Springdale, Arkansas is a gem of a town located just northeast of Fayetteville in the beautiful Ozark Mountains. With its scenic parks, unique attractions, and family-friendly activities, Springdale is the perfect destination for a fun getaway with loved ones. Here are 10 of the top things to do with family in Springdale.
Springdale offers a diverse selection of activities that appeals to all ages. Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, learn about the region’s culture and history, or just spend quality time together, you’ll find memorable experiences just waiting to be had.
From exploring scenic trails and parks to interactive museums and entertainment venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Read on to discover some of the best ways to make lasting memories with family in Springdale this spring.
Watch the Sunset at Devil’s Den State Park
Devil’s Den State Park is one of Arkansas’s most spectacular natural areas. Sprawling across over 8,600 acres, the park gets its name from its fantastically eroded limestone cliffs and formations. One of the highlights is watching the beautiful sunset from the top of the cliffs as the sky lights up in vibrant colors.
Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon hiking the numerous scenic trails before finding the perfect cliff-side spot to take in the majestic views. It’s an experience that will leave everyone in awe of the Ozarks’ raw natural beauty.
Learn About the Region’s History at the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History is a must-visit to learn about Northwest Arkansas’ cultural heritage. Hands-on exhibits, artifacts, photographs and more tell the story of the Ozark mountains from prehistory to modern times.
Kids will be fascinated learning about Native American tribes, frontier life, the railroad, and more. Don’t miss the rotating art galleries and be sure to watch traditional craftspeople like blacksmiths and potters demonstrating their skills. History comes alive through the museum’s engaging exhibits, ensuring the whole family walks away feeling inspired.
Take a Dip at Frog Bayou Water Park
On a hot spring day, nothing beats cooling off at Frog Bayou Water Park. This all-season water park features attractions for all ages like a 650-foot lazy river, water slides, activity pool with a zero-depth entry, and spray features.
You’ll find older kids and teens enjoying high-energy rides like the Kamikaze and Hydro Plunge slides, while littler ones splash around in the kiddie areas. Afterwards, relax in the full-service snack bar or on the park’s sprawling grassy lawns. It’s a fun, refreshing way to spend a few hours on a warmer afternoon.
Go Shopping at the outlets in Tontitown
Only 15 minutes from downtown Springdale lies Tontitown, home to Tontitown Grapevine Outlets. With over 70 designer and name brand outlet stores, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Find deals on clothes, shoes, home goods and more from stores like Nike, Under Armour, Coach and Columbia.
Kids can burn off some energy in the playground area while adults hunt for bargains. Afterwards, fill up on pizza or ice cream at one of the food court’s eateries. The outlet shopping makes for a fun day trip the whole family can enjoy.
Picnic at Springdale’s Jones Center
Located right in the heart of Springdale, the Jones Center is an urban oasis perfect for a picnic with family. Spread out a blanket on the spacious lawn and enjoy the views of lush greenery and fountains. When you’re ready to explore, venture through the forests trails and discover hidden treasures like the nature play area, frog pond and community garden.
Families will love walking around the sculpture garden and reading nature-themed storyboards together. Be sure to save time before or after your picnic to stroll through the Frazier Gardens neighboring the park too.
Try Your Hand at Craft Brews in Springdale
Northwest Arkansas is home to an impressive craft beer scene. In Springdale, check out Core Brewing for a guided tour of its production facility and tasting room. Learn about the brewing process while sipping samples of Core’s wide selection of IPAs, lagers and more.
Not far away is Fossil Cove Brewing Company, nestled in a scenic outdoor setting. Bring the kids along—they can play cornhole or giant Jenga on the lawn while parents relax with a flight. Both are family-friendly spots to introduce little ones to craft brew culture.
Go For a Round at Black Oak Golf Course
Black Oak Golf Course is one of the top public courses in Northwest Arkansas. Situated amongst the scenic Ozark foothills, the course offers panoramic views from every hole. It’s a challenging yet fun 18-hole experience for golfers of all abilities.
Afterwards, relax in the clubhouse for lunch or a drink on the patio overlooking the rolling fairways. Non-golfers can cheer on players or spend the afternoon exploring nearby Devil’s Den State Park. A round of golf makes for an enjoyable day outdoors with the whole clan.
Catch a Show at Walmart AMP
The Walmart AMP is an impressive 8,000-seat amphitheater on the banks of the Arkansas River. In the warmer months, catch big-name concerts under the stars. Past performers have included Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan and Chicago.
Lawn seating allows families to spread out blankets and pack a picnic. It’s a memorable evening seeing a show together while taking in the stunning riverside surroundings. Checking the AMP’s event calendar allows planning an outing around an entertaining performance everyone can enjoy.
Visit the Springdale Aquatic Park
On hot summer days, cool off at the Springdale Aquatic Park. This aquatic fun zone features two large water slides, a zero-depth baby pool with fountains, and a lap pool. Young kids will love the splash pad and spray features.
Picnic tables dot the surrounding lawn so families can relax between dipping in the refreshing pools. With constant lifeguard supervision and water activities for all ages, it’s an entertaining way to beat the heat together in Springdale.
Conclusion
From scenic outdoors fun to hands-on learning and entertainment, Springdale, Arkansas offers endlessly entertaining options for making family memories. Spending quality time exploring the town’s diverse attractions is sure to create lasting bonds during your visit.
With such a variety of activities suited to all interests and ages, any family is guaranteed to make wonderful discoveries in Springdale this spring. Don’t forget to leave time to wander the charming downtown areas too for finding local shops, eateries and further adventures together.