The racers may be here for podiums and stages, but the rest of the family is about to discover why so many people fall in love with Bentonville. Whether you’re bringing bikes, planning to explore downtown, or just looking for good food and places to relax while the racers hit the trails, Bentonville makes it easy to build a fun weekend around the race.
🚵 The Race
The OZ Stage Race brings riders from around the country to Northwest Arkansas for several days of mountain bike racing across the OZ Trails network. Racers will spend long days on trails in Bentonville and Bella Vista, while many families stay nearby and enjoy everything else the area has to offer.
If You’re Bringing Bikes
Good news: not everyone here rides at an elite level.
Bentonville has:
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Beginner mountain bike trails
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Paved greenway riding
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Family-friendly trail systems
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Coffee stops directly on the trail networks
Families often spend mornings riding easy trails while racers warm up or recover between stages.
Great Areas for Casual Riding
Razorback Greenway Experience Guide
The Razorback Greenway stretches over 40 miles through Northwest Arkansas, linking communities from Bella Vista in the north to Fayetteville in the south, with seven cities along the way, including…
No Bike? No Problem.
A lot of race families don’t ride at all. Everything is close together, which makes it easy to fill a day without driving all over Northwest Arkansas. Bentonville is also great for:
Where Families Usually Hang Out
Downtown Bentonville
It’s easy to spend an afternoon here while racers are out on course.
The downtown square is full of local shops, coffee spots, ice cream shops, casual restaurants, outdoor seating, and public art.
Crystal Bridges Museum
One of the most popular spots in the region, even people who “aren’t museum people” usually end up enjoying it.
Families love the walking trails, outdoor sculptures, art exhibits, forest paths, and museum café.
Scott Family Amazeum
Families love the hands-on exhibits, interactive play spaces, creative activities, climbing structures, and indoor adventures
Family-Friendly Food Stops
Pedaler’s Pub
A favorite during cycling weekends, this spot is known for its pizza, burgers, patio seating, and casual atmosphere. It’s an easy choice for groups and a great place for post-race dinners.
Onyc Coffee Lab
Onyx Coffee Lab is a must-visit coffee stop in downtown Bentonville. It’s a great place for breakfast, remote work, or meeting up between race stages, with standout coffee and pastries.
Crepes Paulette
Quick, casual, and family-friendly. Sweet and savory crepes make this an easy lunch stop before heading back out to explore.
Table Mesa
Relaxed downtown dining with options for groups, families, and different dietary preferences. Great for dinner after a long day outside.
Quick Tips for Race Weekend
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Book dinner reservations early
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Bring lightweight rain layers for unexpected weather.
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Expect downtown and trails to feel busy. Keep an eye out for cyclists or race volunteers directing traffic!
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Download trail maps ahead of time
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Don’t try to over-schedule every hour
The Best Part About Race Weekend
Stay for a while and enjoy our city. It’s easy to get lost exploring trails and spending the entire day outside together. The race may bring people here. But Bentonville is usually what makes them want to come back.
