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Top 10 Cities for Affordable Vacations

Photo: Dero Sanford

Beaver Lake in Rogers, AR

Nestled in the heart of scenic Northwest Arkansas, Rogers is a wallet-friendly getaway in the Ozarks. Recently voted one of the Best Places to Live by Money magazine, this city boasts a long list of entertainment options. Its walkable historic square has an eclectic blend of affordable shopping, art, theater, restaurants and museums. Many restaurants in Rogers offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the live music and museums in Rogers are highly celebrated.

offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the are highly celebrated.Nestled in the heart of scenic Northwest Arkansas, Rogers is a wallet-friendly getaway in the Ozarks. Recently voted one of the Best Places to Live by magazine, this city boasts a long list of entertainment options. Its walkable historic square has an eclectic blend of affordable shopping, art, theater, restaurants and museums. Many offer fresh-from-the-farm foods and the are highly celebrated.

Outdoors, cool off or pitch a tent at scenic Beaver Lake and Hobbs State Park, the largest state park in Arkansas and a popular summer destination that also offers affordable water recreation rentals. Another great getaway is Lake Atalanta, a 35-acre lake and park site that features a swimming pool, fishing hole, walking trail and picnic tables.

Rogers is just minutes from the region’s major attractions including The University of Arkansas and The Northwest Arkansas Naturals, a Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Kids eat free during Family Sundays at the Springdale, Ark. ballpark, while dollar hot dogs are served up on Mondays.

One of the most popular regional attractions is the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which became a world-class destination after opening its doors in 2011. General admission is free, thanks to a generous sponsorship by Bentonville-based Wal-Mart. Their 120-acre grounds include galleries, a museum complex with hands-on art and drop-in studios, a restaurant, and areas for outdoor concerts and public events. Designed against a spectacular mountain view, Crystal Bridges includes more than three miles of walking and biking trails, outdoor sculptures, gardens and interactive education areas.

Hotels: 22

Restaurants: 112

More Places to Visit: War Eagle Caverns, Arkansas Air Museum, Arts Center of the Ozarks, Cherokee Casino, Dragon's Lair, Peel Mansion