A lazy guide to late-summer fun in NWA
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If planning a trip wasn't in the cards or the budget this year, it's not too late to enjoy a long weekend or staycation right here at home before summer ends and kids go back to school.
👙 Have a pool day: Public pools and water parks are open through Labor Day. It's an easy way to make the kids' day with slides and splash pads, a book by the pool, or some exercise lap swimming.
- Wilson Park in Fayetteville still has one more "dive-in" movie night.
🌽 Peruse farmers markets: NWA cities large and small have robust farmers markets on weekend mornings. Check out the one nearest to you and find some unique, locally made goods in addition to produce.
🍹 Get together with friends or have a nice summer date night with cocktails or bites at one of NWA's best patios.
🛶 Make the most of Beaver Lake and Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. Arkansas state parks host lots of nature-center events throughout the summer, like kayaking tours, hikes and fishing. And you can always rent a boat, kayak or paddleboard at Beaver Lake.
🧒 Entertain the kids: NWA is full of free or inexpensive ways to keep children engaged when they're out of school.
- Drop in for free artmaking at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, let them try their hand at archery or learn about wildlife at the J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center in Springdale, or find a story time at your city's library.
- They can also tinker at the Scott Family Amazeum or explore the Museum of Native American History.
🥾 Spend a day hiking at Devil's Den State Park, or even camp overnight.
🎸 Don't sleep on all the free live music and offerings, like First Friday in Bentonville, Railyard Live in downtown Rogers, the Gulley Park series in Fayetteville, or Live! at Turnbow in downtown Springdale. It's a great way to get out and hear local artists and stumble on vendors or a new food truck.
- And check out summer concert lineups at the Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion or The Momentary.
If you need even more inspo, check out "100 Things to Do in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Before You Die," penned by a local travel writer.