Explore Bentonville, Arkansas: The Home of Walmart, Museums, and Natural Beauty (2024)

Bentonville is a city located in northwestern Arkansas. It is best known as the headquarters of Walmart, one of the largest retailers in the world. Bentonville has experienced rapid growth in recent years thanks to the success of Walmart and its associated businesses. The city has a population of around 50,000 residents, making it one of the larger cities in the state.

The city of Bentonville has a strong sense of community. It is constantly working to preserve history and natural resources for future generations. Bentonville is home to several museums, including the Walmart Museum and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, two of its largest draws. This Arkansas city is also a hub for outdoor recreation, with numerous parks, lakes, and hiking trails in the area. These attractions and its growing business community make Bentonville a unique and dynamic city. Travelers who want to explore the northwest part of Arkansas can find a lot of interesting things to do here.

Explore Bentonville, Arkansas: The Home of Walmart, Museums, and Natural Beauty

Have a look to learn more.

1. Begin with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville

Visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville is a unique and unforgettable experience. The museum is situated in a beautiful 120-acre park and features works from some of America’s greatest artists. Art lovers can find the work of Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and many more here. Visitors can explore a diverse range of American art from colonial times to the present.

Along with a permanent collection, the museum is supplemented by temporary exhibitions as well. In addition to the art on display, the museum’s architecture is a sight to behold in itself. The stunning glass bridges connect various galleries and their peaceful reflecting ponds. Simultaneously, the museum also offers a range of educational programs and events. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American art and culture.

2. Check Out the Walmart Museum

Visiting the Walmart Museum in Bentonville means taking a step back in time to where it all began. This exciting museum sits at the original Walton’s Five and Dime store. A visit here allows a journey through the history of Walmart and its founder, Sam Walton. The museum showcases how Walmart started as a small discount store and became the world’s largest retailer. The exhibits here include Sam Walton’s original office and original merchandise from the early days. In addition, interactive displays that illustrate the company’s growth and innovation too are in focus.

Overall, a visit to the Walmart Museum is a fascinating experience for anyone interested in retail history, entrepreneurship, or corporate culture. The museum is a testament to Walmart’s success and its contributions to the world. Once done with the museum, enjoy ice cream at the retro 1950s setting of Spark Café Soda Fountain.

3. Explore The Outdoor Landscape Of Hobbs State Park

Hobbs State Park is nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains just half hour outside of Bentonville. The park covers over 12,000 acres of land and is one of the largest state parks in Arkansas. It offers a diverse range of activities and attractions and thus hosts several local and national guests annually. Hobbs State Park visitors to explore hiking trails, easy to strenuous, each with breathtaking views of the Ozarks. These trails meander through rolling hills, rocky outcroppings, and pristine forests. Wildlife, such as deer, turkey, and a variety of birds, can often be seen along the trails.

The park also offers fishing opportunities in its three large lakes, Beaver Lake, War Eagle Creek, and Lake Atalanta. Hobbs State Park’s visitor center allows individuals to learn about the history of the park, its wildlife, vegetation, and its various recreational opportunities. The center features interactive exhibits, educational displays, and an auditorium. A visit to Hobbs State Park from Bentonville is an opportunity to escape the city in nature’s beauty and serenity.

4. Check Out The Museum of Native American History

The Museum of Native American History is a popular tourist attraction in Bentonville. Visiting here allows individuals to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous people of the Americas. The museum is home to over 14,000 artifacts, including pottery, beadwork, jewelry, clothing, and tools. One of the museum’s highlights is the Trail of Tears exhibit. The thought behind this exhibit is the forced relocation of the Cherokee Nation from their ancestral homeland. The artifacts and information on how they impacted the Cherokee people strike emotionally.

The Museum of Native American History is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Native American history and culture. Every exhibit here is interactive, informative, and educational, which aids in providing a deeper understanding of the concept. The museum operates Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm, and is free to visit.

5. Check Out the Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House

Another popular indoor attraction to explore in Bentonville, the Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House, is something you shouldn’t miss checking out. This residential structure was built in the 1950s and was originally located in New Jersey. It was recently, in 2013, when it went under a meticulous restoration and moved to Bentonville. The structure is an inspiring example of Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture. The idea behind the same was emphasizing the integration of the building with its natural surroundings. There are large glass windows and an open floor plan, and everything here is made using natural materials such as wood and stone.

When in Bentonville, individuals can tour the house and witness its unique design features. In addition to the building, a tour here also provides insight into the life and work of Frank Lloyd Wright. Anyone interested in learning about unique architectural makes must visit Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House.

6. Hike Through the Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail

Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail is a part of the larger Slaughter Pen Mountain Bike Park. This popular recreational area in Bentonville offers a diverse range of experiences for hikers and mountain bikers. The trail winds through the lush forests of the Ozarks and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail offers a mix of fast, flowing sections and technical rock gardens. Hikers and Mountain Bikers of all skill levels can find something to enjoy on this trail.

Mountain Bikers can enjoy special features of the trail, including a wall ride, log drops, skinnies, and a free ride area. Winding over approximately 20 miles, it also connects to the Blowing Springs mountain bike trail system. Hikers and bikers can use plenty of parking space nearby.

7. Spend Some Time at the Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens

The Peel Mansion Museum & Heritage Gardens is a historic house museum in Bentonville. Built back in 1875 and the museum exhibits one of the best examples of Victorian architecture in Arkansas. The mansion and its gardens flaunt original grandeur and are open to the public for tours and events. A visit here allows individuals to learn about the history of the Peel family.

One can also witness the life of a wealthy Southern family during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum indoors exhibits, including original furniture, clothing, and artwork from the Peel family.

In addition, the Heritage Gardens surrounding the mansion are equally impressive. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers. Spending time in these gardens provides a peaceful retreat from the city. The gardens here are also popular for picnicking, bird watching, and simply taking in the beauty of nature.

8. When With Kids, Visit Scott Family Amazeum

Working through the ‘Grammer’ rules, this Amazeum means an ‘Amazing’ ‘Museum.’ The Scott Family Amazeum is a popular place to visit with kids in Bentonville. This landmark is basically a part learning center, part museum, and part playground. It is spread over roughly 50,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space. The property also features 1 acre of outdoor property.

Visitors can enjoy hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences. Kids get to learn about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).

The popular exhibits at Scott Family Amazeum include a digital media lab, a treehouse, a tinkering studio, and a water table. The attraction also hosts special events and programs on a regular basis. The museum operates throughout the week except on Tuesdays. The operational hours are from 10 am to 5 pm and until 7:30 on Wednesday. On Sunday, the museum opens from 1 pm to 5 pm.

9. Enjoy at Bentonville Town Square

Bentonville Town Square is basically downtown Bentonville. This popular outdoor gathering space in the town is where you can find shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. Whether you are looking to shop or craving a snack or fine dining, it is an ideal place for you. Bentonville Town Square is where the famous weekly Bentonville Farmers Market settles. It is where local farmers and artisans sell their products and draws in a large crowd.

Bentonville Town Square is a great place to enjoy local events and festivities. Throughout the year, events like Bentonville Film Festival, the Bentonville Jazz Festival, and the First Thursday Bentonville Art Walk keep adding life to this place. In addition, the public art installations and monuments throughout the square allow people to enjoy the local art, history, and heritage.

Popular Café and Restaurants in Bentonville, Arkansas

• Onyx Coffee Lab: This specialty coffee shop in Bentonville offers a variety of artisanal coffee drinks. Every drink here is prepared using high-quality beans sourced worldwide. The cafe also serves pastries, breakfast items, and light bites. Its modern and minimalist aesthetic makes it a nice place to gather with friends and family.
• Bike Rack Brewing Co.: It is the oldest brewery in Bentonville. This craft brewery offers a rotating selection of house-brewed beers, including IPAs, stouts, pilsners, and seasonal offerings. It features a taproom with indoor and outdoor seating. The brewery also regularly hosts trivia nights, live music, and food truck pop-ups.
• Bizzy B’s Bakery: This popular bakery in Bentonville offers a wide range of baked goods. Visitors can try cakes, cookies, pastries, and bread, and nothing of it will disappoint. Besides their delicious snacking options, the rustic and charming interior and friendly staff are a treat.
• Flying Fish Seafood: The Flying Fish Seafood is a seafood restaurant serving everything with a Cajun twist. Their menu includes everything from grilled fish, oysters, and fried catfish to po’boy sandwiches. In addition, the restaurant also features a full bar with a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines.
• The Preacher’s Son: This Bentonville restaurant works on a farm-to-table concept and is quite a hit amongst locals. Their dishes are popular for classic recipes but with a modern twist. In addition to food, the Undercroft Bar downstairs too has quite an appeal.