Fayetteville, Arkansas is a charming city located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains region. With its proximity to crystal clear streams and lush forests, there is no shortage of fun outdoor activities for families to enjoy together. Whether you’re looking for inexpensive day trip ideas or want to spend a whole weekend exploring, Fayetteville offers a variety of options to create lasting memories with loved ones.
As the third largest city in Arkansas, Fayetteville has a lot to offer families looking for fun adventures. From discovering nature to exploring history and culture, you’ll find activities for all ages that won’t break the bank. Whether you have a day or a whole weekend, check out these top 10 things to do with family in Fayetteville.
Hit the Trails at Devil’s Den State Park
Only 20 minutes outside of Fayetteville, Devil’s Den State Park is one of the best places in the area for hiking. With over 15 miles of scenic trails winding through forests and overlooking valleys, you can spend hours exploring this lush oasis.
Be sure to check out the namesake Devil’s Den natural area filled with huge boulders and winding passageways. You might also spot deer, wild turkeys, or the occasional black bear roaming the woods. Entry fees are very reasonable and make for an inexpensive outdoor adventure.
Learn About Pioneer History at Adams House
Take a step back in time at Adams House, one of the oldest remaining log structures in Northwest Arkansas. Built in the 1830s, this living history museum was once home to a pioneer family. Now operated by the Washington County Historical Society, costumed interpreters are on hand to depict life for early settlers.
Kids and adults alike will find the demonstration of skills like blacksmithing, cooking over an open fire, and weaving on a loom endlessly fascinating. At just $6 per person, it’s an educational and affordable way to spend an afternoon.
Picnic Along a Scenic Creek at Kessler Mountain Regional Park
Spread out a blanket and enjoy an al fresco lunch along the banks of Clear Creek at Kessler Mountain Regional Park. In addition to picnic areas nestled amongst the trees, you’ll find over 10 miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding through forested hills.
Be on the lookout for colorful kingfishers, herons, and other water birds fishing along the shore. Your four-legged friends are also welcome to roam off-leash in designated areas. And it’s completely free to spend the day soaking up the natural beauty and fresh air.
Immerse in History at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Known as one of the finest art museums in the Southwest, Crystal Bridges offers world-class exhibits and educational programs right in Fayetteville. Wander the magnificent indoor galleries and outdoor trails taking in works by masters like Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Special family programming inspires kids to view art in new ways through storytelling, crafts, and music. Even better, admission is completely free, so the whole family can enjoy high culture without stressing about budgets. Be sure to have a picnic lunch on the museum grounds afterwards.
Roam Around a Botanical Wonderland at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
With over 1,100 varieties of plants and flowers spread across 70 acres, the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks provides a rainbow of beauty to discover. Stroll winding pathways past native woodlands, a lagoon and waterfall, herb and butterfly gardens.
Highlights include a children’s garden with seasonal activities and a brilliant bloom display changing throughout the year. Guided tours are available, or spend hours exploring at your own pace. General admission is just $6 for adults and free for kids, offering incredible natural scenery that won’t break the bank.
Taste Local Brews and Cider at Cool Axes Throwing and Fayetteville Brewing Company
Combine throwing axes with craft beer tasting for a fun filled afternoon. Cool Axes Throwing offers instruction and open range time to test your skills under supervision. Then head over to the adjacent Fayetteville Brewing Company for a flight of local brews or hard cider.
Savor the seasonal selections on their dog-friendly patio overlooking green space. Both businesses welcome all ages so the whole crew can participate. Afterwards, there’s pizza and live music most evenings at the brewery. It’s a memorable way to bond as a family over a few non-mass produced drinks.
Get Hands-on at Explore Bentonville Interactive Art Museum
Located just over the border in neighboring Bentonville, Explore Bentonville immerses visitors in the creative process through experimental galleries. Here science and art collide in fun, educational exhibits kids and parents can play with side by side.
Stretch your imagination building with lights, tinkering in a maker space, conducting experiments or using augmented reality. General admission tickets are very reasonably priced so the whole crew can flex their creative muscles without worry. Watching excited kids and joining in yourself makes for lifelong memories of learning through play.
Cheer on the Hogs at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium
Even if you’re not college football fanatics, attending a game at the University of Arkansas’ 74,500-seat Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium is a memorable family outing. Crowds energized by the famous Running Razorbacks mascot and “Woo Pig Sooie” fight song will have you pumped.
Affordable general admission tickets make it feasible for large families while concession stands offer typical game day fare at reasonable prices. Consider getting there early to walk around the campus and take a practice field tour first. Your kids will love joining in school spirit with thousands of other fans.
Splash Around Barker Dam Park Splashpad
On a hot summer day, cool off with the kids at Barker Dam Park Splashpad. This free playground feature shoots refreshing arcs of water upwards from its textured floor. Little ones will shriek with joy dancing under the spray for hours. Picnic tables and nearby shelter with grills allow you to stay all afternoon.
Afterwards stroll the shoreline path or cast a fishing pole in Beaver Lake right across the road. With smiles and laughter galore, it is quality time together and family fun that won’t cost a dime.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a local family or just passing through, Fayetteville offers amazingly fun activities for people of all ages. From hiking scenic trails and picnicking beside creeks to exploring interactive museums and cheering on college football, you’re sure to make memories to last a lifetime.
The combination of beautiful natural scenery and cultural attractions makes Fayetteville a gem for discovering with loved ones. So grab your family and start checking things off this list of top things to do!