As with the other parts in this travel guide, I took the time to listen to what the locals had to say about their booming, lively city, and the first thing the locals typically rave about was their downtown area.
According to its residents, the Historic Downtown District offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to do some serious shopping or eating, downtown has every kind of shop and restaurant imaginable and available to you daily. As I mentioned before, the downtown area also plays host to various weekly and monthly events.
Weekly events – include Pickin’ in the Park and the super-fun Farmer’s Market. The third Friday of each month offers the Twilight Walk.
Annual events – in Historic Downtown that are local faves include the Frisco Festival, the Goblin Parade, Christmas in the District and the Main Street Rogers Golf Tournament.
Local Restaurant Favorites – Residents love to eat out, and they had plenty to say about their favorite restaurants in their charming city. According to the locals, notable restaurants in the city include:
- Mister B’s
- The Rail
- The Egg and I
- Bonefish Grill
- Catfish John’s
- Crabby’s
- Wesner’s
- Carrabba’s
- Iron Horse
Speaking of eateries, the locals absolutely love Suzie Q, an old-fashioned, order at the window, and wait in your car while listening to vintage rock and roll music until your number is called drive-in! Suzie Q has been around forever, and according to the locals young and old, it makes the best Cherry Limeade, homemade milk shakes and curly fries.
Favorite Bar – the WXYZ bar at the Aloft hotel is hopping even on Monday nights. And what do the locals have to say about Alicia, the bartender? She’s “great”!
The Promenade – Of course, say the locals, while in their city, you simply must shop The Promenade. Residents love shopping in the many terrific shops and high-end national stores located in the mall.
Pinnacle Hills Promenade ~ Photo Courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
Keeping Fit – Who says you can’t keep fit while you’re in the area even though you’re enjoying all the fabulous food cooked in some of our signature restaurants? Residents really love the five World Gyms in their area. The gyms feature pools, tennis, spin classes, TRX classes, RIPPED, Zumba, tanning and traditional workout equipment. In addition, kids fit classes and childcare are provided.
World-class Golf – If you can find a way to book a tee time, residents say you must play a round of golf at Champions Golf Course. This premier golf course is manicured to perfection. Imagine a golf course pampered like you would be at a high-end spa. The greens and fairways receive a very high level of service and pampering, and so do the golfers who tackle the course! As such, it is no wonder that it is the location of an annual LPGA event. Champions Golf Course is members only, but if you are a guest at John Q. Hammons hotel, you can play as long as you pay.
Beautiful Beaver Lake – located nearby has more than 28,000 surface acres of water, and more than 650 campsites. The lake is huge and a local favorite. Why? Because it offers all kinds of fishing, water sports, boating, camping and hiking. It also has many picnic areas and smaller hiking trails for your family to enjoy on a Sunday afternoon.
City Parks – The locals also rave about the many city parks available daily for visitors and residents. For example, Hobbs State Park is mentioned as must-visit park located along the southern shore of Beaver Lake. Hobbs is Arkansas’s largest state park and covers a natural area in excess of 12,000 acres. The park is located in typical, beautiful Ozark Mountain countryside the locals have come to know and love. The area is also great for camping, hiking and fishing.
Last but not least – if you would like additional information on this exciting NWA city, be sure to check out Visit Rogers Arkansas. This progressive organization has a wealth of information about different events.