Searching for an unexpected adventure in the heart of the Ozarks? Bentonville may be famous as the home of Walmart, but it is so much more. From thrilling outdoor activities to world-class art, there are so many exciting things to do in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Don’t let its reputation as the birthplace of global retail giant Walmart fool you into thinking that Bentonille is all business. Located in the beautiful Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, it’s a charming town of 50,000 residents filled withoutdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, cultural experiences, and small-town charm.
With miles of trails to explore,world-class museums, and its impressive food scene, Bentonville is a great, centrally-located destination for travelers looking for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re wandering the art-filled streets, biking scenic trails, or enjoying local eateries, Bentonville proves that it’s more than just a corporate hub.
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Have You Visited Bentonville?
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Things to Do in Bentonville
Bentonville may be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to things to do. From museums to biking trails, there’s plenty to experience whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.
Enjoy Amazing Art at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Established by Alice Walton, Walmart founder Sam’s only daughter, the Crystal Bridges Museum is Bentonville’s crown jewel. This world-class museum offers free entry to its extensive collection of American art.
Inside a magnificent building designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, you’ll find works of art by Andy Warhol, Normal Rockwell, and Georgia O’Keeffe in addition to many other treasures. In addition to its rotating exhibits, the museum’s stunning architecture and surrounding nature trails make it a must-see for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Hike or Bike the Bentonville Trail System
Ready to stretch your legs? Bentonville’s trail system winds through scenic Ozark woodlands, offering over five miles of paved and gravel paths for walking or biking. The paved trails surrounding Crystal Bridges are home to beautiful sculptures, natural springs, and abundant wildlife. For serious mountain bikers, the Slaughter Pen Bike Trails, offer more than 40 miles of varying difficulty for an adrenaline-pumping ride.
Sage Advice: Don’t have a bike? Spoke Adventures offers mountain bike, city bike, and electric bike rentals.
Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House
Just steps from the Crystal Bridges Museum, you’ll the Bachman-Wilson House. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in his iconic Usonian style, this home was relocated from New Jersey to Bentonville and is a seamless blend of modern design and natural beauty. Tours are free but require tickets, so plan ahead to experience this masterpiece up close.
Experience The Momentary, a Contemporary Art Museum
If contemporary art is more your style, then check out The Momentary. Once a 63,00-square-foot cheese factory, this sleek space now hosts visual and performing arts, live events, and food trucks. You can explore exhibitions, grab a drink at the rooftop Tower Bar, and enjoy stunning views of Bentonville’s skyline. With a mix of local and international artists, The Momentary offers a fresh take on art in an industrial-chic setting.
Visit the Walmart Museum
Even if you’re on Team Target, it’s hard not to admire Sam Walton’s hard work and incredible success. The Walmart Museum in Sam Walton’s original five-and-dime store offers a fascinating glimpse into the company’s history and its founder’s frugal, hard-working nature. Highlights include Sam Walton’s red 1979 Ford pickup and preserved office with a clutter of books, yellow legal pads scribbled with notes, and one of Sam’s blue baseball hats. Be sure to grab a scoop of his favorite butter pecan ice cream at the Spark Café on your way out.
Wander the Compton Gardens and Arboretum
Compton Gardens offers a peaceful retreat with six acres of native plants and shaded walking paths. Originally the home of Dr. Neil Compton, an advocate for the protection of the Ozarks, this serene space is perfect for a quiet morning stroll. Visit The Meadow for a burst of wildflowers, especially beautiful during the spring bloom.
Explore the Peel Mansion and Botanical Garden
The Peel Mansion is a magnificent Italianate estate just a short drive from Betntonville’s historic downtown square. Completed in 1875, it was the home of Samuel West Peel, a businessman, attorney, and the first native Arkansan elected to the United States Congress. This beautifully restored historic red brick home features Victorian furnishings and lush gardens. Take a tour to admire the antiques inside or wander the rose garden and admire the towering oak trees outside.
Learn About Native American History
The Museum of Native American History is a must-visit for anyone interested in early American history. With over 10,000 artifacts, including tools, clothing, and pottery, the museum showcases the rich culture of the continent’s first inhabitants. One of the museum’s biggest draws is Tusker, a 12,000-year-old wooly mammoth reconstructed from three mammoth skeletons found in Siberia. Although there is no admission fee to visit the Museum of Native American History, donations are appreciated.
Discover the Intersection of Art and Science at the Scott Family Amazeum
While Bentonville is an art lover’s dream destination, younger members of your travel party may not be as enthusiastic about oil paintings, steel sculptures, and colorful murals. Enter the Scott Family Amazeum, a hands-on children’s museum filled with interactive exhibits. From tinkering with inventions in the 3M Hub to making chocolate in the Hershey’s Lab, this interactive museum will keep the little ones entertained while teaching them valuable lessons about the world around them.
Cheer for the Home Team
Sports lovers will want to drive 20 minutes south of Bentonville to the Arvest Ballpark in Springdale to cheer on the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. After moving from Wichita, Kansas, in 2008, where they were known as the Wichita Wranglers, the Naturals became a Double-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and were crowned the Texas Leagues Champions in 2010.
Best Restaurants in Bentonville
Bentonville may be small, but its food scene is mighty. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal or just a cozy coffee shop, this town delivers. From trendy brunch spots to creative coffee shops, there’s no shortage of delicious places to try.
Start your day with coffee at Onyx Coffee Lab or grab a quick bite at Ozark Mountain Bagel Co. For a heartier brunch, head to The Buttered Biscuit. In the evening, enjoy dinner at The Hive, and cap off your night with drinks at The Preacher’s Son. Here are a few more of my favorite spots to eat in Bentonville.
Eleven
Located in the Crystal Bridges Museum, Eleven offers farm-to-table meals inspired by the Ozarks. The menu changes with the seasons, but expect dishes like shrimp and grits or fresh salads. Perfect for a post-museum meal, this place balances high-end flavors with a relaxed atmosphere.
Table Mesa Bistro and Bakery
For a fresh take on Southwestern cuisine, head to Table Mesa. With dishes like shrimp quesadillas and bacon-wrapped dates, this fusion restaurant delivers bold flavors in a cozy setting. Don’t miss their specialty margarita like the prickly pear cactus or strawberry basil, perfect for pairing with your meal.
Bentonville Taco & Tamale Co.
If you’re craving Mexican food, Bentonville Taco & Tamale Co. has you covered. Located on the square, this spot serves up creative tacos, tamales, and enchiladas in a laid-back atmosphere. Pair your meal with a craft beer, and don’t forget to snap a pic under the cheeky sign that changes weekly.
Best Hotels in Bentonville
Need a place to stay? Bentonville has no shortage of unique and comfortable options. Whether you prefer boutique hotels or classic chains, you’ll find the perfect accommodation.
Because Bentonville attracts many corporate travelers during the week, hotels are often booked Monday through Wednesday. However, weekend lodging and transportation rates are usually lower, making Bentonville a great weekend destination.
21c Museum Hotel Bentonville
From Chicago to the Carolinas, if there is a 21c Museum Hotel in town, you can bet I’ll recommend it. For the past decade, this regional chain of boutique hotels has converted historic buildings into comfortable accommodations paired with a chef-driven restaurant.
Located just steps from the Bentonville City Square, 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville is one of the best hotels in Bentonville, offering a blend of modern art and luxury accommodations. With its own art gallery and The Hive restaurant on-site, it’s an amazing place to stay — with a side of cultural experience.
The Victoria Bed and Breakfast
Looking for something cozy? The Victoria Bed and Breakfast offers charming Victorian-style accommodations with a personal touch. Positioned on the edge of the Compton Gardens, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a quiet retreat.
Other Hotels in Bentonville
Several nationwide chains also offer accommodations in Bentonville, including:
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bentonville,
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Bentonville, and
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Have You Visited Bentonville?
What was your favorite thing to do or see in this Northwest Arkansas town? Any additional tips and tricks to pass along? Share your experiences in the comments section below.
Looking for more information to plan your Arkansas vacation?Check out my additional recommendations to help youplan your trip to Arkansas including what to see and do in Arkansas, the best places to stay in Arkansas, where to eat in Arkansas, and more!
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- Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
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Sage Scott
After growing up all over the United States and in Europe, Sage Scott writes her travel blog with a midlife traveler’s perspective from America’s Heartland.
