozarks.

TONTITOWN INDOOR ACTIVITIES

The Escapeopolis Project - Live Escape Room Game

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 11


TOP OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS There are a multitude of outdoor activities for in Northwest Arkansas for kids. Weather permitting, they could enjoy being outside the majority of the year. There’s sports activities, water related activities, fairs, festivals, parks and so much more. Your youngsters will enjoy playing outside in NWA. Use the list below to plan exciting outdoor activities for your kids:

BENTONVILLE

Bear Mountain Riding Stable

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Compton Gardens The 6.5-acre gardens and conference center are named for Dr. Neal compton, who led the effort to protect the Buffalo River. Today it has been developed into native woodland gardens and is used as a public park and special events venue. There are walking trails throughout, and a guided tour may also be scheduled. Lawrence Plaza

Hour-long rides with incredible views of the surrounding hills.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Turpentine Creek is a non-profit organization that provides lifetime refuge for abandoned, abused, and neglected “Big Cats”.

Promised Land Zoo A drive-through wildlife adventure. Home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals from all over the world.

A summertime splash pad, and then in mid Nov - Jan it turns into an outdoor ice rink

LAKES/PARKS

Walking/Cycling Trails

A 12-mile cruise on Beaver Lake.

Belle of the Ozarks

Bentonville has a number of very pleasant parks with beautiful walking trails and playgrounds for the kiddos.

Cosmic Cavern

EUREKA SPRINGS

Harmon Park

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

View two underground lakes in one of the Ozarks prettiest caves.

Eureka Springs Garden

City park with playground equipment and a cement skate park.

One mile of garden trails at the Blue Spring Heritage Center.

Lake Leatherwood Park

Eureka Springs Trolley Service

1,600 beautiful acres of Ozark mountain countryside with something for everyone to enjoy. Includes an 85-acre lake to swim, fish, paddle or simply to sit and gaze upon; and there are 20 plus miles of maintained trails for cycling or hiking.

Trolley service to various locations throughout town.

Ozarks Mountain Zipline A 2-hour canopy tour, billed as the largest zipline with the highest cables in Arkansas.

Onyx Cave Park

The New Great Passion Play

Take a 30-minute self-guided tour of Onyx Cave.

Outdoor drama of the last days of Christ’s life.

SUP Outfitters

Snake World

Stand-up Paddle-boarding on Beaver Lake.

Live educational reptile exhibit including 50 plus snakes

Withrow Springs State Park

Dinner Bell Ranch and Resort

Features a spring flowing from a small cave, and a creek that runs through the park. Picnic areas, swimming pool, campsites, and hiking trails are available.

Guided tours from a one-hour ride to an all-day excursion on horseback. In addition a Saddle and Paddle adventure is available, an hour-long ride followed by a seven-mile canoe float.

Steve’s Stable at Pond Mountain Lodge One-hour guided trail tour with six riders or less.

Hidden Valley Ranch Stables Horseback riding on the 650 wilderness acres of this guest ranch. Rent a horse or bring your own.

12 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

ELKINS  OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

White River Creamery


TOP OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS (CONT.) FAYETTEVILLE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

112 Drive-In Theatre A drive-in movie theatre that offers first-run Hollywood movies and a delightful concession stand. Open late spring and summer months with show times over the weekend evenings.

Gator Golf A fun miniature golf course nestled in the hills with a helpful staff attending to your every need.

Lokomotion Fun Park A family-fun entertainment park that includes bumper boats, arcade, go karts, miniature golf and laser tag. LAKES/PARKS

Buffalo River The First National River is located 119 miles out of Fayetteville; it is a popular camping, canoeing, swimming, hiking and fishing destination.

Devil’s Den A picturesque Arkansas State Park nestled in Lee Creek Valley. Camping, fishing, canoeing, hiking kayaking, mountain biking and paddle boating are available.

Lake Fayetteville A 640-acre city park that offers many recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, softball, volleyball, hiking, mountain biking and picnicking.

LOWELL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Golf Mountain The business offers 36 miniature golf holes with friendly owners and facilities for grilling and party pavillions. There is also a seasonal snow cone stand on site with a great selection of flavors.

Wild Wilderness Safari  - Located in Gentry The Safari has 80 different species of animals. From farm animals to exotic animals, many of which are on the endangered list, a visit to this Safari promises to be a fun time for the entire family. There is a 4-mile drive-through where animals can be seen as you might see them in nature, and there is also a wonderful petting zoo area where baby exotic and domestic animals can be petted. It is not unusual to see a baby white tiger in the petting area. While there is a coin-operated snack area provided, many families bring their lunch and eat on the provided picnic tables.

ROGERS LAKES/PARK

Beaver Lake The man-made lake has approximately 487 scenic miles of shoreline, with campsites, picnic sites, swimming areas, trails, and several other activities for the entire family to enjoy.

Hobbs State Park

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

A park filled with woodland hiking and biking trails.

The park is located on 86 acres adjoining Lake Fayetteville. It includes 12 themed gardens and a butterfly house.

Pea Ridge National Military Park

Lake Wedington A 102-acre lake and 424-acre red area are popular for swimming, canoeing, picnicking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Mulberry Mountain 39 miles from Fayetteville, Mulberry Mountain offers cabins, campgrounds, ATV trails, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and more in the beautiful Arkansas Ozark Mountains.

Wilson Park A park that features a small castle and a gazebo. This popular park can be used for baseball, basketball, tennis and volleyball and has a swimming pool, walking trail and playground.

Civil War battlefield that includes self-guided tours and a bookstore.

War Eagle Mill A working grist mill that grinds corn and wheat daily.

War Eagle Cavern Spectacular cavern located between Rogers and Eureka Springs. Visitors enjoy guided tours, panning for gems, scenic picnic spots, and miles of hiking trails.

SILOAM SPRINGS OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Dogwood Junction Unique bike shop that rents bikes and surrey bikes (covered, four wheeled type). Be sure to order a surrey ride with picnic in the park, and they provide the table cloth/blanket, picnic basket and food from local eateries.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 13


TOP 10 BBQ RESTAURANTS IN NWA Barbecue is almost a way of life

BELLA VISTA

in Northwest Arkansas, with most

. Rhythm and Q $

towns have a whole slew of BBQ joints. Some have been around forever, some just a few years and some are recently opened. How do you like your barbecue? Dry rubbed and slow smoked and falling off the bone if you’ve ordered some baby back ribs, or maybe you enjoy pulled pork that is so full of lip smackin’ flavor you’ll think you’ve died and gone to heaven. However you like it, you’ll find your favorite from the Top 10 spots we’ve listed:

1721 Forest Hills Blvd, (479) 268-6858 Rhythm and Q reopened on March 2nd with scheduled signature Friday night seafood or alternately BBQ buffets. Call for reservations for these wildly popular buffets. There’ a an expanded menu of BBQ the rest of the week featuring the famous flavors the region has come to expect from Rhythm and Q. All the staff bends over backwards to make sure your meal with them is a memorable culinary delight.

BENTONVILLE

. Fred’s Hickory Inn $$ 1502 N Walton Blvd, (479) 273-3303 If you are craving a memorable Pit Bar B-Q experience in NWA, take your family, friends and visitors to Fred’s. You just can’t get better friendly service, atmosphere or real pit BBQ. They are also known for their mouthwatering steaks and authentic Italian food.

. Smokin Joe’s $$

2504 E Central Ave, (479) 621-0181 Particularly known for its award-winning genuine pit barbecue, Smokin Joe’s Ribhouse offers specialty sandwiches, burgers, ribs, pulled pork, BBQ plates and classic sides. This is BBQ at its best, taste it once and you’ll be hooked for life.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Rockin’ Pig Saloon

$$

2039 E Van Buren, (479) 363-6248 A full service dining, drinking and entertainment establishment serving BBQ, burgers and wood-fired pizzas in a fun atmosphere. Try the pork ribs and baked beans.

14 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 BBQ RESTAURANTS IN NWA copy

FAYETTEVILLE

there early as folks begin to line up early for this tasty special.

. Herman’s $$

2901 N. College Rd, (479) 442-9671 Everything at Herman’s is fresh and handmade. The ribs are juicy and tender, the kind that fall off the bone and melt in your mouth. The steaks are hand-cut and aged to perfection, and Nick’s Shrimp Remoulade with homemade sauce is delicious beyond words. Open for both lunch and dinner with a deck where you can watch the BBQ being grilled, Herman’s has 45 years of experience cooking and serving up delicious BBQ.

. Sassy’s Red House

$$

708 N College Ave, (479) 856-6366 Known far and wide for having the perfect BBQ sauce. Try the barbecue nachos as an entree instead of an appetizer. Service is terrific too.

. Pop’s BBQ $

121 E Poplar St, (479) 633-8150 Get ready to be WOWED when you first taste the BBQ ribs from Pop’s. These are ribs that make you feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven. Pop’s is operating as a food truck directly across the street from the Rogers Chamber. If you haven’t yet sampled Pop’s BBQ, you absolutely must give it a try.

. Tyler’s Craft BBQ

$

109 N Arkansas St, Rogers, AR, (479) 409-7423 If your idea of BBQ is tender, moist pork with a light pecan smoked flavor, you simply must try one of the handcrafted BBQ sandwiches served out of this local food truck. Slaw lovers, this is your chance to try some of the most delicious Wasabi slaw you will ever put in your mouth.

JOHNSON

. Wrights Barbecue $$ 2212 Main Dr, (479) 633-7229 Offering handcrafted, 100% wood-fired pit barbecue, large portions, friendly service and reasonable prices. The brisket is so tender, you can cut it with a fork. The sides, including their amazing baked beans are full of substance and lip-smackin’ flavor. Wright’s is also available for catering, tailgate parties and special events. You’re missing out if you haven’t tried this delicious smoked meat.

ROGERS

. Pit Master’s BBQ

$

HONORABLE MENTION

. The Big Rub Urban Eatery

$

(inside Walmart SuperCenter) 4208 South Pleasant Crossing, (479) 282-1405 Delicious urban BBQ, sandwiches, homemade sides, and street tacos made from the freshest ingredients to be found anywhere. Smokehouse and Brisket taco are awesome as is the Jordan (large portion) sandwich. Great tasting barbecue, convenient location and reasonable prices make this a regional favorite.

. Penguin Ed’s

Frisco Station Mall 100 N Dixieland, (479) 202-5344

230 S E Ave, Fayetteville, AR, (479) 521-3663

The entire menu is made fresh daily, and no smoked meats are precooked, frozen and eventually thawed out. Pit Master’s BBQ maintains the integrity and just smoked flavor of meats by slow smoking every morning. Don’t miss the all-you-can-eat ribs deal on Thursdays, and get

Has delightful, unique ambiance, and served some of the best BBQ you’ll find in the Northeast section of the state. The menu is varied, but do try the pulled pork, ribs or brisket if you enjoy barbecue. You can’t go wrong with either of the three.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 15


TOP 10 BENTONVILLE RESTAURANTS Top Text

Bentonville has many outstanding restaurants including a good number of International restaurants. Not only do Walmart and other locally based corporations recruit trainees and executives from around the world, they may also require their vendors to maintain a presence in the area. This rapid growth has resulted in Northwest Arkansas’ phenomenal increase in new restaurant eateries. Here are the Top 10 Restaurants in Northwest Arkansas:

. Blu Fish Marketplace $$ 607 S. E. Fifth St, (479) 925-5300 A unique fish house, restaurant and raw sushi bar with an upbeat atmosphere that is conveniently located in the Market District of Downtown Bentonville, Blu offers the freshest fish and other seafood to be found in all of NWA. Shipments of shrimp, lobster, crab, salmon, halibut are flown in daily. Imagine eating seafood so fresh that it is only hours off the dock. Customers may dine in, order takeout, or buy fresh to cook at home. Blu also features a good selection of wine and beer.

. Doe’s Eat Place $$$

2806 S Walton Blvd, (479) 254-8081 Anyone would be hard pressed to find a better steak than those on the menu at Doe’s. Thick, juicy, flavorful, tender and cooked to perfection just the way you like them. These steaks are enormous, and most will feed two. Once you try one of Doe’s mouthwatering steaks, you’ll be hooked for life.

. Eleven at Crystal Bridges

$$

600 Museum Way, (479) 418-5700 Dining at Eleven is an experience long to be remembered. The dining area has floor to ceiling windows, which overlook Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art’s ponds and woods. Lunch is a quick-service affair, but dinner is an exquisite fine dining experience including some of the most delicious High South cuisine you will find in the Ozarks.

. Oven and Tap $$

215 South Main St, (479) 268-5884 Open for weekend brunch, lunch and dinner, and located just a block off the famous Bentonville Downtown Square, Oven and Tap sports a custom built wood-fired oven for turning out scrumptious pizza and pasta fare and a unique tap wall, which pours forth cold craft beer and other delicious libations. A quality meal can be expected as Oven and Tap prides itself on attention to detail throughout including its atmosphere, service, food and drink. Reservations are advised.

. Preacher’s Son $$

201 NW A St, (479) 445-6065

photocourtesy courtesy photo of of Oven and Tap

16 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Amazing food, drinks, service and atmosphere characterize this beautiful Bentonville restaurant housed in a former church building complete with stained glass windows. Gluten free menu has many incredible dishes from which to choose


TOP 10 BENTONVILLE RESTAURANTS including a scrumptious crab fritter appetizer. For an intimate yet friendly setting, don’t miss the cozy bar downstairs. Great place for special occasions and date nights.

. Pressroom $$

100 NW 2nd St #100, (479) 657-2905 Located just off Bentonville’s Historic Downtown Square, Pressroom is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and late night dining. It pulls together, under a delightful modern space, the atmosphere of a hip coffeehouse, amazing cocktail bar and smart restaurant. Foodies from across the country flock to the Pressroom for a chance to sample some of the delicious creations, and locals find the Pressroom the perfect place to gather with friends for coffee or drinks.

. River Grille $$$

1003 McClain Rd, (479) 271-4141 Fine dining at its best can be found at the River Grille in Bentonville. Relax in masterfully upholstered chairs while you enjoy an expertly prepared meal of steaks, chops, seafood or poultry. You won’t find a more relaxed setting anywhere. The dining room features a warm fireplace, elegant wood paneling and dark wood floors. While you’re there, check out their schedule of Special Events including a four-course date night, Dining in the Dark, Brewmaster Dinner and wine tastings. A meal at the River Grille is the stuff of which memories are made.

. Table Mesa $$

108 E Central Ave, (479) 715-6706 An upscale Latin American style bistro offering a full range of unique menu items including entrees, burgers, starters and desserts. Try the Steak Madagascar or the Kiki’s Burrito and for dessert try the Bananas Foster a la Mesa. Located right on the famous Bentonville Downtown Square, a meal at Table Mesa is not to be missed.

. The Hive $$

200 NE A St, (479) 286-6575 Located in Bentonville’s 21C Museum Hotel, the Hive, under the direction of award-winning Chef Matthew McClure, offers refined country cooking with a focus on the traditional foods of Arkansas. Chef McClure makes use of locally sourced produce in his signature dishes. You’re sure to have a memorable meal when you choose The Hive.

. Tusk & Trotter $$

110 SE A St, (479) 268-4494 Rustic, but chic and located only a block off the Bentonville Downtown Square, this award-winning restaurant is designed to accommodate families, traveling gourmets or a group of friends wanting a place to be together. Owner/chef, Rob Nelson, offers seasonal menus inspired by local fresh produce and other local ingredients. Even picky eaters will be delighted as the menu is filled with options for everyone to enjoy. Try the Fried Chicken and Waffles for a taste-treat you won’t soon forget.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Fred’s Hickory Inn $$

1502 N Walton Blvd, (479) 273-3303 Fred’s has been a Bentonville favorite for eons for a very good reason. It’s the unforgettable flavor of its famous hickory-smoked BBQ, steaks and Italian pasta dishes. In addition its bar, The Cabin, has become a popular venue for drinks and live music on specified evenings.

. Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico $

801 SE 8th Street Suite 41, (479) 657-6954 Serving flavorful authentic Mexican food, Yeyo’s on 8th Street has a bustling, lively environment that promises to be one of the bright spots of the city. Only the freshest of Rios family farm ingredients are used, and the seasoning, oh my, it is spot on. A meal at Yeyo’s El alma de Mexico is a happy memorable event, and one that your family will want to repeat often.

Bentonville Glass Inc. 507 S. Main Street Bentonville, AR

www.bentonvilleglass.com

479-273-5545

Residential – Automotive – Commercial

10%

DISCOUNT when you mention our ad in this magazine

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 17


TOP 10 RESTAURANTS FOR BREAKFAST IN NWA Are you a morning kind of person? Then you most likely enjoy a good breakfast of bacon or sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy, or it could be that waffles and chicken are more to your liking. The Top 10 spots listed below serve out-of-this-world breakfasts most every day of the week:

BENTONVILLE

. The Buttered Biscuit $$ 1403 SE Moberly Ln, (479) 319-4822 This is one of the very best breakfast restaurants in all of Northwest Arkansas. The biscuits are huge and just like grandma used to make. The biscuits and sausage gravy are delicious as are the Old Orchard Omelette and the Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes. Owners and staff are super friendly, and really do care about your experience with them. Additionally, GF options are available.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Mudstreet $$

22 S Main St, (479) 253-6732 Open for breakfast and lunch, the Mud Street Café is located in a basement in downtown Eureka Springs. With self-serve coffee and cheesy garlic grits, locals find themselves longing to go back for more just as soon as they leave.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Arsaga’s at the Depot 548 W Dickson St, (479) 443-9900 Arsaga’s is immersed in the community and serves excellent coffee, drinks, breakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee & drinks. Breakfast crepes including a variety of sweet ones are a specialty as are the breakfast plates and the Saturday and Sunday brunch. You may have to wait a short time, but the wait will be well worth it. Some people think of Arsaga’s as their 3rd home.

. The Farmers Table Cafe $

1079 S School Ave, (479) 966-4125

The Farmer’s Table Cafe uses local ingredients, and is known for helping local farmers. If you are looking for a quaint brunch cafe, their hearty meals are the ideal factor that you may be looking for.

18 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 RESTAURANTS FOR BREAKFAST IN NWA . Prelude Breakfast Bar

$$

509 W Spring St #210, (479) 435-6435

SPRINGDALE

. Neal’s $

Open from 8 a.m - 2:30 p.m., Prelude Breakfast Bar offers a refreshing departure from traditional restaurants. Literally everything is amazing including the Pancake Flight, the Huevos Rancheros, the Omelets, the Scrambles, and the fresh squeezed mimosas and the Bloodys. Come early if possible as the place starts to get really busy before mid morning.

806 N Thompson St, (479) 751-9996

ROGERS

. Susan’s $$

. Sams Olde Tyme Hamburgers $ 223 E Locust St, (479) 986-9191 Specializing in a variety of 3-egg omelets, and many other traditional breakfast delights, Sam’s goes out of its way to make sure that every customer leaves happy. The service is consistently top notch too. Convenient place to stop for Beaver Lake traffic.

. Wesner’s $

117 W Chestnut St. (479) 636-9723

This local restaurant with a small town feel is the classic breakfast spot for you and your friends and family. Reasonable prices, attentive staff, large cinnamon rolls, and country-style ham are just some of the things that keep luring the customers of this favorite breakfast joint back.

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Cathy’s Corner $

1910 US-412, (479) 524-4475

Don’t let this small yellow building fool you. Although it seems small from the outside, the inside delivers satisfaction for anyone passing through. With its friendly, superior service, Cathy’s Corner is a favorite for anyone who is craving both a yummy breakfast and a laid back atmosphere. Go in and try any item from the menu. You’re sure to be back.

Are you searching for one of the best homemade meals in the area? Known for its sweet, southern hospitality, Neal’s Cafe’ has been serving some of the finest home-cooked meals for more than 65 years. Being more than just a breakfast cafe, Neal’s is also known for their catfish, fried chicken, and chicken and dumplings. Their homemade pies and rolls are pretty special too. 1440 W Sunset Ave, (479) 751-1445

A Northwest Arkansas favorite, this local business is known for their friendly staff and delicious breakfast meals. If you are craving food to satisfy your sweet tooth, Susan’s delights you with their large cinnamon rolls. However, if you’re searching for a filling breakfast that will also keep you satisfied without all of the sugar, the chicken fried steak and Pig Sooie omelet are two meal choices that will fulfill your heart’s desires.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Filling Station

2055 E Van Buren, Eureka Springs, (479) 253-6015 Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, the Filling Station serves Southern-style home cooking, and their breakfasts are incredible as are the plate lunches. The biscuits are made from scratch and the chicken is hand breaded. You’ll love the homemade goodness and the friendly service.

. Ozark Bagel Company $

3600 Guess Who Blvd, (479) 319-6688 Not everyone enjoys a traditional breakfast, some prefer to start the day with a flavorful NY bagel. Ozark Bagel Company has many different types of bagels, and they are all on point. Don’t be afraid to try different types, they are all delicious.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 19


TOP 7

BENTONVILLE BRUNCH RESTAURANTS IN NWA

Bentonville is a world class destination with many excellent restaurants that cater

. Buttered Biscuit 1403 SE Moberly Ln (479) 319-4822

to experience the exciting adventures to

Scratch made dishes are the specialty at The Buttered Biscuits. The just-out-of-the-oven biscuits and the gravy are heavenly as are the delish Sweet Cream Waffles, The Turtle French Toast, the Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes, the Kickin’ Chicken Waffles and the Shrimp and Grits. Serving until 2:00 pm every day of the week, this is a wonderful spot to enjoy a scrumptious meal while visiting with friends and family.

be had in the scenic Ozarks countryside.

600 Museum Way

to the globe trotting travelers who visit the city for business, to see its amazing art museums, sample its culinary scene or

The below top brunch restaurants have a brunch menu to satisfy everyone, even those with the most discriminating palate:

. Eleven

(479) 418-5700 You are in for a serious treat when you dine at Eleven located inside Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The High South Cuisine including Eggs Benedict, The Lafayette, Shrimp and Grits and Belgian Waffles for the kids is prepared and cooked to perfection by the chefs of Eleven. Leisurely dine by the lake, then stroll through the stunning grounds and world-class museum of Crystal Bridges. Brunch at Eleven is an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.

. Pressroom

100 NW 2nd St, #100 (479) 657-2905 Offering a full brunch menu including a variety of delicious egg dishes, waffles, pancakes, juices and house-made granola, Pressroom is a wonderful place to dine. Traditional brunch cocktails are served including a killer Pressroom Bloody Mary, a scrumptious Pressroom Mimosa and a signature Pirate’s Pick Me Up. There’s an outdoor patio where you can comfortably dine while you watch the people go by.

photo courtesy of Tusk & Trotter

20 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 7

BENTONVILLE BRUNCH RESTAURANTS IN NWA

. Table Mesa

. Meld Kitchen & Sandwich Bar

108 E Central Ave

1120 S Walton Blvd, Ste #152

(479) 715-6706

(479) 845-4640

Located across from Bentonville’s Historic Town Square and specializing in modern Latin cuisine, Table Mesa has a delectable Sunday brunch that featuring a Latin Butcher Table, an Omelette station, kitchen creations including pancakes, waffles and French Toast, and a decadent dessert and fruit section. Drinks are delicious, and service is impeccable. After brunch, take a walk around the square and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art trails nearby.

Although it’s an order-at-the-counter eatery, the Saturday brunch, served from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, has a delicious array of brunch items that everyone can enjoy including Breakfast Tacos, Buttermilk Waffles, Homemade Biscuits and Cream Gravy, War Eagle Grits and much more. Plan to take your family to dine at Meld’s soon, you’ll be so glad you did.

. The Hive

. Tusk and Trotter American Brasserie 110 SE A Street (479) 268-4494

200 NE A St (479) 286-675 Showcasing the uniqueness of Arkansas’s culinary character, brunch at The Hive is a lovely experience in every way. Ingredients are curated from local farmers whenever possible, enabling chefs to create dishes reflecting the farm-to-table freshness of refined country cuisine. Apple Buttermilk Pancakes, Croque Madame and The Hive Benedict are just a few of the delicious offerings.

Located just a block off the Downtown Square, Tusk and Trotter features a creative Saturday and Sunday brunch to satisfy visitors from around the world and every member of your family too. Bites, Starters, Entrees, Soups & Salads, Kid’s Brunch and a solid menu of House-Infused Cocktails are offered. This award-winning eatery is just the spot to relax with family and friends while sharing some of the freshest and tastiest food on the planet.

E legant Design Your source for high end tile Showers in Northwest Arkansas 35 Years of Experience l References available 479-530-9420

https://www.facebook.com/BentonvilleCustomTile

FREE Estimates

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 21


TOP 10 BURGERS IN NWA How many weeks pass without eating a burger, if you’re like most people you just must have a burger fix at least a couple of times a week. It’s not hard to find a burger place in Northwest Arkansas, but where to find the best ones is the challenge. Fortunately, we’ve done all the work for you. Here are the Top 10 burger eateries in Northwest Arkansas.

BENTONVILLE

. The Station Cafe

409 SE 6th St, (479) 273-0553 The Station Cafe relocated off the Bentonville Square to its new address on SE 6th Street. The setup and service system is the same and the tasty steak burgers and fries are spot on, just like before. There is a good sized patio space now, and the service is both friendly and efficient. If you haven’t been to the new diggs yet, stop in, you’ll find everything the same except for the building. The Station Cafe serves Black Angus Steakburgers. Mercy! These burgers are in a category all by themselves. Once you’ve had the pleasure of tasting them, you’ll become a regular.

. Tusk & Trotter $$

110 SE A St, (479) 268-4494 An American Brasserie housed in rustic-chic digs, Tusk & Trotter has a seasonal menu built around locally sourced produce whenever possible. The TNT Burger made with Creekstone Black Angus Beef is a mouthwatering treat that you will return to time and again. Awesome restaurant located right off the Historic Bentonville Downtown Square.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. The Rockin’ Pig Saloon $$ 2039 E Van Buren, (479) 363-6248 Visitors and Eureka Springs locals alike all rave about the burgers at The Rockin’ Pig Saloon. Starting with 100% fresh ingredients and all natural raised Wagyu beef, the burgers, grilled over an open fire, are nothing short of sensational. People drive from miles around just to get one of their mouthwatering burgers. The staff is friendly and efficient, and they are genuinely interested in making sure that you have a good experience in their popular restaurant.

. Sparky’s Cafe $$

147 E Van Buren, (479) 253-6001

photo courtesy of Angus Jack

22 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

From their tasty burgers cooked from freshly ground meat, to their huge list of beers to their friendly outdoor patio service, this burger joint in Eureka aims to please. The cooks are uncanny in their ability to cook your burger just the way you like it. If you are a picky eater, just tell your server exactly what you want.


TOP 10 BURGERS IN NWA FAYETTEVILLE

. Hugo’s $$

25 1/2 North Block Ave, (479) 521- 7585 A Fayetteville institution, this basement located burger joint, in business since 1977, offers delicious burgers and a truly different assortment of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The French fries are homemade and should be ordered even though the burgers come with chips (order is big enough for two). Try the Bleu Moon cheeseburger, it will send you over the Moon! Hugo’s is a local, regional and international favorite.

. Smitty’s Garage Burgers and Beer $$ 100 E Joyce Blvd Suite 102, (479) 301-2046

With over 15 TV’s, Smitty’s Garage is a place for fun while you are chowing down on one of the area’s truly great burgers. When reasonable prices, great service, awesome atmosphere and 17 burgers plus a build-your-own come together under one roof, you have a winning combination that is really hard to beat. Try the bacon avocado ranch burger for a real treat.

ROGERS

. Big Orange $$ 2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100, Rogers, AR, (479) 202-5339 Big Orange serves one of the best examples of the traditional big, old fashioned, juicy hamburger. You won’t find a better tasting burger in all of Northwest Arkansas. The buns are homemade delicious from Dempsey bakery, and GF is also available.

. Big Sexy Food $

623 W Walnut, (479) 222-1675 Brent Hale, owner and chef brings the concept of fine dining to the food truck scene. Fourteen different, outlandish and delicious burger creations are served. Inspired burgers like the Bacon Mac, Wellington and The Oinker offer amazing, unique flavors to tickle the taste buds while satisfying your deepest hunger pangs. Expect the extraordinary when you sample Big Sexy’s burgers, they are filled with scrumptiousness to rival the best in the world.

. ParkSide Public $$ 112 S 1st St, (479) 636-7275 Creative burgers and local microbrews on tap, who could ask for more? There are no less than 15 different burgers on the menu including a peanut butter version and a gluten free burger that is actually delicious. Great casual place to hang out, chow down on a really good burger and toss back a couple of cold ones.

SPRINGDALE

. Angus Jack $$

2638 W Sunset Ave, (479) 717-2940 Angus Jack is an independent doing it right in Northwest Arkansas. Offering made-to-order hamburgers, made from hand-pressed Angus meat. Also serving wraps, sandwiches including a B.L.T. made from Applewood bacon. On the sweeter side, there’s 22 different flavors of shakes made from hand dipped ice cream, frosties and a special menu for the kids. Their buns are GF too. For your convenience, there’s also a new Angus Jack location in Bentonville.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers $

4300 W Walnut St, Rogers, AR, (479) 936-9797 What makes Red Robin Gourmet Burgers so great? When you have people driving from miles around just to eat here, there has to be some very good reasons. The burgers are beyond delicious, they are simply mouthwatering, food allergies are accommodated without it being a big deal (the entire restaurant is GF), the service is friendly, knowledgeable and efficient. In addition, it’s a kid friendly spot where table games are provided for the little ones. All good reasons to make the extra drive to eat where the entire family can enjoy a delightful experience.

. The Natural Muse $

6380, 1500 S Walton Blvd, (479) 319-6357 Fresh, never frozen, organic burger and chicken and sensational seasonings make this place a healthy meal option. Fries are to die for, service is efficient and friendly, portions are ample and the place is clean. Great place to feed yourself and your family a healthy burger option.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 23


TOP 10 CATFISH RESTAURANTS IN NWA Really good catfish is hard to come by

BENTONVILLE

even in the small towns of Northwest

607 SE 5th St, (479) 273-5400

Arkansas where catfish is on the

. Blu Fresh Fish Market $$

Today’s catfish typically comes from the

Bentonville’s newest fish restaurant and fresh fish market with a focus on delivering fish that is so fresh they can be caught and on your dinner plate some eleven or twelve hours later. Patterned after fresh fish markets on the coasts, Blu is able to lay claim to the freshest fish in NWA. Their catfish is brought in live, and can be prepared fried, grilled or blackened.

freshwater catfish farms in Mississippi,

109 NW 2nd St, (479) 657-6300

menus of many popular restaurants.

Alabama and Tennessee. It is skinned and then deep fried to a golden brown and has a white delicious interior. Usually it is served with hushpuppies and slaw. The Top 10 restaurants below are particularly known for their tasty deep fried catfish:

. Flying Fish $$

The atmosphere is relaxing and reminiscent of lakefront restaurants. It specializes in fresh fried catfish, crab, crawfish, chicken, and burgers. Business people flock there during weekday lunch, but don’t let that stop you, the line moves very quickly and the food comes out done to a turn within a few minutes. Just thinking about their fried catfish makes your mouth water.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Catfish Cabin $$

3085 E Van Buren, (479) 253-7933 In business for more than 19 years, Catfish Cabin serves farm raised Channel catfish prepared as fish tacos, fiddlers (whole fish) and fillets. They offer family style, all-you-caneat and they welcome large parties.

. Anglers Restaurant $ 14581 US-62, (479) 253-4004

Featuring a laid-back atmosphere with an outdoor deck, Anglers Restaurant, formerly Anglers Grill, serves killer catfish, wings, burgers and gluten free menu items. There’s about a dozen beers on draft, and my is it cold. Visit this reopened restaurant soon. You’ll be pleased you did.

24 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 CATFISH RESTAURANTS IN NWA FAYETTEVILLE

. Catfish Hole $$

4127 W Wedington Dr, (479) 521-7008 Specializes in fried catfish dinners with all the fixins’ from 3 pcs. to 8 pcs. Customers rave about the hushpuppies and the friendly service. They also have a non-fried dinner side of the menu. Their operating philosophy is ‘get it right every time.’

GENTRY

. Wooden Spoon $$ 1000 S Gentry Blvd, (479) 736-3030 Known around the region for their homemade menu items including their delightful desserts, they are also widely known for their delicious light and crispy fried catfish and hushpuppies. Some folks would eat fried catfish at no other restaurant.

. Lucy’s Diner $ 511 W Walnut St, (479) 230-5829 Lucy’s does fried catfish right. Try Lucy’s Catfish Dinner complete with farm raised cornmeal breaded catfish filets, hushpuppies, fresh-cut fries, brown beans, coleslaw and green tomato relish. Hold on to your hats, this is great catfish eating.

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Siloam Café $

906 E Main St, (479) 549-9987 Siloam Café is known locally for their down-home cooking and reasonable prices, but not everyone knows they also serve up some of the very best fried catfish, hush puppies and fries to be found in the region. Some folks won’t go anywhere else for fried catfish.

ROGERS

. Catfish John’s $$ 601 W Hudson Road, (479) 631-6908 In business since 1989 and heralded as one of America’s finest catfish eateries, Catfish John’s specializes in farmraised fried catfish. They do have other items on the menu, but the catfish and the homemade hushpuppies are the main focus. It is one of those places where you could eat fried catfish until you popped. Some people say it is simply to-die-for. The staff is friendly, efficient and helpful.

. Fish City Grill $$

Pinnacle Hills Promenade, 2203 South Promenade Blvd #3110, (479) 636-8833 Grilled, fried or blackened catfish are some of their specialties. Regular customers say that any food item on the menu is delicious every single time. The staff and management are friendly, and seem to actually care that your every dining experience with them is a good one.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 25


TOP 7 CENTERTON RESTAURANTS IN NWA Centerton, a bedroom community in Northwest Arkansas is growing by leaps and bounds, and naturally the availability of new restaurants is also exploding. There are now a nice variety of eating establishments to choose from right in Centerton proper. Check out the top five dining spots below for exceptional food:

. Bloomington Hibachi Express 690 W Centerton Blvd, (479) 372-0388 This Japanese food truck offers delicious, authentic cuisine and friendly, prompt service. The food is fresh and oh so very tasty, and the portions are ample. If you are craving Japanese food including standards like Hibachi Chicken or Steak, you must give this delightful food truck a whirl.

. Jim’s Centerton Cafe

702 W Centerton Blvd, (479) 795- 0120 Formerly the Centerton Inn, Jim’s Centerton Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch and specializes in down home cooking.

. El Farolito Tex-Mex

415 W Centerton Blvd, (479) 795-1444 El Farolito Tex-Mex has everything you might expect in an outstanding Tex-Mex restaurant. The restaurant is beautifully decorated in the colors of Mexico, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. From the time you are seated until you walk out the door, the staff is friendly and attentive, but best of all the food is fresh and authentic. What are you waiting for? Visit soon!

. Dondi’s Food With Attitude

Main Street & W 1st St, (479) 719-6818 A jewel of a find, Dondi’s serves amazing BBQ. Pulled pork is tender and flavorful and the spicy slaw is to-

26 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

die-for. If you are looking for delicious barbecue on the fly, stop by Dondi’s little food truck. You won’t be disappointed.

. El Pueblito

300 E Centerton Blvd, (479) 224-4820 El Pueblito is Centerton is a sister restaurant to the popular one in Bella Vista. Same great authentic Mexican food and same great owners. Food comes out sizzling on the platters, and the d aroma makes your mouth water. Menu ranges from typical Mexican restaurant fare to specialty family inspired dishes including 7 different fajitas dishes. Do yourself a favor and dine at El Pueblito soon.

. K’Zolis Little Oven (479) 925-8681

This popular food truck serves some of the best American/Italian comfort you’ll find anywhere. The chicken fettuccini alfredo and the fabulous meatball sandwich are really something special. The next time you see this little treasure, stop in for a bite.

. Royal Egg Rolls

439 W Centerton Blvd, (479) 795-1330 Specializing in Chinese, Thai and Sushi, this delightful Centerton restaurant has a widely varied Asian menu including 6 different curry dishes, Pad Thai, Pho and much, much more. Service is friendly and attentive, and all staff are anxious to make sure your dining experience with them is top notch.


Bentonville Square Christmas Photo Courtesy of Bruce Shepard

Crescent Hotel Christmas Forest Photo Courtesy Arkansas Dept of Parks and Tourism


TOP 10 CHICKEN RESTAURANTS IN NWA When you’re in Northwest Arkansas, you’re in the heart of chicken country. Tyson Foods is headquartered in Springdale, one of the beautiful cities of NWA. With chicken being so plentiful, it’s

BENTONVILLE

. The Hive $$

200 NE A Street, (479) 286-6575 Starting with locally sourced chickens, the brunch menu at the Hive at 21c, a premier boutique hotel in Bentonville, AR features BMF (buttermilk fried) Chicken on a biscuit. Chef Matthew McClure has taken chicken to levels not seen or tasted before. Delicious beyond description if you’re a fried chicken devotee and to be tried at least once if you’re not.

. Tusk & Trotter $$

easy to see why almost every restaurant

110 SE A Street, (479) 268-4494

you see or hear about has at least one or

The menu features a wide variety of perfectly cooked meats, however, customers rave about the fried chicken and waffles. Try it once and you’ll be hooked.

two chicken dishes on the menu, and the restaurants that specialize in chicken dishes offer it cooked in every conceivable method possible. Whether you prefer your chicken fried, baked, boiled, barbecued or roasted, you’ll find a restaurant in the Top 10 list below that will suit your fancy:

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Myrtie Mae’s $$

207 W Van Buren, (479) 253-9768 You haven’t eaten chicken until you tried Myrtie Mae’s famous Ozark Fried Chicken. People drive from all across the state to eat some of this delicious chicken. Try it, you’ll love it.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Best Frickin Chicken (Food Truck) $ 372 W Dickson St, (479) 966-4667 Customers love this chicken known for its flavorful breading. According to their regulars, they have some of the best bonein fried chicken in NWA, bar none. Other menu favorites are the fresh-cut fries, and ham hocks and beans.

. Dot’s Nashville Hot Chicken

617 N College Ave, Fayetteville, (479) 445-5885 We all know that Nashville is the home of great country music, but surprisingly, it is also the home of some of the best fried hot chicken to be found anywhere. It is, at once, crispy, juicy, tender and spicy hot to your taste. The good news is that Dot’s Nashville Hot Chicken now has a snappy looking food truck in Fayetteville, Arkansas. If you haven’t been there yet, you must go soon to see what all the buzz is about. From the first bite, your taste buds will flip for joy.

28 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 CHICKEN RESTAURANTS IN NWA . Slim Chickens $ 2120 N College, Fayetteville, (479) 935-4444 With a variety of chicken tender baskets served with Texas toast, fries and a medium drink, and their chicken and waffles dinner, they’ve pretty much got chicken covered. Their dipping sauces will make a fan out of you.

ROGERS

. Monte Ne Inn Chicken $$ 13843 Hwy 94, Rogers, (479) 636-5511 This long-standing chicken house serves family style and includes all you can eat fried chicken, delicious bean soup, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, coleslaw, homemade rolls and apple-butter. It’s as close to grandma’s country dinners as you can get.

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Cathy’s Corner $

1910 U.S. 412, (479) 524-4475 This little roadside dinner serves some of the best homestyle cooking you will find in the country. Staff is friendly and efficient, the place has top-notch management..

photo courtesy of Monte Ne Inn

SPRINGDALE

HONORABLE MENTION

1207 N Thompson St, (479) 751-4633

708 N. College Rd, Fayetteville, (479) 856-6366

In business since 1947, this famous chicken house serves a variety of Southern-style chicken recipes in a an oldfashioned setting. Chicken lovers! You must sample some of this chicken.

Their awesome smoked chicken speaks for itself. From their sliced smoked chicken dinners to their delicious smoked chicken sandwiches, they do chicken right.

. AQ Chicken $$

. Neal’s Cafe $

806 N Thompson St, (479) 751-9996 In the famous pink building, the chicken is still fried in the old iron skillets of years gone by. In 2004, Southern Living recognized Neal’s as one of the top spots in the U.S. to eat fried chicken.

. Sassy’s $$

. Venesian Inn $$

582 West Henri De Tonti Boulevard, (479) 361-2562 A Tontitown tradition since 1947, the restaurant mainly serves Italian-styled food, but it is known far and wide for its southern fried chicken items. If you enjoy chicken, you must taste the flavorful chicken at Venesian Inn.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 29


TOP 10 EUREKA SPRINGS RESTAURANTS Eureka Springs is primarily a tourist town so it naturally has many excellent restaurants to choose from. Award-winning Chefs from the world over settle in Eureka Springs to experience the freedom of owning their own restaurants, an experience hard to come by in the metropolitan centers of the country. Amazing Italian, Tex-Mex, Fine Dining, Seafood and farm-to-table are all available. After a long day of shopping, drop off your bags at your hotel, freshen up a bit and leisurely dine at one of these Top 10 Eureka Springs restaurants: photo courtesy of Local Flavor

. Aquarius Taqueria $$ 91 South Main, (479) 253-6888 Fabulous fresh Mexican food, delicious drinks, great service and friendly people all combine to make Aquarius a top choice. The Pescado Fish Tacos and the Asade Steak Tacos made with homemade corn tortillas are mouthwateringly delicious. Aquarius Taqueria has a great location for people watching.

. Café Amore $$

2070 East Van Buren (Hwy 62E), (479) 253-7192 Looking for authentic and superb Italian food, impeccable professional service and an intimate, yet friendly setting? Look no more, Chef Katherine and her staff are determined that every guest leave determined to return again and again. Try a pizza from the large and varied pizza selection.

. Cottage Inn $$

450 W Van Buren, (479) 253-5282 A peaceful country setting is the backdrop for this enchanting, chef driven Mediterranean restaurant. If you enjoy a romantic, cozy ambiance, you will love the Cottage Inn where Chef Linda Hager and her outstanding staff make every effort to give you a memorable experience. Appetizers and main dishes are filled with delicious blended flavors, and the desserts are nothing short of amazing. This is a restaurant that you can be comfortable recommending to anyone.

. Devito’s of Eureka Springs $$ 5 Center St, (479) 253-6807

A long-standing Eureka Italian restaurant, Devito’s specializes in trout direct from their family owned trout ranch. You may choose to dine intimate street-side dining, a glassed in porch overlooking East Mountain or the #2 rated sky dining deck in the state. Food is excellent. Try the Trout Italiano made from a National award-winning recipe.

. Ermillios Italian Home Cooking $$ 26 White St, (479) 253-8806

Ermillios offers fine Italian food in a charming atmosphere. Unless you get there early, be prepared to wait a bit, but there’s a cute little bar upstairs where you can play board games and have a drink while you wait. Service is both friendly and efficient. The roasted garlic is amazing as is the Ravioli with the gorgonzola cheese sauce.

30 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 EUREKA SPRINGS RESTAURANTS . Gaskins Cabin Steakhouse $$$ 2883 AR-23, (479) 253-5466 Rustic restaurant in a historic restored log cabin serves amazing flame broiled hand-cut perfectly aged steaks, a variety of delicious sides, salad, soup and homemade bread. Gaskins is the go to place for prime rib and steaks in NWA.

. Grand Taverne Restaurant & Lounge $$$ 37 N Main St, (479) 253-6756

Unforgettable aptly describes the fine dining experience at the Grand Taverne Restaurant.& Lounge. Every menu item is prepared and cooked to perfection including, just to name a few, the amazing Grilled Filet of Beef, Roasted Rack of Lamb, Stuffed Portobello Mushroom and Pan Seared Scallops. Presentations are a work of art from start to finish, service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is warm and intimate. This restaurant is not just a cut above the rest, it is fine dining at the highest level.

. Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave $$$ 10 Center Street, (479) 363-6431

Set into a cave spring, Grotto’s unique atmosphere is delightfully different. The ambiance is warm and cozy, the service is friendly and knowledgable and the food is nothing short of amazing. Chef Rodney strives for perfection every time. Prepare to be wowed when you cut into your steak cooked over a wood fired grill. Additionally, Grotto sports a full bar including a large selection of wines and beers.

. Local Flavor Café $$

71 S Main St, (479) 253-9522 Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Eureka Springs, this delightful restaurant offers fresh delicious food for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. There are so many outstanding dishes to try that it is hard to pick just one, but before you

leave town try one of their scrumptious burgers. Additionally, the pork tenderloin is to-die-for as are the crab cakes, and drinks including their homemade Sangria are all simply amazing.

. Mud Street Cafe $$

22 S Main St G, (479) 253-6732 Serving award-winning coffee, food, and taste-trippin’ desserts, Mud Street Cafe is located in quaint Underground Eureka Springs. Open for breakfast and lunch everyday except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays, this unique restaurant offers veggie grits and hashbrowns as a specialty. You won’t find a better place to chow down on a delicious, filling breakfast.

HONORABLE MENTION Bombaldil’s Cafe $$ 580 West Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR, (479) 363-6024 Featuring amazing food prepared from fresh locally sourced ingredients, Bombaldil’s Cafe also offers a relaxing, atmosphere and brilliant attentive service. Menu items do change with the seasons as ingredients become available. Sunday brunch features such items as Spicy Shrimp Benedict and Biscuits with Wild Mushroom Gravy. Go out of your way to treat yourself to the cuisine at Bombaldil’s Cafe. You’ll be glad you did.

. Thai House $$

2059 E Van Buren, (479) 363-6632 Open for lunch and dinner the Thai House specializes in the authentic flavors of Thailand. The Pad Thai is amazing as is the Evil Jungle Prince Vegetables. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, and the service is friendly and efficient.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 31


TOP 10 FAYETTEVILLE RESTAURANTS Being a good sized college town, Fayetteville is fortunate to have many first-rate restaurants to serve the community, the students and visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re hankering for a pizza, craving something light and mediterranean or planning to take your date to one of the many fine dining restaurants around the city, you’ll find them all and more among these Top 10 Fayetteville restaurants:

. Bocca Italian Eatery & Pizzeria $$$ 2036 N College Ave, (479) 301-2688 Characterized by fresh housemade pastas, breads, salads and sauces, wood-fired pizzas, friendly professional service, upscale casual atmosphere, a comfortable patio and an amazing bar; Bocca is a favorite dining destination for those looking for a premier dining experience in Fayetteville. This is a great place for date nights, out-of-town guests or a group of friends. Expect to have fun and a memorable meal when you dine at Bocca.

. Bordinos

$$$

310 W Dickson St, (479) 527-6795 Located on famed Dickson Street in the heart of Fayetteville’s entertainment district, this exquisite restaurant is the very spirit of Fayetteville. It offers an exquisite fine dining experience, featuring distinctive, delicious food and drinks, efficient and friendly service and a gorgeous atmosphere. Menu items do change with the seasons, and there is a full bar and an expanded wine list. Want to celebrate a special occasion? Bordinos is very good at making your occasion a memorable experience. Weekday lunch is available Tuesday - Friday and brunch is served Saturday and Sunday. Reservations are recommended.

. Hammontrees Grilled Cheese

$

326 N West Ave #8, (479) 521-1669 Dine-in or take out, this wildly popular Fayetteville vegan, vegetarian gourmet grilled cheese sandwich joint creates amazing grilled cheese sandwiches (19 different types of cheese), scratch-made daily soups and fresh locally sourced salads. Only the highest quality ingredients are used, ensuring that you have a top-notch experience with them.

. Hugos

$$

25 1/2 North Block Avenue, (479) 521-7585

photo courtesy of Mockingbird Cafe

32 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Located just off the Historic Fayetteville Square in the basement, Hugo’s offers an amazing burger experience, famous homemade fries, and a wide selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts. The staff is both cordial and efficient. Taste just one burger from Hugos and you’ll be hooked for life.


TOP 10 FAYETTEVILLE RESTAURANTS . Mockingbird Kitchen $$ 1466 North College Ave, (479) 435-6333 Specializes in a seasonal menu of New American food and family-inspired recipes created from local Ozarks ingredients. Housemade soups, hot sandwiches, fresh crisp salads, chef created desserts and a full beverage menu including wines, local brews and signature cocktails combine to make this a top-notch restaurant.

. Pesto Cafe

$$

1830 N College Ave, (479) 582-3330 A small Italian restaurant with a fun, funky atmosphere serving huge portions of authentic Italian dishes accompanied by their delish Caesar salad and housemade light Caesar dressing. You can’t go wrong with any dish on the menu, but be sure to try the shrimp scampi on one of your visits. The wait-staff is friendly, knowledgeable and attentive as your meal moves along. This is another restaurant that will have you coming back even if you move out of town.

. Rolando’s Nuevo Latino Restaurante $$ 509 W Spring St, (479) 251-1650

At Rolando’s you’ll be impressed with the amazing food, service and drinks. Whether you’re a party of one or of twenty, every effort will be made to make sure you leave a happy, satisfied customer. The staff is practiced and attentive, and the unique decor is just plain fun. Try the Cuban sandwich for a delicious departure from typical sandwiches.

. The Farmer’s Table

$$

1079 S School Ave, (479) 966-4125 Endeavoring to source organically and locally wherever possible, The Farmer’s Table, a breakfast and brunch cafe is typically hopping with folks craving a signature Arkansawyer, hash skillet or a stack of the sweet potato pancakes (seasonal). When you step through the door at

The Farmer’s Table, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time to the days when your grandmother used to sit you down to a nice breakfast. If there is a wait, there’s selfserve coffee in the corner.

. Theo’s

$$$

318 N Campbell Ave, (479) 527-0086 Theo’s is a chic, upscale dining destination and bar with a smart lounge and delightful patio. A place to eat, drink and socialize, Theo’s treats every customer as a welcome invited guest. Elegant food in the Contemporary American style including their fresh made selection of delicious share plates, fresh salads and amazing main plates is their specialty. Happy hour, Mon - Fri, 5 - 7 PM. Martini Night - Thursday.

. Vetro 1925

$$$

17 E Center St, (479) 966-4649 Vetro 1925 is fast becoming the restaurant of choice for NWA residents and visitors passing through. Executive Chef Alan Dierks leads the culinary team in mixing classic technique with fresh seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. Fresh made breads, savory grass fed beef and veal, line caught seafood and made-from-scratch ravioli and malfatti are all daily fare. Service is impeccable from start to finish.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Thep Thai

$

1525 S School Ave, (479) 443-0029 Guests native to Thailand all agree that Thep Thai creates the most authentic Thai natural food to be found in NWA. You can taste the freshness in everything from their soups to their delicious curries and noodle dishes. The atmosphere is beautiful and the wait staff and owners are pleasant and efficient. You’ll love your visit to Thep Thai.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 33


TOP 10

FAYETTEVILLE BRUNCH RESTAURANTS IN NWA

Outstanding brunch restaurants in Fayetteville are plentiful, offering delicious food, unique atmospheres and attentive service. These brunch eateries all have the qualities characteristic of superb eating establishments, and they all serve a brunch to make your taste buds dance for joy:

. Arsaga’s at the Depot 548 W Dickson St, (479) 443-9900 Serving breakfast and brunch from 7:00 am - 3:00 pm, this very popular spot offers a delicious mix of soups and salads, hand-cut fries, plates using free range-eggs, house-made biscuits and gravy, sandwiches and crepes, sweet crepes and more. Arsaga’s is also a small batch coffee roaster. Go by soon to sample some of the wonderful coffee and tasty cuisine of Arsaga’s.

. Bordinos

310 W Dickson St, (479) 527-6795 The atmosphere is sleek, the service is impeccable and the Saturday and Sunday brunch is nothing short of heavenly. Shrimp & Grits, Fried Chicken Biscuit, Bordino’s Hash, Shakshuka and French Toast are just a small sampling of the available brunch choices. This Dickson St favorite is a tradition in Fayetteville, and one dining experience you don’t want to miss.

. Cafe Rue Orleans - Cajun & Seafood 1150 N College Ave, (479) 443-2777

Specializing in New Orleans-style cuisine, this delightful Cajun seafood restaurant has a relaxed, comfortable ambiance, attentive and experienced staff, and some of the most authentic and creative Cajun seafood available in the High South. Sleep in a bit, and then head on over to Cafe Rue Orleans for some classic Cajun food including such favorites as Creole Shrimp & Grits, Eggs Pontchartrain, Eggs Des Amis and Breakfast Po Boy.

. East Side Grill

1838 N Crossover Rd, (479) 966-4823 Serving Sunday brunch from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, ESG offers a wonderful mimosa table service special, 5 different Bloody Mary”s, omelets and 3 egg benedicts, french toast and much more. This is a neighborhood eatery where you can feel comfortable pulling up a chair and visiting with a friend. Great place to relax on a lazy Sunday. If you haven’t tried it already, go soon and take the family with you.

photo courtesy of Cafe Rue Orleans

34 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10

FAYETTEVILLE BRUNCH RESTAURANTS IN NWA

. Emelia’s Kitchen 309 W Dickson St, (479) 527-9800 A delightful spot where you are treated like family from the moment you enter the door. Sunday Brunch cuisine features Blue Crab Benedict, Belgian Waffles, Mediterranean Omelets and killer Bloody Mary’s. Service is friendly and efficient. You’ll enjoy your brunch at Emelia’s.

. The Farmer’s Table Cafe

1079 S School Ave, (479) 966-4125 If made from scratch buttermilk biscuits appeals to your taste buds, and the thought of eating fresh, locally sourced food like free-range eggs and Animal Welfare Approved bacon is to your liking, then you will love The Farmer’s Table Cafe. This Fayetteville restaurant strives to procure, prepare and cook the freshest and most wholesome ingredients available. Staff is welcoming, anxious to please and eager to talk about the menu items. All around great farm-to-table restaurant.

. Mockingbird Kitchen

1466 N College Ave, (479) 435-6333 Mockingbird Kitchen is a great example of a working farmto-table restaurant. Chef Chrissy makes every effort to obtain ingredients from local farms and growers. Dishes

are designed around what is available as the seasons change. Brunch on Saturday and Sunday is filled with dishes that are so flavorful, you can taste the freshness in every bite. Do Breakfast Tacos, Shrimp Cake Benedict, Brioche French Toast and Chicken & Waffle sound good to you? Just taste them at the Mockingbird Kitchen.

. Nomads Music Lounge

1431 S School Ave, (479) 435-5606 Nomads Music Lounge in Fayetteville puts on a killer brunch Thursday - Sunday. It is a delightful way to get your taste buds tempted and begging for more. Bloody Mary’s are scrumptious, mimosas are yummy, service is friendly and efficient, music is wonderful and the atmosphere is just plain fun. Nomads is a great place to go for brunch whether with family or friends.

. Prelude Breakfast Bar

509 W Spring St #210, (479) 435-6435 Featuring a menu filled with fresh and freshly made items including pancake flights, eggs, benedicts, veggies, fruits, cereal, and refreshing drinks and coffee to occupy you while you wait and while you are catching up and relaxing with family and friends. Menus change with the seasons as many ingredients are procured from local farmers as they become available.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 35


TOP 10

FAYETTEVILLE PIZZA RESTAURANTS IN NWA

Fayetteville is the home of the world-class University of Arkansas Razorbacks, which makes it a prime locale for pizza joints of every description. Thin crust, hand tossed, Chicago-style, Neapolitan, New York-style, which type do you prefer? You can find them all and more at the Top 10 Pizza joints we’ve listed:

. Damgoode Pies 37 E Center St,(479) 444-7437 Love the name, don’t you? With 3 different crust options and ample fresh toppings, this pizza joint makes a pizza that is beyond good, they are delicious. Demand is high, so service may be a bit slow, but the pies are well worth the wait. There’s also a good selection of brews on tap. Do yourself a favor and try one of the pies soon to see what all the buzz is about.

. Geraldi’s

20 S University Ave, (479) 575-0556 Not just a pizza house, but a restaurant serving delish antipasto salad, tasty pesto pizza, spicy shrimp alfredo, huge plates of pasta and other favorite Italian dishes. The pizza is really very good and atmosphere lends itself to families, couples, singles or a group of friends. Parking is a bit of a challenge, but the effort is definitely worth it.

. Marley’s

609 W Dickson St, # 103, (479) 301-2815 Marley’s offers more than a dozen specialty pizzas as well as a build-your-own option. Crusts options include hand tossed, Chicago-style and Gluten Free. Sandwiches, salads, desserts and appetizers are popular menu items. Draft and craft are on tap, and bottled domestic and imported beer and wine are also available. Service is excellent, and if you’re a sports enthusiast, Marley’s has plenty of TVs situated so you can watch the games.

. Mellow Mushroom

1460 E Augustine Ln,(479) 521-1001 Serves awesome stone-baked pizza, delicious calzones, filling hoagies and crisp fresh salads. It also has GF and lactoovo pizza and salads. Nice selection of specialty pizzas and a huge list of fresh ingredients for build-your-own, as well as a selection of sweet treats is on the meu. The Mellow also offers delicious cocktails made from fresh ingredients and a large selection brews including some local favorites. Great spot for friends, family or colleagues to gather.

36 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10

FAYETTEVILLE PIZZA RESTAURANTS IN NWA

. Mojo’s Pints & Pies 1200 Garland Ave #7,(479) 935-3459 Mojo’s has a fantastic atmosphere, great pizza menu, pasta and appetizers. There’s live music from Wednesday - Saturday unless the Razorbacks are playing, and the drink specials are great too. Happy hour, Tues - Fri, has $1 off drafts, bottles and wells. Happening spot to kick back and relax with friends.

. Pieology Pizzaeria

1777 M.L.K. Jr Blvd #2, (479) 249-9466 If you’ve struggled to find a gluten free crust that tastes good, look no more, Pieology Pizzaria has one that is really tasty. Build your own pizza with unlimited fresh toppings for no extra charge is the custom option, or you may select from the list of signature pizzas. Pieology has delicious, fresh salads, and a cauliflower crust that is delicious. The ordering concept is much like Subway, you stand in line and select your toppings as you move down the line.

. Tim’s Pizza East

1813 E Mission Blvd, (479) 521-5056 A visit to Tim’s Pizza East is a delightful experience from the moment you pass through its doors. The staff is friendly and eager to please. Tim’s offers delish appetizers and breadsticks, amazing gourmet pizzas including a GF version or you may build your own, killer sandwiches, wraps, 9 different salads and calzone. The crusts are amazing and rather crisp and the mozzarella is delicious.

. Wicked Wood Fired Pizza

372 E Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701 (multiple locations) If you are a crust aficionado, you must give Wicked Wood Fired Pizza food truck a whirl. The crusts are crunchy, easy-to-chew sourdough, and they are awesome. The toppings, besides the high quality mozzarella, are fresh, as fresh as just-picked, and the house-made marinara sauce is divine. Add to all this goodness the flavor of a wood-fired oven, and you’ve got a pizza to text about. The staff is great and the service is efficient and timely.

. Wood Stone Craft Pizza + Bar 557 S School Ave, (479) 444-1947 Has a high energy vibe, and fast, professional service. These are delicious craft wood-fired pizzas that are bursting with flavor due, in large part, to the unique (house ricotta, toasted cashews, scallions, pickled carrot & cucumber, seasonal fruit marmalade - to name a few), and fresh toppings. Features a full bar staffed by trained mixologists who create absolutely divine cocktails. A wide assortment of craft brews is on draft, and white and red wine, bottled beer along with non-alcoholic cocktails are also available. This is a great place to relax with friends and family while you enjoy a top-notch meal experience.

. Z’s Brick Oven Pizza

2730 N College Ave, (479) 935-4299 Crust dough is hand-mixed and hand-rolled, and all pizzas are handcrafted. Toppings are of the best quality including the veggies, which are the freshest possible. Appetizers, salads, pasta, build-your-own, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, dessert pizzas and a kids menu are all available. A good craft beer selection is on draft, and bottled beer and red & white wine are also available. Service is exceptional all around. Try it once, and you’ll probably be hooked.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 37


TOP 14 ICONIC RESTAURANT IN NWA BENTONVILLE

. Fred’s Hickory Inn 1502 N Walton Blvd, (479) 273-3303

Scattered throughout the eight cities that make up Northwest Arkansas are its iconic restaurants. These are typically restaurants that have been around for a long time, and whose logos are synonymous with the great food they serve. Here are the Top 10 iconic restaurants in NWA:

Fred’s Hickory Inn is one of those barbecue restaurants that is family-owned,been in business for decades and just keeps on putting out a unique tasting hickory smoked bbq, great steaks and Italian pasta. Great choice for a celebration or a date night.

. Glasgow’s

411 SE Walton Blvd, (479) 273-9958 Glasgow’s, in business since 1964, is a family-owned Mexican restaurant specializing in traditional Mexican food including enchiladas, tacos, fajitas and guacamole. Service is spot on, and the service staff and other customers are friendly as well.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Local Flavor

71 S Main St, (479) 253-9522 During most conversations, whenever Eureka Springs is mentioned, Local Flavor restaurant will be suggested as a great place to eat fresh, creative cuisine. Chef and Eurekan native, Britt Evans, is at the helm, and the service is both fast and efficient. There’s a delightful outdoor patio overlooking historical Eureka Springs.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Doe’s Eat Place

316 W Dickson St, (479) 443-3637 One of America’s classics specializing in beautiful, tender tantalizingly delicious steaks, homemade tamales and chili. These steaks are truly melt-in-your-mouth. Get the famous porterhouse. You will become a regular!

. Herman’s Ribhouse 2901 N College Ave

Herman’s Ribhouse has been in business since time began. Well no, actually it was only since 1964 when Herman Tuck first opened the doors. This famous barbecue restaurant serves finger lickin’ barbecue that you’re likely to dream about. The tender, fall-of-the-bone ribs will stack up against any in the world, and that’s for sure.

38 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 14 ICONIC RESTAURANT TOP 10 TOPIC IN NWA IN NWA . Hugo’s 25 1/2 N Block Ave North Block Ave, (479) 521-7585

SPRINGDALE

. A Q Chicken House

Hugo’s, located right off the square and down a flight of stairs is known far and wide as “the” burger joint in Northwest Arkansas. The award-winning burgers really are something to brag about, and don’t get me started on those homemade fries and grasshopper crepes.

1207 N Thompson St, (479) 751-4633

ROGERS

. Neal’s Cafe

. Monte Ne Inn Chicken 13843 AR-94, (479) 636-5511 If you haven’t been to Monte Ne Inn Chicken, you must visit soon to taste the scrumptious bean soup, fresh panfried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, green beans, coleslaw and homemade bread. This is all you can eat deliciousness served family style. Monte Ne Inn has been in operation for 46 years, and it is still going strong.

. Susie Q Malt Shop

612 N 2nd St, (479) 631-6258 An area favorite that has been serving the Northwest Arkansas population for generations. It features delicious, juicy burgers, fries, milkshakes, malts, banana splits, sundaes and much more. You order at a walk up window, and then wait until your number is called. There’s an awning to shade your car while you wait too. Its right on the way to the lake and a good place to stop by on your way to and from the lake. The cheeseburgers just can’t be beat.

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Barnette’s Daryiette

111 W Tulsa St, (479) 524-3211 This cute burger, hotdog, ice cream, malt shop is still going strong after being in business since 1957. Generations have grown up eating and making memories at Barnette’s. If you get a chance to stop in a Barnette’s, you’re sure to have a real treat from the moment you walk through the door.

Long-standing chicken house serving a variety of chicken dishes including, baked and their famous boneless panfried dish. In business, serving the people of NWA since 1947, this chicken house serves us some of the best fingerlickin’ delicious chicken you’ll get anywhere on the planet. 806 N Thompson St, (479) 751-9996 In business since forever and famous for fantastic panfried chicken, huge homemade pies and happy efficient service, Neal’s is a mainstay for the people of Northwest Arkansas. You can buy the pies by the slice or order a whole pie ahead for a family gathering or holiday.

. Patrick’s Burgers

3976 Elm Springs Rd, (479) 751-9245 Patrick’s is the home of the old fashion burger, and man oh man do they ever taste delicious, and they are still affordable too. Started in 1971, one family through four generations continue to work Patrick’s. The people of NWA are fortunate to have this long-standing burger eatery. Stop by soon, it you’re not already a reglar, to see what all the fuss is about.

. Susan’s Restaurant

1440 W Sunset Ave,(479) 751-1445 Old-time atmosphere, this long-standing independent makes you feel welcome from the get-go. Southernstyle cooking including classic breakfast dishes like mouthwatering biscuits and gravy, and lunch standards like chicken fried steak and beef liver and onions. They close at 2:00 PM, do get there early for lunch.

TONTITOWN

. Venesian Inn

582 W Henri De Tonti Blvd,(479) 361-2562 A Tontitown tradition since 1947, Venesian Inn has been and still is a favorite authentic Italian food dining destination for several generations. With more than 70 years of operation, and countless numbers of customers, Venesian Inn has earned its spot among the iconic restaurants of Northwest Arkansas. The chicken and spaghetti dish is, perhaps, the number one ordered entree. NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 39


TOP 10 LATE NIGHT ESTABLISHMENTS IN NWA Just a few years ago, late night dining would have been very limited in Northwest Arkansas, but today, restaurants that cater to the late night crowd are plentiful. In fact, wherever you are in the northwest corner of the state, you will have easy access to late night restaurants and bars. In this Top 10 list, you’ll find a late night eatery near you:

BENTONVILLE

. The Hive $

200 NE A St, (479) 286-6575 Located inside the beautiful 21c Boutique Hotel, The Hive offers late night dining surrounded by spectacular art. Chef Matthew McClure, an award winning chef, is in command of the kitchen and the food is totally amazing. Try the fried chicken, it may be the best in the country. Open until 12:00 am.

. Pedaler’s Pub

$

410 SW A St, (479) 268-3285 Has delicious brick oven pizza, burgers and sandwiches, local craft beer, wine and mixed drinks. Casual, friendly atmosphere with top notch service, make this a favorite late night pick. Open until 11:00 pm.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Pied Piper Pub & Inn $ 82 Armstrong St, (479) 363-9976 The Pied Piper is a bar and grill, late night restaurant and nightclub featuring excellent food, great drinks, friendly service and live music. Try the fish and chips with housemade tartar sauce. Open until 12:00 am.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Con Quesos

2016 M.L.K. Jr Blvd #8, (479) 249-8495 Open on Fri and Sat nights until 12:00 AM, this fusiontaco restaurant serves exciting flavors including perfectly seasoned cheese dips and killer tacos. Service is both friendly and efficient, and the portion size is filling.

. Farrell’s Lounge, Bar and Grill $

311 W Dickson St Ste 101, Fayetteville, AR Farrell’s Lounge, Bar and Grill, GastroPub and Sports Bar is open late every day of the week including Sunday’s. From wild Alaskan Salmon to mouthwatering cheeseburgers, Farrell’s chefdriven kitchen turns out excellent perfectly cooked food. Open until 1:00 am.

photo courtesy of Pedaler’s Pub

40 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 LATE NIGHT ESTABLISHMENTS IN NWA . Frickin Chicken

ROGERS

$

372 W Dickson St Frickin Chicken is a food truck serving some of the best fried chicken on the bone you will ever taste. From the first bite you take, this chicken will knock your socks off. Stop in on your way home from a fun time down on Dickson Street. Open until 3:00 am.

. Prelude $

509 W Spring St., (479) 435-6435 Open from 9:00 pm - 3:00 am Thurs, Fri & Sat, Prelude’s got you covered for late night dining. Serving the same great breakfast fare available all week long, Prelude may be just the spot to dine after an evening of fun on the town.

. Theos $

2203 S Promenade Blvd, (479) 246-0296 You won’t believe what is possible now for late night dining and drinks in NWA until you stop in at Houlihan’s in Rogers. Please Mary! This place has it going on! Some of the tastiest ‘Shrooms and exciting, bold dinner flavors coupled with smooth, refreshing cocktails and local craft beers are served up at this small chain. New management has a refreshing, welcoming philosophy, and is eagerly anticipating reconnecting with Northwest Arkansas residents, newcomers and visitors. If you haven’t checked them out lately, do so at the very next opportunity. You’ll be so glad you did.

HONORABLE MENTION

318 N Campbell Ave Known for excellent food including delicious appetizers, and fantastic mixed drinks whipped up by highly skilled bartenders. Wait staff is knowledgeable, friendly and attentive. Patio is inviting, laid back and casual. Theo’s is also a top choice for a late night romantic dinner. Open until 1:00 am.

. Wicked Wood Fired Pizza $ 372 W Dickson St

Expect fast, fresh and scrumptious late night wood fired pizza from this Dickson Street food truck. Patrons love this little food truck. Open until 3:00 am.

• Furnished 1 & 2 Bedroom Condo’s • Nightly, Weekly & Monthly Rates • Full Service Management

. Houlihan’s

. Hapa’s Hawaiian Bar & Grill $ 105 S 3rd St, (479) 633-8213

Looking for a late night spot that offers a fun atmosphere, cold brews and creative cocktails, excellent food and live music? Hapa’s in downtown Rogers is just the place you’re looking for. This Hawaiian Grill and Tiki bar has Hawaiian comfort foot and Tiki-style drinks. It’s open til 12:00 am.

. JJ’s Grill $

1271 N Steamboat Dr, Fayetteville, AR, (479) 443-0700 Open from 11:00 am - 2:00 am Monday - Saturday, JJ’s offers a varied, made-from-scratch menu including killer burgers and sandwiches. Live music is provided free of charge, and JJ’s is a good choice for kicking back and having fun with family and friends.

Clubhouse Rental for Events - 2,000 sq. ft. - 52 Max Occupancy - Kitchen, Tables & Chairs

(479) 855-9267 • 1 Watkins Way • Bella Vista, AR 72715

The Greens II Resort at Bella Vista Village NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 41


TOP 10 MEXICAN RESTAURANTS IN NWA Mexican restaurants are plentiful in Northwest Arkansas. Most of us need a Mexican food fix once a week at least, but there are some who could eat it every day of the week. To feed this hungry crowd, literally every city has more than one restaurant to choose from. If you enjoy flavorful, authentic Mexican food, you’re in luck, there’s bound to be one near you on the Top 10 list below:

BENTONVILLE

. Azul Tequila Mexican Cuisine

$$

1000 SE Walton Blvd #22, 479) 876-8788 Touted as some of the best Mexican food in NWA especially the enchiladas mole. Azul’s also has a large variety of top-notch tequilas on hand to make their famous and fabulous drinks. The food is delicious, the service is friendly and impeccable and their bar is amazing. Catering and parties are welcome, and there is an outdoor seating area.

. Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico $

801 SE 8th Street Suite 41, (479) 657-6954 Beautiful restaurant with a large open kitchen, fun ambience and terrific service. Food is authentic Mexican street fare and so delicious. Rios family is committed to farm-to-table fresh. Staff is friendly and goes the extra mile to ensure that your experience with them is first rate. The homemade tortillas, the Grilled Burritos, the Steak Milanessa, just everything is simply sumptuous. Go there tonight!

CENTERTON

. Rincon Garibaldi $ 401 W Centerton Blvd, (479) 224-4623 This hidden gem in Centerton offers freshly made, delicious, authentic Mexican food. The owners are eager to please, and are present on the floor to ensure your experience with them is a great one. Staff is welcoming and quick to attend to your needs. Try them once, and you’ll be back.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Aquarius Taqueria

$$

91 South Main, (479) 253-6888 This amazing taqueria serves uniquely flavored food and fabulous margaritas in a friendly atmosphere. All tortillas are made fresh with each order and are scrumptious, tacos are perfect and so are the carnitas. Try the blue corn tortillas, you’ll be hooked. The entire food menu is gluten free.

42 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 MEXICAN RESTAURANTS TOP 10 TOPIC IN NWA IN NWA FAYETTEVILLE

. La Media Luna $$ 2135 Main Dr, (479) 316-8008 Delicious, authentic Mexican food is served at La Media Luna. Beautiful presentations, friendly service and and excellent menu selection including dishes that are beyond the typical Mexican restaurant offerings. If you are looking for authentic Mexican flavors, you will find it here.

. Mr Taco Loco $

1701 S School Ave, (479) 249-9462 Offering fresh, authentic Mexican food including delicious tacos, enchiladas, beer, killer margaritas and much more. Place is upbeat, clean and friendly from the moment you walk through the doors. Don’t miss these tasty tacos.

. Sabor Guacamole

1120 N Lindell Ave, (479) 316-8383 Home of delicious homemade Mexican food platters and some of the very best gaucamole you’ll ever eat anywhere, Sabor Guacamole has a super friendly patio, and is the place to go for beer and margaritas under $5.

ROGERS La Popular NWA $ 400 S 8th St, (479) 899-6929 Featuring a variety of Mexican baked goods, scrumptious tamales, and corn or flour tortillas, La Popular NWA. If you are a stickler for authentic Mexican food, this is your place. The tamales are so very good.

dine at Don Pedro’s. Of course, try the Carnitas Tacos, which are heavenly, but also give the delicious tortas and the soups a try. Terrific place to take the entire family!

. Taqueria Guanajuato

(tacos) $

103 N Thompson St, (479) 750-1949 Excellent tortas, tacos and other authentic Mexican food. Enjoys a wonderful reputation. Carnitas, asada and corn tortillas are exceptional, as are the burritos. For those of you with big appetites, the portion size will definitely satisfy you. The meat quality rocks, and the quesadillas are also tasty and filling. Everything is delish according to their loyal patrons.

HONORABLE MENTION

. El Burrito Loco

$

2155 W 6th St, Fayetteville, AR (479) 527-9577

SPRINGDALE

. Don Pedro $

300 W Sunset Ave, (479) 361-8686 This is authentic Mexican food regardless of which menu item you choose. Don Pedro’s buys their pigs whole and cuts them on the premises, so you can be assured that you are getting the freshest carnitas in the region when you

Burrito Loco specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine including tasty burritos and grilled tortas. Chicken and beef are grilled outside these days.

. Las Fajitas Grill On Airport BLVD

2003 SW Regional Airport Blvd, Bentonville, AR,(479) 657-2594 Characterized by great service, delicious food, amazing margaritas and a karaoke fun. Las As you can plainly see, Fajitas Grill On Airport Blvd has everything you might want in an authentic Mexican food spot. Visit soon to see what all the hoopla is about.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 43


TOP NEW RESTAURANTS IN NWA Every quarter there are a spate of new restaurant openings. For this reason, it is difficult to keep up with all the new openings even though many of them are excellent. One of the challenges of new restaurants is that it is often hard to maintain high quality food and service long enough for diners to realize that they are open for business. If you are a aware of a new business in your area, why not broaden your horizons and give it a try? Your patronage may be just what it needs to stay in business. Below are the Top 10 new restaurants in NWA:

BENTONVILLE

. Indian Dhaba @NWA 801 SE 8t St, (479) 224-8264 An amazing little Dhaba (roadside food stall) dishing up delicious, authentic Indian flavors in Bentonville’s 8th Street Market. This is Indian food at its best, and the convenience can’t be beat. Drop by today for some Mater Paneer, Pava Lab Sliders, Vada pav and Daal.

. Crackerjack Gastro Lab

404 SW Regional Airport Blvd, (479) 366-0111 Serving yummy food including gourmet popcorn like Sriracha, Ranch & Dill Pickle, delicious sandwiches with names like Beefcake (meatloaf) and Redneck Bait (salted pork and chicken liver pate) fresh salads and a Rigatoni Pasta full of various cheeses, this food truck will satisfy your hunger pangs while making your taste buds stand up and pay attention. Prices are right and portions are ample. Stop by this happy place soon, you’ll be glad you did.

. Louise at Thaden Field

2205 SW I Street, Ste 100, (479) 250-0477 Located in the field house at Thaden Field. Louise is a great concept with a wonderful atmosphere and amazing view. Watch the planes take off and land while you are dining. Restaurant is open Tues - Sat from 8:00 am - 9:00 pm and Sundays from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. Serves all day and features diner style cuisine for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Hopping John’s Bistro 3290 N Lee Ave, (479) 313-6972 Fine dining establishment serving amazing appetizers, salads, steak burgers, chicken & waffles, steaks, seafood, pasta and desserts. Great place for a family celebration or for a date night outing. Staff is friendly and keen to ensure that your experience with them is wonderful in every way. Try the pork chop, you won’t be disappointed.

photo courtesy of Local Lime

44 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP NEW TOPRESTAURANTS 10 TOPIC IN NWA IN NWA . Sauced 540 West Dickson St, (479) 249-6042 Owned by the same professional people that own the delightful Grotto in Eureka Springs, Sauced is a new BBQ spot which shows great promise. BBQ classics like ribs, pulled pork and brisket with handmade sauces including an incredible rub and a chipotle mustard sauce are on the menu. This is one new restaurant you don’t want to miss even if you’ve never been fond of barbecue.

ROGERS

. Local Lime 2103 S Promenade Blvd, Ste 10100, (479) 903-7300 Delicious dishes are inspired by Mexican street fare and are crafted from scratch using original recipes. Ingredients are fresh and procured locally if possible. Drinks are hand crafted from premium tequilas, liquors and fresh-squeezed juices. Margaritas are to-die-for as is The Prickly Strawberry Mai Thai. Chips and queso are addictive, and the house-made flour tortillas are simple delicious. If you haven’t already, head on over to Local Lime this evening for a dining treat you won’t soon forget.

. Sharky’s Modern Mexican Kitchen

3000 S Pinnacle Hills Parkway, (479) 319-4111 Who doesn’t love Mexican food? While there are many Mexican restaurants in the area, Sharky’s ranks high on the list of top Mexican restaurants for a number of reasons including its commitment to using organic and all natural ingredients including wild caught salmon, all natural chicken and beef and organic greens, beans tofu, yams and quinoa. You can literally taste the difference. Give Sharky’s a try soon.

. That Salad Place

1120 S 8th St. (479) 366-2244 This is a healthy option for either lunch or dinner. Homemade soups, fresh, crisp salads, house-made bread-

sticks, sandwiches, cookies and an awesome salad bar await you at That Salad Place. You may dine in or carry out, either way you can expect friendly, expert, timely service. If you’ve been craving a great salad or some tasty homemade soup, check out That Salad Place for yourself.

SPRINGDALE

. Bites and Bowls 1602 E Robinson Ave suite e, (479) 799-5907 A new breakfast and lunch spot featuring delish and unique waffles (savory & sweet), yogurt, smoothies, sandwiches, healthy fresh salads and more. Staff is knowledgeable, efficient and friendly. If your kids have never had waffle pops, you must take them to Bites and Bowls. They will be begging you to return again and again.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 45


TOP 10 ROGERS BURGERS RESTAURANTS IN NWA While great burgers in Rogers Ar are not difficult to find, it sure helps to have a list, at hand, that has them all lined up for you. From tasty, traditional juicy burgers to gourmet delights to just-off-the grill sizzling sensations, Rogers has a perfect mix of burger restaurants to satisfy even those with the most discriminating burger palate:

. Big Orange Rogers AR $$ 2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100, (479) 202-5339 For a great big, old fashioned traditional burger, you can’t beat the ones coming out of the kitchen at Big Orange. The buns, from Dempsey bakery, are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the burgers are so fresh and flavorful, you’ll be hard pressed to find a burger anywhere that begins to be compared. Gluten Free is also available. The service is friendly and the management is out on the floor making sure everything is to your liking.

. Big Sexy Food $

623 W Walnut, (479) 222-1675 City Pump Food Truck Court If it’s outrageous burger creations you’re craving, stop in at Big Sexy Food, a delightful food truck, and let Brent Hale, owner and chef, create one of his amazing inspired burgers for you. He offers a huge selection of burgers, each boasting unique flavors to excite your taste buds, and to happily satisfy your appetites. This may be just a food truck, but I’m betting you’ve never tasted more dazzling burgers. Try just one bite from one burger, and I’m fairly certain you’ll be back for again and again.

. Grub’s Bar & Grille

3001 S Market St, (479) 268-4810 Popular for awesome food and drinks and TVs everywhere you look for watching the famous Arkansas Razorbacks play and for watching other sporting events. Grubs has a ½ lb fresh, never frozen burger that is both filling and delicious, and there are about ten different types of burgers to choose from. These award=winning burgers are among the best you’ll find anywhere. Great place to hang out with the gang or take the family for a meal.

. JJ’s Grill $

4500 W Walnut St, (479) 372-4460 JJ’s Grill puts out a great, and I do mean great hot-off-thegrill, pub grub burgers. From the aroma to the very last bite, these burgers are nothing short of delicious. If you like live music, and places with a good vibe, take your family, your friends and yourself to JJ’s in Rogers. photo courtesy of Parkside Public Rogers

photo courtesy of

46 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 ROGERS BURGERS RESTAURANTS IN NWA . Levi’s Gastrolounge & Low Bar 224 S 2nd St, (479) 372-6640 A downstairs offbeat eatery and bar, offering a lively atmosphere, prompt and friendly service, and excellent food including build your own gourmet burgers. These are fresh steak burgers, made from in house butchered short ribs, ribeye, filet and chuck. Delicious doesn’t begin to describe these burgers, they are juicy, tender and full of flavor. Stop by soon to sample what we’re talking about.

. ParkSide Public Rogers $$ 112 S 1st St, (479) 636-7275

With 15 different burgers on the menu including a GF and peanut butter creation, ParkSide Public is “the” place to grab a burger in beautiful downtown Rogers. Local Microbrews are cold and on tap, the service is quick, friendly and efficient and the atmosphere is rustic-chic. Great place to sample some local brews, have an awesome burger and chili fries and hang out.

. Smitty’s Garage Rogers

$$

4200 S 48th St #50, (479) 899-6901 Are you a picky burger eater? Smitty’s Garage has at least 17 different burger creations to choose from, or you may also have the option of building your own. Protein offered is beef, bison, turkey or vegan Fun, affordable, friendly, great tasting burgers! Who could ask for more? If you haven’t given them a try, order the bacon avocado ranch burger and the truffle fries to get those taste buds jumping.

. Red Robin

. Sam’s Old Tyme Hamburgers 233 E Locust, (479) 986-9191 Serving killer freshly ground burgers, just-cut fries and malts reminiscent of days gone by, Sam’s is a favorite of locals, and those one their way to the lake and back. There’s close to a dozen types of burgers to choose from, so there’s a burger that’s just right for each member of your family. Or group. Service is friendly and attentive, and it’s easy to see why the spot is so popular.

. Houlihans

4300 Walnut St, (479) 936-9797

2203 S Promenade Blvd, (479) 246-0296

A family friendly chain restaurant featuring a wide array of tasty traditional and gourmet burgers and unlimited fries. Appetizers, wraps, other fun on a bun, soups, salads, entrees, kid’s menu, desserts and a good assortment of cocktails & brews are also served. Service is friendly and efficient, portions are just right, and it’s a great spot to take the family.

Casual chain restaurant with a varied menu including a nice selection of burgers that are taste treat delights. The Kansas City Burger with brown sugar bacon, BBQ carnitas, onion straws, cheddar and BBQ sauce is nothing short of scrumptious. There’s also a full bar where the mixologists create drinks that are both works of art and yummy. Service is prompt and attentive and the ambiance is welcoming. Great place to hang out with business associates and friends, and it’s also a good place to bring the family.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 47


TOP 10 ROGERS RESTAURANTS Rogers has no shortage of fantastic restaurants to choose from. Italian, Seafood, Pizza, Fine Dining, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, Tex-Mex, Burger and much, much more are represented among them. Whether entertaining out-of-town guests, taking the family out, hanging out with friends or enjoying a date night, you’ll find just the restaurant you’re looking for on this Top 10 list:

. Bonefish Grill $$ 3201 S Market St, (479) 273-0916 Enjoy great tasting seafood cooked to perfection when you choose to dine at Bonefish Grill in Rogers. Amazing food is not all Bonefish has to crow about, the bar is manned by experienced mixologists capable of producing unique thirst quenching flavors just for your drinking pleasure.

. Catfish John’s $$

601 W Hudson Rd, (479) 631-6908 Catfish John’s specializes in Southern-fried catfish and hushpuppies. The fish comes out piping hot and the hushpuppies are tasty and cooked to perfection - crispy on the outside, but done in the middle. Consistency is key in the restaurant business, and at this catfish house, you can count on great food whenever you choose to visit.

. Crabby’s $$

1800 S 52nd St, (479) 273-0222 An upscale fresh seafood and steak restaurant with an amazing bar. Staff is friendly and efficient and knowledgeable regarding the menus. Has a romantic ambiance that is perfect for commemorating an anniversary or for a date night or for any special occasion.

. Havana Tropical Grill Restaurant $$ 201 N Second St, (479) 899-6334

Ever been to Havana? This restaurant is the closest bit of Havana you’ll find this side of Florida. The Cuban food is awesome and authentic down to the smallest detail, and the bar creations, especially their famous mojitos, are both colorful and tasty . At the Havana, you can also enjoy Latin music and dancing. A can’t miss spot in Rogers.

. Levi’s Gastrolounge $$

224 S 2nd St, (479) 372-6640 For a unique dining experience in a fun atmosphere, visit Levi’s in the basement of the Poplar Plaza Building in downtown Rogers. Treat yourself and your friends to gourmet bar food, beverages from the full service bar, live music and TV’s.

48 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 ROGERS RESTAURANTS . Mister B’s $$$

. Ruth Chris $$$

1043 W Walnut St, (479) 636-3122

3529 S Pinnacle Hills Pkwy, (479) 633-8331

The home of consistently perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood, Mister B’s is a fine dining destination extraordinaire. Dine in a cozy, romantic atmosphere where all steaks are cooked to order. Have a glass of wine from Mister B’s extensive wine list while you wait the extra few minutes it takes to cook your steak just the way you like it. Excellent restaurant for a special occasion or date night.

Widely known as a premier steakhouse, Ruth Chris serves sizzling butter-topped steaks in an upscale setting. Great for a romantic, intimate dinner for two or for special celebrations. Delicious, mouthwatering steaks and excellent service are the rule at this upmarket restaurant.

. Monte Ne Inn Chicken $$

13843 AR-94, (479) 636-5511 A legendary restaurant with just one menu served family style, but don’t let the limited menu put you off, this is some of the best eating you will ever put in your mouth. Menu includes Southern-fried chicken, bean soup starter, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, cole slaw, homemade rolls and apple butter, and then, if you have room, and for an extra charge, decadent desserts like homemade cobblers and scrumptious pies.

. Capriccio Ristorante

5001 W Pauline Whitaker Pkwy, (479) 633-8954 At Capriccio Ristorante, you’re in for a delightful dining experience, featuring delicious, authentic Italian flavors from start to finish. Everything is fresh and freshly made, and even the bread is baked in house. From appetizers like Caponta, Capriccio Caprese and Fritto Misto to soup including a lobster bisque, to salads including an Arugula and Cesar, to amazing main dishes including, pasta, seafood, fish, veal and steak, you won’t want for lack of choice. This is Italian cuisine at its very best, and it’s right here in Northwest Arkansas. If you haven’t been yet, make it a point to go soon. Great place to take guests or the family.

. Saiwok Vietnamese Street Food $$ 2882 W Walnut St, (479) 202-5961

If you enjoy Vietnamese food, you will love Saiwok where you are treated as though you were the most important person in the world. The food is beyond exceptional, it may well be the best Vietnamese food in the country. Try the divine Vietnamese egg rolls and at least one of the Pho’s.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Big Orange: Rogers

2203 S Promenade Blvd, (479) 202-5339 Your talking big, juicy burgers, crispy hand-cut fries, hand-crafted cocktails, ice cold beer and hand-whipped when you talk about Big Orange. Diners ooh and ahh when the food comes out. Everything looks spectacular and fortunately it tastes as good as it looks. You’ll love Big Orange.

. Bocca Italian Eatery & Pizzeria $$$

2011 S. Promenade Blvd. Ste. 440, (479) 899-6646 Bocca is a popular Italian eatery featuring its famous woodfired pizzas, housemade pastas, sauces, breads and fresh salads. Its full service bar talent can whip up any cocktail your heart desires, and the wine and local brews list is ample. .Service is both friendly and impeccable, and the atmosphere is fun and relaxing. Your out-of-town guests will love Bocca.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 49


TOP 10 SPRINGDALE RESTAURANTS Springdale does have a good variety of restaurants including many Tex-Mex, Mexican, Italian, Chicken, Breakfast, Burgers, Pizza and others. This Top 10 list contains the best restaurants in Springdale:

. AQ Chicken $$ 1207 N Thompson St, (479) 751-4633 A long-standing Springdale restaurant, AQ Chicken is famous for its mouthwatering pan fried chicken. If you love chicken cooked Southern-style, you’ll love AQ.

. Fratelli’s Italian Grill

1008 W Sunset Ave, (479) 347-7562 Craving authentic Italian food, and not just the run of the mill old stand bys? You owe it to yourself and your family to visit Fratelli’s just as soon as you can. The fresh rolls with marinara dipping sauce are outof-this-world, the Chicken Picatta is to-die-for, the salad comes out cold, crisp and clean, just as it is meant to be served and the staff is both friendly and professional. You’ll love this place.

. JoJo’s Kitchen $

909 S Pleasant, (479) 419-4041 If delicious food and friendly, efficient service are things you look for in a restaurant, you will love JoJo’s kitchen where you’ll find scrumptious, unique flavors including shark tacos, to-die-for sweet potato fries, awesome burgers, jalapeno hush puppies and great specials. Open Tues - Sat 9:00 AM 7:00 PM, stop by soon.

. MJ Pizzeria $

838 N 48th St, Ste 1, (479) 717-6836 With Chef Miles James at the helm, it’s easy to see why MJ Pizzeria has fast become a favorite woodfired pizza destination in Northwest Arkansas. Far from ordinary, the pies are bursting with flavor throughout every mouth full. Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced whenever possible. Famous for their delicious hand-crafted cocktails, craft beer menu, impressive wine selection and housemade desserts, this is the place to go for any friendly gathering or celebration. Staff is friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. Atmosphere has a lively vibe too!

photo courtesy of Natural State Sandwiches

50 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 SPRINGDALE RESTAURANTS . Natural State Sandwiches $

. Taqueria Guanajuato $

107 E Emma Ave, Springdale, AR, (479) 225-1103

103 N Thompson St, (479) 750-194

Oh my! Are you ever in for a treat when you visit Natural State Sandwiches on E Emma. The owners/chef knows exactly how to blend flavors to create a mouthwatering sandwich that will give your taste buds a deliciously different sensation. When you’ve once had a Natural State Sandwich, it will be the standard by which you judge every other sandwich you eat.

A small roadside hole-in-the-wall serving excellent Mexican food including tacos, tortas, tamales, quesadillas, burritos and house specials. Service is friendly, quick and efficient, and prices are surprisingly inexpensive for the ample portions served.

. Neal’s Cafe $

806 N Thompson St, (479) 751-9996 Known far and wide for its wonderful home cooking and mouthwatering homemade pies and other desserts, Neal’s captures the down home cooking feel to a tee. Try the Chicken Fried Steak. It is so tender you can cut it with a fork.

. Patricks $

3976 Elm Springs Rd, (479) 751-9245 A Springdale burger eatery, Patrick’s is home to the Old Fashion Hamburger, soft ice cream treats, homemade fried pies, reasonable prices and great friendly service. Patrick’s is a welcome departure from fast food chain fare.

. Punjabi Kitchen $$

2576 W Sunset Ave #C, (479) 717-6500 A casual Indian/Pakistani restaurant featuring vegan, vegetarian and traditional Indian Curry dishes made with the freshest of ingredients including an array of flavorful spices. Known for its excellent, Punjabi food, patrons make it a regular weekly stop.

. Susan’s $

1440 W Sunset Ave, (479) 751-1445 Susan’s is another longtime Springdale restaurant serving Southern-

. Venesian Inn $$ 582 W Henri De Tonti Blvd, (479) 361-2562 Serving homemade Italian food for more than 60 years, the Venesian Inn serves delicious spaghetti, chicken alfredo, lasagna, fettuccine, steaks and much more. Try the melt-in-your-mouth homemade rolls for a taste treat delight.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Las Margaritas

2313 W Sunset, (479) 756-1088 Serves fresh traditional homemade Mexican food along with delicious Margaritas and cold beer. Wait staff is both friendly and efficient, making sure your meal moves along at an even pace. Restaurant is clean with ample seating. Try one of the tasty fruit-flavored monster margaritas.

. Marketplace Grill $$

1636 S 48th St, (479) 750-5200 A family style restaurant featuring typical American food including soups, steaks, seafood, salads (large selection), baked potatoes, sandwiches and burgers. Pizza, tacos and pasta are also served. Everything on the menu is fresh and freshly made. Great place to take the family.

style food and lots of it. Bring your appetite and leave satisfied whether you’re there for breakfast or lunch. Susan’s serves great omelets that are jam packed with delicious fresh ingredients, and burgers, lunch specials, and sandwiches that are prepared just right.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 51


TOP 10 SPORTS BARS IN NWA There are several elements to a good sports bar, they should have a good number of TVs situated strategically around the bar se that sporting events can be enjoyed

BENTONVILLE

. Beef ‘O’ Brady’s $$ 2500 SW 14th St, (479) 268-4545 Beef’s is a chain, family-friendly sports bar/restaurant that offers good food including their pizzas, flatbreads, burgers and more. It also has drinks to satisfy anyone’s preference, plenty of TVs, friendly and knowledgeable wait staff, menu to go, and catering. This is a great place to meet to watch the game with friends or to take the family after the game.

while customers are hanging out

FAYETTEVILLE

with friends, eating bar grub or

1815 N Green Acres Rd, (479) 527-9464

drinking cold, cold, cold local craft brews. Additionally, the service should be fast, courteous and

. Foghorns $$

Enjoy great atmosphere, beer, killer wings, music, and a cordial staff at Foghorns in Fayetteville. TVs are everywhere; you’ll be sure to catch your game or event here. Open mic is on Wednesday nights. 50 different sauces for the wings. Very popular spot.

. Smitty’s Garage Burgers and Beer $$ 100 E Joyce Blvd, (479) 301-2046

unpleasant experience of having to

For drinks, beer, fabulous burgers (try the Big G and the Sticky Finger), really good fries, fish tacos, and a terrific game day atmosphere, you can’t go wrong when you choose Smitty’s. If beef is not your thing, Smitty’s has several other kinds of proteins you can choose from for your burger. Great place to kick back, relax and watch the game with friends.

flag down a server either for refills

311 W Dickson St #101, (479) 301-2220

attentive. No one enjoys the

or the check. The Top 10 sports bar we’ve listed have all the elements necessary for a great sports bar:

52 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

. Farrell’s Lounge Bar & Grill $$

This is an upscale sports bar and gastropub featuring 20 TVs, chef driven food, and full bar with more than 35 beers on tap. Farrell’s provides the perfect setting to have fun with friends.

. On the MARK Sports Bar & Grill $$ 2588 N Gregg Ave, (479) 575-0123

With 55 TVs, this sports bar and grill pretty much has all the sporting events covered regardless of which game or other sporting event you are interested in. There is a full bar with great daily specials and a terrific happy hour. The food menu is typical sports bar fare including delicious burgers and fries. With pool tables and darts, this is a great place to take in a game with friends. Be sure to check out the golf simulator. You’ll have a good time here .


TOP 10 SPORTS BARS IN NWA ROGERS

. Growler USA - Rogers $$ 4204 S JB Hunt Dr #40, (479) 633-8233 Has a great selection of craft beer on tap including both local and regional varieties. This cool concept is a terrific way to sample from around 90 micro-brews and find your new favorite.

. JJ’s Bar and Grill $$

4500 W Walnut St #3, (479) 372-4460 JJ’s features a full menu including burgers, fries, sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, tacos and complete meals and desserts. Cold craft beers, well-mixed cocktails and top notch bartenders characterize the bar. Local bands get a chance to play during Friday and Saturday nights, and there’s a terrific patio too.

. Levi’s Gastrolounge & Low Bar 224 S 2nd St, (479) 372-6640

friendly and efficient service and a killer atmosphere? That’s exactly what you get when you take your business to Levi’s. The burgers are nothing short of amazing!

. Twin Peaks $$

2400 Promenade Blvd Twin Peaks has the ultimate sports lodge atmosphere plus it has an amazing wait-staff composed of attractive women and delicious food and cold, cold beer to boot. Great place to relax with friends and co-workers after work, and it’s a super place for traveling salespeople to meet new friends.

SPRINGDALE

. Buffalo Wild Wings $$ 6938 W Sunset Ave, (479) 419-5374 It is a well-known chain featuring many TVs, cold beer, awesome wings and other food, and a great place to gather with friends to watch the Hogs play. Try the Mango Habanero Wings.

What about a sports bar with plenty of TVs for watching your favorite games, but that also has primo food and both

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 53


TOP 10 THAI RESTAURANTS IN NWA Thai food is now well integrated into the cuisine fabric of Northwest Arkansas. The delectable food is best known around the world for Tom Yum Goong (delicious spicy soup with shrimp), but here in Northwest Arkansas Thai Fried Rice, various curries and Spring Rolls. The Thai restaurants on the Top 10 list all serve outstanding Thai cuisine:

BENTONVILLE

. Thai Basil $$

3301 S Walton Blvd, (479) 273-3955 Everything on the menu is made to order from only fresh ingredients. Thai Basil enjoys rave reviews from its patrons. Kids eat free during dinner all week long, and they also honor birthdays, graduations and anniversaries. Try the, todie-for, spring rolls.

. Thai Cuisine $$

1100 SE 14th St, Suite #8, (479) 544-9220 Characterized by fresh, delicious Thai food, friendly and engaged service and cleanliness throughout. Everything is amazing and literally bursting with complex flavors including the spring rolls, egg rolls, Pad Thai, Pad King and Masaman Curry. Thai lovers will not be disappointed when they choose to dine at Thai Cuisine.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Thai House Restaurant $$ 2059 E Van Buren, (479) 363-6632 Serves consistently excellent food, and the entire staff is friendly and efficient. Many customers drive quite a distance just to get their favorite dish from this popular Thai restaurant. Try the Pad Thai Noodle Soup, you’ll be glad you did.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Original A Taste of Thai $$ 31 E Center St Suite 100, (479) 251-1800 This restaurant has some of the most delicious Thai food in all of Arkansas. Whether you dine in or carry out, you are assured to have a memorable meal. Keeping step with today’s demand for healthier food, they also offer vegan, gluten free and allergy friendly menu items. Try the yellow curry and the spring rolls.

54 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 THAI RESTAURANTS IN NWA . Thep Thai Restaurant $ 1525 S School Ave, (479) 443-0029 Specializes in vegetarian, vegan and Asian fusion. Patrons love, love, love the food and the friendly family staff. Thep’s offers consistent delicious food, and makes it their business to deliver only a high quality experience every single time you visit.

. Thai Wok

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Thai City

110 US-412, (479) 238-0277 Serves delicious Thai food in a relaxed atmosphere. Service is typically excellent and the prices are very reasonable. Try the original Sticky rice and the Pad Thai. After just one visit, customers become regulars.

2227 W Martin Luther King Blvd, (479) 442-3909

SPRINGDALE

Noted for delicious authentic Thai food, large portions and reasonable prices. Fans travel from miles around just to eat at this place. Try the to-die-for Crab Rangoons, amazing Red Curry and the House Fried Rice.

1210 W Sunset Ave, (479) 750-7755

LOWELL

. Thai Ginger $$ 903 N Bloomington St, (479) 202-5005 Thai Ginger offers Thai and Chinese food. Patrons love this restaurant. The food is delicious regardless of which menu item you select. The service is top notch, friendly and efficient. The food arrives on time, and is cooked to perfection. Try the Lemon Grass Chicken and the Mango Sticky Rice Dessert with Coconut Milk.

ROGERS

. Thailand Restaurant 104 N 12th St, (479) 636-2250 For Thai food at its best, visit Thailand Restaurant in Rogers. The service can be spotty, but if you have the time and patience and love excellent Thai food, this place will not disappoint you. Try the Pad Thai and the Panang Curry for delicious examples of their menu offerings.

. Pattaya Thai Sushi Regular customers are rabid fans. They love everything about this restaurant including the amazing food, the service and the friendly atmosphere. Many say it is the best Thai and Sushi restaurant in Northwest Arkansas. Try the Pork Pad Thai and the delicious spring rolls.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Thai e-san Restaurant $

2334 N College Ave, Fayetteville, (479) 587-8177 Excellent choice for Thai in Fayetteville. You get fast, friendly service, awesome food and reasonable prices when you choose Thai e-san. Try the Red Curry and the Tom Kha.

. Thai Kitchen

707 SW A St, Bentonville, (479) 464-7288 Has everything you might expect in a good Thai restaurant including 9 different curry dishes, 5 different salads, 13 appetizers, many scrumptious entrees, excellent dessert menu, drinks, wine and beer. Service is fast, friendly, efficient and well-versed about the menu. Great place to take the family, for groups and banquets or for a date night.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 55


TOP 10 SUSHI RESTAURANTS IN NWA Good Sushi is available all across Northwest Arkansas. Most Sushi restaurants have a robust takeout business where you can simply call in your order and pick it up within minutes. Below are the Top 10 Sushi establishments in Northwest ARkansas:

BENTONVILLE

FAYETTEVILLE

607 S. E. Fifth St, (479) 925-5300

3223 College Ave, (479) 301-2008

Looking for the absolute freshest sushi in NWA, look no more! Patrons of Blu have come to expect fish so fresh it tastes like it was just off the pier. Continuing to meet their customer’s expectations of bringing only the freshest of fish to NWA, the Raw Bar at Blu offers fresh, out-of-this-world sushi. The Sushi is so succulent that it will make your taste buds scream for more.

This is Authentic Korean and Japanese fine dining at its best. The food can be favorably compared to the best in Koreatown in LA. Once you eat here, you will return time after time. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and very eager to please. Try the Dolsat Bibimbap, Tuna or Fire Roll, and the Shumai.

. Blu Fresh Fish Marketplace $$

. Gold Town Sushi & Korean BBQ $$

. KJ Sushi & Korean BBQ $$

. Meiji Japanese Cuisine $$

3878 N Crossover Rd, (479) 521-5919

Excellent Korean BBQ and first-rate sushi are the staples of this incredible restaurant. Connoisseurs of truly authentic Korean BBQ and amazing sushi love this beautiful restaurant not only for its excellent food and friendly, impeccable service, but also for its consistency. Try the kimchee and the bibimbap.

Meiji specializes in authentic sushi using only the freshest of ingredients. The fish is flown in twice a week and the vegetables and herbs are sourced from local farmers. Enjoy the intimate dining room, sake lounge, bar, or patio. The menu also offers fresh oysters and tantalizing desserts. Service is friendly and efficient, and gluten free items are offered. Try the Teryaki Chicken.

1702 S Walton Blvd, (479) 254-7899

ROGERS

1100 SE 14th St, (479) 273-1000

. Kobe Sushi & Grill $$

Enjoy choosing from fifty fresh sushi recipes. Chef J. Kuma leads a team of experienced chefs who are trained in Japanese cuisine concepts. Many lunch specials are offered like the Tuna Bowl and Bento Boxes. New customers quickly become regulars due to the consistent, excellent food and the friendly, efficient service. The fish is fresh, light, and flavorful. Try the Ahi Tuna Tower.

. Sushi House $$

2501 SE 14th St #5, (479) 271-0370 Serves fresh, excellent sushi in a clean inviting atmosphere. Staff is friendly and very attentive. On-the-house samples are offered along with your regular order. Gluten and dairy free options are also available. Try the Fuji roll.

FARMINGTON

. Mandalay Asian Cuisine $$ 8 Brown St, (479) 267-9494 Experience Asian food at its best at this Farmington restaurant. The emphasis is always on fresh, delicious food at the Mandalay. Try the Orange Chicken for a scrumptious treat.

56 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

. Pattaya Thai Sushi - Rogers $$ 3600 W Walnut St, (479) 899-6222 Pattaya is a family owned and operated Thai food restaurant specializing in authentic Thai flavors and delectable Sushi. Service is friendly and efficient, and staff is happy to take the time to explain the menu.

. Wasabi $$

1023 S 8th St, (479) 636-6363 Phenomenal food, excellent friendly service, clean and pleasant atmosphere all combine to make Wasabi a top choice for sushi in NWA. People return again and again to this delightful sushi house.

SPRINGDALE

. Blue Fin $$

4276 W Sunset Ave, Ste B, (479) 717-2877 The Blue Fin Sushi Bar and Grill has a good sized menu offering taste-tempting sushi of every description. At least one person at your table should try the BBQ Roll, which is delicious beyond compare. The service is friendly and attentive, and there’s also a full bar.


TOP 8 VIETNAMESE RESTAURANTS IN NWA Vietnamese cuisine typically uses a great deal of rice prepared in many different ways including sticky, steamed, pancakes, porridge and noodles. Other staples of this tasty food are fish sauce, lemongrass, tropical fruits and fish, chicken, beef and pork. Northwest Arkansas is home to a healthy number of Vietnamese restaurants. To find one near you check out the Top 10 list below:

BENTONVILLE Miss Saigon Pho $ 310 S Walton Blvd, (479) 268-4663 What’s not to like about this delightful Vietnamese restaurant? The food is fresh, delicious, inexpensive and the people are wonderful. You’re certain to find a personal favorite at Miss Saigon Pho’s. There’s plenty of parking and an outdoor seating area.

and the food is delectable by anyone’s standards. Try the Edamame and the Urban Street Corn.

Huong Que Cafe $ 115 N Dixieland Rd #16, (479) 633-8793

Pho Thanh $$

You many dine-in or carry-out. The food is fresh, authentic homemade Vietnamese food including Pho and delicious spring rolls. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is fun. Pool tables and karaoke are provided for your enjoyment. A terrific place for a fun evening with family and friends.

206 S Walton Blvd, (479) 254-9127

Saigon Local

Not a fancy spot, but one that has top notch food all the same. In addition to the Pho (beef noodle soup), you can also get banh mi sandwiches and stir-fried dishes. Great place to take the family for a fresh, nutritious meal. Plenty of parking available.

623 W Walnut St, (479) 367-4536

FAYETTEVILLE

Probably the most popular Vietnamese dish is Pho, a delicious soup, and no one makes better Pho than the Beef Noodle version the wonderful people at Saigon Local in Rogers make. Among its other specialties, this friendly food truck at the City Pump even has a keto friendly Pho.

Typhoon Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine $

SPRINGDALE

2612 w Martin Luther King Blvd suite 2, (479) 442-2789

So Pho Real $$

This nicely located Vietnamese restaurant has a new twist on Pho (fuh), you may build your own, but there’s also a number of standard recipes on the menu. The Pho Typhoon is to-die-for as is the Banh Mi bread.

909 S Pleasant St, (479) 717-2024

ROGERS SaiWok $$ 2882 W Walnut St, (479) 202-5961 SaiWok does an awesome job of serving only the freshest of fresh food regardless of the menu items you choose. Traditional Vietnamese food is delivered with an urban flare, the atmosphere is great, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly

Terrific clean family restaurant serving incredibly delicious Vietnamese food including Pho. The Seafood Pho is so very good as are the stir fries and egg rolls, do give them a try. Also noted for their friendly service and karaoki night.

Pho And More $$ 1200 S Thompson St, (479) 717-2868 Offering tasty, fresh and hot food with a large menu selection, which includes Pho. Everyone is friendly and knowledgeable and the prices are very reasonable. Try the General Tso’s Chicken, and the Pot Stickers.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 57


TOP CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN NWA This magical time of year is celebrated in countless ways throughout all the cities of Northwest Arkansas, Historical Square lightings, parades, parties, live music and kid’s events, art and home tours, theatre, benefits, you name it, you’ll most likely see it before the Christmas season is over. Make it a point to take the family to see and participate in some of these exciting things to do.

BENTONVILLE

. EVENT: A Modern Christmas Carol at

. EVENT: Lighting of the Square

The Peel Mansion

Date: Saturday, Nov 17th

Date: Friday, Nov 30th

Time: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Bentonville Square

Location: The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens, 400 S Walton Blvd

More Information: Downtown Bentonville

. Event: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink Opens Date: Saturday, Nov 17th

More Information: Peel Mansion & Heritage Gardens

. EVENT: Frosty Flix and a Skate-A-Long:

Time: 12:00 Noon

The Polar Express

Location: Lawrence Park

Date: Saturday Nov 24th

More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation

Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

. EVENT: Lighting of the Tree at Lawrence Plaza & AFSA Ice Skating Exhibition Date: Saturday, Nov 17th Time: Approximately 6:30 ish PM Location: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation

. EVENT: The Little Craft Show Downtown Bentonville Date: Saturday, Nov 17th Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Location: Record, 104 SW A St

More Information: The Little Craft Show

. EVENT: Holiday Open House Date: Sunday, Nov 18th

Location: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink More Information: Bentonville Parks & Recreation

. EVENT: Freedom Frosty 5K Run Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 8:00 AM Location: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink

More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation

. EVENT: Frosty Flix and a Skate-A-Long:

Arthur Christmas

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Location: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation

. EVENT: A Morning with Santa Date: Saturday, Dec 8th

Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: Handworks NWA, 106 Southeast A Street, Unit 4 More Information: Handworks

Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Location: Bentonville Community Center,

1101 SW Citizens Circle

More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation 58 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN NWA . EVENT: Bentonville Christmas Parade

. EVENT: John Two Hawks Holiday Concert

Date: Saturday, Dec 8th

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st

Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Downtown Bentonville Square

Location: The Auditorium, 36 So. Main

More Information: Downtown Bentonville

. EVENT: Frosty Flix and a Skate-A-Long:

More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

Christmas Story

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st - Jan 1st

Date: Saturday, Dec 15th

Time: 6:00 PM

Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Crescent Hotel

Location: Lawrence Plaza Ice Rink

More Information:Crescent Hotel

More Information: Bentonville Parks and Recreation

. EVENT:

Christmas Tree Forest Lighting Ceremony

. EVENT: 52nd Annual Silver Tea

. EVENT: Christmas Open House 2018

Date: Thursday, Dec 6th

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st

Time: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: Crescent Hotel

Location: 400 S Walton Blvd, The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens

More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

More Information: The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens

Date: Saturday, Dec 8th

. EVENT: The 2018

Nutcracker Presented by NWA Conservatory of Classical Ballet Date: Saturday, Dec 1st and Dec 2nd Time: Saturday, Dec 1st at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, Dec 2nd at 2:00 p.m. Location: Arend Arts Center More Information: NWA Conservatory of Classical Ballet

EUREKA SPRINGS

. EVENT: Christmas Parade of Lights Date: Friday, November 30th Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Christmas Parade of Lights Location: Downtown Eureka Springs More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

. EVENT: 36TH Annual Christmas Tour of Homes Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM Location: Eureka Springs More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

. EVENT: Night of 1000 Santas Time: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Location: Basin Spring Park

More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

. EVENT: Ozarks Chorale Christmas Concert Date: Saturday, Dec 8th Time: 7:00 PM Location: The Auditorium, 32 S. Main Street More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

. EVENT: Home for the Holidays Concert Date: Saturday, Dec 22nd Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Location: The Auditorium More Information: Visit Eureka Springs

FAYETTEVILLE

. EVENT: LIGHTS OF THE OZARKS Date: Friday, Nov 16th - Saturday Dec 31st Time: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM Location: Downtown Historic Square More Information: Experience Fayetteville NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 59


TOP CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN NWA FAYETTEVILLE (CONT.)

. EVENT: Stewart Family Christmas Light Display

. EVENT: The Polar Express Date: Saturday, Dec 21st

Date: Saturday, Nov 17th

Time: 7:00 PM

Time: 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Location: Walton Arts Center

Location: 4423 wyman rd Fayetteville,AR

More Information: Walton Arts Center

More Information: Steward Family Christmas Light Display

. EVENT: The Nutcracker

ROGERS

Date: Nov 23rd, 24th, 25th

. EVENT: Holiday’s on the Bricks

Time: Check For Specific Times

Date: Friday, Nov 30th

Location: Walton Arts Center, 495 W Dickson St

Time: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

More Information: Walton Arts Center

Location: Downtown Rogers

. EVENT: The Little Craft Show Downtown Fayetteville

More Information: Go Downtown Rogers

. EVENT: Cocktail Holiday Party at the Victory

Date: Friday, Nov 30th - Dec 1st

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st

Time: 10 AM – Dec 1 at 4 PM

Time: Contact Arkansas Public Theatre

Location: Fayetteville Town Center, 15 W Mountain St,

Location: Arkansas Public Theatre

More Information: The Little Craft Show

More Information: Arkansas Public Theatre

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st

Experimental House!

Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Date:Saturday, Dec 1st

Location: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, 4703 N Crossover Rd

Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

More Information: Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

. EVENT: Central’s Christmas Block Party

More Information: Art & Soul Studios NWA

Date: Friday, Dec 14th

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st

Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Location: Central United Methodist Church, 6 W Dickson St

Location: Arkansas Public Theatre

More Information: Central United Methodist Church

. EVENT: O Night Divine Charity Ball

. Event: Jingle Bell Jog 5K & Reindeer Fun Run

. Event: The Snowman: A Family Concert Date: Sunday, Dec 16th

. EVENT:Santa’s Workshop Comes to the Rogers

Location: Experimental House, 121 West Walnut Street

. EVENT:

It’s a Wonderful Life Movie

More Information: Arkansas Public Theatre Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Time: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: Walton Arts Center, 495 W Dickson St

Location: John Q. Hammons Convention Center, 3303 Pinnacle Hills Pkwy

More Information: Walton Arts Center

More Information: Mercy Northwest Arkansas

. EVENT: SONA Presents

A Very SONA Christmas

Date: Saturday, Dec 15th Time: 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM Location: Walton Arts Center More Information: Walton Arts Center 60 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

. EVENT: Rogers Christmas Parade Date: Friday, Dec 7th Time: 7:00 PM Location: Downtown Rogers More Information: Mainstreet Rogers


TOP CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN NWA . EVENT: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

. EVENT: 2018 Christmas on the Creek

Date: Friday - Saturday, Dec 14th, 15th, 16th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd

Date: Saturday, Nov 24th

Time: Contact Arkansas Public Theatre

Location: Downtown Springdale

Location: Arkansas Public Theatre, 116 S 2nd St More Information: Arkansas Public Theatre

SILOAM SPRINGS

. EVENT: “Light Up Siloam Springs” Christmas Parade Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Location: Historic Downtown Siloam Springs More Information: Heritage League of Siloam Springs

SPRINGDALE

. EVENT: Downtown Springdale Christmas Open House Date: Saturday, Nov 17th Time: 10:00 AM- 10:00 PM Location: Downtown Springdale More Information: Springdale Chamber of Commerce

. EVENT: Charlie Brown Christmas

Date: Nov 29th, 30th and Dec 1st & 2nd Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location:Arts Center of the Ozarks More Information: Arts Center of the Ozarks

. EVENT: Christmas Parade of the Ozarks Date: Saturday, Nov 24th Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Time: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM More Information: Downtown Springdale

. EVENT: Breakfast with Santa

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Arts Center of the Ozarks More Information: Arts Center of the Ozarks

. EVENT: Children’s Christmas Train

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Location: Arkansas Missouri Railroad, 306 E Emma Ave More Information: Arkansas Missouri Railroad

. EVENT: 4th Annual Christmas Open House

Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Location: Springdale Fire Department, 417 Holcomb St More Information: Springdale Fire Department

. EVENT: Christmas for Kids Vendor Event Date: Saturday, Dec 1st Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Location:Jones Center, 922 E Emma Ave More Information: Jones Center

. EVENT: A Merry and Bright Christmas Show Date:Saturday, Dec 8th Time: 1:00 PM Location: Jones Center More Information:Ozark Figure Skating Club

. EVENT: It’s A Wonderful Life

Date: Thursday, Dec 13th, 14th, and 15th

Location: Parsons Stadium, 1423 E Emma

Time: 7:30 PM

More Information: Downtown Springdale

Location: Arts Center of the Ozarks, 214 S Main St

. EVENT: Christmas Cookie Class!

More Information: Arts Center of the Ozarks

Date: Saturday, Nov 24th

. EVENT: Free Movie Night: Polar Express

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Date: Friday, Dec 14th

Location: Hello Local, 101 East Emma

Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

More Information: Hello Local

Location: Jones Center, 922 E Emma Ave More Information: Jones Center NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 61


TOP 10 GIFT SHOPS IN NWA Have you found yourself roaming the isles of the big box giants looking for a special something for someone who is difficult to buy for? Consider one of Northwest Arkansas’s truly unique gift shops. These are places that specialize in hard-tokind or one-of-a-kind gifts. When you want to give a gift that will be remembered for a lifetime, shop the Top 10 gift shops listed:

photo courtesy of Pack Rat

62 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

BENTONVILLE

. Bleachers

110 E Central Ave, (479) 250-0296 Bleachers exemplifies the creativity of a successful small business making it happen on the Historic Square in Downtown Bentonville. They sell quality NFL, NCAA, MLB, NBA and NASCAR apparel, your favorite team souvenirs, hiking and biking information, drink gear, Tim Ernst books and so much more in a unique sporting environment. The welcoming owners are typically on the floor to answer questions, and the rest of the staff is efficient and super friendly. This is definitely a terrific place to shop for the sports minded person in your life.

. Remedy Road

114 West Central Ave, (479) 321-1316 Remedy Road is the place to shop for beautiful gifts from around the world. Shop stunning handcrafted, bags and totes, children’s clothing, jewelry, leather satchels, Prosperity candles and so much more. Buying these products helps ensure that small disadvantaged businesses from many different lands survive and thrive.

. Rush Running

1600 SE J St #2,(479) 464-7866 The obvious choice for running and walking apparel, shoes and gear in NWA, Rush Running stocks more than 50 brands including all the top ranked brands that you love. A local,


TOP 10 GIFT SHOPS IN NWA family owned store offering amazing customer service, which includes the use of Stride Analysis, a procedure that involves videoing you while you run on a treadmill. A sense of community and well being through running and walking is achieved in NWA by this company as it promotes these two individual sports.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Nelson’s Eureka Springs 34 Spring St, (479) 253-6600 The largest retail store in Eureka Springs, Nelson’s offers wallets, bags, straps, apparel, footwear, fur, cowhides, Life is Good, watches, jewelry and much, much more. Don’t miss this delightful store when shopping Eureka.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Pack Rat Outdoor Center 209 W Sunbridge Dr, (479) 521-6340 With more than 80 brands to choose, Pack Rat more than likely will have the items you need to make the most of your adventure in the outdoors. They are well stocked and experience at bringing to the NWA community backpacking, travel, paddling, footwear, clothing and climbing gear. Just ask any question about any of the products they sell, their customer service will either have the answer or find the answer for you.

. Freckled Hen Farmhouse

840 N College Ave, (479) 935-3690 If you’re out of gift ideas for those you love and for hardto-buy-for friends, and you want to give them something special and unique this holiday season or any season, for that matter, stop in at the Freckled Hen Farmhouse where you’ll find truly unusual gifts for all occasions. If you enjoy cooking, the inventory of kitchen items will please every aspiring chef. This is one of those lovely shops, where it is almost impossible to leave without buying a bag full. Visit soon to see for yourself.

ROGERS

. Russell Knives 2900 S 26th St, (479) 631-0055 A landmark along I-49 in Rogers, this award-winning company sells only the finest cutlery and is the oldest mail order knife company in the world. It is also the reigning authority on knives. Columbia River knife & Tool, Böker, Randall, Kershaw, Benchmade, Spyerdco, William Henry, Canal Street Cutlery and SOG are just some of the highquality brands it sells. If you’re into knives, you must visit this unique store.

. The Dotted Pig

101 W Walnut St, (479) 633-8552 Wonderful little store in downtown Rogers specializing in unique gifts for the entire family. One-of-a-kind gifts and home decor, handcrafted jewelry, reasonable prices and everything “pig.” You can’t help but love this cute store.

SILOAM SPRINGS

. Bathetopia

116 N Broadway St, Ste E, Siloam Springs, (479) 373-6363 Bathetopia offers a delightful twist on scent products. At this amazing shop, you’re able to design your signature scent. Imagine! You can create bathe and body products infused with a personal scent belonging only to you, and since harsh chemicals are never used, skin irritations are eliminated. Bathetopia also has all natural pet shampoos. Visit soon to give this unique shop a try.

SPRINGDALE

. Euna Mae’s

1503 Carley Rd, (479) 419-9690 Euna Mae’s is a must-see housewares, grocery and kitchen supplies specialty store. You could easily spend the morning browsing the shelves looking for linens, dishware, cookware, gifts for the cook in your life, or hard-to-get jellies and jars of a good old southern kitchen staple, Chow chow. The store is warm and cozy and the owner knows how to dish out southern hospitality.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 63


TOP 10 LIVE MUSIC VENUES IN NWA Literally everyone enjoys live music. The vibe generated by live music is totally different from the one brought about by a recording. It causes your energy to rise, and makes you either want to sing-along or dance to the beat. In almost every case live music penetrates your being and makes you feel alive.

BELLA VISTA

. JJ’s Grill

12 Cunningham Corner, (479) 802-6455 JJ’s Grill supports local talent by providing them a venue where they can play most nights during the week. Check the schedule at jjsgrill. com/live-music. This down-home bar has happy hour from 3 - 6 PM, Mon - Fri. The varied menu features appetizers, salads, soups, wraps, sandwiches, grilled burgers, tacos, sides, and serious meals. A cool place to enjoy local music, visit with friends and chow down on some great food.

BENTONVILLE

. Bike Rack Brewing 801 SE 8th St, Unit #61, (479)319-6593 The first brewery in Northwest Arkansas crafts some of the most delicious beer in the region, plays host to many live musical events and recently launched its own record label. It is ideally situated at the popular 8th Street Market District where it is surrounded by quality food trucks, and also indoor restaurants. The music scene in Bentonville and neighboring cities is made better due to the efforts of Bike Rack Brewing

. Meteor Guitar

128 W Central Ave, (479) 268-1500 Located in downtown Bentonville, the Meteor Guitar is a musical instrument store, event and concert venue. It’s a restored 100 yr old movie theater that is perfect for parties and concerts. Inventory includes more than one thousand musical instruments, amplifiers, and pieces of art from local artists. One of the best things about the place is Leslie Key, one of the owners. He is a walking, talking history book on guitars and people who play them. If he is around, you might be able to persuade him to tell you about some of his guitars.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Chelsea’s Corner Café 10 Mountain St, (479) 253-6723 It’s easy to see why Chelsea’s has remained one of NWA’s best loved waterin’ holes for 20+ years. With live music, an enormous selection of beer, a full bar, great food including some of the best pizza to be found anywhere, and an awesome atmosphere and staff, Chelsea’s has all the elements for a good local music venue.

photo courtesy of Route 358

64 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 LIVE TOP 10 MUSIC TOPICVENUES IN NWA IN NWA FAYETTEVILLE

ROGERS

519 W Dickson St, (479) 527-6618

5079 W. Northgate Rd, (479) 443-5600

Being the oldest and longest running music club in Arkansas, George’s has heard many music acts perform on its stages including Little River Band, Cate Brother, Oteil Burbridge, and many more. Upcoming acts include Shooter Jennings, Funk Factory, and Martin Sexton. The popular night spot has a full bar, and Yazzetti’s Homemade Pizza Pasta Salads is located within the club. George’s is a Fayetteville institution, if you’ve not been, you’re missing out.

The Walmart AMP or Arkansas Music Pavilion is situated across from the Pinnacle Hills Promenade in Rogers, AR. It seats up to 10,000 for its hit concert lineup including such upcoming acts as Jason Aldean, Ellie Goulding, Journey and the Doobie Brothers, Kenny Chesney, Sammy Hagar and Miranda Lambert. Offering amazing acoustics and magnificent views of the horizon, the AMP is definitely the place to go to enjoy big time concerts in the region.

3615 Steele Blvd, (479) 435-6502

SPRINGDALE

. George’s Majestic Lounge

. JJ’s Beer Garden & Brewing Co.

Located in the uptown District of Fayetteville, JJ’s, a lively 12,000 sq ft beer garden, brewery and unique culinary destination, provides a one-of-a-kind experience for the people of NWA. The summer concert series happens on Thursday nights when JJ’s has live music featuring popular local and regional talent at no cost to the public.

. Mojo’s Pint and Pies

1200 N Garland Ave, (479) 935-3459 Mojo’s Pint and Pies offers great pizzas, Italian food, new American food and live music on Wed, Fri and Sat evenings. The pizzas are off the- charts good, the beer selection is good, and the bar makes some really good drinks including their awesome Whiskey Sour and Long Island Ice Tea. Great place to kick back and have fun with friends.

. Nomads Music Lounge

1431 S School Ave, (479) 443-1832 Featuring a great combination of rotating live, mostly local music; 19 beers on tap; wicked drinks whipped up by talented mixologists; laid back, friendly atmosphere; and fresh, healthy food; this place is a one-of-a-kind music lounge experience. People drive from miles around just to enjoy a night at Nomad’s Music Lounge.

. Walmart AMP

. Black Apple Crossing 321 E Emma Ave, (479) 751-0337 Black Apple Crossing makes and serves hard cider. Bands are scheduled every weekend. The atmosphere is friendly and the other patrons are welcoming too. If you enjoy cider, but have never had hard cider, do yourself a favor and try a flight of this delicious cider brewed right here in NWA. Check their FB event page for upcoming events.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Foghorns

1100 48th Pl, Springdale, AR, (479) 717-2020 Featuring a large patio, great beer selection, fabulous burgers and fries and friendly servers, Foghorns is the place to go to hang out with friends and family and listen to the latest band on deck. Awesome drink specials are available too.

. Tontitown Winery $$

335 N Barrington Rd, Springdale, AR, (479) 361-8700 Tontitown Winery makes wine from the recipes of the original Italians who first populated Tontitown and caused it to prosper. Sip and Sing musical events are regularly scheduled, and fun is had by all. This is a unique place to meet friends, relax with a glass or two of wine and listen to some terrific music.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 65


TOP 10 MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS IN NWA With more than 200 miles of trails, no place in the country is better suited for mountain biking trails than Northwest Arkansas. The natural beauty, the varied terrain, the wooded countryside and the welcoming attitude of the communities and cities that make up the region, all combine to make NWA a mountain biking destination extraordinaire.

BELLA VISTA

. Trail: Back 40 & Blowing Springs Loop Length of Trail: Back 40 = 22.2 miles, Blowing Springs Loop 4 miles Type of Trail: 100% Singletrack

Description: A world-class and favorite cross country single track with awesome berms and some great downhills with some tech stuff and a little bit of everything else. Directions/Parking for Back 40 and Blowing Springs Loop: (from Town Center on Arkansas 340/Lancashire Boulevard): Take U.S. 71 south. Turn left on Dartmoor Road. Parking is off Blowing Springs Road before you get to the guard shack for the RV Park. Description: Blowing Springs trails are fast and have flow with the more technical stuff and better scenery than Slaughter Pen. The trails include caves, waterfalls, springs, and cliff riding and is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners yearround. The loop nets about six miles and connects easily to Slaughter Pen for more mileage.

BENTONVILLE

. Trail: Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail This is a loop trail located near Bentonville, Arkansas and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Length of Trail: 23.7 miles, Type of Trail: 50% Singletrack Directions/Location: Take Interstate 540 and exit at U.S. 71B in Bentonville. Follow U.S. 71B south for one mile to the parking lot on the left. Bike north on the concrete trail for one-half mile to the Slaughter Pen Hollow trail head.

Description: Slaughter Pen trails are fast and have flow with enough technical stuff to make it hard.

. Trail: Coler Creek Preserve

Length of Trail: 16 miles when completed, Type of Trail: 100% Singletrack Directions/Location: 11840-11850 Peach Orchard Rd

Description: Built for skilled mountain bikers, the Coler Creek Trail features 8 different lines, all starting from a central hub. Whether you want rocks, flows or jumps, you’ll be able to enjoy them all at the new Coler Creek Preserve Trail.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Trail: Lake Leatherwood Length of Trail: 20.8 miles, Type of Trail: 95% Singletrack Location: 1303 Co Rd 204, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 Description: Lake Leatherwood sports the only natural downhill feature in the area. There are technical rock drops and tons of short tough climbs. A mid travel trail bike would be great for this trail.

66 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


TOP 10 MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS IN NWA Note: Lake Leatherwood is the site for the annual Fat Tire Festival. This festival is 3 day weekend that is packed with downhill, super-d, short track, and cross country racing. In addition, there are group rides, social gatherings, live music and craft beer.

FAYETTEVILLE

Description: Hobbs State Park trail system is really smooth with a lot of climbing. Winds and twists through the woods, and has some tight tree squeezes.

. Trail: Railyard Bike Park & Lake Atalanta Trail

. Trail: Mount Kessler

Length of Trail: 10 miles, Type of Trail: Singletrack Location: 120 Lake Atalanta Rd, Rogers AR 72756

Length of Trail: 13.6 miles, Type of Trail: Singletrack Location/Parking: Take exit 60 off I-49 and go south about one-half mile on Cato Springs Road and turn right on Judge Cummings Road (WC 200) and the parking will be on your right.

Description: Lake Atalanta Trail circles the springfed lake, and takes you through some Ozark forest. The Railyard Bike Park has world-class dirt jumps, wood ramps, 20foot gaps and even railroad cars. Cyclists of every skill level can enjoy this park.

Description: Mount Kessler is unique and rocky trail but a little more technical with some great scenery as well. NOTE: Kessler Mountain Jam (formerly the Slaughter Pen Jam) is a mountain biking event that is family friendly and features live music, food, and much more. This singletrack race is part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series (AMBCS).

. Trail: Fossil Flats - Devil’s Den State Park Length of Trail: 5.6 miles, Type of Trail: 80% Singletrack

Location/Parking: 11333 West Arkansas Highway 74, West Fork 72774. South of Fayetteville, Parking is available at the campground across Lee Creek from the Visitor Center. Description: Devil’s Den State Park has one of the oldest mountain bike trails (Fossil Flats) in the State of Arkansas. The park also offers scenic hiking trails and camping and fishing.

SPRINGDALE

. Trail: Fitzgerald Mountain Length of Trail: 7 miles (3 additional miles completed Fall 2018) Type of Trail: Natural-surface multi-use trail Location: A trailhead kiosk and temporary parking are available at Bayyari Park at 2400 Deer Valley Street, Springdale, AR.

Description: Using the natural rock formations at Fitzgerald Mountain as a major feature, the trail is not only beautiful, but is fun for cyclists of all skill levels.

HONORABLE MENTION

. Trail: Lake Fayetteville

Note: Devil’s Den park plays hosts to the annual Northwest Arkansas Championship mountain bike race in the fall and a mountain bike festival each spring.

Length of Trail: 6.6 miles, Type of Trail: 75% Singletrack Location/Parking: 71B take Zion road to Veterans Memorial Park. The trail loops around Lake Fayetteville, starting and ending there.

Length of Trail: 40.0 miles, Type of Trail: 90% Singletrack Location/Parking: Knuckles Creek Road Trailhead: GPS Coordinates 35˚ 51´ 23.151” N -93˚ 29´ 40.056” W

Description: Lake Fayetteville is located on the north side of Fayetteville. It has a 6.6 mile loop that is family-friendly and is a good place to get a quick ride includes a hardwood forest, waterfall, wildflowers and is primarily used for mountain biking & trail running and is also accessible year-round.

. Trail: Upper Buffalo Headwaters

Description: Offers about 40 miles of singletrack that surrounds the highest point in the Ozarks Mountains. It is comprised of beautiful vistas including dense forest, sustained climbs, steep pitches, rocky cliffs, berms, drops, water crossings and more. While beautiful, this trail is remote.

ROGERS

. Trail:

Hobbs State Park

Length of Trail: 19 miles, Type of Trail: Ridgeline Singletrack Location: 20201 AR-12, Rogers, AR 72756

. Trail: Mt. Sequoyah

Length of Trail: 5.0 miles, Type of Trail: 100% Singletrack Location/Parking: Parking is available at the intersection of Happy Hollow Road and East Paddock Road.

Description: This popular 10-mile natural-surface trail is situated above downtown Fayetteville and winds its way through the forested hillside of Mount Sequoyah. It is considered technical with lots of rocks but the scenery is well worth it. NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 67


TOP 10 PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS IN NWA body copy

Most families have a pet or two and some have more. That being said, one of the main considerations when planning a trip for pet owning families is what to do with Fido and Fluffy while travelling. It always helps to have the option of staying at a pet friendly hotel. Not all hotels allow pets and those that do typically have a list of pet rules such as how many, how many lbs and leash policies. Call ahead to reserve your accommodations, as these rooms tend to sell out quickly. Below are the Top pet friendly hotels in Northwest Arkansa:

BENTONVILLE

EUREKA SPRINGS

ROGERS

21 C Comfort Suites Courtyard Days Inn Econo Lodge Inn & Suites La Quinta Inn & Suites Microtel Inn Motel 6 Home-Towne Suites Super 8 TownPlace Suites WoodSpring Suites Wingate by Wyndham

5 Ojo Inn Bed and Breakfast Arsenic and Old Lace Basin Park Magnuson Grand Best Western Eureka Inn Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Kettle Campground & Cabins Main Street Inn Motel 62 Eureka Springs Pond Mountain Lodge & Resort Quality Inn of Eureka Springs Stone Meadow Resort The Retreat at Sky Ridge The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa Ozarka Lodge Eureka Springs

Aloft Candlewood Suites Country Inn & Suites Embassy Suites Homewood Suites Horseshoe Bend Campground Hyatt Place Lost Bridge North Campground Microtel Inn & Suites Prairie Creek Campground Residence Inn by Marriott Staybridge Suites

BELLA VISTA

FAYETTEVILLE

The Inn at Bella Vista

LOWELL Hickory Creek Park Campground Super 8

Candlewood Suites Comfort Inn & Suites Econo Lodge Laquinta Inn and Suites Motel 6 Sleep Inn Southgate RV Park Staybridge Suites The Chancellor Hotel Towneplace Suites

THE BEST CARE FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND

(479) 273-7100 2301 Oakwood Ave. l Bentonville, AR 72712 68 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

SILOAM SPRINGS Super 8 Inn

SPRINGDALE Extended Stay America Hampton Inn Holiday Inn La Quinta Inn Residence Inn


HOTELS ININNWA TOPTOP 10UNIQUE FLEA MARKETS NWA Northwest Arkansas has many unique accommodations including a museum hotel, train cabooses, a haunted hotel, a huge and beautiful cedar lodge, wildlife refuge lodges, treehouse cottages and more. If you are the adventurous type, why not check out one of the Top 10 unique hotels on the list below:

. The Grand Tree House Resort

BENTONVILLE

. 21c Museum Hotel

350 W Van Buren, (479) 253-8733

200 Northeast A Street, (479) 286-6500 This is an elite 104-room boutique hotel. It houses a contemporary art museum, a cultural civic center, and a world class restaurant, The Hive. Relatively new, it offers some of the finest accommodations in the world. 21c is located on the northeast corner of the Historic Bentonville Square and is within walking distance to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Definitely a hot hotel for hip people!

. Treehouse Cottages

165 W Van Buren, (479) 253-8667

BELLA VISTA

. Cedar Lodge

18 Mason Ln, (479) 250-3124 Featured in USA Today’s 50 Awesome Vacation Rentals, Cedar Lodge is a stunning lakefront property with 7 bedrooms that sleeps 21. Venue is perfect for reunions and business planning meetings. Decor is rustic yet elegant, and every amenity imaginable is provided. This is a great place to step out of your hectic life and into peace and tranquility.

EUREKA SPRINGS

. Eureka Springs Treehouses, Caves, Castles & hOBBITS 526 W Van Buren, (479) 253-9493

Located only 1.8 miles from Eureka Springs’ Historic District, this lodging is an exciting change from the chain accommodations you’ve stayed in before. These offer romance, fun and adventure. Be sure to check out their romantic packages. The Treehouses - Are surrounded by trees and are situated on top of cedar logs. Whichever theme you choose from Venice to New York, a visit to your deck will seem like you are in a forest. The Hobbit Caves - Whisk you away to a magical time when you will feel you’re in a romantic magical cocoon. The Castles - Designed after a 1600 century Castle, you’ll be transported to the time of romantic fairytales and secret passage ways that take you to the romantic jacuzzi tower.

. Livingston Junction Cabooses 1 Stonehaven Lane, (479) 253-7143

Recently restored and renovated, staying in one of the cabooses takes you back to yesteryear when traveling by rail was a common way to travel. Each caboose has its own private driveway, an outdoor hot tub on the large deck with hammock, grill and outdoor furniture. Mini-fridge, sink and microwave are included. They are cozy and comfortable and are surprisingly roomy.

. The Crescent (Haunted)

75 Prospect Ave, (800) 342-9766 Known as America’s most haunted hotel, The Crescent is located only 1 mile from Eureka Springs’ Shopping and Historic District. There are nightly ghost tours and videos. Amenities include spa, sky bar, seasonal pool and year-round hot tub. Things to do include trails that connect to the city trails, mountain biking, walking the promenade of the Elite neighborhood, visiting Harmon Park, which offers skate boarding, picnic area, kid’s playground and hiking. On the 4th floor there are archives of the hotel’s history.

69 NWA Travel Guide l

Located just 1 mile from Eureka Springs’ Historic District and only 2.1 miles from the Pine Mountain Theater, The Grand Tree House Resort is an upscale resort. The treehouses are built on stilts. They all come complete with kitchenettes equipped with toasters, mini-fridges, microwaves and coffeemakers. In addition, they have flat-screen TVs, DVD players, stereo systems and whirlpool tubs. Parking is free. Trolley stop is across the street.

TOP TEN

These beautiful hand-built cottages are nestled in the treetops less than a mile from Eureka’s historic district with its many shopping opportunities and unique restaurants. There is also a 2nd location about a mile away. The cottages feature whirlpool tubs, hardwood floors, Persian rugs, handmade tiles, fireplaces, HDTVs and Wifi, and kitchenettes. One location has a stone terrace with a garden and waterfall that would be perfect for weddings, and the other location offers a private hiking trail. Guests rave about this place, saying the attention to detail is refreshing.

. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

239 Turpentine Creek Lane, (479) 253-5841 Sleep with the sounds of big cats roaring in the night. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers one of the most unique lodging opportunities in the country. Lodges have exotic names like Congo, Safari Lodge and Kalahari – Safari Lodge, and each lodge is decorated to reflect its name. The Refuge not only rescues big cats and other large animals from all over the country, they are busy educating the public about the conservation of these wonderful animals. Once you visit the Refuge, you will be committed to helping this non-profit organization in its rescue and education efforts.

FAYETTEVILLE

. Inn at Carnall Hall

465 N. Arkansas Ave, 479) 582-0400 This is a unique boutique inn located on the campus of the University of Arkansas. It was the first women’s dormitory on campus. The Inn at Carnall Hall is located about a mile from downtown Fayetteville and just a short walk from famed Dickson Street nightlife. The rooms feature traditional decor, FlatScreen HDTVs, and WiFi access. Some rooms also offer Jacuzzi tubs, work desks and sitting areas. Additionally, some offer spectacular views of the Old Main lawn with examples of every type of tree known to grow in Arkansas. The Inn at Carnall Hall strives to give every guest a taste of the best of Southern Hospitality. Ella’s restaurant features award-winning cuisine and serves 3 meals a day. Lambeth Lounge serves the Inn’s own private label wine, and the porches have relaxing rockers. The entire facility is smoke-free.

SPRINGDALE

. Inn at the Mill

3906 Johnson Mill Blvd, (479) 443-1800 Described as a delightful mix of a comfortable hotel and a B & B, this is an Ascend Collection Hotel with 46 recently renovated rooms. Not far off Interstate 49, it is a modern wood-framed structure attached to a 19th-century water mill. Located less than 10 minutes from Fayetteville and about 15 minutes from Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club, amenities include sitting areas, FlatScreen TVs and free WiFi. Each room is individually-decorated and may include marble bathrooms, antique furnishings, Jacuzzis, lofts and balconies, depending on the room. A contemporary, award-winning restaurant serves modern international cuisine. The continental breakfast is free. The staff is friendly, efficient, and helpful. During football season this place is booked solid, some people even book rooms a year in advance.

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 69


BUCKET LIST : BENTONVILLE

BENTONVILLE

Bucket List

If you’re visiting or living in Bentonville, you may have a list of things to do in this amazing city. The city has grown and is growing by leaps and bounds and there are many, many exciting and interesting places to see and things to do in the city, known far and wide as the home of Walmart. Below is a list of those things to do that should be on everyone’s Bentonville Bucket List:

EAT AND DRINKS

q Kennedy Coffee

q Meteor Guitar Gallery

q Blu Fish Fresh Market

q Bike Rack Brewery

q Haxton Studio

q 8th Street Market

q Ramo d’Olivo

q One eyed Jack’s

q Tusk and Trotter

q Pedaler’s Pub

q Station Café

q The Forge

q Oven & Tap

q Undercroft

q Pedalers Pub

q Scotch and Soda

q Fred’s Hickory Inn

KIDS THINGS TO DO

q Ozark Mountain Bagel

q Amazeum

q Pressroom

q Splash Park

q Overstreet’s Jewelry

INDOOR THINGS TO DO

q Skylight Cinema

q Crystal Bridges Museum of

q Phat Tire Bike Shop

q Preacher’s Son q Eleven q The Hive

q Bentonville Baking

q 21c Museum Hotel

q Table Mesa

q Frank Lloyd Wright House

q Crepes Paulette

on the grounds of Crystal Bridges

History

q Tandem Tacos

q Walmart Museum & Spark’s Cafe

q Onyx Coffee Lab

q 211 Café

q 1875 Peel Mansion Museum

70 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

q Remedy Road q The Cannery Market q Bleachers q Three Dog Bakery

American Art,Trails & Grounds

q Museum of Native American

q Priato Pizzaria

q Walmart Super Center

(great ice cream)

OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO

q Slaughter Pen Trail q Razorback Greenway q Coler Mountain Bike Preserve q Compton Gardens q Bentonville Downtown Square


BENTONVILLE

BUCKET LIST : BENTONVILLE

Bucket List

Downtown Square

Bentonville Square Crystal Bridges Trails

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 71


BUCKET LIST : EUREKA SPRINGS

EUREKA SPRINGS

Bucket List

Eureka Springs is a charming Victorian-like village located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas. It is primarily a tourist destination, and is bustling with visitors keen on shopping the many unique shops during the warmer months. World-class restaurants, delightful B & Bs, varied accommodations combine to make Eureka Springs the wedding capital of the South. There’s plenty to do when in Eureka Springs. See the list below for things you don’t want to miss:

ACCOMMODATIONS

q The Stonehouse

q Cosmic Cavern

q Basin Park Hotel

q Keels Creek Winery & Art Gallery

q Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge

q Crescent Hotel and Spa

q Railway Winery

q Christ of the Ozarks

q Hidden Springs Bed & Breakfast

q Quigley Castle

q Heartstone Inn B&B

THINGS TO DO

q Treehouse Cottages

q Zarks-A Fine Design Gallery

q Passion Play

q Beaver Lakefront Cabins

q Quicksilver

q Turpentine Creek

q Wilson & Wilson Folk Art Co

q Opera in the Ozarks

EATS AND DRINKS

q Zeek Taylor Art Studio

q Blue Spring Heritage Center

q Devito’s of Eureka Springs

q J.A. Nelson Gallery

q Tram Tour

q Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking

q Larry Mansker Studio

q Grotto Wood-Fired Grill

q Excursion Train

q Nelson’s Eureka Springs

and Wine Cave

q Caroline’s Collectibles

q Local Flavor

q 2 Dumb Dames

q Cafe Amore

q Intrigue Theatre

q Rocking Pig q Sparky’s Roadhouse Cafe

q Trolley q Beaver Lake q Table Rock Lake q Lake Leatherwood

OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO

q White River

The Cat House Lounge

q Belle of the Ozarks

q Kings River

q Henri’s Just One More

q Thorncrown Chapel

q Beaver Dam

q Chelsea’s

q Onyx Cave

q Ozark Mountain Ziplines

q Pied Piper Pub & Inn and

72 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN


EUREKA SPRINGS

BUCKET LIST : EUREKA SPRINGS

Bucket List

Downtown Basin Park Hotel Photo courtesy of Rocking Pig Saloon

Terpentine Creek Refuge Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

Thorncrown Chapel Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 73


B U C K E T L I S T : F AY E T T E V I L L E

FAYETTEVILLE

Bucket List

Coming up with a bucket list for Fayetteville is difficult because there are so many things to do and places to visit in the city which is home to the world-class Arkansas Razorbacks. The list below contains those things you absolutely must check off your list before you leave Fayetteville:

ACCOMMODATIONS

q Smitty’s Garage Burgers & Beer

q Fayetteville Funky Yardsale

q Pratt Place Inn and Barn

q Arsaga’s

q 410 Vintage

q Dickson Street Inn

q Rick’s Bakery

q Pack Rat

q Chancellor Hotel

q Mama Carmen’s Espresso Café

q Fayettechill

EATS AND DRINKS

q Fossil Cove Brewing Co.

q Bordinos

q Apple Blossom Brewing Company

q Bliss Cupcake

THINGS TO DO

q Bocca Italian Eatery

q Heartwood Gallery

q Botanical Garden of the Ozarks

q Catfish Hole

q Dickson Street Bookshop

q Farmers Market

q Farmer’s Table

q TheatreSquared

q Kessler Mountain Regional Park

q Theo’s

q Walton Arts Center

q University of Arkansas

q Hugo’s

q Arkansas Air and Military

q Dickson Street

q Herman’s

Museum

q Terra Studios

q Hammontree’s Grilled Cheese

q Clinton House Museum

q 112 Drive In Theatre

q Mockingbird Kitchen

q George’s Majestic Lounge

q Razorback Greenway

q Pesto Café

q JJ’s Beer Garden & Brewing Co.

q Lake Fayetteville

q Cafe Rue Orleans

q Beautiful Lives Boutique

q Devil’s Den

q Mermaid’s

q Riffraff

q Mt. Sequoyah

q Burton’s Creamery

q Masons

q Wilson Park

q Hurts Donuts

q Skye On The Town

q Walking Trails

74 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO

q Donald W. Reynolds

Razorback Stadium


FAYETTEVILLE

Samantha Fish at George’s Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

B U C K E T L I S T : F AY E T T E V I L L E

Bucket List

Dickson Street

Dickson Street Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

Razorback Football Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 75


BUCKET LIST : ROGERS

ROGERS

Bucket List

Rogers Ar has a charming historic downtown area with many unique shops and restaurants, easy access to massive Beaver Lake, an upscale shopping district and a thriving business community. Check out the list below for things you want to see in Rogers:

EATS AND DRINKS

q Foster’s Pint & Plate

q Russell Knives

q Susie Q Malt Shop

q Growler’s

q Ed Cooley Gallery

q Catfish John’s

q Ozark Beer Company

q Rogers Experimental House

q Wesner’s

q New Province Brewing Company

q Saiwok

q Crossroads Tavern

q Monte Ne Inn

q Brick Street Brews

OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO

q Village on the Creeks

q Crabby’s q Fork and Crust

THINGS TO DO

q Farmers Markets

q Mister B’s

q Rogers Experimental House

q City Pump

q Havana Tropical Grill Restaurant

q Daisy Airgun Museum

q Downtown Rogers

q Napoli’s Italian Restaurant

q Rogers Historical Museum

q The Rail Yard

q Bolder Coffee

q Rogers Cooking Studio

q Lake Atalanta

q 7 Brew

q Honeycomb

q Iron Horse Coffee

q Rogers Little Theater

q Pop’s BBQ

q Pinnacle Hills Promenade

q Persephone on Wheels

q Flea Markets

q Big Sexy Food

q Spotted Goat Resale Store

q War Eagle Mill

q Tyler’s Craft BBQ

q Somewhere in Time Flea Market

q Rogers Aquatic Center

q Levi’s Gastrolounge

q Abundant Treasures Flea Market

q The AMP

76 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Kitchen Shop

q Razorback Greenway q Hobbs State Park q Beaver Lake


ROGERS

BUCKET LIST : ROGERS

Bucket List

Kayaks at Lake Atalanta

Photo courtesy of Saiwok

AMP (Arkansas Music Pavilion) Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

War Eagle Mill Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 77


BUCKET LIST : SPRINGDALE

SPRINGDALE

Bucket List

Springdale is the headquarters for Tyson Foods, and much of the surrounding countryside is devoted to raising chickens and turkeys for Tyson’s huge plant located in the heart of Springdale. Additionally, it has a robust business community and a revitalized downtown area. Below are the can’t miss things to do and places to see in Springdale:

EATS AND DRINKS

q Little Debbie Store

q The Grove Comedy Club

q Natural State Sandwiches

q KYYA Chocolate

q AQ Chicken

q La Carretta Food Truck (Lowell)

q Tontitown Grape Festival

q Neal’s

q Onyx Coffee

q Arkansas & Missouri Railroad

q Patricks

q Pontiac Coffee House

q Shiloh Museum of Ozark History

q Susan’s Restaurant

q Trailside Coffee Company

q Ozark Climbing Gym

q Fratelli’s Italian Grill

q Core Brewing Company

q Angus Jack

q Saddlebock Brewery

q MJ Pizzaria

q Tontitown Winery

q Marketplace Grill

q Sassafras Springs Vineyard

q Taquerias Guanajuato

q Black Apple Crossing

q Westside Burger and Grill

q Emma Ave. Bar & Tap

q Fitzgerald Mountain Trail

q Punjabi Kitchen

q The Odd Soul

q Thunder Chicken Trail

& Entertainment (Lowell)

q Jones Center OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO

q Razorback Greenway

q Farmers Market

q JoJo’s Kitchen q Guido’s Pizza

THINGS TO DO

q Arvest Ballpark -

q Venesian Inn

q Arts Center of the Ozarks

q Taquería Don Güero

q Euna Mae’s

q Parsons Stadium

q Once Upon a Time Books

q Tyson Foods Headquarters

q Me and the Flea Market

q JB Hunt Transport Headquarters

q Mama Z’s q Spring Creek Amish Market

q Midtown Mall

& Deli

78 NWA Travel Guide l

TOP TEN

Northwest Arkansas Naturals

(Lowell)


SPRINGDALE

Trailside Coffee

BBUUCCKKEETT L LI S RS I STT : : RSOPG R EI N GDALE

Bucket List

Photo courtesy of Fratelli’s Italian Grill

Arvest Park Photo courtesy of Arkansas Dept. of Parks & Tourism

NWA Travel Guide l TOP TEN 79



Get Help From Local Pros • ESTATE SALES: Bella Vista Estate Sales • CATERING: Simply Divine • CRYOTHERAPY: Cryofactor Wellness Center • ELECTRICIAN: Hill Electric Inc./Buzz Electrical Services Inc. • FLOOR REFINISHING: Northwest Arkansas Floor Refinishing - Mr. Sandless Dealer

• INSURANCE: Jeff Harman Agency - American National Insurance

• MARKETING: 455 Media • PHYSICAL THERAPY: Advanced Physical Therapy • REAL ESTATE: Jason Curtis, Limbird Real Estate Group • ROOFING: Weather Proofing Experts • TILE INSTALLATION: Bentonville Custom Tile • TRAVEL AGENCY: Destinations AR

www.nwatravelguide.com/ask-an-expert



Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.