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If you want to explore the area around Springdale, Arkansas, you can find several fascinating places that are worth a visit. Plan your next day trip to one of the following locations for an enjoyable experience with your loved ones. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify the current state of operations for attractions described in the sections below by contacting the businesses directly. 1. Bentonville Bentonville is about 20 miles outside of Springdale and is best known for being the birthplace and world headquarters of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. The world's largest retailer started in this city, which has a population of slightly more than 51,000 people. Learn more about the history of the global brand at the Wal-Mart Museum housed in the old five and dime store that started it all. Exhibits chronicle the history of Sam and Helen Walton's move to the city and how the brand grew to its incarnation today. Even the kids might enjoy this museum as they can view a collection of vintage toys on display. Bentonville also houses the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the please-touch Scott Family Amazeum children's museum, one of the homes designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and a museum dedicated to Native American history. Bentonville is a fascinating place with a rich heritage and plenty of history. 2. Siloam Springs Siloam Springs, about 25 miles from Springdale, is another spot for a day trip. Bob Henry Park, a fun place to spend some time, features a playground for the kids and tennis and volleyball courts. If you want to explore the natural surroundings, visit Natural Falls State Park. Located off U.S. Highway 412 outside the town limits, this park offers appealing amenities for visitors. The attraction gets its name from the fantastic waterfalls you can view from the hiking trails. Other amenities include a playground, covered picnic areas, and plenty of parking. If you want the best view of the waterfall, head up the Dripping Falls trail. 3. Eureka Springs Plan a visit to Eureka Springs, located about 40 miles northeast of Springdale. This small town has a historic downtown area where you can view beautiful architecture and walk through structures that make you feel like you've taken a step back in time. The Blue Spring Heritage Center is a botanical garden and site located on the Trail of Tears. Connect with the natural beauty and surroundings, as well as view the wonder of the blue spring, which has more than 38 million gallons of water flowing through its lagoon every day. Thorncrown Chapel is the spot to visit in Eureka Springs if you want to see a fascinating piece of architecture. This chapel won an award for its architectural style in 1980, showcasing crossed metal pieces set in front of tall glass walls. The grounds surrounding the chapel are also quite forested and peaceful, providing a serene place to get away from the bustle of daily life. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or learn more about the area around your town, you can enjoy many attractions and locations near Springdale. As you're planning a day trip to get out and explore, add the above places to your must-see list. Image via Pixabay.com

Finding a peaceful place to get out of the hustle and bustle of daily life and into the serenity of nature is good for your mental health. In and around Springdale, Arkansas, you can find several peaceful nature areas that will help you reconnect with your surroundings and feel more relaxed. 1. Lake Fayetteville Trail One of the most popular places to get outdoors in the area is the Lake Fayetteville Trail, which is managed by the city's Parks and Recreation department. The trail surrounds Lake Fayetteville, offering beautiful views of the water and trees around every curve. Because it is so popular, you'll often find quite a few people on the trail, but if you go early enough in the day, you might be able to enjoy a serene getaway. The looped trail spans about 5.7 miles and gets a moderate rating. Most of the trail is paved, although you'll encounter a few sections of dirt surfaces. The lake also has an award-winning bridge that goes across its spillway. 2. Ozark National Forest Ozark National Forest is about 40 miles outside of Springdale, and it's worth the trip to experience the natural surroundings within this wooded area. The 1.2-million-acre forest houses miles of hiking trails as well as other opportunities for recreation. You can take part in horseback riding, kayaking, camping, boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, floating, and mountain biking at the various designated places within the forest. If you prefer to keep your nature experiences simple, you can always take a scenic drive. During your trip through the forest, you could spot different types of flora and fauna that are native to the area as well as look for wildlife such as white-tail deer and black bears. 3. Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Located in nearby Rogers, the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area sits on the southern shores of Beaver Lake. This 12,000-acre national park spans several counties and has 36 miles of hiking and biking trails. As you walk around the trails, you can see impressive views of the lake within the conservation area. Additional recreational attractions include horseback riding trails, primitive campsites, and an outdoor shooting range. Throughout the year, the conservation area also hosts educational workshops and programs. 4. Coyote Cave and Butterfield Trails Loop Coyote Cave and Butterfield Trails Loop is another appealing place to get out into your natural surroundings. Its difficulty level is rated as moderate, but you'll often see families exploring the trail. The portion of the trail leading to Coyote Cave is the most challenging. Dogs are welcome, although they must remain on a leash. The trail is 2.7 miles long and loops back to the start. Hikers and bikers alike can use the trail. Whether you're planning to go out for a hike or simply relax with your favorite reading material outdoors, be sure to check out these appealing and peaceful nature areas in the Springdale area. When the weather is pleasant, you can soak up some sunshine and leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. Image via TripAdvisor.com

Cultural experiences can give you insights into different groups of people, allow you to take part in something new, and help you create memories that will last a lifetime. If you're looking for places to enjoy these types of experiences in the Springdale, Arkansas, area, take a closer look at a few of the top arts and cultural attractions. 1. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History opened in 1965 when the city of Springdale purchased a large collection of Native American artifacts. The collection features items gathered over six decades by a local resident and includes pamphlets and books on archeology and anthropology, as well as prehistoric artifacts. The museum is housed within the old Springdale Public Library building and named for the settlement and church established under the same name in the mid-19th century. Over the years, the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History has continued to grow and expand, including additional exhibits and artifacts for the public to see. The museum organizes educational programs such as tours for school classes, a lecture series, and crafts workshops; displays new and improved exhibits; and houses restored historic buildings that date back to the 1800s and 1900s. 2. Springdale Public Library The Springdale Public Library also plays a significant role in the city's history. In the 1940s, the city received funding from the federal government to open and staff the library. During that time, the library became part of the Washington County Library System, which provided access to many more books. The library has expanded over the years and is now a state-of-the-art facility with 43,000 square feet of space. You can use the facility to read, find new reading material, access online research resources, or browse audio and visual materials. This library checks out nearly 2,000 items per day, on average, to members of the Springdale community. 3. Scott Family Amazeum Located in nearby Bentonville, the Scott Family Amazeum is a great place to visit if you want your kids to have a cultural experience. This family-friendly facility houses 50,000 square feet of exhibit space, allowing visitors to enjoy hands-on learning through inventive play. The interactive exhibits are engaging to children of all ages and showcase the industries and people that shaped the state's culture in the past, now, and in the future. Some of the exhibits include the 3M Tinkering Hub, the Hershey's Lab, Nature Valley Water Amazements, General Mills Lift, Load, and Haul, and the Nickelodeon Play Lab. The museum also features an acre of outdoor space where kids can take part in experiences inspired by the changing seasons and in scientific experiments that help define the way they view the world around them. The Amazeum also hosts various educational programs for a range of audiences. No matter what types of artistic and cultural experiences you enjoy, it's easy to find a place that caters to your preferences in the Springdale area. Check out these unique locations to discover what the city has to offer. ***Please note that due to the current national social state, site availability and hours of operation may change for all locations mentioned. Image via Arkansas.com

Springdale, Arkansas, sits on the Springfield Plateau in the Ozark Mountains. Because of its location, there is always something to do in Springdale. Whether you like to get outside and enjoy the fresh air or spend time inside, there are activities and attractions for everyone. See the sites in the fourth-largest city in Arkansas. Arvest Ballpark Arvest Ballpark in Springdale is home to the Northeast Arkansas Naturals baseball team. This is a great place for family entertainment throughout the summer. The ballpark hosts over 70 games for baseball lovers to enjoy, and you can also head to the ballpark several times a year for festivals and events. The stadium can seat over 7,300 people and it features food with made-to-order items created by Patina Catering. You can munch on hot dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, and barbecue dishes while you watch some ball, or stop by the fan zone for some team apparel and gear. Parsons Stadium Parsons Stadium is home to the Rodeo of the Ozarks. Along with the rodeo, this community stadium hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Ozark Demolition Derby and Buckin' in the Ozarks. The annual Rodeo of the Ozarks draws over 10,000 fans each night and is one of the area's largest events. The Spring Carnival takes place at the stadium each May and brings rides, concessions, games, and tons of fun for the whole family. Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery Make a stop at Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery for beautiful scenery and delicious wine tasting. This winery sits in what was once a dairy barn that the owners renovated into a beautiful space. You can enjoy the view from one of the multiple decks off the back of the tasting room while sipping on wine. They produce award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, and syrah, and also serve a wide selection of wines from all around the world. War Eagle Cavern War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake is the only lakeside cavern entrance in Arkansas. Take a guided cavern tour that brings you along the edges of the stream that flows through the cavern. The path takes you through huge rooms that stay at a constant 58 degrees all year round, and your guide will tell you all about the domes and formations that you see along the way. They also offer Wild Cavern Tours for guests with a sense of adventure. These take you through unconditioned passages that you need to climb and crawl through, and you get to see cave wildlife and incredible natural formations. Lake Fayetteville Lake Fayetteville offers beautiful views and tons of activities. Spend the day out on water fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, or stay on the shores biking or playing disc golf. On the north side of the lake, there are bike and boat rentals, and you can also find fishing gear. There are a lot of sites to see and activities to try in and around Springdale. These are just a few of the ways you can spend a lovely spring afternoon. Image via WarEagleCavern.com

The Arts Center of the Ozarks has become a creative outlet for Springdale, Arkansas, locals. Check out just a few of the exciting things that the center offers. Theatre Productions Live theatre performances are one of the most common features of the Arts Center of the Ozarks. With rotating musical performances, you can almost always catch something exciting at the arts center. Previous performances have included Mama Mia, Junie B. Jones the Musical, Opera in the Ozarks, and a Charlie Brown Christmas. You'll find live performances by and for performers of all ages. The theater itself, while small, is in great shape and allows you to explore its historical architecture. Springdale locals interested in sharing their passion for music and choir with others might enjoy joining the Arts Center of the Ozarks choir. The choir meets every Monday night. Interested individuals can sign up for an audition online. Art Exhibits The Arts Center of the Ozarks often hosts art exhibits, allowing you to view both local and well-known artwork. Currently, you can catch the Leah Grant Exhibition and Reception until the end of March, 2020. The Arts Rising Gala event is also scheduled for Feb. 29, 2019, which is a celebration of the arts open to the community. Attendees can expect live music, delicious food, fundraising auction, games, and wine tasting. The Arts Center of the Ozarks is always looking for new, upcoming artists to display at one of their exhibits. If you or someone you know would be perfect for this opportunity, reach out to the center for a chance at hosting your very own art show. There are opportunities available for all artistic levels. Art Classes and Artistic Development One of the Arts Center of the Ozarks guiding missions is to increase the awareness and education of art in the local community. Through classes and workshops, the center is able to develop the artistic skills of participants. Just a few of the upcoming art programs include the Artist INC Live Springdale and the Artistic Guest Project. Interested artists can learn more about programs online. The center also has a musical development program for locals interested in performing in one of the theater performances. Each one of the actors or actresses used in the centers' performances is a local community member, rather than a professional. Both children and adults interested in all genres, including comedy, musicals, drama, and radio, can sign up to take art classes at the center. Interested artists can learn more about upcoming classes and programs by following the schedule of upcoming auditions. Upcoming auditions for the 2020 year that are already scheduled include a drama and holiday performance. Holiday Events The Arts Center of the Ozarks has also become an important celebratory location during the holidays. Children often enjoy eating breakfast with Mrs. Claus and capturing a photo with Santa Claus during the holidays. With many themed performances scheduled throughout the year, locals can also enjoy quality time with family during the holidays. The Arts Center of the Ozarks is much more than a live performance theater. They also educate the local community on the importance of art and theater. Image via Pixabay.com

Although many people travel to the Ozarks in the summer, there are plenty of things to do during the winter. And you don't need to spend all of your time indoors, although you can find numerous places to stay out of the cold if you desire. Find out about four ways you can enjoy the beauty found at this popular location that rests in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. 1. Eagle Watching From late December through early February, the Ozarks is the perfect location to watch eagles perching in large trees. Plan to head out early in the morning, and you might be able to see these majestic creatures flying and fishing. In Springfield, Missouri, there's an indoor program at the Springfield Conservation Center as well as decent spots to view the birds at the Springfield Boathouse and Marina. At nearby Bull Shoals Lake in Arkansas, walk along the Lakeside Trail for your best opportunity to spot a bald eagle. Visit during the second weekend in January for the annual bald eagle event. Other popular spots in Missouri are the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary near Alton, Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Sumner, and the Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge near Mound City. 2. Exploring Caves Missouri is home to more than 6,300 registered caves, and the Ozarks are home to about 300 of them. No matter what the weather, the caves in the Ozarks are a great spot to explore because their temperatures hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Some caves worth checking out include the Fantastic Caverns in Springfield, Bridal Cave in Camdenton, Meramec Caverns in Stanton, and Talking Rocks Cavern in Branson West. 3. Hiking Winter in the Ozarks can exhibit cold winds and snow, and if you're someone who loves the outdoors no matter what the season, hiking is the perfect opportunity to see some majestic vistas. Check out the 3,700-acre state-owned Ha Ha Tonka State Park during the winter, and hike along its 15 miles of hiking trails. 4. Wine Tasting Missouri has a history of producing wine dating back to the 1880s, thanks to the influence of German immigrants. The area became known as "Missouri Rhineland," but due to prohibition, and the growth of the California wine industry, Missouri saw a decrease in wine production. However, over the past decade, Lake of the Ozarks has seen an increase in craft wineries.  There's nothing better than pairing the stunning scenery with the perfect glass of wine and gourmet food. There are several wineries in the area where you can spend a weekend or an entire week sampling wine. The Lake of the Ozarks wine trail features six wineries, including Golden Rock Winery, Sugarloaf Vineyard, Casa de Loco Winery, Seven Springs Winery, Shawnee Bluff Winery, and Shawnee Bluff Vineyards. Although the leaves have fallen off the trees and the days get shorter, winter shouldn't prevent you from visiting the Ozarks. Don't let the temperatures deter you, as you can explore many areas outdoors. Whether you're seeking wildlife, exploring caves, getting some exercise and hiking, or enjoying a glass or two of wine, the Ozarks has you covered. The hardest part might be determining which place to visit first. Image via Pixabay.com

Located on Main Street in Springdale, Arkansas, the Arts Center of the Ozarks (ACO) is known for its visual arts and production. Open for more than 50 years, the nonprofit ACO has a diverse range of programming and has introduced thousands of people to live performances, art classes, and plays. Explore these attractions and exhibitions next time you visit. 5x5 Soiree and Auction Local, regional, and professional artists submit their artwork to show at the ACO's exhibitions throughout the year, but the one highlight is its 5x5 Soiree and Auction. Each year in October more than 500 artists draw, paint, or sculpt a canvas that measures 5x5 inches. The completed artwork is showcased and auctioned at the annual one-night Soiree. Hors d'oeuvres, gourmet coffee, and dessert are available, and funds raised from the event benefit the center. "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" From December 13 through 15, the ACO offers a performance of "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever". Directed by Jacob Christiansen, the show highlights the outrageous behavior of the Herdman siblings, who are also known as the worst kids ever. These siblings take over the annual Christmas pageant in a heartwarming story that involves six rowdy children, three wise men, shepherds, and a ham. Dia de Los Muertos For the past four years, the ACO has hosted a Dia de Los Muertos celebration. Known as the Day of the Dead, this Mexican holiday oftentimes occurs on November 1 and 2, and celebrates the lives of relatives, friends, and other loved ones who have passed. It's believed that the spirits return at night to eat their favorite foods, so the celebration included food and an altar where family members placed their loved one's favorite items. The festival also included hands-on and interactive art and dancing. "Into the Woods" This timeless modern classic novel is transformed into a performance, thanks to James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim. The story follows a baker and his wife who desire to have a child, Cinderella who wants to attend the King's festival, and Jack who wants his cow to produce milk. When the baker and his wife realize they cannot have a child due to a witch's curse, they set off on a journey to break the curse. Although the wish is granted, there are consequences. The show occurs in 2020 on February 7 through 16. "See How They Run" In 2020 from March 6 through 15, the ACO performs a London-based comedy called "See How They Run." This fast-passed performance features an ensemble at an English vicarage. Among the participants are an American actor and actress, a maid from Cockney, another maid who tried alcohol for the first time, four men dressed as clergymen, and a Bishop who cannot believe everything that's going on with each one of the characters. With its location in downtown Springdale, ACO is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Whether you're looking at some stunning artwork drawn by local artisans, watching a live-action performance of a modern classic, or learning more about customs, the arts center has you covered. Image via Acozarks.org

Fall is just around the corner, which means fishing is going to get very exciting as the water cools down. While Arkansas is known for its world-class fishing all year round, there are several amazing fishing locations right near Springdale, Arkansas. If you find yourself getting skunked every time you go fishing, try one of these top spots and you'll never go home without an exciting catch ever again. Beaver Lake If you have a boat, Beaver Lake is a standout spot for trout fishing. Whether you're fly fishing or using spinning tackle, it's hard to beat the scenery and opportunity at Beaver Lake. The lake used to be excellent for more warm water species thanks to its many coves and crannies which warm water fish love. However, as the water temperatures declined, cold water fish such as trout were introduced. They soon flourished and Beaver Lake became a must-fish trout lake. Plus, you can still catch great bass despite the addition of trout which isn't always the case. If you're looking to make a weekend out of it, you can stay at Beaver Lakefront Cabins, which offers lodging and guided fishing tours targeting bass or trout. It's a surefire way to develop lasting memories and amazing fishing photos. Below Beaver Dam on the White River There are several dams throughout the state of Arkansas. Fishing below the dam at many of these locations is sure to be a winning fishing experience. Along the White River you'll find Beaver Dam, and below it is some great trout fishing that's not only easily accessible but also close to nature and serene, a combination you don't find too often. There's a good chance you won't have the place to yourself, but there's plenty of room for anyone angling there. War Eagle Mill Just forty minutes away is War Eagle Mill, a fishing hole that's as exciting as it is beautiful. You can fish right at War Eagle Creek which is complete with a bridge and gentle waterfall. Similar to the situation at Beaver Dam, you're probably going to run into a few other friendly anglers but there's plenty of fish to go around. Even if you don't have a great day of catching, the waterfall and country-esque scenery will bring you plenty of peace and happiness. Lake Atlanta If you're just trying to catch something, Lake Atlanta is a great choice because of its diversity in species. The lake was undergoing some construction in the last few years, giving the fish in the lake plenty of time to spawn and grow in numbers without any fishing activity. Now, Lake Atlanta is a great place to fish for everything from trout and bass to bluegill and catfish. Arkansas is home to some of the best fishing in the country. Regardless of your age or skill level, those near Springdale Arkansas should take the time to try some of the fishing holes above. Remember, no matter where you fish, you'll need to have the right fishing license and to follow regulations on limits. Happy angling everyone! Image via Flickr by Clinton Steeds

You'll never run out of things to do during a visit to Arkansas Ozark Mountain Region. With beautiful views, rivers, waterfalls, and mountains for hiking and biking, you can explore for days. The Arkansas Ozarks are the perfect destination for a quick weekend away or an extended vacation for the whole family. Here are some ways to enjoy the Ozarks this fall. 1. Take a Waterfall Tour The Ozark Mountains have several waterfalls with rushing water in the winter and spring, but they are still worth the trip in the fall when the water slows down. Twin Falls is one of the most beautiful and picture-worthy falls in Arkansas. The hike to reach them is fairly difficult, but it is well worth it. Falling Water Falls is another waterfall offering beautiful views, and the hike to get there is less challenging. Eden Falls in Lost Valley is a 35-foot underground waterfall, and Hemmed-In-Hollow is the tallest in the state. This is also a 220-foot waterfall on the Buffalo National River that you can only reach by hiking or by canoe. 2. Fishing The Ozarks offer world-class fishing all year round. You can head to one of the streams and fish for trout on your own, or hire a guide to show you where to find the best fishing holes. The White and North Fork Rivers have an abundance of trout so catching your limit is usually easy. If you prefer deep-water fishing, Bull Shoals Lake and Lake Norfolk offer fishing expeditions for all levels of anglers. You can find smallmouth bass on Crooked Creek and in the Buffalo National River, along with Channel catfish, long ear sunfish, and spotted bass 3. Hiking Whether you want to take a leisurely nature walk or challenge your wilderness skills, you can find your next adventure in the Ozarks. There are over 1,000 miles of hiking trails where you can head out on your own using a trail map, or you can take a guided eco-tour to learn more about what you see along the way. You can also plan a backpacking trip in the mountains. The fall is one of the best times of the year for hiking in this region with the fall foliage offering stunning views that burst with color. 4. Mountain Biking Bring your bike to the Ozarks and check out the riding trails. You can try the IMBA Epic Upper Buffalo Headwaters Trail, or take a road biking tour. The road bike routes range from difficult to very difficult and offer scenic attractions along the way. Mountain bikers can start with The Ozark Mountain Bicycle Trail that runs for 40 miles through the Buffalo National River area or try the Syllamo trails. The Syllamo trails are single-track trails that are some of the most technically challenging in the area. There are five different loops on this trail including the White River Bluff Loop designed for advanced riders. There are just a few of the activities available in the Ozarks. You can also camp, climb, paddle down the rivers, and much more. Image via Flickr by markturnerimages

Historical marker at Scissors Crossing. "19 Miles. Vallecito-Butterfield Stage Station. One of the chief remaining landmarks of famous old stage line. Coaches and spring wagons carried passengers and mail. Stations were built at 20-mile intervals. The first stage on the line left St. Louis on September 15, 1858. Historical Landmark No. 304. Department of Public Works -- Division of Highways." Located in Northwest Arkansas, Springdale sits surrounded by the Ozarks and their natural beauty. While the mountains are a big draw, its rich history and variety of historic sites also bring visitors to the area. There are museums to explore and American Civil War battlefields to see. You can also see old Victorian mansions along with homes built before the Civil War that are still standing. Here are some of the best historical sites to explore in Springdale. 1. Springdale Bluff Cemetery The Springdale Bluff Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the area and it predates the Civil War. You can find the grave of John Holcombe, the man who founded Springdale, at this cemetery along with his wife. There are graves dating back to 1841, and this is the cemetery where you can find many of the early residents of Springdale. 2. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History is a museum with exhibits that showcase the history and the people who settle the area. There are historic buildings on the grounds, a research library with over 500,000 pictures of early life in the Ozarks, and much more. Visit the museum to see exhibits such as Prehistoric Ozarks, Settling the Ozarks, and the Civil War to World War I. Some collections include Native American artifacts, tools, textiles, and original art. The seven historic buildings on the property include a log cabin from 1851, the Shiloh Meeting Hall from 1871, and the Steele General Store from the 1870s. Admission to the museum is free. 3. Butterfield Stage Line The Butterfield State Line was a stop along the Butterfield Overland Mail Company route. The barn on the Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead property was used by the mail company from 1858 to 1861. The property also includes an 1870s home, a pump house, native stone markers, a stable, and a cistern. Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead is a certified site on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. 4. Shiloh Church - IOOF Hall The original Shiloh Church was the first church in Shiloh. Settlers built it in 1840, but it burned to the ground during the Civil War. The church members had a new building constructed sometime around 1868 and later sold to the school district. The Shiloh Museum now owns the building, and it is on the National Register. 5. The Rogers Historical Museum Stop by the Rogers Historical Museum in nearby Rogers, Arkansas to see artifacts from Northwest Arkansas. This local attraction features exhibits such at Hawkins House, a restored Victorian house from the early 1900s with authentic furnishings. The Hailey Building has five galleries with exhibits that explore the history of the area. You can take a look at how the pioneers settled in northwest Arkansas and the impact of the Beaver Dam. Springdale and the surrounding areas have a long and rich history that dates back to the Indians and before the Civil War. These historic sites allow people to see a little of the areas past. Image via Flickr by GSEC

Welcome to the Arkansas Air & Military Museum, where the entire family can learn about military and aircraft history and more. Before you arrive at the museum, it's best to familiarize yourself with some of the exhibits you'll want to visit. There's so much to take in that you don't want to miss out. Here's just a sampling of what's in store for you at the museum. General Aircraft Exhibits If you're interested in aircraft history, you'll want to take in all the general exhibits. For example, there's an exhibit about the Travel Air Model R "Mystery Ship," which was built in 1928 for the 1929 air races. This race was the first time a civilian plane beat out military jets! Another exciting exhibit is about the LearJet model 23. This jet was built in 1964, originally created by Bill Lear and further modified by Bobby Younkin. Lear was a successful manufacturer of aircraft instruments and a jet designer. He worked on the Lear 23 for about four years, and created more than 100 Lear 23s. Younkin, one of the most respected aerobatics pilots in the world, died tragically in a mid-air collision in 2005. There are many more general aircraft exhibits at the museum; see the website for a full listing. Military Aircraft Exhibits If your specific interest is in military aircraft, then you will find five great exhibits at the museum on this topic. There is an exhibit about the Bell UH-1H Huey Helicopter, which is possibly the world's most famous helicopter and one of the most recognized from the Vietnam era. The aircraft was used for medical evacuations, for troop transport, and as a gunship, and it flew for the first time in 1956. Another exhibit looks at the Boeing-Sterman N2S-S (PT-17), which many of America's pilots in World War II trained on. The Douglass A-4 Skyhawk is another Vietnam-era aircraft that is on exhibit. Diverse Shows While the museum offers many exhibits on aircraft and the military, there is also a diverse array of other exhibits. For example, check out "Large or Small, We Lead Them All," which is about the history of the Travel Air Company. And don't miss the exhibit "Aviation Pioneer Louise Thaden," which is about one of the most famous female pilots from the golden age of aviation. There is also an exhibit about other military vehicles, about such engines as the Rolls-Royce Spry and military engines, and more! For an educational experience that has a great deal of depth and brings to life the reality of the military and the creation of aviation, come visit the Arkansas Air & Military Museum. The museum is located at 4290 S. School Avenue in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It's open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entrance is $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 6 to 12, free for children younger than 5, and $25 for a family. Image via Flickr by Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.

Ozark National Park, located mostly in the Ozark mountains of northern Arkansas, covers about 1.2 million acres of gorgeous natural space. There are many exciting things you can do during your visit to the park. Here's an overview of some of the most popular activities. 1. Enjoy the Waterfalls If you enjoy gazing at the wonders of nature, then take full advantage of the fantastic waterfalls that exist throughout Ozark National Park. Some of them are located quite close to the main entrance, and others are mysteriously hidden deep within the forest. This makes for an outstanding trip through the park whether you're with children or hiking solo. There are so many waterfalls that it's difficult to count them all! 2. Ride Horseback If you're up for a true adventure, then don't miss out on the opportunity to go horseback riding in Ozark National Park. Take a horse out along the tails and dirt roads. Although horseback riding isn't permitted on all trails throughout the park, many of the trails afford you this unique sightseeing perspective. 3. Learn the History Treat yourself and your loved ones to an opportunity to learn about the history of the region. There are many reserved areas and exhibits that let you find out about the indigenous cultures and original settlers, events of the Civil War, schools and churches of past generations, and even the Viking era and the activities of the Spanish. You'll also learn about natural occurrences in the region, like earthquakes. 4. Camp Out You can also have a fun social experience at Ozark National Park thanks to the wonderful camping opportunities available there. Campsites are scattered throughout the entire park. You can choose from traditional campsites, RV parks if you're coming by trailer, and cabins and cottages. If you'd like to splurge, there are a variety of motels, hotels, and bed and breakfast venues available. 5. Explore Magnificent Caves If you'd like to kick your nature craving up a notch, then look no further than the fabulous caves that are spread out across the region. The special geological formations found in this region birthed thousands of caves: 6,000 have been documented thus far in Missouri, and many of these are available by tour within Ozark National Park. Some caves have "rooms" as high as 300 feet, and some can be seen by car via drive-through tours. 6. Cool Off in Wonderful Water When you need to refresh from the heat of your outdoor adventure, you'll be glad to know you have many watery areas to explore. There are plenty of lakes and rivers around, which let you engage in fun activities like fishing, floating, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming! If you're feeling more adventurous, you can go water skiing and scuba diving, too. Ozark National Park is a gigantic national park that offers everything you're searching for in a natural expedition. Check out the park's website for more information and for ideas on your upcoming adventure. Image via Flickr by Ken Lund