Springdale, Arkansas is located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains region in the northwest corner of the state. As the third largest city in Arkansas, Springdale offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, history, arts, and family-friendly attractions. From scenic parks and trails to unique museums and entertainment venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Springdale.
Springdale lies just 15 minutes south of Fayetteville and is centrally located near many of northwest Arkansas’ top attractions. The city itself boasts a diverse array of cultural sites, outdoor recreation areas, and entertainment options that showcase the natural wonders and heritage of the Ozarks.
Whether you enjoy exploring museums, walking scenic trails, taking in live performances, or discovering America’s heartland, Springdale delivers an authentic Arkansas experience. This guide will introduce you to 10 of the best attractions that Springdale has to offer.
Springdale Aquatic Park and Splash Kingdom
Nothing beats beating the heat of an Arkansas summer like spending the day at Springdale Aquatic Park and Splash Kingdom water park. This expansive outdoor aquatic center offers activities for all ages. Slide down multiple twists and turns on the Thundering Surf speed slide.
Take a plunge down Snake Pit, a four-lane tube slide. Younger kids will love playing in the tot pool, pirate ship playground, or fountains. After working up an appetite, relax with a picnic or snack from the on-site concession stand. With a complete water park and lap pool, this 65-acre facility keeps families entertained for hours.
Jones Center
The Jones Center is Springdale’s premier performing arts venue. Located within the Jones Center Park complex, this impressive 1,500-seat theater hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, musicals, plays, and other major events throughout the year. Past performers have included comedians, Broadway shows, orchestral performances, and more.
The Jones Center strives to bring culture and arts to the entire Northwest Arkansas region. Before or after a show, explore the beautiful 120-acre Jones Center Park, which includes walking trails, sports facilities, picnic areas, a playground, and The Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel.
Arkansas Music Pavilion
As one of the top outdoor amphitheaters in the Southwest, the Arkansas Music Pavilion is a jewel of Springdale. Nestled along the scenic Arkansas River, this 4,500-person capacity venue hosts major concerts, festivals, and community events from April through October.
Past performers have included Jason Aldean, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Brad Paisley, and many more popular country and rock artists. Lawn seating, premium box seats, and open-air views make for an unforgettable live music experience under the stars. Be sure to dine on BBQ or festival fare while soaking up the vibrancy of AMP concerts and crowds.
Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
For an enthralling look at the heritage and culture of the Ozarks region, spend an afternoon exploring the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History. This Smithsonian-affiliated museum tells the story of the Ozarks through fascinating exhibits that spotlight topics like coal mining, folk art, Native American history, and more.
Permanent exhibits include recreated structures like a pioneer schoolhouse and general store. Temporary exhibits offer changing perspectives on the Ozarks throughout the year. Interactive segments and living history demonstrations further immerse visitors in Arkansas’ unique past. Don’t miss the museum’s beautiful Victorian home and herb garden as well.
Springdale Public Library and Discovery Garden
As one of the premier public libraries in Arkansas, the Springdale Public Library offers resources for people of all ages. Browse the extensive collection of books, DVDs, audiobooks, databases, study areas, and more. Kids and families enjoy regular storytimes, crafts, and activities. The library also hosts lectures, concerts, art exhibits, and special community programs.
Outside, the Discovery Garden provides a beautiful half-acre sanctuary for relaxation or learning about native Arkansas plants and ecosystems. Wander the walking trails, picnic area, butterfly garden, and children’s play area amidst lush foliage and relaxing water features. With constant enrichment, the Springdale Library is an invaluable community hub.
Butterfield Stage Coach Stop
Step back into Springdale’s Old West heritage at the meticulously restored Butterfield Stage Coach Stop. This historic depot offered travelers rest and relaxation during the mid-1800s when wagons and coaches followed the Butterfield Overland Mail Route through Springdale. Today, costumed interpreters and demonstrations bring the site’s fascinating past to life.
Tour the preserved stage stop building, blacksmith shop, trading post and other structures. Learn about transportation and communication in the early settlement period. Special events like the annual Old West Days further immerse visitors in Arkansas frontier history. Afterwards, stroll the scenic trails along Spring Creek next to this one-of-a-kind cultural landmark.
Emerald Park and Razorback Greenway
For outdoor recreation and scenic nature, Emerald Park and the Razorback Greenway are Springdale crown jewels. Emerald Park boasts 100 forested acres along Spring Creek, complete with hiking trails, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and EmerLane Equestrian Center.
Connecting to the larger Razorback Greenway trail system, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy paved biking and walking paths that lead 11 miles from Springdale through Johnson to Fayetteville. Along the way, scenic views of wooded hills and wetlands await. Birdwatching, running clubs, and community events make the most of this linear park and green space treasure. It’s the perfect way to experience the natural beauty around Springdale.
Arkansas Air & Military Museum
Aviation buffs will want to check out the Arkansas Air & Military Museum for an up-close look at historic aircraft. Housed in a restored WWII-era hangar, this museum showcases planes and military vehicles from bygone eras. Some of the highlights include a P-38 Lightning, T-34 Mentor, and L-19 Bird Dog aircraft.
Flight simulators let visitors experience taking the controls. Exhibits depict Arkansas’ contributions to defense efforts through artifacts, photos and memorabilia. The museum recreates periods like the Vietnam War era. Educational programs and special events bring the rich history of aviation and the military to life. It’s a thrilling destination for those who appreciate aeronautics and the armed forces.
Springdale City Parks
For family-friendly fun in abundant natural scenery, explore Springdale’s great city parks system. Large parks like Aplin Beach Park and Williams Elementary Park offer miles of hiking and biking trails winding through pristine timber and tallgrass prairie. You’ll find picnic shelters, playgrounds, sport courts and scenic vistas along the way.
Popular Riordan Springs Splash Pad lets kids play in spraying water features on hot days. Other well-loved parks include David L. Daniel Memorial Park and James W. Karam City Park. With over 30 parks spanning nearly 1,000 acres, the outdoor recreation opportunities for enjoying nature in Springdale are endless.
Conclusion
From nostalgic charm to modern excitement, Springdale has an eclectic mix of attractions reflective of its rich heritage and ongoing progress. Whether you’re looking for educational adventures, outdoor recreation, live entertainment, or quality family time, this Northwest Arkansas city delivers memorable experiences. Its cultural sites and parks showcase the natural beauty of the Ozarks region.
With so many hidden gems still waiting to be discovered, plan a trip to explore all that Springdale has to offer very soon. You’ll leave satisfied with new knowledge and lasting impressions of this one-of-a-kind Arkansas destination.