Weekends are made for road trips.
Located in the Northwest part of the state of Arkansas, you’ll find Rogers, Arkansas. When walking the downtown streets of Rogers, Arkansas, it’s like stepping into the past. This quaint town was the location of the first Walmart store, but has grown to so much more now.
If you’ve only got a weekend to getaway, hit the road and and head to Rogers, Arkansas where you can breathe in the fresh air, be surrounded by the beauty of the Ozark Mountains, and experience someplace new.
Things to Do
This beautiful little town has something for everyone – the adventurous spirit, the art lover, and the nature buff. Check out what Rogers, Arkansas has in store for you!
War Eagle Mill
The mill is open 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm. The War Eagle Mill is the last working grist mill in Arkansas and is believed to be the last undershot mill in the country. An undershot mill is where an undershot water wheel is powered by the running water under the wheel and not over, The grist mill separates the grain from its chaff and makes whole grain flour. There are few undershot mills left because in order to function, they must be built very close to the water level , in the bed of the river. Because of this, many of them have been washed away over the years. To this day, the mill grinds flours and corn meals. They also have other products like rye, oats, flax, buckwheat, white and yellow corn meal, and cereals. Make sure to eat upstairs while you’re there too!
War Eagle Cavern
When the largest cavern in Arkansas and the only cavern that is lakeside is in the city you’re visiting, you just have to see it. This giant hole in the ground is situated in the Ozark Mountains and is next to Beaver Lake. Strollers and pets are welcome to walk through the caverns and see the beauty that is below the ground we walk on. When you’re above ground, you can check out the Lost in the Woods Maze, pan for gemstones, or check out the Moonshiner’s Mystery Shack. Guided tours start every 20-30 minutes and are $19 for adults and $11.50 for kids. While reservations are not required, I would still opt to get your tickets online and reserve your spot so you won’t have to wait at the cavern.
Hobbs State Park
The pretty welcome center is just where it begins. Past that, you’ll find Arkansas’ largest state park with over 52 miles of hiking trails (including horseback riding trails, mountain biking, and ADA trails), primitive camping sites, and geocaching. There’s trails of varying lengths, so whatever your activity level, there’s something there for you. We went geocaching and loved it! If you go to the cache closest to the visitor’s center, you may see some of these little guys we behind there. Word to the wise – if you go in the summer time, there will be ticks. Make sure to get some tick spray or balm or peppermint oil on your extremities before heading out on the trail.
Daisy Airgun Museum
“You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!” Enter into the yesteryear at this museum for the famous BB gun manufacturer. You’ll know you’re at the right place when you walk up and see the world’s largest BB gun, and at over 25’ tall, you can’t miss it. It’s only $2 admission to get in and while there, you’ll see how the guns are made, their evolution over the years, and plenty of nostalgic momentos. It was really interesting to see how this BB gun company has helped with war efforts, been made popular in through movies like ‘A Christmas Story’, and even made golf balls that may or may not be on the moon right now.
Railyard
This playground is awesome! There’s slides, rock walls, climbing pipes, and all sorts of playground fun with an industrial feel. It’s right next to the railroad track too, so if you have a trail loving little in your midst, they’ll be able to watch the train go by safely behind the fence. Best part – it’s free fun and a great place to let the kids get the wiggles out. There’s also an Onyx Coffee Bar a block or so away, so you can enjoy something to sip on while the kids get all that pent up energy out.
Downtown Rogers
Strolling the downtown streets is always a great way to get a feel for a new place, and downtown Rogers is no different. It’s town square is lined with shops, restaurants, cute murals to take photos in front of, and the Frisco Caboose. My favorite mural was the “Golden Rule” sign on Walnut Street,
Where to Eat
Who’s hungry? If you’re a foodie, then Rogers is the place for you! These are my top 3 favorite restaurants for Rogers, Arkansas.
The Mill
Known for their beans and fresh cornbread, this delicious restaurant is conveniently located at the War Eagle Mill. So after you’ve spent the morning checking out the real working mill, you can eat some of the foods made with that freshly ground flour and cornmeal. I highly recommend getting the cobbler for dessert as well!
Onyx Coffee Lab
I tried this coffee shop before when I visited the one in Bentonville and loved it immediately. This location in Rogers, AR was equally as cool. The vibe inside is trendy and boho/modern, and the coffees are divine. We also paired that with a muffin and croissant from Dough Bakery (that they sell there as well) and it was the perfect afternoon pick me up for our weekend adventure!
Levi’s Gastro Lounge
Just because we have kids, doesn’t mean we shy away from fun places to eat! This fun eatery has a relaxed vibe, delicious burgers, and heavenly doughnuts for dessert (and I’m not a huge doughnut fan, so that’s saying something). I got the patty melt and it was every satisfyingly greasy bite that you’d hope it would be.
Places to Stay
Whether you’re an AirBnB lover or prefer a hotel with a complimentary breakfast, Rogers has something for everyone. Check out your possible travel dates to check out where you could stay when you visit!
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