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Staff Spotlight: Summer Chisum
In our Arkansas Adventures series, we’re taking you on a virtual tour of the state, helping you plan your next family summer staycation, and asking for your own tips and tricks along the way.
This week’s stop: Springdale. Springdale is one of a triad of cities that are typically referred to as “Northwest Arkansas.” Fayetteville and Rogers round out the trio, while Bentonville is also nearby. Each offers unique opportunities for dining, shopping, entertainment, and exploration.
With the U.S. News & World Report ranking Northwest Arkansas as #5 on its list of “Best Places to Live in the U.S.,” it’s no longer a secret that the region is a wonderful place to call home. We’re confident you’ll find the area is an equally wonderful place to visit. Personally, we liked the area so much that we opened a Taylor King Law office there.
What to DO in Springdale
Nothing says “summer fun” quite like an evening of baseball! Take your whole family out to the ballgame at Arvest Ballpark to watch the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. This minor-league team based in Springdale is the Double-A affiliate to the Kansas City Royals.
With plenty of seating options, both free playground equipment and pay-to-play games for kids, and the best fried Oreos around, Arvest Ballpark should be at the top of your list as you explore Springdale. Be sure to arrive early for their nightly giveaways, and consider a Sunday game option if it’s a family affair; kids eat free on Sundays! Upcoming events include 4th at the Field festivities with the largest fireworks display in Northwest Arkansas.
Next, visit the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History located in the heart of Springdale. The regional history museum focuses on the Northwest Arkansas Ozarks and the pioneer community of Shiloh, which became Springdale in the 1870s.
Both adults and children will be fascinated by the Shiloh Museum. In addition to exhibits that highlight the everyday lives of the families who lived in the pioneer days, you can explore six historic buildings on the grounds. You’ll feel immersed in the history of Arkansas! Don’t miss the research library, where a collection of over 500,000 photographs of Ozark life is available for viewing.
Admission to the Shiloh Museum is FREE. Ask for scavenger hunt packets for your children and enjoy the interactive experience.
For the “green thumbs” among you, the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is a must-see. Located just a few miles outside of Springdale in Fayetteville, this is the only botanical garden in Northwest Arkansas. Stroll through the 12 themed gardens as well as Arkansas’s only butterfly house! Clearly-labeled signs throughout the grounds will help even the most novice gardener appreciate the native flora and fauna.
Before you visit, check to see if there are any upcoming garden events. The Botanical Gardens host free summer concerts, a Firefly Fling family festival, International Festival, and educational programs for children – Little Sprouts and Garden Buds.
Bonus: If you’re getting away with your spouse or a weekend with friends, you may be interested to learn that Springdale is the home of two working wineries. The Sassafras Springs Vineyard offers free tastings as well as a History Room featuring the story of the Italian families who founded the vineyard. Tontitown Winery is another fine option where you can enjoy dinner, stroll the 30 acres of land, and listen to live music on the weekends.
Where to EAT in Springdale
Whether you’re beginning the day, or just need a mid-afternoon refresher, Onyx Coffee Lab is Springdale’s top-rated coffee shop. This locally-owned shop has expanded into four locations, but Springdale is home to the original store. Take a seat inside and enjoy the Onyx Delight along with locally baked pastries, pie, or ice cream. We guarantee you’ll leave with a bag of Southern Weather, their signature house blend, to enjoy at home.
For a homestyle family breakfast, look no further than Susan’s Restaurant. We don’t know Susan, but her quintessential American diner is one of Springdale’s local favorites with a reputation for outstanding service and generous portions. Visit for breakfast or lunch. We recommend the Pig Sooie omelette; you’re in Razorback country, after all.
Marketplace Grill will be the cherry on top of an amazing Arkansas adventure. Local to Arkansas, Marketplace Grill is open in Springdale as well as Conway. Their extensive menu offers everything from shrimp tacos to steak. No matter your craving, you’ll find it here. Be sure to end the evening with the Chocolate Mess dessert.
Bradi Bear Chimes In
If you travel with your favorite four-legged friend, we asked Bradi Bear to share her favorite pet-friendly recommendations in Northwest Arkansas. “Taking a nice stroll around Murphy Park is right up my alley. Then if you are up for a little drive, Three Dog Bakery in Bentonville has my FAVORITE raw hides and dog-friendly fresh baked goods.”
Taylor King Law: On Your Side, By Your Side in Springdale
While we hope that all of your summer travels bring you home safely, we also know that accidents happen. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car wreck in Arkansas, you’re not alone. Taylor King Law is here to help.
Stop by our Springdale office at 808 W. Sunset Avenue today to begin your FREE, no-obligation consultation. You can also call us toll-free at 1-800-227-9732 or submit a case form on our website.
Click HERE to read our previous Arkansas Adventure in Arkadelphia.
Click HERE to read our next Arkansas Adventure in Little Rock.
Photo Cred: Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
