Central Avenue in Bentonville, Arkansas at night

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Welcome to Bentonville! A charming and vibrant city located in the northwest corner of Arkansas. Maybe best known as the birthplace of Walmart, this town has plenty more in store. Bentonville has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its many attractions and activities. These are just some of the reasons it’s one of the best cities of Northwest Arkansas!

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Bentonville has something to offer everyone. Here we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Bentonville, AR. We’ll also give you a taste of what life is like in this bustling and welcoming community. 

If you might buy a home in Bentonville, read on to discover all the exciting opportunities this city has to offer.

The Walmart Museum

The Walmart Museum is undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions in Bentonville, and it’s easy to see why. As the birthplace of Walmart, the museum takes visitors on a nostalgic journey to the original Walton’s 5 & 10 store. 

Located inside Sam Walton’s second store, the museum boasts a range of interactive exhibits that recreate the dime store experience. From period music to children’s discovery drawers, the museum immerses visitors in the history of Walmart and its founder.

One of the highlights of the Walmart Museum is the authentic memorabilia on display. It includes Sam Walton’s iconic 1979 Ford F150 pickup truck. Visitors can also step into Walton’s original office, which has been preserved in its original state. It’s a fascinating opportunity to get a glimpse into the life of the most influential businessman of the 20th century.

After exploring the museum, visitors can head to the Spark Café Soda Fountain to enjoy ice cream in a 1950s setting. It’s the perfect way to end a visit, and to take in Bentonville’s history and culture.

Museum of Native American History

The Museum of Native American History is home to an extraordinary collection of artifacts from both North and South America. It offers visitors the chance to travel through 14,000 years of American history. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged in chronological order, giving visitors a sense of the evolution of Native American culture over time.

Among the museum’s many highlights is a complete mammoth skeleton. There’s also a scavenger hunt for small arrowheads that’s perfect for kids. Then there’s the Sweetwater Biface, which is believed to be the thinnest flint artifact ever discovered. 

The museum has no admission fee and offers audio wands for self-guided tours. Whether a history buff, art enthusiast, or looking for an engaging and educational experience, the museum is a must-visit destination.

Compton Gardens and Arboretum

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Bentonville lies a serene oasis waiting to be discovered. Compton Gardens and Arboretum is a sprawling 6-acre haven of lush greenery. It pays homage to Ozark horticulture and the conservation efforts of Dr. Neil Compton to preserve the Buffalo River. 

The gardens offer a tranquil retreat. Visitors can stroll through beautiful woodlands, marvel at meticulously tended gardens, and admire Champion Trees at their leisure. 

Compton Gardens and Arboretum is perfect for walking. But visitors are also welcome to bring their bikes and explore the trails on two wheels. 

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Dr. Neil Compton Exhibit Room. You’ll learn more about the inspirational figure behind the gardens and his passion for conservation in Northwest Arkansas. 

Maybe you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Or you simply want to immerse yourself in nature. Either way, Compton Gardens and Arboretum is an idyllic destination that won’t disappoint.

Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail

Looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure that’s easily accessible from downtown Bentonville? Look no further than the Slaughter Pen Trail, a multi-use trail designed with mountain bikers in mind. 

With something for bikers of every ability and interest, the trail boasts a range of special features. These include log drops, skinnies, and a free ride area with jumps and a wall ride.

Spanning approximately 20 miles, the well-maintained Slaughter Pen Trail is a must-visit destination for mountain bikers. As an added bonus, it connects to the Blowing Springs mountain bike trail system via Lake Bella Vista. 

Conveniently located near ample parking, this trail is the perfect way to explore the natural beauty of Bentonville. And you’ll get your heart pumping at the same time! So grab your bike and head to the Slaughter Pen Trail for an unforgettable mountain biking experience.

Hobbs State Park

If you’re looking for a truly immersive outdoor experience, Hobbs State Park might just be for you. Just outside of Bentonville in Rogers, it is the largest state park in Arkansas, and encompasses 12,055 acres on the shores of Beaver Lake. The park offers nearly 33 miles of multi-use trails, perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders alike.

For an easy overnight trip, be sure to check out the 8.5-mile Pigeon Roost Trail, which offers five primitive campsites. If you’re just looking for a day trip, picnic areas are available for day-use guests. The state-of-the-art visitors center features interactive exhibits, classroom space, a small retail boutique, and free Wi-Fi.

But that’s not all Hobbs State Park has to offer. For those who enjoy target shooting, the park also offers a 100-yard public shooting range. And if hunting is more your style, regulated hunting is permitted on a seasonal basis. 

With so much to explore, Hobbs State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was established by Walmart heiress Alice Walton. It’s situated on a serene 120-acre site that comprises two tranquil ponds and a system of calming walking trails. 

The museum houses a permanent collection of American artwork from the colonial to the contemporary period, featuring paintings and sculptures. While general admission is free, there may be a nominal fee for viewing special exhibitions. 

The trails and grounds are accessible to visitors every day from sunrise to sunset. However, if you’re planning a trip to the museum itself, make sure to check their calendar. 

Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House

The Frank Lloyd Wright Bachman-Wilson House is an extraordinary example of mid-century residential architecture. that showcases. Constructed in 1956 on the banks of the Millstone River in New Jersey, this iconic building faced frequent flooding.

The house was eventually restored by architects Lawrence and Sharon Tarantino in the 1980s. In 2013, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art purchased the house and moved it to their Arkansas location. 

Most of the interior is open to visitors, allowing them to experience the home’s exceptional design and history firsthand.

Bentonville Brewing Company

Brewing since 2015, the Bentonville Brewing Company has made it their mission to push the boundaries of traditional and common brewing styles. And, in addition, to bring forth fresh offerings to their customers straight on tap. 

Curious beer-loving folk can stop by the taproom to sample the many craft beers the brewery has to offer. Their state-of-the-art taproom features 24 taps that pour year-round and seasonal offerings. They also feature experimental beers, all in a spacious and family-friendly environment. 

Enjoy the outdoor area which has a dog park and pump track for kids to enjoy while the adults sip on their drinks. And if all that wasn’t enough, a German-style pub is also in the works for the Bentonville Brewing Company taproom.

Takeaways

So that’s it! Our list of things to do in Bentonville, AR. As you can see, there are plenty of options, and these are just a start! Not to mention Bentonville being less than an hour’s drive to both the second largest city in the state and home of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, as well as the gorgeous mountain resort town of Eureka Springs.

If you’re looking to call a beautiful Bentonville neighborhood home, we here at 1% Lists Arkansas would love to help you find that perfect house to call your own. Our knowledgeable staff are experts in the local market, and are sure to find you a great deal on the home of your dreams. 

So don’t wait! Contact us today to get started!