Square Gardens: Fayetteville's Historic Heart
A vibrant downtown Fayetteville park featuring seasonal gardens, historic buildings, and community events.
The Square Gardens, located in the heart of Fayetteville, Arkansas, serves as a focal point for community activity and seasonal beauty. Established in 1978, the gardens transformed the Downtown Square into a public park and plaza. The Square is home to several historically significant buildings, including the original Fayetteville Post Office, the Old Bank of Fayetteville Building, the Lewis Brothers Building, the Mrs. Young Building, and the Guisinger Building, all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the year, the gardens showcase a variety of colorful flowers, carefully tended to reflect the changing seasons. In the fall, the Square Gardens become the centerpiece of Lights of the Ozarks, a spectacular holiday lighting display that attracts an estimated 200,000 visitors each December. The Square also hosts the Fayetteville Farmers' Market every Tuesday and Saturday morning from early April through November, where local farmers sell plants, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and art. The Square has served as the commercial and political heart of Fayetteville since the 1830s. It has also been a site for public gatherings and protests, fostering a tradition of community engagement. Today, the Square Gardens continue to be a vibrant space where residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature, celebrate local events, and connect with the city's rich history.
Local tips
- Visit during the Lights of the Ozarks in November and December for a stunning holiday light display.
- Explore the Fayetteville Farmers' Market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings for local produce and crafts.
- Take a stroll around the square to admire the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
A brief summary to Square Gardens
- 1 W Center St, Fayetteville, Arkansas, 72701, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From the Fayetteville Town Center, walk north on East Avenue towards Center Street. Turn left onto Center Street, and the Square Gardens will be immediately on your left, surrounding the Old Post Office. The walk is short and direct, approximately 2 minutes. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Ozark Regional Transit provides bus service throughout Fayetteville. All bus routes within the city are free. Check the Ozark Regional Transit website or app for the nearest bus stop and schedule. From most locations in Fayetteville, take the bus to the downtown station, a short walk from the Square Gardens. No costs are involved.
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Driving
From I-49, take exit 62 for Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and head east. Turn right onto College Avenue, then left onto Center Street. The Square Gardens will be on your right. Parking is available in several municipal lots around the square. Parking costs $0.25 per hour at pay stations, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free two-hour parking is available. The Town Center Deck provides covered parking for $4 per entry.
