Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Rogers, AR

  • Published 2023/03/20

Located in the Ozark Mountains, Rogers in Benton County, Arkansas, is one of the fastest-growing metros in America.

It is also the country’s most bustling suburbs, overflowing with things to do and places to see.

There are a lot of places in Rogers that can be found on the National Register of Historic Places.

Home to Walmart’s very first store and the headquarters of Daisy Outdoor Products, Rogers is also an important city for commerce.

Interested to know more about this place?

Here are the 25 best things to do in Rogers, Arkansas:

Do Urban Exploration atRogers Commercial Historic District

Rogers Commercial Historic District

Valis55, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Created in 1988 as the Walnut Street Historic District, the Rogers Commercial Historic District has expanded ever since.

A large part of Rogers’ commercial area and offices is within this district.

Street view of Rogers Commercial Historic District

doug_wertman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The area is notable and a great visit for those who would like a glimpse at the historically significant buildings of the area.

These buildings include the Rogers Post Office Building and the Lane Hote, which are examples of Colonial Revival styling and Spanish Colonial Revival.

Get Wet at Rogers Aquatic Center

The Rogers Aquatic Center is a beautiful waterpark open to the public.

The center boasts three acres of land filled with water slides, a lap pool, a splash pad for the little ones, and a large play area.

It has a whirlpool called the ‘Lazy River,’ which keeps unsuspecting guests swirling in the river when they’re about to move out.

With over thirty lifeguards on duty throughout the Rogers Aquatic Center, there is no danger to any guests in the water.

The center is a great way to cool off in Rogers’ warm summers!

ExploreWar Eagle Cavern

Direction sign of War Eagle Cavern

RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com

The beautiful War Eagle Cavern is along the shores of Beaver Lake in Rogers, Arkansas.

This cavern is said to have been inhabited by Native American peoples long before the settlers arrived in America.

Open to the public since 1978, the cavern has been an essential part of nature and the people’s history.

The natural freshwater streams flowing through the cave from an underground spring made the War Eagle Cavern an essential refuge for people during the Great Depression.

All kinds of people have inhabited the massive rooms of the cave, but even on its own, it’s a wonder to look at.

Stalagmites, stalactites, and Arkansas crystals have been forming in the War Eagle Cavern for millions of years and are not a sight to be missed.

See the Airguns at Daisy Airgun Museum

Daisy Airgun Museum

Doug Wertman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The influence of commerce on the development of the city of Rogers is inescapable.

It is tied to the history and culture of the place.

Daisy Airgun Museum, located in downtown Rogers, is among the many museums in the city and not the only one that celebrates a historic company.

Daisy air guns have been a part of American life for a long time, and this museum celebrates the air guns that made Daisy a household name in the country.

A perfect place to reminisce and admire a vital part of American history, the Daisy Airgun Museum is open to the general public every Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Listen to Live Music at Butterfield Stage

Butterfield Stage, located in the newly renovated Railyard Park, is among the newest venues in the historical city of Rogers.

Designed to be an ‘intimate and fun’ outdoor venue for live music, Butterfield Stage aims to bring the community together for music, farmer’s markets, and other outdoor activities.

Visit Rogers Historical Museum

Interactive displays and re-created scenes of early Rogers City and Northwest Arkansas are the highlights of the Rogers Historical Museum.

The museum offers an essential look into the local history and culture of the region with exciting exhibits and family-friendly programs.

The Rogers Historical Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and has several exhibits.

These include exhibits related to the region’s role in the Civil War, its production activities, and all the commercial activities that drive Rogers forward.

See the Wildlife at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Reserve

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Reserve is committed to providing sanctuary to abandoned and abused big cats who have been rescued.

While the sanctuary focuses on big cats like tigers, lions, and cougars, it has also rescued bears, servals, and coatimundi.

The sanctuary itself does fantastic work, but more importantly, it offers people a chance to learn and understand these predators in a space that treats them respectfully.

Accommodations are available for family and non-family groups, with helpful tour guides.

The Turpentine Creek Wildlife Reserve lies 30 miles outside Rogers in Eureka Springs.

Go on an Outdoor Excursion atHobbs State Park-Conservation Area

Bridge at Hobbs State Park Conservation Area

Doug Wertman from Rogers, AR, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Arkansas’s largest state park, Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area, spans 12,054 acres along the southern shores of Beaver Lake.

It is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in Northern Arkansas.

There are a number of trails for hiking and camping, including the Pigeon Roost Trail, the Hidden Diversity Trail, the Shaddox Hollow Nature Trail, and the Monument Trails.

Stream flowing through the Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area

Doug Wertman from Rogers, AR, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s a shooting range and a visitor’s center with exhibits for those who don’t want to be hiking through the park.

The park is open for hunting during hunting season, with games like deer, quail, and turkey easily found in Ozark.

Fishing on Beaver Lake is also recommended, especially for those looking for a trophy catch.

Shop for Organic Products at War Eagle Mill and Bridge

War Eagle Bridge

RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com

A favorite landmark in Northwest Arkansas, the War Eagle Mill and Bridge was built in 1832 by Sylvanus and Catherine Blackburn.

This gristmill was used by the Union Army to grind grain for food in 1862, but the mill was destroyed after the Battle of Pea Bridge and reconstructed in 1873.

It was burned down again and redone in 1973, and the 18-foot cypress waterwheel system set up then is still used in the War Eagle Mill.

Scenic view of the War Eagle Mill

RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com

The mill focuses on high-quality, healthy organic products that can be purchased in their shop or tried in their restaurant.

The restaurant, called The Bean Palace, puts on a pot of beans and fresh cornbread to welcome guests to a homestyle meal made with entirely organic produce from the Mill.

Straight view of the War Eagle Bridge

RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com

Catch the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship

Walmart NW Arkansas Championship

Brandonrush, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship is an annual women’s professional golf tournament on the LPGA Tour.

The Championship was first played in 2007, and all tournament editions have been played at the Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers.

The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship is usually held between July and September.

Walmart became the Championship’s presenting sponsor in 2010, taking over from P&G.

In 2011, Walmart became the title sponsor, and P&G the presenting sponsor.

Go Fishing at Lake Atalanta

Geese in Lake Atlanta

Alfredo Carrillo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lake Atalanta is a reservoir built in 1936 and is the primary water source for Rogers.

It is found along Prairie Creek and is surrounded by the second-oldest park in Rogers.

Lake Atalanta Park has a playground, a picnic area, and a walking trail, and the entire Lake Atalanta is a vital recreation spot in the city.

Tranquil water at Lake Atalanta

Alfredo Carrillo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Lake is great for fishing and is part of Arkansas’s ‘Family and Community Fishing Program.’

The Railyard Bike Park is also part of Lake Atalanta Park.

The Park is open throughout the week from 6 AM to 10 PM.

Watch a Live Show atArkansas Public Theatre

The Arkansas Public Theatre is a performing arts company that puts on live shows in the historic district of Rogers and used to be known as the Rogers Little Theater.

A well-preserved gem in the heart of Rogers, the Victory Theater is the home of The Arkansas Public Theatre.

It was designed by the well-known Rogers Architect A.O. Clarke.

It was always a vital gathering space for the community and was sorely missed when it closed its doors in the 1970s.

The City of Rogers purchased the theatre to serve as the home of public theater in Arkansas in 2008.

The shows are advanced and Broadway-level and have played an essential role in revitalizing the historic district of downtown Rogers.

Grab a BeeratOzark Beer Company

Ozark Beer Company, founded in 2013, is the first local craft brewery in Rogers, Arkansas.

They produce a number of seasonal beers along with their regulars on tap and are open through the week.

Visitors can sample regular ales, like the American Pale Ale, and stouts, like the Ozark Cream Stouts, at the tasting and tap room.

There are usually a few varieties of the brewery’s small batches on tap.

Explore the Monte Ne Resort Ruins

View of the Monte Ne Resort Ruins

Doug Wertman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Monte Ne Resort Ruins is an abandoned resort area you can check out if you’re feeling adventurous.

While a few structures have been demolished, Monte Ne Resort Ruins has much more in store, even if you dislike abandoned aesthetics.

It’s right by Beaver Lake and still has remnants of other concrete structures, giving it an austere look that’s perfect for lakeside photography.

Even the shores and surrounding vegetation accentuate the mysterious vibe of the place.

Monte Ne Resorts Ruins can be accessed on the western end of Rogers, along Charlton Drive.

Camp at Horseshoe Bend Campground

Signage of Horseshoe Bend Campground

Allen Patterson from Auburn, Alabama, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another exciting activity to add to your itinerary is the Horseshoe Bend Campground—a fantastic site to experience the wilderness of Rogers.

Here, you can experience Beaver Lake, teeming with all sorts of wildlife and surrounding wilderness.

Some of the most memorable experiences you’ll have here is encountering a herd of deer.

Horseshoe Bend Campground may seem isolated from Rogers, but it’s well-maintained, which makes it a safe and convenient campground.

Whether fishing, hiking, or wildlife exploration, this campsite is essential for outdoor enthusiasts.

Find it along AR-94.

Get a Rush of Adrenaline at The Railyard Bike Park

The Railyard Bike Park isn’t just one of the best bike parks in Rogers and for the entire Benton County.

Brimming with slopestyle trails and dirt ramps, The Railyard Bike Park has a little something for every skill level.

It’s well-maintained and has a comprehensive map for you to check out.

Even the terrain and aesthetics change throughout the park, making this a great place to take photos or record with a Go-Pro.

The Railyard Bike Park is a must-visit for BMX enthusiasts or cyclists—it’s located along East Cherry Street.

Do Recreational Activities at Veterans Memorial Park

Whether you’re here for a stroll or to play an extreme sport, Veterans Memorial Park is a go-to city park in Rogers.

It’s famous for its well-lit baseball fields at night, but it also has soccer fields if you prefer playing that sport instead.

Veterans Park also has a sizable pond, a famous fishing spot in the city.

The trails here are also gorgeous, lined with many trees and greenery, perfect for an early morning jog.

You can access Veterans Park along East Veterans Parkway.

Take the Kids to DEFY Rogers

DEFY Rogers is a can’t-miss spot if you’re traveling with an energetic kid who wants a lot of fun.

A renowned local indoor trampoline park, it’s the perfect environment for children to have fun and meet new friends.

The clean, spacious, and vibrant facilities make this a safe but exhilarating space for younger kids.

The obstacles and facilities here are the show stars, as there’s a lot of variety compared to typical ones.

DEFY Rogers can be found along South Dixieland Road.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Learn Walmart’s History at The Walmart Museum

Walmart Museum

RozenskiP / Shutterstock.com

The Walmart Museum celebrates the vision of Sam Walton and the company he created.

Apart from the origins of one of America’s most beloved retailers, the museum celebrates the people working for the company now.

Signage of the Walmart Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

It elaborates on its hopes for the future and how it works to help the communities that support it.

This museum is essential for everyone looking to understand the pathway to the American dream.

Tour the Historical Grounds of Pea Ridge National Military Park

Pea Ridge National Military Park

Jeffrey M. Frank / Shutterstock.com

About 10 miles from Rogers lies the Pea Ridge National Military Park, where an essential battle for Missouri was fought during the Civil War.

Pea Ridge was a virtual battlefield, and today is one of the country’s most intact Civil War battlefields.

The Park has persevered the site of the Battle of Pea Bridge remarkably well.

Signage at the entrance of  Pea Ridge National Military Park

RozenskiP / Shutterstock.com

Visitors can take the driving tour or walk through the hiking trails.

A restored battlefield, a portion of the pre-war Old Telegraph Road, and about 2.5 miles of the Trail of Tears are all accessible to the public.

A vital location is Elkhorn Tavern, which was at the center of the battle.

An old man camping at  Pea Ridge National Military Park

Dustie / Shutterstock.com

Experience Wine Tasting atSassafras Spring Vineyard and Winery

About 18 miles from Rogers lies the Sassafras Spring Vineyard and Winery – with great wine and a fantastic location for personal and official events.

Best known for hosting weddings, the Sassafras Spring Vineyard and Winery also organize wine tastings of their award-winning wines, dinners, other meals, and other personalized winery events.

The Sassafras Spring Vineyard and Winery are open from Tuesdays to Sundays and is a beautiful getaway from the central city.

Enjoy the Artworks at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art works towards bringing American Art and the country’s natural wealth together.

The museum sits on 120 acres of land in the Ozark Forest, with trails open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Unique art piece at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

The collection ranges from Rockwell to Warhol, and the museum’s structure is an architectural feat by Moshe Safdie.

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is accessible to everyone who wants to visit and is open on all days except Tuesdays.

View of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

David Rickey / Shutterstock.com

Visit the Arkansas Air and Military Museum

Display at Arkansas Air and Military Museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Arkansas Air and Military Museum is located about 30 miles away from Rogers in Fayetteville.

It is the largest aviation museum in Arkansas, with several aircraft and other memorabilia on display.

The aircraft displayed in the museum is unusual because some of them are still capable of flight.

Exterior view of the Arkansas Air and Military Museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The exhibits include pre-World War 2 racing planes, military vehicles, artifacts from the Civil War, and Vietnam-era Army helicopters.

The Arkansas Air and Military Museum is housed in a hangar that was essential to American history.

The building was a former headquarters for the United States’ training posts during World War 2.

Exhibits at Arkansas Air and Military Museum

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Final Thoughts

Rogers is a fun city with a lot of variety.

Whether you’re here to appreciate its historical attractions or surrounding nature, there’s something for everyone in this city.

However, don’t miss out on some must-see and visit areas, such as its historic downtown and the War Eagle Cavern.

The best things to do in Rogers await you—start planning today!

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