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.
Location, location, location.
When choosing a university, make sure it offers you more than just a pleasant classroom setting. After all, you will be spending plenty of time outside the classroom as well (or at least you should – it is good for you!). Luckily, when you attend the University of Arkansas, there is always something new and exciting to experience.
Our campus is surrounded by vibrant culture, quality entertainment, and nationally recognized talent; you just have to know where to look. Whether you are a fan of the arts or you are just looking for a fun activity, read on to learn about some of the museums, theatres, and venues that Northwest Arkansas has to offer.
Crystal Bridges
One of the most well-known museums in the state of Arkansas is just a half-hour drive from campus: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Opened in 2011, Crystal Bridges’ 120-acre facility combines a beautiful indoor art gallery with outdoor sculptures and nature trails. The museum regularly hosts critically acclaimed exhibitions, and has a permanent collection featuring artists such as Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and Georgia O’Keeffe. This is the perfect place to spend a relaxing Saturday, especially if the weather allows you to enjoy the outdoor areas. Crystal Bridges recently opened a satellite space known as The Momentary, which is also worth visiting. This modern downtown museum is home to a variety of visual and performing arts, as well as bars and cafes focused on the culinary arts.
Theatre
There are two incredible theatres located in the heart of Fayetteville, both less than 5 minutes from our campus! The first is the Walton Arts Center, which is known for hosting Broadway plays and musicals throughout the year. Some of their past productions include Les Misérables, RENT, The Book of Mormon, Mean Girls, and School of Rock. However, the venue also hosts events such as lectures, comedy shows, and orchestra performances.
The second theatre in downtown Fayetteville is TheatreSquared, which recently opened the doors on a brand new facility off Dickson Street that is home to two intimate stages and many locally produced plays. Although TheatreSquared focuses on the local community, their work has gained national recognition by the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and NPR. In addition to its excellent productions, the theatre also hosts performing arts workshops for kids and adults. Both of these theatres are great options if you want to spend an evening enjoying a spectacular show.
Music
Live music is plentiful in Northwest Arkansas. There are numerous restaurants, parks, and town squares where local bands and solo artists regularly play. However, there a few venues that are famous for having the best live music around. Downtown Fayetteville houses the oldest and longest running live music venue in the state: George’s Majestic Lounge. This bar-and-restaurant has been putting on live music acts since 1927! Everything from local musicians to world famous artists have performed at George’s, and U of A alumni consistently vote the venue a “Favorite Fayetteville Memory”. Another popular music venue is the Walmart AMP, a huge outdoor amphitheater in Bentonville. Here, packed concerts and dazzling spectacles are headlined by artists like The Killers, Train, Travis Scott, Halsey, REO Speedwagon, and Pentatonix. You will want to keep a close eye on these venues, as your favorite band might play there!
But wait, there’s more…
These are just a few examples of how art, culture, and self-expression thrive in Northwest Arkansas. There are countless other spots to discover, such as The Fenix Gallery, the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, the Museum of Native American History, and Art Ventures NWA. As you explore, also be on the lookout for the many colorful, larger-than-life murals that can be found throughout the region, many a product of the Sprayetteville street art festival. Often, you don’t even have to leave campus to find incredible art. Between the Fine Arts Center theatre and the Faulkner Performing Arts Center, you can catch a wide variety of student performances each semester.
No matter where you are in Northwest Arkansas, there is always fine art and entertainment just around the corner.
