The views and opinions expressed in the Graduate and International Ambassador Blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Arkansas.
The mind of child is absolutely amazing. Kids often have brilliant insights, creative solutions, and unlimited imaginations. However, as many know from experience, kids are also easily bored. Fortunately, the University of Arkansas is surrounded by dozens of unique activities that are fun and engaging for all ages. Whether you have kids of your own, your younger siblings are coming to visit, or you are just looking for some wholesome fun, here’s a list of our favorite family-friendly activities in Northwest Arkansas.
For the Animal Lovers
Not only is Northwest Arkansas full of its own indigenous wildlife, but it is also home to several amazing animal sanctuaries. The most notable of these is the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs. This non-profit organization is dedicated solely to rescuing exotic cats that have been abused or abandoned. Turpentine Creek’s facilities house over 100 animals, giving a safe and caring home to lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, bobcats, and more. A day trip here is truly incredible; any child who loves animals will be thrilled by the majestic cats and the educational conservation experience.
Another fun wildlife experience is the Wild Wilderness Drive Through Safari located in Gentry, Arkansas. This facility offers a 10-acre walk-through area full of smaller animals, as well as a 4-mile loop where attendees can drive through large, open enclosures. At Wild Wilderness, you can look forward to seeing kangaroos, antelope, lions, foxes, buffalo, zebra, emus, lemurs, giraffes, snakes, prairie dogs, and much more!
112 Drive-In Theatre
Going to the movies is always a fun outing, but why not make it even more memorable? Located right here in Fayetteville, the 112 Drive-In Theatre is one of the only drive-in movie theatres in Arkansas. This is the perfect activity for a warm summer night: a family film, good snacks, and the starry night sky. If you have never seen a drive-in theatre, it consists of an open grass field and a huge projector screen. Attendees pay for their tickets, drive into a designated spot in front of the screen, tune their car radio to a special station, and watch the film from the comfort of their vehicle.
112 plays brand new feature films, just like a regular movie theatre, as well as classics and old favorites. Kids 5 and under are admitted for free, and tickets for ages 6 to 12 are only $5.00. The value doesn’t end there, as they generally offer two films back-to-back at no extra cost. Be sure to check their website for show times (which are seasonal and generally weekend-only) and important regulations. This will be an experience a kid will never forget!
Arkadia Retrocade
Visiting the Arkadia Retrocade is an activity that is sure to delight excited kids and nostalgic parents alike. Found just a few minutes from campus, this location is set up as an old school arcade, complete with a retro pop culture atmosphere. After paying a one-time $5.00 fee, you gain unlimited access to a huge library of classic arcade machines, including pinball, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Punch-Out!!, NBA Jam, Rampage, and air hockey. With so many games to choose from, Arkadia is a great place to revisit again and again. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for what times and days they are open, as this can vary from week to week.
A Day at the Museum
One of the most popular kid-friendly activities in Northwest Arkansas is the Scott Family Amazeum. About a 35-minute drive from campus, this museum is full of interactive exhibits that are designed to teach kids through self-discovery. This isn’t your typical “look-and-read” museum. The Amazeum encourages hands-on learning, immersing kids in environments where they can feel free to play and experiment with their science, technology, art, and engineering skills. Each ticket is $10.00 and gives you access to a chemistry lab, art studio, weather center, tinkering hub, several playgrounds, and more.
If your family is a fan of museums, you can also check out the Arkansas Air and Military Museum. This collection features tons of antique aircrafts, military vehicles, and historical exhibits, making it a great place to learn about the United States. The museum was actually an aviation base during World War II, and many of the featured planes are still in working condition.
Imagine Studios
For kids who love arts and crafts, there is no better activity than spending a few hours at Imagine Studios in Rogers. A “paint-your-own-pottery” business, Imagine Studios offers everything you need for an afternoon full of creativity. Simply choose a piece of pottery (whether it be a pot, a mug, a piggy bank, a garden gnome, a holiday ornament, etc.), paint it anyway you want, and the studio will glaze and fire your piece in about two weeks. Not only do kids get to enjoy a fun day of painting, but they absolutely love the satisfaction of getting back a real piece of pottery that they created. This is the perfect place for kids to craft a treasured Mother’s Day or Father’s Day gift.
Endless Possibilities
These are just a few of the numerous fun, unique, and family-friendly activities around Northwest Arkansas. You can also visit local activity complexes, such as Fast Lane Entertainment and Lokomotion, which house things like go-karts, laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and mini-golf all under one roof. Fayetteville also has skating rinks, rock climbing facilities, and beautiful parks. Not only is the University of Arkansas community a great place for students, but it’s a great place for kids as well!
