Springdale
A great place to catch a ride on the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad in a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century passenger car, downtown Springdale, AR is also home to the Shiloh Museum, which offers Ozark history and buildings dating back to the 1850s. Present-day Springdale, with a population of more than 75,000 people, started in the 1850s as a small community named Shiloh. The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History has interpretive programs and historical exhibits about the region.
Back in the 1800s on the northeast side of town was John Fitzgerald's station and stable. It served as a stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail Co. Stagecoach route. This native stone barn still stands today and can be viewed when driving along Ark. 265. The Butterfield Overland trail is part of the Arkansas Heritage Trails System, a statewide system of historic trails that not only educate residents and promote state history, but also encourages cultural and heritage tourism.
Two other elements identify the essence of Springdale, Arkansas - the annual Rodeo of the Ozarks, one of the area's top events held each July, and the award-winning, world-famous AQ Chicken House restaurant. It opened on July 20, 1947, and has become family tradition.
Signaling the growth of the city is Ozark Center Point Place on the west side of town near Interstate 49. This 269,500-square-foot mall contains over 30 specialty and discount stores full of popular name-brand goods. Springdale, AR, lays claim to some wonderful water sports destinations, including nearby Beaver Lake and numerous rivers popular with canoeists, including the Mulberry, Kings and Buffalo. Hiking, caving, and public camping is available at nearby Devil's Den State Park and Withrow Springs State Park, both less than one hour away. The city is about 22 miles from Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, and 41 miles from Eureka Springs.