Memorial Park & Chautauqua Amphitheater is a modern downtown park that honors one of Siloam Springs’ oldest traditions. The town hosted lively Chautauqua assemblies more than a century ago, and this green space beside the public library carries the name forward with an open-air amphitheater, an interactive splash pad, a restored gazebo, a veterans memorial, and the farmers market. It’s free, family-friendly, and steps from the Sager Creek shops.
About the Chautauqua Amphitheater
The name reaches back to the town’s resort era. The Chautauqua Assembly of Arkansas met in Siloam Springs beginning in the 1880s, and by 1900 the summer health resort drew crowds to these educational, entertaining gatherings — local promoter Frederick Wallace Bartell even helped organize some of the first traveling Chautauqua circuits. The present-day park, called Memorial Park & Chautauqua Amphitheater, opened in May 2019 after the city broke ground in 2018, backed in part by a Walton Family Foundation design grant. It memorializes that Chautauqua site, the former hospital grounds nearby, and the springs the town was named for.
What to See
- Chautauqua Amphitheater — an open-air stage and lawn for community events and performances.
- Splash pad — a button-activated interactive water feature, great for kids on hot days (summer).
- Farmers market — the park hosts the local seasonal market.
- Memorials & gazebo — a KIA veterans memorial and a restored gazebo amid green space.
- Great for — families, event-goers, and anyone exploring downtown and Sager Creek.
Hours & Admission
The park is free and open to the public daily; the splash-pad water feature typically runs about 10 a.m.–8 p.m. in summer. It is a city park rather than a rentable venue, and event schedules vary by season. Check the official park page for current details and event listings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chautauqua connection?
Siloam Springs hosted Chautauqua assemblies — educational and cultural gatherings — during its resort era beginning in the 1880s. The modern park is named to memorialize that history.
Is there really an amphitheater to visit?
Yes. Memorial Park & Chautauqua Amphitheater opened in 2019 and includes an open-air amphitheater, splash pad, gazebo, and green space near downtown and the library.
Does it cost anything?
No. The park is free to visit. It is a public city park and is not currently a rentable or reservable facility.
Location & Directions
- Location: Downtown Siloam Springs, adjacent to the public library, AR 72761
- Phone: (479) 524-5136 (City of Siloam Springs)
- Official site: siloamsprings.gov
- Cost: Free
Back to Downtown Siloam Springs & Sager Creek or Things to Do in Siloam Springs.