Need a surprising mix of art, trails, and Ozark charm? Head to Bentonville! Once known mainly as the birthplace of Walmart, Bentonville has transformed into one of the South’s most vibrant destinations—home to world-class museums, incredible biking trails, and a revitalized downtown full of local flavor. Whether you’re gallery-hopping or trail-riding, Bentonville delivers big-city creativity in a small-town setting.
Bentonville, AR Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Ride the Slaughter Pen Mountain Bike Trails – Explore some of the best urban singletrack in the country, with trails for all skill levels and easy access from downtown.
- For History Buffs: Tour the Walmart Museum – Learn how Sam Walton built a retail empire, right where it started on the Bentonville square.
- For Shoppers: Browse Bentonville Mercantile & neighborhood boutiques – Find home goods, gifts, and local-made treasures just steps from the town square.
- For Couples: Stroll Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – Wander galleries and outdoor sculpture trails at one of the most striking and significant museums in the U.S.
- For Families: Visit the Scott Family Amazeum – A hands-on children’s museum with STEAM-focused exhibits and tons of interactive fun.
Best Time to Visit Bentonville, AR
The best time to visit Bentonville is from April through June and September through October. These seasons offer mild weather, perfect for hiking and biking, as well as art events and farmers markets. Summers are warm and active; winters are quieter and great for indoor museum-hopping.
How to Get to Bentonville, AR
- By Car: Bentonville is accessible via I-49, about 30 minutes from Fayetteville and 3.5 hours from Kansas City.
- By Plane: Fly into Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), just 20 minutes from downtown Bentonville, with direct flights to major U.S. cities.
Where to Stay in Bentonville, AR
- 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville – Boutique hotel-meets-contemporary art gallery right on the square with modern rooms and curated exhibits.
- The Momentary Tower – A sleek new option next to the contemporary art space The Momentary, ideal for design and art lovers.
- Airbnb & Guest Houses – Choose from craftsman bungalows, trail-side cottages, or upscale lofts with Bentonville charm.
Best Things to Do in Bentonville, AR
⮕ Explore Masterpieces and Scenic Trails at Crystal Bridges Museum
© Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Founded by Walmart heiress Alice Walton, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is set on a beautiful 120-acre property that features two creek-fed ponds and a network of peaceful walking trails. The museum's permanent collection boasts a variety of American art created from the colonial era to the contemporary period, including paintings and sculptures. General admission is free of charge, but a small fee is sometimes charged to view special exhibitions. The trails and grounds are open to visitors every day of the year between sunset and sunrise, but the museum itself is closed on Tuesdays and select holidays.
600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-418-5700, Video
⮕ Step Into Architectural History at the Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House
© Courtesy of peshkov - Fotolia.com
Built in 1956, the Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House is an iconic piece of mid-century residential architecture designed in Wright's unique Usonian style. The home was originally constructed in New Jersey on the bank of the Millstone River, but unfortunately, its location meant that it was threatened by periodic flooding. The building was carefully restored by architects Lawrence and Sharon Tarantino in the late 1980s, and in 2013 it was purchased by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and relocated to Arkansas. It now sits on the museum grounds beside the beautiful Crystal Spring, and most of the interior is open to the public.
600 Museum Way, at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-657-2335
⮕ Hike, Bike, and Explore Natural Beauty at Hobbs State Park
© Courtesy of bonniemarie - Fotolia.com
Encompassing 12,055 acres on the shores of Beaver Lake, Hobbs State Park is the largest state park in Arkansas. There are almost 33 miles of multi-use trails available to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, including the 8.5-mile Pigeon Roost Trail, which has five primitive campsites that make it perfect for an easy overnight trip. Picnic areas are available for day-use guests, and the state-of-the-art visitors center features interactive exhibits, classroom space, a small retail boutique, and free Wi-Fi. The park also offers a 100-yard public shooting range, and regulated hunting is permitted on a seasonal basis.
20201 E Highway 12, Rogers, AR 72756-7530, Phone: 479-789-5000
⮕ Walk Through Thousands of Years of Native American History
© Museum of Native American History
Home to an incredible collection of artifacts found in both North and South America, theMuseum of Native American History takes visitors on a fascinating journey through 14,000 years of America's past. The exhibits are arranged in chronological order, beginning with the Paleo period and ending with the European influence of the late 19th century. Highlights include a complete mammoth skeleton, a small arrowhead scavenger hunt for children, and the Sweetwater Biface, which is believed to be the thinnest flint artifact ever discovered. There is no admission fee, and audio wands are available for self-guided tours.
202 SW O St, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-273-2456
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Spark Creativity and Curiosity at the Scott Family Amazeum
© Scott Family Amazeum
Designed to engage families in hands-on discovery, the Scott Family Amazeum
consists of roughly 50,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space and 1 acre of outdoor property with an interactive "playscape." Exhibits cater to all ages and interests; highlights include a tinkering hub, an art studio, and a science lab where children can do experiments with Hershey's candy. Special events and programs are offered on a regular basis, and the museum is open every day except for Tuesdays and select holidays. Children under two receive free admission, and admission on Wednesday evenings is done on a pay-as-you-like basis thanks to a grant from Tyson Foods.
1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-696-9280
⮕ Ride Epic Mountain Biking Trails at Slaughter Pen Hollow
© Courtesy of fottoo - Fotolia.com
Easily accessible from downtown Bentonville, the Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail is a multi-use trail designed with mountain bikers in mind. There's something here for bikers of every ability and interest; special features include log drops, skinnies, and a free ride area with jumps and a wall ride. The well-maintained trails span approximately 20 miles, and they connect to the Blowing Springs mountain bike trail system via Lake Bella Vista. There is plenty of parking nearby.
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ If You Love Historic Homes, Tour the Peel Mansion and Heritage Gardens
© The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens
Built in 1875 for Colonel Samuel West Peel, The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens is a gorgeous Italianate villa furnished with authentic antiques. Tours of the home are available for free Tuesday – Saturday, from 10am to 3pm. The beautiful gardens are open to the public free of charge as well. The museum hosts a number of galas and other special events throughout the year, and a special event space can be rented out for weddings and other private events.
400 S Walton Blvd, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-254-3870
⮕ Discover the Story Behind a Global Retail Giant at The Walmart Museum
© The Walmart Museum
Bentonville is known worldwide as the birthplace of the Walmart chain, and The Walmart Museum allows visitors to relive the dime store experience of Walton's original 5&10. The museum is located inside Sam Walton's second store, and highlights include interactive exhibits with period music and children's discovery drawers, authentic memorabilia such as Sam Walton's iconic 1979 Ford F150 pickup truck, and his original office, which remains as it was on the day he died. After visiting the museum, visitors can sit down in the Spark Café Soda Fountain to enjoy an ice cream treat in a retro 1950s setting.
105 N Main St, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-273-1329
⮕ Stay Among Stunning Contemporary Art at 21c Museum Hotel
© 21c Museum Hotel
Opened in 2013, the 21c Museum Hotel is a unique contemporary art museum that also houses a boutique 104-room hotel and an upscale restaurant. More than 12,000 square feet of exhibition space is spread out across the property; exhibitions change regularly, but highlights include a Cadillac limousine covered in coins and a giant sculpture of a tree that sprouts basketball hoops instead of leaves. No admission fee is charged, and the museum is open to visitors every day of the year. Cultural events are held regularly throughout the year, and guided tours are offered every Wednesday and Friday evening.
200 NE A St, Bentonville, AR 72712, Phone: 479-286-6500
Where to Eat in Bentonville, AR
- The Preacher’s Son – Upscale dining inside a converted church with stained glass and locally sourced seasonal menus.
- Table Mesa Bistro – Latin-inspired cuisine on the square with popular brunch and craft cocktails.
- Oven & Tap – Rustic-chic spot known for wood-fired pizza, hearty small plates, and a lively patio.
If you are interested in local events:
- Bentonville Film Festival (May–June) – Founded by Geena Davis, this festival celebrates inclusive storytelling with screenings, panels, and events.
- First Fridays (April–October) – Monthly downtown block parties with food vendors, music, games, and community fun.
- Lighting of the Square (Late November) – A holiday favorite with lights, carriage rides, cocoa, and festive spirit throughout downtown.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Bentonville, Arkansas:
- Rogers (15–20 min) – Visit historic downtown, Lake Atalanta, or explore dining and shopping at Pinnacle Hills Promenade.
- Fayetteville (30–40 min) – Check out the University of Arkansas campus, Dickson Street nightlife, and Botanical Garden of the Ozarks.
- Hobbs State Park (30–40 min) – Hike scenic forested trails or paddle on Beaver Lake in this expansive natural area.
- Eureka Springs (1 hr) – Explore quirky Victorian architecture, spas, art galleries, and the stunning Thorncrown Chapel.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Question: What is Bentonville best known for?
Answer: Bentonville is best known as the birthplace of the Walmart chain.
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Question: What attractions can visitors enjoy in Bentonville?
Answer: Despite its small size, Bentonville offers beautiful parks and trails, world-class art and history museums, and various cultural and culinary attractions.
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Question: What are two must-visit museums in Bentonville?
Answer: Visitors should not miss the iconic Walmart Museum and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
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Question: What types of visitors does Bentonville cater to?
Answer: Bentonville caters to visitors whether they are there for business or pleasure.
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