Date: July 22, 2015 |
Home to the University of Arkansas, a number of thriving industries, and a vibrant art, music, and cultural community, this corner of the state is as much of a hub for weekend getaways as it is for family living. Check out a few of our favorite stops in the area.
From athletics to art, Northwest Arkansas is home to a wide variety of events, museums, and recreational spaces. Perhaps none is better known than The Walmart Museum (479-273-1329, corporate.walmart.com), located on the town square in downtown Bentonville. The museum’s interactive exhibits tell the story of the small-town dime store and how it became a leading global retailer, and it is all housed in the original location of Sam Walton’s famous 5 & 10. Be sure to stop in at the Spark Café Soda Fountain for an old-fashioned treat.
While you’re in town, head to the offices of Bentonville USA (479-271-9153, bentonville.org) on East Central Avenue. Their friendly chamber staff can help to make your trip to the area enjoyable and memorable. Whether you’re en route to Bentonville or on-the-go, their website will give you the latest community information. For specific events and happenings, check out Downtown Bentonville (479-254-0254, downtownbentonville.org), which is “at the heart of the city’s social scene.” Visit the website or contact their office to learn more about upcoming festivals, appearances by live entertainers, and the downtown farmers’ market.
The area is also home to a number of unique clothing and home décor boutiques, including Fayetteville’s Sara Kathryn’s Ltd. (479-444-9991, sarakathryns.com), which recently relocated to 1160 North College Street. Carrying fine home lines such as Lampe Berger, Vietri, Annie Glass, Pine Cone Hill, and Bella Notte bedding, the store is a must-visit for all your home and gift needs. They also offer a well-stocked selection of bridal registry items, as well as the latest and cutest in Razorback tailgating wares.
From there, head down College Street toward the downtown area where you’ll find By Request (479-442-7525) women’s and men’s boutiques. As two separate stores, each caters to the styles of discerning male and female shoppers, respectively. At both retailers, you’ll find a wide selection of fashions, from casual to dressy. Women will be delighted with the great selection of Kendra Scott jewelry and GiGi handbags, while the guys are sure to love the assortment of Smathers & Branson belts and key fobs, Tommy Bahama and Maui Jim wear, and—of course—the huge offering of Razorback collegiate apparel.
From there head north to Rogers where you’ll be dazzled and delighted with the selection of jewelry and timepieces at Blakeman’s Fine Jewelry (479-845-0088, blakemansfinejewelry.com). Located off of Pinnacle Hills Parkway, Blakeman’s is a trusted name for engagement rings, watches, and special, one-of-a-kind pieces. In addition to the custom options available, browse their selection of Forevermark diamonds, David Yurman pieces, and Rolex watches. If you already live in Northwest Arkansas, or if you’re planning to make the move soon, there are a number of talented interior design professionals and home stores that can help to spruce up your space.
Located in Fayetteville, Whiteline Designs (479-287-4222, whitelinedesigns.net) is a full-service design firm that can help with your renovation or new build. Owner Lee Anne Henry stocks her showroom with amazing original art, including her own works. What’s more, a fully functional kitchen space inside the shop allows Whiteline Designs to offer occasional cooking demonstrations. Follow Lee Anne and her team on Instagram to see what’s inspiring them, and visit the website to shop their newest arrivals online.
If you’re in need of a few refresher pieces or stunning accessories, visit Christopher Allen Décor (479-301-2055) on East Joyce Boulevard. From furnishings to candles to cookbooks, this delightful store is truly a pleasure to shop. Pick up a quick gift for a friend or let the staff help you select key pieces, including rugs, lighting, art, or custom furniture, that will make your room’s design really pop.
When it comes to the area’s largest selection of fabrics, there’s only one place to shop—Interior Fabrics & Design (479-444-0222). Located on North Steele Boulevard, the enormous fabric showroom has now combined spaces with the IF&D Home portion of the business, which offers the lowest prices on trendsetting and timeless home accessories and furnishings. Whether it’s new drapery panels, a custom headboard, a mirror, or a lamp you’re shopping for, this store has something for every home.
Just down the street, you’ll find the offices of Goddard Design Group (479-521-2592, goddarddesigngroup.com), helmed by interior designer Chris Goddard. Known for his eclectic style, you’ll be delighted by the mix of contemporary and antique furnishings Goddard uses in his work. What’s more, the studio itself is a vision to see, with its huge selection of fabric, wallpaper, and furnishing samples—all on-hand to allow Goddard and his team to create your dream space right from their office.
In Springdale, Harper Howey Interiors (479-750-7300, harperhoweyinteriors.com) is a destination for thoughtful gifts as well as interior design pieces and services. Stocked with a well-curated selection of mirrors, accessories, local art, furnishings, candles, books, and more, the store is a treat to shop. Harper Howey Interiors is located on South Thompson Street in a charming historic schoolhouse. Stop by to chat with owners Kimberly Harper and Cynthia Howey Tune about your next interior project.
Last, but certainly not least, MH Design, Inc. (479-435-6990, melissahaynesdesign.com), located in Johnson and led by designer Melissa Haynes, is a full-service residential and commercial design company. Haynes creates “fresh interiors with a modern approach to both traditional design and architecture.” If you’re building or working on a whole home renovation, contact her to give your space a timeless-yet-chic flair through inspired art, classic furniture pieces, and a light palette.
