Northwest Arkansas
This area sort of took me by surprise. Friends recommended a couple of different point of interest. As often happens, I then started looking at the region as a whole. I was staying down at Buffalo National River, and did this as a day trip. There was just too much to see. Here are a few of the highlights:
Crystal Bridges Museum of Art
This museum was founded by a member of the Walton Family and houses an impressive collection of primarily American Art. It is not something one might expect to find in Bentonville, Arkansas and, what’s more, admission is free.
Eureka Springs
Centered around the presence of several natural springs and the Native American belief that at least one of the springs possesses healing power, the town has grown into a quaint tourist hub. The historic downtown is a charming shopping and dining district.
Pea Ridge Military Park
The 1862 Battle of Pea Ridge was the most significant Civil War battle fought in the Southwestern US. The Union victory helped secure the border state of Missouri. It is considered one of the best preserved battlefields in the United States. The National Park Service manages the site and helps interpret the battle.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
The first fort in what is today Fort Smith, Arkansas was built in 1817. A second, more durable fort was built in 1838 which had jurisdiction over all of Indian Territory (which is now the state of Oklahoma). While the fort was initially a military installation, it came to house federal marshals, a large jail and a courthouse that adjudicated offenses in Indian Territory. In 1961 the fort was preserved as the Fort Smith National Historic Site and is administered by the National Park Service.
Other Things to Consider
While in Bentonville, the Bachman-Wilson House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Peel Museum and Botanical Garden are worth a look. If you are looking for outdoor activities, Beaver Lake, Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area or Devil’s Den State Park are just a few of the places that can support fishing, hiking and wildlife observation.
Northwest Arkansas is a destination that can certainly support a longer trip. If I could do it over, I would take in Buffalo National River as a day trip and possibly even Winding Stairs National Recreation Area. Of course, everyone has different priorities, so it is ultimately up to you. In any case, I highly recommend this area for at least a short stay.