(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.)
Tourism Development/Creative Culture
Winner • 5,000-20,000
Population: 17,756 | Mayor: Paul Choate | County: Union | Region: Southwest
The Challenge
Hoping to draw more attention to the city along with a heavier number of visitors, El Dorado has spent several years working toward becoming a premier hub for both statewide and regional events and entertainment. Over the years, the city has worked to bring eye-catching venues to fruition in an attempt to bring people from all walks of life — from the business owner to the art lover — to El Dorado.
The Haywood hotel is owned by local investors and managed by Beechwood Pinnacle Hotels, an Arkansas-based firm.
The Solution
With three significant additions, El Dorado cemented itself as an event destination. The El Dorado Conference Center, the city’s epicenter for large gatherings, is designed to capture the city’s past oil heritage. The Murphy Arts District offers a backdrop for dining, entertainment and musical performances. The city’s crown jewel, The Haywood hotel, offers haven-like comfort and was the headquarters of the Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism in 2023. The hotel combines luxury and functionality, giving a distinguished setting.
Save Me a Seat
The Murphy Arts District includes the First Financial Music Hall — an indoor venue able to seat up to 1,500. The hall can also be transformed into a concert hall, dining hall or wedding venue.
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