With so much happening in Bentonville in 2026, we built this blog as your go‑to guide for planning a trip that feels easy and fun. Think walkable (and rideable) days, great places to eat, and comfortable spots to stay—all connected by trails and close to the experiences you’re here for. Whether you’re visiting for art, outdoor time, or a little of everything, this guide helps you make the most of it.
June 6 and 7, 2026, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art unveils its largest expansion yet—more galleries, more immersive experiences, and more ways to connect with American art. Explore new exhibition spaces, family‑friendly programming, and architectural moments that bring you closer to the Ozark forest. This is the next chapter of America’s Art Museum, don't miss it.
What's On at Crystal Bridges
Crystal Bridges presents exhibitions you won't see anywhere else. Commemorate 250 years of American art through the stories, symbols, and interwoven experiences that shape our shared identity. America 250: Common Threads, a temporary exhibition, is open from March 14 to July 27; tickets are required. Explore five centuries of American art from the Crystal Bridges collection in these reimagined and newly updated main galleries. Whether you’re an art lover or a first-time visitor, the Visions of America Gallery is designed to be approachable, thought-provoking, and full of surprises. Free, no tickets required. Open daily as part of the permanent collection.
In 2026, the United States will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America 250: Common Threads will both commemorate the…
Free Museums
In addition to Crystal Bridges and the Momentary, once in Bentonville there’s more to see.
Sprinkled throughout our walkable downtown, you’ll find The Walmart Museum, Bentonville History Museum, and 21c Museum Hotel, a contemporary art museum on the groundfloor of a boutique hotel. A short drive away off Walton Blvd, find the Museum of Native American History, Peel Museum & Botanical Garden. Each of the above is free admission.
Walk or Bike
Bentonville’s trail network is built right into the city, making it easy to hike or bike straight from downtown into nature. From iconic mountain bike systems like Slaughter Pen and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve to paved paths like the Razorback Greenway, there’s an option for every pace and comfort level. Many trails connect or run side by side, so groups can explore together and meet back up with ease. Dive into our trail guides and biking blogs to plan your route, find seasonal tips, and discover why Bentonville is best experienced outdoors.
🚴🏼♂️ Looking to rent a bicycle while you're here? Explore our Bicycle Resources page!
Foodie Finds
Bentonville offers a wide range of dining options. From quick, casual bites to thoughtfully crafted meals, dining here makes great food an easy part of any visit. Our food coverage is curated by Katie Robertson, a food culture expert and contributing food curator at the Momentary and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Her work has appeared in The Wine Enthusiast, Food52, and Food & Wine.
🍽️ Check out all of our wonderful dining options here!
👇🏽 Explore Katie Robertson's blogs below!
Places to Stay
Looking for maps, guides, or want to chat with a local? Visit our mobile visitors center, the Big Blue truck!
The Big Blue Truck
Welcome to Bentonville! Your adventure starts at our unique new Visitors Center, easily spotted by our friendly "Big Blue" truck parked at 207 NE 2nd Street. Step right up during our convenient hours…