Fantastic Fayetteville

Southern Living, Jun 2002 by Vanhooser, Cassandra M

weekend

ARKANSAS

A small town surrounded by recreational opportunities-- what could be better for a weekend getaway?

Fayetteville is best known as home of the University of Arkansas. But take away most of the students, and you have a delightfully peaceful small town full of warm-weather activities. Summer is the perfect time to explore this full-filled region.

Visiting the Campus on Friday

Start your weekend with a drive through the countryside. Get out the map, and pick a back road that leads to Fayetteville. You can't go wrong.

When you arrive in town, head to the University of Arkansas campus. Highlights include the Fulbright Peace Fountain, The University Museum, and the Senior Walk. Sports fans will skip all this and go directly to The Tommy Boyer Hall of Champions at Bud Walton Basketball Arena. Football memorabilia is housed at The Jerry Jones/Jim Lindsey Hall of Champions. Both are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

When you're ready to rest, make the short jaunt to Johnson, Arkansas, 5 miles from downtown Fayetteville. The Inn at the Mill ([501] 443-1800; standard rooms $80-$85, designer suites $145-$160) sits just off I-540, but the tumbling water and lovely setting create a peaceful oasis.

With its bars, restaurants, and shops, Dickson Street is the epicenter of college life in Fayetteville. Make early dinner reservations at Bordino's, a Northern Italian restaurant that's surprisingly sophisticated. Then catch a show at the Walton Arts Center or check out the local music scene.

A Leisurely Saturday

There's no need to get in a hurry today. Start with coffee and muffins at Arsaga's Block Street Bakery, a laid-back local favorite.

Then it's off to the Farmers' Market. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., farmers and artists sell their wares. If you don't wish to buy produce, grab some goat cheese from Doeling Dairy or select a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.

Shopping in Fayetteville resembles a treasure hunt. The number of stores won't bowl you over, but the quality will certainly impress. French Quarters Antiques and Feather Your Nest on Block Street are fine examples. Partners Chris Bronson and Rene Hunt travel to France to hand select the stores' furniture and accessories.

When you're ready for a break, get in the car and look for Herman's Ribhouse. It's located on College Street, but there's no sign to let you know you've found it. When you see the shabby white building with a barn-- red roof, you'll think we've lost our minds. But taste the baby-back ribs, and you'll thank us.

When your feet get tired, make your way back to the inn, where a romantic dinner awaits. At James at the Mill, chef Miles James serves his acclaimed Ozark Plateau Cuisine. The seasonal menu features homemade bread and desserts, plus locally grown produce. A time-tested favorite is the hickory-grilled rib eye.

Sun and Fun on Sunday

Yesterday, you relaxed. Today, you go! But before checking out, take time for the complimentary Continental breakfast at the inn.

Beautiful churches abound in Fayetteville. But if you crave a less formal approach, head to St. Catherine's at Bell Gable Chapel just off I-- 540 at Exit 65. There are no formal services on Sunday, but builder Lowell Boynton invites those who "want to say a few words for themselves or someone else" to visit the small traditional Episcopal church.

Treat yourself to an early lunch at Ozark Brewing Company on Dickson Street. This classic campus hangout features great burgers and sandwiches along with homemade brews.

Northwest Arkansas is blessed with clear-water lakes. The region's largest body of water is Beaver Lake, a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts. In addition to campgrounds, picnic sites, and swimming beaches, there are miles of hiking trails. You can rent boats at several of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers marinas around the lake.

For more information

Fayetteville Advertising & Promotion Commission: FO. Box 4157, Fayetteville, AR 72702; (479) 587-9944,1-800-766-4626, or www.fayetteville tourism.com.