Bentonville Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Bentonville, Arkansas, is not the sleepy Southern town you might expect. As the headquarters of Walmart, it has transformed into a cosmopolitan hub that seamlessly blends corporate ambition with the rugged beauty of the Ozarks. It is a place where you can ride world-class mountain bike trails in the morning, view a Rothko masterpiece in the afternoon, and dine on James Beard-nominated cuisine in the evening.

The city radiates a unique energy, fueled by a community that values both outdoor recreation and high culture. The streets are lined with public art, the trails are immaculately maintained, and the hospitality is genuinely warm. Whether you are here to shred the “Mountain Biking Capital of the World” or explore the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum, Bentonville offers a sophistication that rivals major metropolises while retaining its small-town charm.

The High South Renaissance

Bentonville is the epicenter of a cultural shift known as the “High South.” This movement celebrates the distinct heritage of the Ozark region through art, food, and design. You will see it in the restored 19th-century buildings downtown that now house modern boutiques, and you will taste it in local restaurants that elevate traditional mountain ingredients like sorghum and pawpaws into fine dining experiences. The city proves that history and modernity can coexist beautifully.

Beyond the corporate influence, there is a deep connection to nature here. The city planning aggressively integrates green spaces, with the Razorback Greenway connecting Bentonville to neighboring cities. It is a town built to be experienced outside, where the commute often involves a bicycle and a backpack rather than a traffic jam.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art - Founded by Alice Walton, this architectural marvel spans a ravine and houses five centuries of American art. General admission is sponsored by Walmart and is free to the public. It is located just 0.5 mi from the town square.

The Momentary - A satellite to Crystal Bridges, this contemporary art space is housed in a decommissioned cheese factory. It features visual arts, festivals, and the Tower Bar with panoramic views. Admission is free, and it is located 1.5 mi south of downtown.

Coler Mountain Bike Preserve - A mountain biking paradise offering everything from technical rock lines to flowy jump lines. It features “The Homestead,” a barn and coffee shop accessible only by trail. Located 2 mi west of the square.

The Walmart Museum - Located in the original Walton’s 5&10, this museum preserves the history of the retail giant. It includes a vintage soda fountain and interactive exhibits. It is located directly on the Bentonville Square.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Bentonville is easiest via the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA), which is a short 25-minute drive from downtown. While rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the wider Ozark region. However, if you are staying near the square, the city is incredibly bike-friendly, and you can easily get around on two wheels.

Pack layers, regardless of the season. The weather in the Ozarks can shift rapidly, especially in spring and fall. If you plan on hitting the trails, bring your gear, but know that there are several high-quality rental shops in town that offer everything from e-bikes to full-suspension mountain bikes. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the best way to see the art trails and downtown is on foot.

Bentonville is a destination that punches far above its weight class. It challenges stereotypes and invites you to explore a version of the American South that is progressive, artistic, and deeply connected to the outdoors. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or an art historian, this corner of Arkansas will leave you surprised and planning your return trip.