July brought the heat – and the headlines – to Northwest Arkansas. From a brand-new medical school and a speakeasy on Emma Avenue to national rankings that put our region in the spotlight, there’s no shortage of buzz.
Fayetteville:
- Onyx Coffee Lab – Downtown Square – The beloved local roaster has opened a stylish new location right on the Square in a shared space with NWA Florist. This thoughtfully designed spot features a walk-up window, indoor and outdoor seating, and a curated boutique filled with local goods (plus flowers, of course). It’s the perfect Saturday morning stop during the Farmers’ Market!
Springdale:
- The Blind Bear – A new speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden in plain sight on Emma Avenue. Expect moody lighting, expertly crafted cocktails, and a touch of mystery behind the door.
- The Star on Spring – A beautifully appointed boutique hotel just off Emma Avenue with 13 uniquely styled accommodations. Perfect for a stylish staycation or hosting guests in the heart of downtown.
Bentonville:
- Compton Gardens – Reopened this month with a brand-new meeting and event space, offering an updated way to enjoy this beloved natural retreat. Just steps from downtown, the trails and gardens make for a perfect lunchtime stroll.
- Alice L. Walton School of Medicine – The inaugural class of 48 students began this July in a stunning new building designed with the school’s “whole health” philosophy in mind. This four-year medical school blends traditional training with a focus on holistic care – including mental health, nutrition, and lifestyle. The facility will open to the public in November.
Further Out in NWA:
- Crystal Bridges + The Momentary at XNA – A new satellite gallery has landed at Northwest Arkansas National Airport, just past security near the B gates. A collaboration between Crystal Bridges and The Momentary, the space features rotating works from the museum’s permanent collection and offers travelers a calming, art-filled escape. The debut exhibition, Home and Away, explores themes of place and discovery through paintings, prints, photographs, and drawings – some on view for the first time. Over the next two years, the gallery will rotate through four groupings, from sweeping landscapes to deeply personal self-portraits. Open to ticketed travelers during airport hours.
Happy Exploring!
And if you’re considering buying a home in NWA, I’d love to help! Let’s chat!
The Good Life NWA - Northwest Arkansas' Relocation & Real Estate Expert 