Overview

Springdale is a strong player in the Northern Arkansan economy, being the world’s chicken capital and the home to Tyson Company, the world’s largest meat manufacturer. It is now the fourth largest city in the state with a population of almost 70,000, which is projected to reach 90,000 in less than ten years. It is also the 10th most affordable urban area in the country as of 2011. In fact, it has also been cited as one of the most livable, fastest growing urban areas in the entire country. With its booming industry and growing tourist appeal, Springdale is truly becoming one of the best places for play, live and work in the state of Arkansas. 

Tourist Attractions

Springdale City is small enough to make you feel connected, comfortable and welcome. It is also large enough to provide people with first class entertainment and recreation facilities. One such facility is the Ozark Center Point Place, one of the biggest shopping complexes in Arkansas that is visited by at least two million people each year. The Arvest Ballpark, chosen in 2008 as the Best New Ballpark in the U.S., is another. Mother Nature is another of the city’s many winning points. The Beaver Lake and rivers as well as the Devil’s Den and Withrow Springs State Parks swarm with people who eagerly embrace nature for their health, enjoyment and peace of mind. 

Best Hotel Accommodations

The top accommodation in town is the TownPlace Suites by Marriott. Located on S. 48th Street, the three-star hotel features 92 well-appointed rooms and suites, all equipped with modern furnishings including a kitchenette. The property also has a swimming pool and fitness center for the leisure of guests. Guests are also treated to complimentary breakfast in the morning, and the use of its business center and free high-speed Internet. A contender is Springdale’s Double Tree Club by Hilton, which offers B&B package deals where you get a deluxe room and a great breakfast buffet with cooked-to-order items. You will also enjoy evening drinks and snacks and full use of the pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center onsite. Book your Springdale Hotels with Reservations.com.

Things to Do

You can try to bring home the bacon—fish or game—from Beaver Lake and the thick woods surrounding it. If you cringe at the idea of hunting, you can join, as a newbie or an expert, an enjoyable and doable trek supervised by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Other options include swimming, scuba diving and water and jet skiing. The less athletic types will still enjoy a slow and relaxing walk around the lake. You can also join a scenic ride on board a train on the Arkansas Missouri Railroad. Students can also visit the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, and learn more about the Ozarks and their French-influenced culture, music and cuisine. 

Restaurants and Dining

When in Springdale, try the local cuisine especially those which use chicken as the main dish. After all, the town is considered as the chicken capital of the world. Former US President Bill Clinton is from Arkansas, and he loves to eat in Springdale’s famous AQ Chicken House which was founded by a local chicken farmer. Some of its customers drive for a couple of hours just to have a bite of the star of the menu, Southern fried chicken, made from locally raised fowls. AQ has lasted for almost 55 years, and has become, as its loyal fans claim, a real American legend. Another great restaurant in town is the Market Place which is known for its juicy prime ribs, salads, and baked potato soup. You can also enjoy your regular dose of Italian comfort food at Joe’s Pizza and Pasta, and the best of locally grilled food at the Outback Steakhouse.

James Montano