Make a flawless plan with your loved ones and reveal the hidden treasures of Bentonville, Arkansas, a city that seamlessly combines rich history, artistic innovation, and more.
Have a look at the top things to do in Bentonville and create sweet pages of lifetime memories.
1. Explore The Compton Gardens And Arboretum
Experience the beauty and history of Compton Gardens, one of the Bentonville Arkansas attractions. This special place used to be home to Dr. Neil Compton, a person who cared about protecting nature. Now, it's a peaceful oasis with lots of trees and plants.
Learn about Dr. and why he loved nature so much. Regardless of your age, there are numerous fun programs to learn more about plants and gardening.
2. Visit The Walmart Museum
Part of things to do in Bentonville is explore the Walmart Museum, a captivating destination showcasing the incredible story of Walmart and its founder, Sam Walton. Dive into the mesmerizing history of Walmart, starting from its small beginning to becoming a global retailer.
Additionally, don't miss the chance to explore exhibits featuring Walton's genuine office, his iconic pickup truck replica, and more. While the main showroom undergoes renovations, people can enjoy the interactive Walmart Heritage Lab and others.
3. Visit The Crystal Bridges Museum Of American Art Permanent Collection
Among the things to do in Bentonville AR, this museum and exhibit is a top-notch gallery with art from all across America, from long a time ago and now.
And guess what? It is free to see regular stuff, which makes it an affordable place to visit. They also have unique exhibits that change often, so there is always something new to discover. Plus, the building is like a work of art, with cool bridges and unique architecture that you'll love.
4. Go Mountain Biking On Slaughter Pen Trail
When in Bentonville, AR, try an electrifying mountain biking experience with over 40 miles of thrilling single-track trails. With diverse trail options featuring clean flow, technical rock, and massive berms, there is something for all.
This trail boasts features like log rides, drops, jumps, and a free ride area with tabletop jumps and wall rides. With moderately challenging routes like the exhilarating 5.9-mile Slaughter Pen Hollow Trail, you'll be in for an unforgettable biking adventure.
5. Take In A Performance At Trike Theatre
Enjoy the wonder of Trike Theatre among the things to do Bentonville Arkansas. It is a special place where they put on amazing shows just for kids and families. People don't have to be quiet like other theatres, where they can join in and have fun.
Theatre takes classic stories and makes them super exciting and sometimes guests even get to be part of the show. Plus, they have cool camps and classes where people can grow their confidence if they want.
6. Explore The Beauty Of Orchards Park
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Orchards Park, where walkers can relax and freshen up their mood. Stroll along the well-kept paths or go for a jog surrounded by lovely scenery and do whatever makes you feel better.
Listen to the soothing sounds of the water feature and catch live music or cultural events at the amphitheater. Plus. have fun exploring the rocky climbing areas, and catch the seasonal events.
7. Tour Museum Of Native American History
Touring this museum helps to step back 14,000 years and explore exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts like beautiful headdresses and even a Wooly Mammoth. Guests can experience the evolution of Indigenous people's art and tools, guided by the museum's mission to encourage understanding.
This gallery houses over 10,000 artifacts that tell powerful stories of NA heritage. While exploring, visitors will also honor the ancestral lands of the Quapaw, Caddo, and Osage people.
8. Admire The Public Art By Black Artists
Among the Bentonville AR tourist attractions, enter the public art scene that celebrates the rich legacy of African American artists. Whether you're visiting during Black History Month or any time of the year, you'll find a wide array of African American art on display in museums and around town.
These artworks range from striking murals to captivating sculptures, telling stories of empowerment and creativity. Also, gain a deeper appreciation for their contributions to art.
9. Visit Memorial Park
Memorial Park is a spacious community hub with something for everyone. You'll find the impressive Melvin Ford Aquatic Center for swimming fun and a heartfelt Benton County Memorial honoring fallen soldiers.
Explore history with the Benton County historical settlement marker and enjoy various recreational facilities like baseball fields and playgrounds. Amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and walking trails make it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Visit 21C Museum Hotel Bentonville
After stepping into the 21C Museum Hotel, you will experience art everywhere. With over 12,000 square feet of space dedicated to exhibitions, discover remarkable artworks throughout the hotel. They change things up regularly, so there's always something new.
Some installations are precisely made just for this place, giving a unique experience. Best of all, it's free for everyone to enjoy. Even the guest rooms are filled with calm art and modern designs.
11. Go To The Momentary
Another stuff to do in Bentonville Arkansas is visit The Momentary, an exciting contemporary art space born from a former cheese factory. Dive into immersive art installations, catch live music performances, indulge in innovative culinary events, and support local and international artists.
Admire the sustainable approach to adaptive reuse. So, be captivated by those wonderful arts and explore more of Bentonville, the gallery is sure to ignite your curiosity.
12. Unveil The Splendor Of Listening Forest
The Listening Forest is an immersive, site-specific exhibition. Created by artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, this unique experience uses light, sound, and projection to create an interactive walk through the woods. The exhibition comprises eight interactive installations that respond to the participant's heart rate, body, voice, and movements, allowing visitors to influence the forest's response.
This innovative project combines art and technology in a natural setting to create poetic, shared experiences. This is the best opportunity to engage with art interactively.
13. Explore Peel Museum & Botanical Garden
For other Bentonville Arkansas attractions check out the Peel Museum & Botanical Garden, a historic family home turned museum filled with old-timey stuff from the 1800s. But the real highlight is the beautiful gardens surrounding the house they're like something out of a storybook, with flowers and plants from the Victorian era.
There are seven different gardens to explore, each with its impressive vibe. And don't forget to stop by the museum store for some unique local gifts to take home.
14. Go To Scott Family Amazeum
You have to visit and admire the Scott Family Amazeum, where imagination knows no bounds. This incredible children's interactive museum is all about sparking curiosity and excitement for learning.
With relaxed exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Climb through a tree canopy, explore an indoor cave, and dive into Hershey's Lab for some sweet science fun. It's all about hands-on learning and having a blast.
15. Visit Bentonville Brewing Company
Since 2015, they've been brewing unique and authentic beers that go beyond the ordinary. They're all about building a community around craft beer. With top-notch ingredients and innovative techniques, they offer a fresh and exciting selection of beers.
It's the perfect place to kick back, try different brews, and hang out with friends or fellow beer lovers. Plus, they host cool events and specials regularly, so there's always something fun happening.
16. Amazed By The Buckyball
Don't miss the Buckyball this mesmerizing sculpture by artist Leo Villareal resembles a soccer ball and lights up with thousands of twinkling LED lights every evening, creating a stunning visual display. Paying homage to architect Buckminster Fuller, the Buckyball stands out as a unique and visually captivating addition to Bentonville's landscape.
Its connection to science and dreamlike atmosphere also make it a must-visit spot for photography. So, be sure to check out the Buckyball for a mesmerizing experience.
17. Hike The Tanyard Creek Nature Trail
The trail is very scenic and offers stunning views of waterfalls, creeks, and lush greenery, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Bring your furry friends along as the trail is pet-friendly and open year-round, allowing you to enjoy the changing seasons.
Located off the beaten path in Bella Vista, it provides a peaceful and secluded hiking experience. This path promises a serene and scenic adventure amidst Bentonville's natural beauty.
18. Go For A Food Tour At 8th Street Market
Lastly, don't miss the chance to go on a food tour at the 8th Street Market. This culinary hub brings together local chefs, farmers, and artisans, offering a delicious array of food and drink options.
From local cuisine to specialty foods like artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread, you'll get to taste the best. With diverse options including tacos, pizza, sushi, and craft beer, there's something for every palate.
