Education, culture and recreation in Northwest Arkansas's largest city
Nestled in Northwest Arkansas’s Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville is a center of education, culture and recreation. Home to more than 100,000 and anchored by the flagship University of Arkansas, Fayetteville is the largest city in the state’s fastest-growing region. U.S. News & World Report ranked it in the top 25 of Best Places to Live in 2024-25. “In our big metropolis, Fayetteville keeps its identity with the university here,” says Katie Young, a Realtor with Crye-Leike of Fayetteville. “They still have the slogan Keep Fayetteville Funky, so the city encourages locally owned businesses. There’s also a lot of culture here. Another thing that sets it apart are all the outdoor attractions. It’s a family-friendly, funky town.”
The heart of Fayetteville lies downtown, near the University of Arkansas and the square.
Golfers practice their swing or hit the greens at Stonebridge Meadows Golf Club.
Since 1973 the Fayetteville Farmers Market has offered local farmers and makers a place to sell.
Children of Downtown Fayetteville frequent the Walker Park splash pad.
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Public school district chartered same year university founded
Fayetteville Public Schools, the state’s oldest public school district, was chartered in 1871, the same year the University of Arkansas was founded. The district scores an A on Niche and operates 16 schools serving more than 10,000 students. Root Elementary, Woodland Junior High and Fayetteville High are all A-rated schools. Fayetteville High is a football powerhouse, having won its most recent state title in 2023. The city is also home to the flagship campus of Haas Hall Academy, an open-enrollment charter school that serves students in seventh through 12th grades. It has been ranked as the state’s top high school for 12 years running.
The University of Arkansas’s 2024 enrollment exceeded 33,000, including more than 27,000 undergraduates. Undergraduate studies comprise 103 fields of study. The university offers 271 degrees and certificates, including 95 master’s degree programs and 36 doctoral programs. Princeton Review ranks it No. 1 for graduate entrepreneurship programs. The university has produced 11 Rhodes Scholars, with its most recent in 2022.
Happy Hollow Elementary, rated A- on Niche.com, serves pre-kindergarten through fourth grade.
McNair Middle School holds and A rating on Niche.com
Fayetteville High School entrance
Holcomb Elementary School is home of the Hornets.
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UA athletics part of city’s cultural fabric
As a modern college town, Fayetteville offers a diverse cultural and entertainment scene--one that cannot be separated from the tradition of calling the Hogs. The “Wooooo, Pig Sooie!” chant is synonymous with UA athletics, and the Razorbacks are the talk of the town, especially during football and basketball seasons. Reynolds Razorback Stadium and Walton Arena on the UA campus are state-of-the-art facilities packed for every home game. Even the baseball team has become a Southeastern Conference powerhouse drawing big crowds to Baum-Walker Stadium. Meanwhile, Arkansas’s track and field teams have won 39 of the university’s 45 national titles. “Those teams are the heartbeat of Fayetteville,” Young says. “It gives the community something to rally around.”
Cultural attractions are centered around Dickson Street. The Walton Arts Center, built in 1992, is the state's largest venue of its kind. Its year-round schedule includes musical performances, high-profile comedians and various specialty shows like the “Rocky Horror Picture Show Halloween Party” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical.” The center is home to three resident companies: Symphony of Northwest Arkansas, Trike Theatre for Youth and Community Creative Center. TheatreSquared has a 51,500-square-foot performance space nearby.
Fayetteville features more than 150 pieces of public art. Fayetteville Historic Square, established in 1829, hosts popular annual events such as the Block Street Block Party and the Lights of the Ozarks Festival. The city’s music scene is highlighted by George’s Majestic Lounge, a Dickson Street institution that is the state's oldest and longest-running live music venue. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks was a dream nearly 15 years in the making. Opened in 2007, it contains 12 themed gardens and hosts annual events such as the Orchid Show in March and the International Festival in September. The latter focuses on Northwest Arkansas’ cultural diversity and features traditional dances, musical performances and regional-specific cuisines.
Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium is an American football stadium in Fayetteville.
Bud Walton Arena, home of the Razorbacks basketball team is another favorite for sports fans.
Fans large and small enjoy the HogTown Festival.
The Stadium Shoppe On Razorback in Fayetteville Junction is a one stop shop for all U of A fans.
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Housing prices high for the region, but below national average
Fayetteville is one of the more expensive locations in Northwest Arkansas, yet housing costs remain below the national average, with a median sales price of $363,000. “Property values are ever-increasing,” Young says. “Within the last year or two, I’ve sold homes that were resold quickly, and the sellers still came out ahead.” Because of the large student population, many of the city’s homes are rentals or short-term purchases. “A lot of families will buy homes here for their kids that are going to school, and that drives demand greatly,” Young says.
Root School is the city’s most expensive neighborhood, with a median listing price of almost $820,000. Wyman-Stonebridge is the most affordable, with a median price of $118,000. City Plan 2040 is the latest update to the city’s goal of encouraging residential growth and the construction of affordable housing. That includes adding housing along U.S. Highway 71B, the city’s primary commercial corridor known locally as College Avenue. Insurance rates here are not affected by severe weather, as the city enjoys a temperate climate and all four seasons. The occasional snowstorm can cause travel issues, given the city’s hilly terrain.
Many large newer homes in Clabber Creek offer multi-car garages.
A stroll through Downtown Fayetteville will reveal many gems like this craftsman bungalow.
Larger homes, reaching $700k provide easy access to the Fayetteville Country Club and a view.
At the rural edges of Hyland Park, there are many colonial revival homes.
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Razorback Regional Greenway connects bike riders to other cities
Fayetteville has more than 4,200 acres of green space. There are 47 parks and several nature areas that are designated wildlife habitats. The city maintains three lakes, a skate park, a swimming pool and 79 miles of paved and natural-surface trails. “There are so many trailheads that you can go across the city east to west and north to south without ever getting on the roads,” Young says. The Razorback Regional Greenway spans almost 40 miles. It weaves its way north from the city’s Kessler Mountain Regional Park into Bentonville and beyond. “You can take it all the way to Bella Vista,” Young says, referring to the last Arkansas city before the Missouri state line. “They’ve put a lot of money into those trails.” The city’s first green space, Wilson Park, is more than a century old, and it is home to a beloved interactive sculpture called the “Castle,” designed by local artist Frank Williams.
Nearby Gordon Long Park is the perfect stop for cyclists traversing the Razorback Greenway.
Cyclists will find a variety of trails interconnected in Downtown Fayetteville.
The Frisco trail connects Downtown Fayetteville to the Razorback greenway.
The Razorback Greenway cuts through Fayetteville Junction connecting it to the rest of NWA.
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Doe’s Eat Place on Dickson among city’s diverse dining options
In addition to being the center of Fayetteville’s entertainment district, Dickson Street also is home to several eateries and boutique shops. Dining options include everything from Yancey’s Dickson Street Dogs to Doe’s Eat Place, an established, high-end steak house. Over on Block Street is Hugo’s, a city staple since 1977. “They have a great burger; that’s what they’re known for,” Young says.
The diverse culinary scene also features upscale farm-to-table restaurants, small neighborhood haunts and plenty of barbecue joints. The Northwest Arkansas Mall has been a Fayetteville destination for more than 50 years. An array of nearby retail and dining options line College Avenue. The city square hosts the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market, which began in 1973. It runs every Saturday throughout the year.
Bridgeport is just a 10 minute drive from Dickson Street's bars, restaurants, and entertainment.
City Park offers locals a unique outdoor eating environment just outside the Asbell neighborhood
Grab a plate and a beer at Lucky Luke's BBQ in the Asbell neighborhood.
Stop at the new Fayetteville Taco & Tamales near Fayetteville Junction for a mixed drink.
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Interstate 49, Razorback Transit bus service provide convenient travel options
Residents have easy access to public transportation. The Razorback Transit bus service operates throughout the city, while Ozark Regional Transit has routes that connect to other Northwest Arkansas destinations. The city has an Active Transportation Plan to make walking and cycling safer and more appealing, with upgraded bike lanes and sidewalks. In fact, the city was awarded a “Bike City” designation in 2021 by the Union Cycliste Internationale, the world governing body of cycling.
Work commutes are made easy by Interstate 49, which bisects the town, and highways 62 and 71. Washington Regional Medical Center is conveniently located in the heart of the city, and it is one of Fayetteville’s top employers. The University of Arkansas, Pace Industries, Tyson Foods and Walmart are other major employers. The Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport is about 25 miles away.
Jump on the bus and enjoy downtown Fayetteville just 10 minutes from Baldwin.
Clabber Creek is a residential haven moments from I-49 and 6 miles from downtown Fayetteville.
Bus service is provided by Ozark Regional Transit and Razorback Transit.
University of Arkansas students utilize the Razorback transit system.
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Crime
The latest 2024 data from the Fayetteville Police Department shows that property crime is down 31.7% from the previous year, and violent crime is down 2.6%. Vehicle theft and larceny experienced the biggest decreases during the reporting period.
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Michael Denison
Video By
Patrick Johnson
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On average, homes in Fayetteville, AR sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Fayetteville, AR over the last 12 months is $392,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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This home sits on 2± acres (with an addl 2 acres available). Step into a dramatic 20-foot entryway leading to a formal living room with a stacked stone fireplace, a formal dining room, office, and a family/media room. Hardwood floors, new carpet and paint, plantation shutters, and double crown molding showcase the home’s quality finishes. The chef-worthy kitchen features travertine and stainless
Welcome to East Fayetteville living with new carpet and paint inside this expansive two story home on the hill. Home can be purchased with additional lot split or without. This home has all living and dining spaces downstairs with all bedrooms upstairs. Expansive primary suite with huge windows on both sides, plus bonus area attached to one of the end extra bedrooms. Down stairs offers two living
Welcome To Your Next Investment (Or Next Home)! Hot Fayetteville Find! This 2-Bed, 1.5-Bath, Two-Level Condo Delivers The Location Everyone Wants—Shopping, Dining, And All The Fun Just Steps Away, With The University Of Arkansas Less Than 10 Minutes Down The Road. Live In It And Love The Convenience, Rent It Out For Instant Income, Or Give The College Kids A Place To Call Home. The Options Are
Gorgeous tri-level, one-owner home in desired area of Fayetteville! Just a few steps from Gulley Park, walking & biking trails, shopping, schools, restaurants, and more. VERY centrally located. The property features a big entryway/mud room with closet storage & garage access. Up the stairs is the open living/kitchen/dining area with light wood floors, quartz countertops, stainless appliances,
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Nice new construction townhomes in Fayetteville. Home features 3 bedrooms 2,5 bathrooms, wood floors throughout, SS appliances, covered back porch, all appliances, ceiling fans in bedrooms, master bedroom complete with tiles shower in master bath, and much more. Come take a look, won't last long.
Just steps from Historic Downtown Fayetteville, this charming Craftsman-style home offers the perfect mix of character and modern updates. With 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a bonus room across 1,056 square feet, there’s plenty of space to make yourself at home. The private backyard is a rare find—enjoy the peaceful setting with a flowing brook, mature trees, fire pit, and a brand-new deck, perfect
Nice new construction townhomes in Fayetteville near campus. Home features 3 bedrooms 2,5 bathrooms, wood floors throughout, SS appliances, covered back porch, all appliances, ceiling fans in bedrooms, master bedroom complete with tiles shower in master bath, and much more. Located just steps from the U of A campus. Come take a look, won't last long.
Bridgeport, a densely populated bedroom community, is a convenient suburban retreat in West Fayetteville. Many walk to the neighborhood green spaces that spread over 30 acres. Oaks and dogwood trees stand near brick houses with front yards. "Fayetteville is known for its aggressive protection of green spaces and trees. The city has rules which require developers to dedicate land for greenspace or pay towards a fund that goes toward green spaces," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. "Besides the greenery, the area has access to restaurants, Walmart, Walgreens and hotels." Most commercial spaces sit near the state highway, Wedington Drive, to the south. The thoroughfare has seen significant development over the last ten years. Bridgeport is located just 5 miles from downtown and the University of Arkansas, a major local employer for the city.
Homes surround public parks in Bridgeport, so many live within walking distance of outdoor spaces. Hamestring Creek and the Hamestring Creek Trail Corridor meander across the northern side of the neighborhood. The trail, paved and partially following the stream through a wooded area, has been expanded to include a bridge that connects to Fayetteville's extensive trail network and the Razorback Greenway. Bryce Davis Park is a 26-acre space with a three-acre dog park. The public spot also contains playgrounds, a multi-use trail and a nature area. Red Oak Park blankets the area with tree shade as visitors bike and walk along a short circular route.
A small commercial corridor stands on West Wedington Drive, with retail plazas centered near the junction of Interstate 49. The area has a Harps Food, an Arkansas-based grocery chain, and customers can make their own shopping lists on the store's website. "One of the best restaurants would be the legendary Catfish Hole. The place has wonderful hush puppies! Another lesser-known restaurant is El Matador. It has great Mexican food," Flemming says. At JJ's Grill, a regional chain, patrons listen to live music from local artists while sipping on happy hour drinks and eating off the rotating menu. Thai Spice is another neighborhood spot founded by an immigrant family wanting to share their culture with Northwest Arkansas.
The neighborhood has luxury homes, bungalows, contemporary designs and ranch-style houses. There are also available lots for those looking to build a dream home. The area has a property owners association and fosters a sense of community through annual events and a shared swimming pool. Those living inside the Bridgeport subdivision pay annual fees to use the private amenities. New Traditional styles from the last five years sit inside Oakbrooke, Towne West and Bridgeport subdivisions. On average, buyers can score a brick ranch-style between $200,000 and $450,000. More recent, New Traditional dwellings over 2,500 square feet often list between $525,000 and $700,000. Townhouses and condos generally enter the market from $200,000 to $250,000. The area has a number of multifamily units available, and most apartment complexes are east of Rupple Road. Some homes near Hamestring Creek have a mild risk of flooding.
Students attend Holcomb Elementary, Holt Middle, Ramay Junior High or Fayetteville High. All of the schools have earned a B grade or higher from Niche. Holcomb Elementary and Holt Middle stand to the north of the community. The early college program at Fayetteville High partners with local schools, Northwest Arkansas Community College and Northwest Technical Institute.
Bridgeport has extremely limited bus stops nearby, so most locals use their own vehicles. Commuters often travel along Wedington Drive or use Interstate 49 to get around the region. Healthcare needs may be addressed less than a mile away at the Northwest Medical Plaza. The community and surrounding area contain multiple houses of worship on Wedington Drive and Mt. Comfort Road. Those looking to fly out of the area travel around 20 miles to the Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
Named after a stream that cuts across it, Clabber Creek is a lively, suburban community where residents enjoy the outdoors. The area is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains as well as houses framed by trees. "Clabber Creek is probably the most beloved neighborhood in west Fayetteville. It's extremely walkable and family-friendly," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. "You'll see elementary school kids outside with their families and bikes everywhere." Several housing developments fill Clabber Creek, and the market is brimming with new construction that reflect a growing community in west Fayetteville.
The neighborhood’s older homes are in subdivisions dating from the 1990s, including Salem Village and Clabber Creek. But new homes are going up all the time, and around half of houses on the market were built in the last few years. Some of the area's recent builds are New Traditional styles inside Magnolia Park and Crystal Springs subdivisions. While most residences cost between $300,000 and $500,000, homes built over the last five years can list for as high as $600,000. The neighborhood has several property owners' associations. Although the creek flows diagonally through the neighborhood, most homes are not at risk of flooding. However, Northwest Arkansas is susceptible to tornadoes, which have recently affected nearby cities. Fayetteville's Emergency Operations Plan works with local and state governments to aid in disaster responses.
The community brings residents closer to nature with multiple green spaces and trails. "The 4-mile Clabber Creek Trail connects to the neighborhood, and people really enjoy it because it's a very scenic, naturalistic trail," Flemming says. Underwood Park is the newest addition to the city's outdoor spaces. At 58 acres, the grounds feature open fields and woodlands for birdwatching. Clabber Creek itself flows through the park, while the unpaved trails attract walkers and leashed dogs. Gary Hampton Softball Complex is a popular neighborhood attraction. This 15-acre sports park was established in 1995 and features four softball fields, a covered pavilion and a picnic area. It hosts annual tournaments and events, like the Pitch for the Cure Tournament, the Eight and Under Slow Pitch World Series and the 35 and Older World Tournament.
Students are part of the Fayetteville Public Schools district, which has an A rating on Niche. Students can walk to Holcomb Elementary and Holt Middle; the schools receive an A-minus and B grades, respectively, from Niche. Ramay Junior High earns a B-plus, and Fayetteville High, considered among the top high schools in the state, has an A. The high school provides an early college program that partners with Northwest Arkansas Community College and Northwest Technical Institute.
While there is no retail and very little dining in Clabber Creek, the neighborhood is only a few miles from shops and restaurant options. Just east of the community, near the Interstate 49 interchange, is a Sam's Club for groceries and home goods. According to Flemming, locals frequent The Catfish Hole, a nearby family-owned seafood restaurant that was nominated for the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame in 2021. The popular spot was also featured on ESPN pre-game show, College GameDay.
The community is 5 miles from the University of Arkansas, home of Razorbacks and one of the city's largest employers. Residents and students gather for football games at Razorback Stadium as well as basketball games and the occasional concert at Bud Walton Arena. The neighborhood is also close to the Washington County Fairgrounds, which hosts a 4-H cookoff and livestock judging in August. During the winter, the grounds display a popular light show known as Magical Light Adventure.
Clabber Creek has limited public transit within the community, so locals generally rely on their own transportation. Commuters often travel along Interstate 49 to get around the region. The nearest hospital, Washington Regional Medical Center, is less than 5 miles away. The community and surrounding area contain multiple houses of worship, including Mount Comfort Church of Christ and Shiloh Community Church. Those looking to catch a flight must travel around 20 miles to the Northwest Arkansas National Airport.
Fayette Junction originated as a hub for Fayetteville's canning and lumber industries because of its location along a rail line. Today, industrial corridors include major local employers like Conagra Foods and Tyson Foods. The area is also seeing some new apartment buildings and homes being constructed as the city grows in population. "Fayette Junction is considered south Fayetteville and is a quickly developing area due to rapid investments in the bike trail, library and nearby arts corridor," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. Fayette Junction also attracts residents looking for access to downtown and the University of Arkansas.
The popular greenspace, Walker Park, features trails along natural slopes and is the only skatepark in the city. The public space is a gateway to routes that twist and turn through Fayetteville alongside several creeks, including the Frisco Trail and the Razorback Regional Greenway. "Kessler Mountain Regional Park connects to the Razorback Regional Greenway, and it goes all the way to Bella Vista. There are access points that go through Walkers Park, the library and the arts corridor," Flemming says. The corridor, referred to as The Ramble, is a 50-acre space along the greenway with art installations, murals and statues, presenting a blend of natural scenery and local culture. Greathouse Park is a smaller space with a playground and additional walking trails.
Mountainside tee times are sought after at the Fayetteville Country Club, one of the oldest country clubs in northwest Arkansas. "The club is a very desirable experience with golf courses and the pool. It's a big social scene," Flemming says.
Fayette Junction has several architectural styles, from midcentury ranch homes in well-established neighborhoods to new constructions and townhouses along Razorback Road. Most homes over 2,000 square feet sit on the eastern side of School Avenue, within walking distance of the golf course. Buyers can find homes with views of the greens and fairways inside Country Club Estates. Pricing starts at $200,000 for a midcentury ranch, with larger homes near the country club reaching up to $700,000. Townhouses often enter the market between $240,000 and $440,000. Flemming says that housing costs for the area are on the upswing because of its proximity to Interstate 49 and downtown Fayetteville.
The community has a moderate risk of flooding. Although the Ozark Mountains may provide insulation from severe storms, Northwest Arkansas is susceptible to tornadoes, which have affected nearby cities in recent years. Fayetteville's Emergency Operations Plan works with local and state governments to assist in disaster responses.
The neighborhood is just 3 miles from the University of Arkansas, a major landmark and one of the city's largest employers. Students in Fayette Junction attend Leverett Elementary and Ramay Junior High; both hold B-plus ratings from Niche. John Colbert Middle, opened in 2023, is on the city's westside and accepts fifth and sixth graders. Fayetteville High School, which holds an A rating, ranks No. 11 among the top high schools in Arkansas.
Groceries and everyday essentials can be found at Walmart Supermarket or Aldi on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Target and Whole Foods Market are less than 10 miles north. Flemming says locals go a few miles north to dine downtown since the area contains few restaurants. He recommends Penguin Ed's BBQ, a local chain splashed with penguin decor, and his favorite, Loafin Joes, a dining spot that offers subs and house made chips. Feed and Folly is a popular restaurant with a rooftop bar for southern views of the Ozarks.
The area is primarily car-dependent, so most travel by car. Interstate 49, a heavily trafficked regional freeway, borders the western edge. However, there are a few bus routes available, all free to the public. Razorback Transit is managed by the University of Arkansas and Ozark Regional Transit brings commuters to cities in the north. Northwest Health Emergency stands less than 5 miles away.
As a definitive college town, game days are a significant draw for residents. "Baum-Walker Stadium is within walking distance. It's easily the most electric college baseball environment around," Flemming says.
The community has a CAP Index score of 7 compared to the national average of 4. The Fayetteville Police Department has initiatives to help reduce the chances of crime, including the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program and Citizen's Police Academy.
On any weekday, Asbell residents can visit the local café at the edge of the community, Bolder Coffee, after dropping off their children at the neighborhood elementary. Bound by major roadways, the area sits a few miles from the University of Arkansas and Fayetteville's downtown square. "Out of the nearby neighborhoods, Asbell is the most affordable for single-family homes, paired with proximity to all things Fayetteville. The area is very walkable to the University of Arkansas for sporting events," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. "It's also unique because of the location. It's east of I-49, so it is easier to get to everything," Flemming says. He also says that although the community is primarily residential, the nearby areas are seeing considerable investments in housing and new restaurants. The northern section of the community is dedicated to the University of Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station.
While there are few retail or dining options in the neighborhood, there is a Harps Food Store on Garland Avenue. This Arkansas-based grocery chain was founded nearly 100 years ago and has expanded into over 100 locations. A Walmart Neighborhood Market sits just beyond Interstate 49. The community is seeing recent commercial development over the last few years. "There is a new restaurant called City Park, which has an outdoor restaurant and bar that is dog and family-friendly. It's a great scene," Flemming says. "Eclectic Kitchen has an exceptional menu with oysters, fine cuisine and, cocktails and other things you won't find anywhere else. They tend to rotate the menu." Dickson Street, the city's entertainment district, awaits less than 5 miles to the east.
Two popular nearby attractions are the University's Bud Walton Arena, which opened in 1993, and Razorback Stadium, open since 1938. The Washington County Fairgrounds sits north of the community on McConnell Avenue. During August, people gather from across the region for the largest fair in the state and a craft-themed Maker Market in April. Magical Light Adventure is a popular winter holiday spectacle where locals drive their cars through an illuminating display.
The community includes the Meadow Valley Trail, which connects to more of the city's extensive trail and park systems. Many use this pedestrian-friendly route for access to Agricultural Park and nearby roadways. The Lewis Soccer Complex lies near Asbell Elementary, offering over 25 acres of fields to play and picnic on. In addition to soccer, locals head here to catch a rugby match or play a game of ultimate frisbee. To the south is the Markham Hill Nature Trails, a private conservation open to the public for hiking and biking. Closer to the University awaits Wilson Park, a public spot known as city's oldest green space. The park features a unique stone landmark named Seven Points, or as it's more commonly known, the Castle. Sculptor Frank Williams created the Castle in 1981 to cover an old springhouse on the property. Wilson Park also has tennis courts, a pool, a playground and public gardens.
Asbell attracts University students looking for housing close to campus and others looking for their first home. There are also a number of multifamily units and apartments available. "It's the most affordable neighborhood with cute, older homes. It's a great starter home community," Flemming says. This well-established area is filled with cottages, ranch styles and newer two-story dwellings. New Traditional houses built over the last three years are inside the Towne West subdivision. Although the area has a slight chance of flooding, most homes in the neighborhood are not at risk. Homes built during the 20th century generally list between $200,000 and $400,000, while newer houses enter the market from $350,000 to $400,000. Although the Ozark Mountains may provide insulation from severe storms, Northwest Arkansas is susceptible to tornadoes, which have affected nearby cities in recent years.
Asbell Elementary, which has a B-minus from Niche, opened as a 12-room school in 1962. Holt Middle accepts fifth and sixth grade students, and has a B. Woodland Junior High earns an A, providing musically inclined students with band, choir and strings classes. Fayetteville High School has an A and ranks No. 11 among the top high schools in Arkansas. The high school's early college program offers students the chance to earn dual credit from Northwest Arkansas Community College and Northwest Technical Institute.
The community is 20 miles from Northwest Arkansas National Airport and 2 miles from the UAMS Health Family Medical Center. "They're redoing the bridge over Interstate 49 to make it easier to get off and on. Once that's done, it'll be even more convenient," says Erin Porter, a Realtor with Collier & Associates with almost a decade of selling experience. Public transit is available throughout community, and locals can reach a stop within a few blocks of home. There are several places of worship nearby, such as the Temple Shalom of Northwest Arkansas.
Hyland Park, a community on the eastern edge of Fayetteville, has elevated views along the Ozark mountains. "There are picturesque views and lots of forested areas. And coming up Highway 265 are incredible views of the Ozarks," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. In addition to established homes from the 20th century, there are new houses, woodlands to the east, and commercial corridors to the west.
Most homes are found on winding side roads branching from Crossover Road and Mission Boulevard. Along the community's rural stretch are ranch-styles, Colonial Revivals and new traditional homes from the 21st century. Most homes have masonry exteriors and sit on lots ranging from half an acre to two acres. According to Flemming, Hyland Park has prime real estate in east Fayetteville, and the area is increasing in popularity as a suburban enclave in the city.
Most midcentury ranch-styles cost between $250,000 to $550,000, while New Traditional styles often list between $450,000 to almost $800,000. Two-story Colonial revivals from the late 20th century and custom homes enter the market from $700,000 to $850,000. Homes in the community have a moderate risk of potential wildfire, especially during dry conditions and high temperatures.
Planted to the east is Mount Sequoia Woods, a 97-acre forested space where locals hike the mountain's eastern face. The Niokaska Creek Trail offers hikers and cyclists a tree-shaded path through greenery and along a tranquil creek with turtles. Gulley Park hosts a summer concert series featuring performances by local artists underneath the gazebo. "Gulley Park is a premier park in Fayetteville. It has a new playground and a splash pad," Flemming says.
Locals visit the community's western edge to reach shopping and dining. The Crossroad Village retail center contains restaurants and a Walmart Neighborhood Market for groceries; Harps Food sits across the streets. "The community has quite a bit of investment from restaurants. There is a new brewery, Fayetteville Beer Works and an upscale bar, Tuskers Tavern," Flemming says. Tim's Pizza is one of the most popular restaurants in the Hyland Park area, serving Italian classics since 1987. To the south awaits cafes along Huntsville Road. Pets are welcome at Good Dog Café, and customers pay an entrance fee to access the dog park behind the restaurant. The park is equipped with toys, an agility course, and pools available during the summer. The Rolling Pin Café has served Southern comfort food for 30 years.
Students attend schools that rank among the best in Washington County, according to Niche. Vandergriff and Happy Hollow Elementaries have A and A-minus grades, respectively, from Niche. McNair Middle and Woodland Junior High also have A grades. Fayetteville High School ranks among the best in the state with an A grade; the school has an early college program offering dual credit from Northwest Arkansas Community College and Northwest Technical Institute.
Washington Regional Urgent Care sits on Crossover Road. Huntsville Road and Mission Boulevard take locals to downtown, about 5 miles away. Drivers must pass the city center and the University of Arkansas before reaching Interstate 49, which leads to the rest of the region. The Northwest Arkansas National Airport is about 25 miles away.
The Stewart Family Christmas Lights Display is a 20-year tradition on Fayetteville's eastside. The event showcases over a million colorful lights as patrons enjoy funnel cake and kettle corn. While there, locals take photos with Santa, ride camels and even spot The Grinch.
Fayetteville's West 62 neighborhood is named after U.S. Highway 62, also known as M.L.K. Boulevard, which bisects the vast area. The thoroughfare is lined with big-box stores and roads leading to newer subdivisions. But much of it still feels rural, especially south of Highway 62, where dense forests and trees blend into Kessler Mountain Regional Park. "This part of the city has a lot of development," says Adam Flemming, a Fayetteville resident and Realtor with Keller Williams Market Pro Realty. "West 62 is semi-rural, but it's seeing new construction." The area sits close to the University of Arkansas and the city's extensive trail system.
Some homes are located along heavily wooded country roads, while small residential clusters can be found in the northern section. Several of West 62's older houses are modest ranches found south of the highway. Most homes entering the market are new traditional styles built after 2010. Some, like those in The Element and Southern Woods subdivisions, were constructed in 2024 and have more houses on the way. Prices range from around $300,000 to $530,000, depending on size. There are also duplexes and townhouses built over the last 10 years, ranging from $250,000 to $300,000.
The region is susceptible to tornadoes, which have recently affected nearby cities. Fayetteville's Emergency Operations Plan works with local and state governments to aid in disaster responses.
Centennial Park is a unique outdoor space with courses for cyclo-cross, mountain biking and running. "It's a park that hosted a cyclo-cross world championship in 2022," Flemming says. The park's trails have varied surfaces, including dirt and rock courses. "The city is also working on connecting Centennial Park with the tunnel that goes under I-49," Flemming says. "That will connect to the trails that runs east-west to the University." Charles J. Finger Park has a short path for mountain biking and hiking. The area has a basketball court, picnic area and playgrounds. To the west is Woolsey Wet Prairie, a 44-acre wetland preserve that also acts as an outdoor space for birdwatching and fishing. Further south awaits the expansive 400-acre Kessler Mountain Regional Park.
West 62 falls within the Fayetteville Public Schools District and many students stay in the community to attend class. Owl Creek Elementary has a B grade from Niche. John Colbert Middle, opened in 2023, accepts fifth and sixth graders. Older students head east to attend Ramay Junior High, which has a B-plus. Fayetteville High, ranked No. 11 among the top high schools in Arkansas, holds an A rating.
Highway 62 connects the neighborhood's superstores and local shops. Walmart Supercenter and Lowe's Home Improvement are popular stops for essentials, and ALDI supermarket is located across the street. At Queen Beans Espresso, patrons can order a coffee or energy drink from a barista in swimwear. Gabriela's Mexican Grill Restaurant, further down the road, offers Tex-Mex options and margaritas.
As a car-dependent area, most use personal transportation to travel in and around West 62. Interstate 49 stretches along the neighborhood's border, bringing commuters across the region. The area is less than 5 miles from downtown Fayetteville and the University of Arkansas, one of the city's largest employers. Northwest Health Emergency and MANA Urgent Care Wedington are inside the community.
Centennial Park is home to the Grit MTB Festival, an outdoor, three-day event promoting inclusivity in mountain biking. Generally held in September, the festival hosts workshops, guided group biking rides and a dance party.
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