Things To Do
in Bentonville
Bentonville sits in the northwest corner of Arkansas in the Ozarks, anchored by the Walmart corporate campus and a growing arts scene. The town blends small-town charm with a sophisticated cultural belt centered on Crystal Bridges and The Momentary. Outdoor lovers will find excellent trails, greenways, and scenic overlook points just minutes from downtown.
With a thriving dining scene and family-friendly attractions, Bentonville is a surprisingly dynamic gateway to Northwest Arkansas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bentonville Square, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the square to appreciate the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Bentonville History Museum to learn about the city's rich past.
In the afternoon, head to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where you can explore stunning art exhibitions and beautiful trails. Have lunch at the museum's café, which offers locally sourced ingredients and a peaceful view of the surrounding nature. After your meal, take some time to enjoy the outdoor trails and sculptures on the museum grounds.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Bentonville's top-rated restaurants, known for its farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the town square to enjoy the twinkling lights and vibrant nightlife. Consider stopping by a local brewery for a craft beer to wrap up your evening.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Crystal Bridges Museum, where you can delve deeper into the art collections and learn from knowledgeable guides. Take your time to appreciate the architectural beauty of the museum and its integration with nature. Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop for unique souvenirs.
After an enriching morning, enjoy a picnic lunch at the museum’s trails, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Spend your afternoon exploring the walking trails that wind through the museum's grounds, taking in the beautiful sculptures and peaceful landscapes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you wander the paths.
As evening falls, visit a local art gallery in the downtown area for an art walk, where you can meet local artists and view their work. Enjoy dinner at a trendy local eatery, sampling dishes that highlight the region’s culinary scene. Finish your night with a live music performance at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $100-180 |
| 🛒Milk (1 gallon) | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $3-6 |
| 💡Monthly electricity bill (1 month) | $100-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Walkable downtown with a compact concentration of attractions
- Strong arts and dining scene supported by local culture and tourism
- High-quality outdoor access to the Ozarks and extensive bike trails
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Nightlife may feel more casual than that of larger cities
- Traffic can increase around events and during peak Walmart-related activity
Places to Visit in Bentonville
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic architecture set in a wooded landscape with reflective ponds and sculptural works—great for both exterior and interior photography.
A contemporary art campus with industrial design and striking outdoor installations, offering bold framing and sunset opportunities.
Lush garden paths and seasonal blooms provide colorful backdrops for wide-angle and detail shots.
Vibrant street art along 8th Street and the Historic Downtown area offers dynamic urban photography options.
Food in Bentonville
Bentonville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked pork with tangy Arkansas barbecue sauce on soft bread, a quintessential regional staple found at many local BBQ joints.
Must-Try!
Crispy, breaded steak cutlet served with creamy gravy and classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.
Fluffy buttermilk biscuits slathered with creamy sausage gravy, a comforting breakfast or brunch option.
Smoked trout prepared with simple seasonings, often served with crusty bread or as part of a farm-to-table plate.
Golden-fried catfish fillets served with hush puppies and slaw, reflecting regional river-food traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; a great place to taste regional ingredients.
During events and weekends, downtown hosts food trucks and casual stalls offering quick bites and local favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile; polite, direct communication is common; resist loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces.
Be courteous in lines and restaurants; allow space in crowded areas and queue properly.
Tipping for service is expected; quick acknowledgment and courtesy in all service encounters are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Bentonville
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tipping is customary at 15-20% of the bill before tax; staff generally rely on tips, and larger parties may see service charges.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common; always carry a backup cash option for small vendors or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; great for outdoor trails and garden photography.
Warm to hot and humid; plan early morning or late evening outings; afternoon showers are common.
Pleasant temperatures and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for scenic hikes and outdoor dining.
Cool to cold with a chance of light snow; many indoor cultural venues are perfect for escapes from the cold.
Bentonville at Night
Hiking in Bentonville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible loops near downtown with varied terrain for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Extensive trail system offering scenic Ozark views and well-maintained single-track routes.
Rugged and scenic options around the lake with opportunities for short hikes and lakefront vistas.
Airports
How to reach Bentonville by plane.
Serving the region with domestic flights; about a 20–25 minute drive to downtown Bentonville depending on traffic.
Smaller airport offering regional service; roughly a 30–45 minute drive to Bentonville.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, Walmart corporate staff, and entrepreneurs; a growing workforce supported by the region’s business and cultural infrastructure.
A developing diversity profile with a visible Hispanic/Latino community and other groups contributing to a broader regional culture.
Active younger professionals, students from nearby colleges, and retirees drawn to the region’s quality of life and outdoor activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong community and school programs; local leagues and recreational facilities are common.
High school and college-inspired enthusiasm in nearby communities; tailgating culture is part of fall weekends.
Active youth and adult leagues with local parks and facilities available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bentonville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bentonville restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for creative vegetable-forward dishes and sides, or request farm-to-table mains with seasonal produce.
Vegan options exist at several spots; ask about dairy-free substitutes and plant-based proteins, and consider visiting markets for fresh produce and prepared vegan items.
Gluten-free options are common in many eateries; inform staff about cross-contact concerns and request GF menus or sauces prepared separately.