Sherwood is a charming city located just north of Little Rock in central Arkansas. With its small-town feel yet proximity to the state capital, Sherwood offers visitors the best of both worlds.
Families will love the array of fun attractions and activities available, from exploring history and nature to playing sports and enjoying local cuisine. This article highlights 12 top things to do in Sherwood with kids and family of all ages.
Explore the Old Mill
The Old Mill is one of Sherwood’s most iconic landmarks. This replica of an 1880s water-powered grist mill was constructed in 1933 and appeared in the opening scenes of Gone With The Wind.
Today, families can tour the Old Mill and explore its picturesque surroundings in Old Mill Park. See operations inside the mill, walk along the river and bridges, admire the floral gardens, and spot ducks or turtles in the water. Kids will love this glimpse into Sherwood’s past surrounded by natural beauty.
Hike the Steps at Knoop Park
For magnificent views overlooking the Arkansas River Valley, head to Knoop Park and climb the 94 steps to the top. Families can traverse wooded trails to reach the steep staircase then be rewarded with sweeping vistas spanning from Little Rock to Pinnacle Mountain.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the hilltop pavilion. Knoop Park also features playground equipment, walking trails perfect for strollers, and open green space for games of tag or throwing a ball.
Browse the Arkansas Craft Gallery
Highlighting local artisans, the Arkansas Craft Gallery in downtown Sherwood carries unique handmade items. Browse jewelry, pottery, quilts, candles, paintings, and more – all created by Arkansas artists and craftspeople.
The gallery makes an ideal indoor activity while allowing kids to admire one-of-a-kind creations. Parents will enjoy the expansive collection spanning all types of media from wood to glass to metal. Don’t miss the craft demonstrations held on Saturdays.
Play Disc Golf at Sherman Park
Families and friends will have a blast playing disc golf at Sherman Park in the heart of Sherwood. This beginner-friendly 18 hole course winds through scenic woods surrounding a pond.
Practice your putting on the small practice basket near hole 1 before trying your hand tossing discs into the chain targets on each fairway. Disc golf provides great outdoor recreation for all ages and activity levels. Bring your own discs or borrow from the box kept on site.
See Wildlife at Indianhead Lake Park
From eagles to beavers to butterflies, families can spot all types of native wildlife at Indianhead Lake Park. Follow the Wetland Walk educational signs to identify trees while scanning the sky for soaring eagles.
Next, stroll out on the long pier stretching over the lake for closer views of mallard ducks, turtles sunbathing, and jumping fish. Keep little ones entertained on the playground and splash pad. Wildlife exhibits also reside inside the nature center.
Practice Ninja Skills at Twister City
Let kids test their inner ninja warrior at Twister City indoor playground in Sherwood’s Industrial Park. This massive play center features multilevel rope courses, challenging climbs and obstacles, slides, ball pits, and more, all with safety harnesses and padding.
Kids gain confidence while having fun maneuvering the suspended atttractions. Parents can relax in lounge seating while supervising or get in on the action too! Ideal for ages 5 and up.
Ride the Rails at the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad
All aboard the A&M Railroad! Families can take memorable excursions through central Arkansas’ countryside on vintage diesel locomotives and passenger cars at this railway museum and ride attraction. The hour long journey follows the tracks northeast from Springdale through Fayetteville and back.
Along the way, kids can admire rolling hills, lush greenery, grazing horses, bubbling creeks and trestle bridges from the train’s windows and open air cars. The A&M also displays historical rail cars and artifacts to peruse before or after your trip.
Play Mini Golf at Thrasher Brothers Golf Center
For family-friendly miniature golf, head to Thrasher Brothers Golf Center at the Sherwood Sports Complex. This lively 18-hole putt putt course takes players on an adventure through caves, mines, and the Old West, accented by waterfalls and mining carts.
Kids will love navigating stunts like hopping over burro crossings while parents can enjoy the sibling rivalry. Thrasher Brothers also features arcade games, batting cages, and lighted driving range for practice swinging your clubs.
Explore Faulkner County Museum
Faulkner County Museum provides a fun opportunity to explore regional history, arts, and culture. Families can view permanent and traveling exhibits highlighting topics like the Civil War’s Battle of Bayou Meto, Gone With The Wind memorabilia, vintage toys, natural wonders, and more.
Kids enjoy scavenger hunts and interactive displays. Artisans demonstrate regional crafts like blacksmithing, quilting and basket weaving on select days. The museum complex includes historic homes, picturesque gardens, heritage village buildings, and a modern events center.
Cheer on the Travs at Dickey-Stephens Ballpark
For an authentic Minor League Baseball experience, take the family to Dickey-Stephens Ballpark in North Little Rock to cheer on the home team Arkansas Travelers. This classic ballpark opened in 2007 and hosts the Travs, an affiliate of the MLB’s Seattle Mariners franchise.
Catch a day game on weekends or take advantage of Thirsty Thursday drink specials at evening contests. Kids will love watching players knock homers over the fence and chasing fly fouls in the grassy berm seating. The atmosphere brims with fun giveaways and between inning entertainment rivaling the action on the field.
Sample Local Treats on a Food Tour
A delicious way for food-loving families to savor Sherwood’s dining scene is by booking a locally-led food tour. Companies like Arkansas Food Tours offer half and full day excursions stopping at beloved eateries around central Arkansas.
Not only do you get to sample tasty dishes like fried green tomatoes, barbecue, pie and ice cream, but also receive a private history lesson. Stops on Sherwood tours may include Old Mill Bread & Flour Company, R&R Curry Express, and more.
Conclusion
From outdoor pursuits to historic sites to sports adventures, Sherwood offers a well-rounded selection of attractions for families visiting central Arkansas. The scenic small town packed with charm provides plenty of sights to see and activities to enjoy all year long.
Use this guide highlighting 12 top things to do with kids of all ages the next time you plan a trip to the Sherwood area. With lesser crowds than Little Rock but endless potential for memory-making fun, Sherwood makes an excellent vacation destination guaranteed to please everyone.