What makes for a memorable vacation or weekend getaway? For many, it’s outdoor activities and culture. Others value a variety of culinary flavors and access to unique experiences. In Bentonville, we are fortunate to have not one, but all of these fantastic offerings. It’s why Northwest Arkansas is consistently considered one of the nation’s best places to visit.
From internationally known arts and cultural organizations to an extensive trail network for cyclist of all skill levels, this Ozark getaway offers plenty to see, do, taste, and enjoy. To help you plan your trip, we’re spotlighting just five must-try experiences for you and your family both on and off the trails in Bentonville.
Mountain Biking
With a network of more than 140 miles of trails; 40 plus hard surface and over 100 miles of single track in or connected to Bentonville offers something for riders of all skill levels. With one of the only cities in the country with a trailhead right off the downtown square, you can ride various trails all day long before returning for unique culinary experiences, a cold local brew, or amazing live entertainment. As a bike-friendly town, the terrain, year-round riding, and quality and diversity of trails combine to make the city a must-visit destination for cyclist and adventure enthusiasts alike. There’s no doubt that Bentonville and northwestern Arkansas have become a new mecca for mountain bikers and a must-visit destination. visitbentonville.com/bike
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Crystal Bridges is one of the country’s premier art museums, hosting a permanent collection of American works from masters works and unique pieces to lesser-known artists dating from colonial times to the present. Crystal Bridges takes its name from a nearby natural spring and the bridge construction incorporated in the building, designed by world-renowned architect Moshie Safdie. A series of pavilions nestled around two spring-fed ponds house galleries, meeting and classroom spaces, and a large, glass-enclosed gathering hall. Guest amenities include a restaurant on a glass-enclosed bridge overlooking the ponds, a museum store designed by Marlon Blackwell, and a library featuring more than 50,000 volumes of art reference materials. Sculpture and walking trails link the museum's 120-acre park to downtown Bentonville.
This fall, Crystal Bridges will host three new experiences: a new acquisition, Infinity Mirrored Room—My Heart is Dancing into the Universe by Yayoi Kusama; Crystals in Art: Ancient to Today, a new exhibition exploring the connections between crystals and art throughout the world; and North Forest Lights, an immersive nighttime light experience created exclusively for Crystal Bridges.
With temporary exhibitions running year-round, there’s always something new to see, inside and out. 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, crystalbridges.org.
The Walmart Museum
First opened in 1990, The Walmart Museum sits inside the original Walton’s 5&10. Located directly off the downtown square, the museum is a favorite for every visitor young and old alike. With the original storefront that still operates today, you can shop for retro toys, souvenirs, and snacks. Next, begin your free tour that includes a collection of memorabilia, photos, and information on the history of Walmart and the Walton family. The tour concludes in The Spark Café Soda Fountain, where you can grab a scoop of ice cream – the way it was meant to be.
105 N. Main St., Bentonville, https://www.walmartmuseum.com/
Scott Family Amazeum
The Scott Family Amazeum is a hands-on, interactive museum for children and families located in Bentonville, Ark. A museum with a foundation in the arts and sciences, the Amazeum encourages creativity, curiosity, and community through exhibits, educational collaboration, and programs, workshops, and camps. Amazeum experiences include a climbable tree canopy, indoor cave, tinkering hub, nearly one acre of outdoor space, and ever-evolving daily pop-up activities. A must-visit for children and adults alike.
1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, amazeum.org
Thaden Field
Named the 2019 Municipal Airport of the Year, Thaden Field takes its name from the famed Arkansas-born pilot Louise Thaden. The airport provides visitors and residents exciting experiences, including a flight school, an exhibition hanger, scenic flights, canoe rental for Lake Bentonville and so much more. Enjoy a cocktail on the patio of Café’ Louise while watching vintage planes land and take off from the runway. Thaden Field operates as the only municipal, private jet airport in Northwest Arkansas that will land you minutes away from beautiful downtown Bentonville.
2205 SW I Street, Bentonville, Thadenfield.com
From the enjoyable year-round weather, exciting attractions, chef-driven restaurants, and numerous outdoor adventures, there are many reasons to book your trip to Bentonville right now. Start planning your trip today.
