8 Top Winter Activities Near Rustic Ridge in Northwest Arkansas

Embrace the Chill of NWA in Winter

1. Crystal Bridges Museum: Winter Magic for Art Enthusiasts

Start your winter exploration with a dose of culture at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. The 45 minute drive between Rustic Ridge and Bentonville through beautiful scenery alone is worth the drive, and the museum's stunning architecture, surrounded by winter landscapes, provides a magical setting for art appreciation. Wander through the galleries, enjoy the outdoor sculptures, and revel in the serene atmosphere. Don't forget to explore the museum's trails, where you can witness the beauty of nature enhanced by the winter frost. After you’re done exploring, eat at one of the artisanal restaurants in downtown Bentonville.

2. Scott Family Amazeum: Interactive Family Fun

Just a two minute drive (or take the manicured trails for a 10 minute walk in the brisk winter air) from Crystal Bridges is the Scott Family Amazeum in Bentonville. This interactive museum caters to families, providing a haven for curious minds of all ages. While the outdoor exhibits might be a bit brisk during the winter, the indoor wonders of science, technology, engineering, art, and math await. Kids can engage in hands-on activities, fostering creativity and learning through play, and now available are tickets for Adult Night for the young at heart! The Amazeum is not just a museum; it's a dynamic space that makes for an entertaining and educational winter escape for the whole family.

3. State Parks: Winter Hiking and Scenic Views

For the outdoor adventurer, the Ozarks become a winter playground, and Rustic Ridge is located near some of the best scenery in NWA. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the numerous trails that wind through the forest, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes and frozen waterfalls. Some of our favorite Arkansas State Parks include Hobbs State Park, Prairie Grove Battlefield, Devil’s Den, and also Natural Falls just across the state line in Oklahoma. If you don’t want to drive far, City Lake has miles of manicured trails winding through a wooded forest with creeks and a lake visited by a variety of wildlife, even in the winter; the best part is that it’s less than a mile from Rustic Ridge. Don’t forget to rent your mountain bikes or hybrid bikes from us to take advantage of the biking trails and pump track at City Lake.

4. Eureka Springs: Quaint Charm Amidst Winter Splendor

If you are up for a longer drive, the historic downtown Eureka Springs transforms into a winter wonderland, with its Victorian architecture adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Take a stroll through the charming streets, indulge in locally-owned shops, and warm up in one of the cozy cafes. Eureka Springs radiates a nostalgic charm during the winter. The hour and a half drive from our RV park in Arkansas takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of the Ozarks - and allows plenty of time for roaming the streets of Eureka for the day.

5. Fayetteville Square: Festive Markets and Seasonal Cheer

Fayetteville Square, only 50 minutes from our RV park in Arkansas, comes alive during the winter months with festive markets and events. Explore the Christmas lights that turn Square Gardens into a magical wonderland, indulge in local cuisine from food trucks, and shop for unique handmade gifts. Afterward, drive a couple blocks over to the famous Dickson Street, lined with bars, breweries, boutiques, and delicious local restaurants. You might also want to take a drive on Dickson toward the University of Arkansas and view the gorgeous campus from the warmth of your vehicle.

6. Local Breweries & Wineries: Warms You from Head to Toe

Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking to relax with friends, the breweries in the region provide a welcoming atmosphere. In Siloam Springs, just 5 minutes away from Rustic Ridge, you’ll find two incredible breweries full of unique craft beers to warm you up. At Ivory Bill Brewing Co., drink a pint at the brewery or take some back to drink around the fire at Rustic Ridge. Creekside Taproom includes their own craft beer as well as some wine from local wineries. More breweries and wineries are available throughout NWA, so be sure to ask at our front desk, and we’d be happy to guide you to our favorites.

7. Walton Arts Center: Winter Performances

Immerse yourself in the magic of the arts at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville. The center hosts a series of captivating performances that will enchant and inspire. From holiday concerts to theatrical productions, including Broadway sensations, the Walton Arts Center showcases a diverse range of talent, bringing the community together in celebration of the season. Located on Dickson Street only 50 minutes from our RV park in Gentry, Arkansas, it’s easy to plan an afternoon or evening around showtime, including a visit to the lights on the square mentioned above.

8. The Rink: Ice Skating at the Lawrence Plaza

For a classic winter activity that never loses its charm, head to Lawrence Plaza in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas and glide across The Rink, a splash-pad-turned-ice-skating-rink in the winter months. This outdoor ice skating rink transforms the plaza into a festive hub of winter joy. Bring your own skates or rent a pair on-site and twirl under the open sky, surrounded by the beauty of winter. Visit one of the unique cafes, restaurants, or breweries to warm up the belly afterward. Only a few minutes away are both the Amazeum and Crystal Bridges.

Book at Best Cabins and RV Park in Arkansas!

As Northwest Arkansas blankets itself in winter's embrace, it invites residents and visitors to discover the region's hidden gems and seasonal delights. Whether you're an art enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or someone seeking a quiet retreat, Northwest Arkansas offers a diverse array of winter activities that capture the magic of the season. Embrace the chill, and let the beauty of the Ozarks in winter unfold before you during your visit to Rustic Ridge, a top RV park in Arkansas, and the cutest cabins you've seen. If you haven’t yet done so, book your RV site or winter cabin stay today!