NWA Hidden Gems

Tucked into the rolling hills and colorful landscapes of Northwest Arkansas, hidden adventures are waiting to be found. Whether you’re looking for a weekend outdoor getaway, family fun for all ages, or an exciting day of adventures, NWA has a little bit of something for everyone! From artistic retreats to quirky towns imbedded in history, let’s dive into OTG's Top Hidden Gems in/or near NWA!

Terra Studios: A Creative Oasis

First up is Terra Studios, this magical destination is literally just miles from our Wanderland rental! Located just outside Fayetteville, this artsy escape is an excellent source for creativity and inspiration. Here, guests can wander through enchanting gardens filled with over 100 whimsical sculptures and enjoy a stroll around galleries showcasing the work of more than 60 local artists.

The relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot for families or anyone wanting some peace while appreciating art and nature. Now that I know where they come from, I see their famous Bluebirds all over the country at flea markets and resale stores.

Eureka Springs: A Timeless Ozark Treasure

Next on the list is the charming town of Eureka Springs. Known for its Victorian-era architecture, this small town bursts with character at every corner. With winding streets and a vibrant arts scene, you can easily lose track of time exploring the local shops and art galleries, which feature work from over 100 local artists.

Make sure to visit the shop with the bunny rabbit and local eateries that add flavor to the downtown area. For nature lovers, the Kings River is one of our favorites and the stunning Thorncrown Chapel, with its 6,000 square feet of glass is a must-see!

Beaver Lake: A Gem of the Ozarks

If you’re looking for a place in Northwest Arkansas that balances natural beauty with endless recreation, Beaver Lake checks every box. Just outside Rogers and Eureka Springs, this 28,000-acre reservoir feels like the kind of spot you can return to again and again, and always find something new to enjoy!

On land, the lake’s 480 miles of shoreline are dotted with parks, campgrounds, and hiking spots. The Hobbs State Park–Conservation Area sits right along its shores, offering trails, wildlife viewing, and educational exhibits that pair perfectly with a day at the lake.

Beaver Lake isn’t just a body of water, it’s an adventure!. It captures the best of Arkansas: natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a sense of community around the water. Whether you’re casting a line at sunrise, hiking the shoreline, or just floating the day away, Beaver Lake has a way of slowing you down and reminding you why life in the Ozarks is so special!

Crystal Bridges: Where Art Meets the Ozarks

Sitting on over 134 wooded acres in the heart of the Ozarks, Crystal Bridges is much more than a museum, it's an immersive adventure that blends American art, architecture, and the natural beauty of NWA. With free admission and an open invitation to explore, it’s easy to fall in love with this NWA gem!

Stretching across more than five miles of winding paths, the museum’s nature trails offer living galleries of seasonal blooms, native trees, and thoughtful design. Whether you are into quiet nature reflection, gallery-hopping, or immersive art installations, Crystal Bridges offers something inspiring for everyone!

Dickson Street: The Heart of Fayetteville

Dickson Street truly encapsulates the soul of Fayetteville: historic, dynamic, creative, and welcoming. ​Originally a dirt path in the 1870s but over time, it became one of Fayetteville's first light industrial centers, lined with lumber yards, dry cleaners, grocery stores, and restaurants. 

Today, Dickson Street is full energy and some of the best restaurants in Fayetteville! Bars, shops, and theaters make this street the center for entertainment and nightlife!

From its roots as an early industrial corridor to a modern entertainment hotspot, the street offers something for everyone, whether you're craving Pancakes at Prelude, live music at George’s, catching a performance at TheatreSquared, hunting down unique local finds, or just savoring a drink on a sunlit patio!

Devil's Den State Park: Paradise for Trail Lovers

Devil’s Den State Park is a paradise for all nature lovers, where breathtaking geology meets heartfelt conservation. Its crevice caves not only form one of the nation’s largest sandstone cave systems but also shelter rare bat species like the Ozark big-eared bat.

While direct cave access is restricted, the park’s 60+ miles of scenic hiking, biking, and horseback trails provide abundant opportunity to explore the landscape, appreciate exposed rock formations, and perhaps glimpse cave openings from safe distances (of course)!

Whether you’re resting by the lake, hiking to panoramic overlooks, exploring cave trails, or camping under starry skies in a rustic cabin, this park never fails to leave a lasting impression.

Walmart Amp: A Legacy Built on Sound & Vision

Originally launched in 2005 as a seasonal, semi-permanent venue, the AMP quickly became a well-known concert destination and in 2014, it transitioned into a permanent facility in Rogers with expanded infrastructure!

Today, the venue boasts a capacity of about 11,000, combining covered seating with sloped lawn areas for that perfect outdoor music vibe It consistently draws big-name talent across all genres.

The Walmart AMP delivers an engaging blend of music, architecture, and atmosphere with an unmatched outdoor concert setting in Arkansas. Its premiere design, broad-reaching artist selection, and welcoming environment make it a memorable stop on any live music lover’s itinerary!

NWA Bike Trails: Mountain Biking Capital of the World

Northwest Arkansas has quietly built one of the most impressive biking networks in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker, a road cyclist, or just someone looking for a smooth family ride, the NWA trails truly have something for everyone!

At the heart of it all is the Razorback Regional Greenway, a 40-mile paved trail stretching from Bella Vista to Fayetteville. It winds through downtowns, past art installations, parks, and coffee shops. I love how you can hop on in one city, grab lunch in another, and make a whole day of it. For families, it’s flat-ish, safe (during the day), and accessible and perfect for casual riders.

Bentonville alone is often called the “Mountain Biking Capital of the World,” and it shows. Trails like Slaughter Pen and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve are world-class—flowy, technical, and endlessly fun.

Over in Fayetteville, Mount Kessler offers rugged, rocky challenges, while Devil’s Den State Park blends history with thrilling singletrack. Every time I ride here, I’m blown away by the variety.

What makes NWA trails unique isn’t just the design, it’s the scenery. One moment you’re weaving through shady forests with limestone bluffs, the next you’re cruising along creeks or pedaling past murals downtown. I especially enjoy riding in the fall, the Ozark Mountains come alive with color, making every ride feel like a Hallmark movie!

The NWA bike trails are more than just paths through the woods, they’re a point of pride for the region. They connect cities, people, and nature in a way that makes you want to keep exploring. Whether you’re rolling slow with family on the Greenway or sending it down a technical downhill in Bentonville, there’s always a new adventure waiting!

NWA Golf Courses: Golfer's Paradise

I honestly believe that Northwest Arkansas offers some of the most enjoyable and diverse golfing experiences you’ll find in the region. The area combines well-designed courses, stunning Ozark scenery, and a strong golfing community that makes every round memorable.

The first thing you notice when golfing in NWA is the setting. Rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and natural water features give each course its own unique character. Take Big Sugar Golf Club in Pea Ridge—it challenges you with elevation changes and tight approaches while rewarding accurate play. In Rogers, Lost Springs Golf & Athletic Club blends forgiving holes with a few that really test your shot-making. And if you want postcard-worthy views, Scotsdale and Dogwood Hills in Bella Vista offer scenic layouts carved right into the hills.

What I appreciate most is the balance between challenge and accessibility. Courses like Creekmoor at Pinnacle Country Club host professional-level events (including LPGA tournaments), giving serious golfers a tour-quality experience. Meanwhile, public courses in Fayetteville, Springdale, and Bella Vista provide great options for beginners, families, or players who just want a relaxed weekend round. Bella Vista in particular is known for its variety and affordability, you can play a different course every day of the week without breaking the bank.

The courses here are generally well-maintained. Greens roll true, fairways stay in good shape through most of the year, and the natural terrain adds strategic complexity. Weather can play a role, especially in the spring, but fall in the Ozarks is absolute perfection for golf!

From a golfer’s perspective, NWA is a hidden gem. You get championship-level challenges, scenic public tracks, and plenty of opportunities to mix serious play with relaxed rounds. Whether you’re chasing a personal best score, enjoying a weekend with friends, or just soaking in the Ozark views from the fairway, the golf scene here never disappoints.

Adventures Await in NWA

Pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and set out to explore these adventures spots you never knew you needed to visit! The adventure is just around the corner in Northwest Arkansas!