You’ve likely seen the photos. That massive, weathered barn with the warm timber framing or the white Victorian house sitting like a crown on a hill above the University of Arkansas. If you’re looking for Pratt Place Inn Fayetteville AR, you might be confused about why your GPS is acting weird or why the website looks different than it did three years ago.
Honestly? It's because the "Pratt Place" you remember is technically gone. But the hill isn't.
Located at 2231 West Markham Road, this 140-acre slice of Ozark heaven has undergone a massive identity shift. It’s no longer just a tiny seven-room boutique hotel where you might spot a deer while eating a scone. As of 2026, the property has been reimagined into what is now known as The Stonebreaker Hotel & Barn.
What Actually Happened to the Original Pratt Place Inn?
For decades, Pratt Place was the "secret" spot for Razorback fans and wedding parties. It was owned by Julian and Jane Archer, whose family had held the land since 1900. It wasn't just a business; it was a legacy. The main house was built in 1894, and for a long time, it didn't even have central heat—they were still using wood stoves until the mid-2000s.
The Archers turned it into a luxury inn with 600-thread-count linens and Persian rugs. It was fancy. Like, "Forbes Four-Star" fancy.
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But things changed in 2021. Specialized Real Estate Group (SREG) took over and realized that seven rooms weren't enough to sustain a 140-acre estate in a booming town like Fayetteville. They closed the doors on January 1, 2021, for a total overhaul. People were worried. Locals on Markham Hill were, frankly, pretty annoyed about the expansion. They loved the quiet.
Now, the "New" Pratt Place—The Stonebreaker—has officially opened its doors, featuring 76 guest rooms and a full-service restaurant.
The Reality of Staying on Markham Hill Today
If you're heading there now, don't expect the tiny, intimate bed-and-breakfast vibe of the 1990s. It’s a full-scale resort experience now.
The original Pratt Place Inn Fayetteville AR main house still stands. They’ve preserved the Victorian architecture, but it’s now integrated into a much larger complex. You still get those incredible views of the Boston Mountains, and yes, the 5,000-square-foot barn is still the "it" place for weddings. It can hold about 350 people inside, though I've seen outdoor setups there that look like they could fit half the town.
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- The Vibe: It's sort of "Modern Ozark."
- The Location: You’re literally a half-mile from Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. You can hear the roar of the crowd on game days, but you’re surrounded by old-growth oaks and hickory trees.
- The Food: They finally added a real restaurant. No more just "scones and quiche" (though those were great).
Why the History Matters
You can't talk about this place without mentioning Joy Pratt Markham. She was a legend. In 1921, she started a summer camp on this hill called Camp Markham.
Think about that. While the rest of Fayetteville was developing, this hilltop was a place for kids to ride horses and learn archery. It stayed that way until 1941. When Joy died in 1976, she wanted the land preserved. That’s why, even with the new hotel buildings, there's a huge nature preserve and a network of trails. It’s one of the few places in Fayetteville where you can feel completely isolated while being two minutes from Dickson Street.
A Few Things to Know Before You Book
Don't just show up expecting a room in the "old house." Most of the 70+ new rooms are in the newer hotel buildings. If you want the historic experience, you have to specifically look for the suites in the original manor or the 1929 English cottage.
The cottage is still there. It’s an Arts and Crafts style spot with two bedrooms and its own kitchen. Honestly, if you're traveling with a family or another couple, the cottage is the way to go. It feels less like a hotel and more like you own a piece of Arkansas history for the weekend.
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Wait, what about the barn?
The barn is still the crown jewel. It’s got that rust-colored timber and those massive doors. If you’re planning a wedding there, keep in mind that while the field can hold 700 people, the barn itself is more comfortable at 300 or 350 for dinner.
Is It Still Worth It?
Some people miss the old, quiet Pratt Place. I get it. There was something special about a seven-room inn where the staff knew your name before you walked in.
But the new iteration—The Stonebreaker—brings things Fayetteville desperately needed: more high-end lodging near the stadium and public access to those trails. You can now walk the property without being a registered guest, which is a huge win for the community.
Practical Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the Name: If you're searching for "Pratt Place Inn Fayetteville AR" on booking sites and seeing "The Stonebreaker," don't panic. It's the same physical location.
- Book Early for Game Days: This is the closest luxury stay to the stadium. If the Hogs are playing at home, this place fills up a year in advance.
- Explore the Trails: Don't just stay in your room. The trail system connects to the wider Fayetteville network. It's some of the best urban hiking in Northwest Arkansas.
- Visit the Restaurant: Even if you aren't staying overnight, the new dining room in the restored house is worth it for the sunset views alone.
The transition from a family estate to a modern hotel was bumpy, but the soul of Markham Hill is still there. Just look for the big white house on the hill—you can't miss it.