From bike trails to food trucks and Frank Lloyed Wright architecture to art museums, Bentonville, is a unique vacation spot in the Ozarks. Find out which parts you won’t want to miss below.
Or check out our personalized scavenger hunt to explore Bentonville in a super fun way!
Bentonville is a growing city with a cozy feel nestled in the Ozarks. It’s known as the home of mega-retailer and largest US employer, Walmart. And for those who love a good bargain, the community offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the Walmart experience.
Mountain Biking | Downtown | Playgrounds | Museums | Nearby
But that’s not all that Bentonville, Arkansas, is known for–it’s also the Mountain Biking Capital of the World.
Bike & Hike Your Way Around an Extensive Trail System
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Bentonville, Arkansas, is home to four trail systems that provide a variety of cycling opportunities for all ages and skill levels.
1. Coler Mountain Bike Preserve
3. Back 40
4. Blowing Springs Trails
Some of the unique things you’ll find in the Mountain Biking Capital of the World include bike skills courses for younger riders and mountain biking schools to build skills of at every level.
There are a number of bike-friendly hotels and if you’re staying a little longer, bike services are a common amenity in many of the local apartment communities. And if you didn’t bring your bike, you’re still in luck! Here, you can rent a bicycle for an hour, a day, or even a week.
When you’re ready to hit the trails, just order up a bike taxi to take you and your wheels to your trailhead of choice.
Related: How to Rent a Bicycle in Bentonville, Arkansas
Indulge in Small Town Charm on the Bentonville Square
Bentonville has grown from humble beginnings. In 1950, when Sam Walton opened a 5 and 10 store on the square, it was home to only a few thousand people. Today, the population is just over 54k, with two neighboring cities–Rogers and Centerton, that collectively make the area feel twice that size.
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Despite the hustle and bustle of busy traffic commuting around the city, you can still find that small-town charm down on the square. Here, you’ll find a collection of cute shops, great tastes, and serene park settings. There’s a playground nearby and on the first Friday of every month, the square fills with vendors.
We love to stop by Sam Walton’s original 5 and 10 store for a scoop of ice cream and sit by the fountain with our golden retriever while the kids burn off the sugar by running laps around the fountain.
Within walking distance of the Bentonville Square, you’ll find Lawrence Plaza, which features a splash pad in the summer months and an outdoor ice skating rink in the winter.
Read: Top 10 Best Places to Eat in Bentonville, Arkansas
Find Kid-Friendly Fun in Bentonville
There is plenty to do for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for room to run and get the wiggles out, or you’re in the mood for some family-friendly entertainment, there’s a little something for everyone in Bentonville, Arkansas.
A few of our favorites spots for indoor fun include:
- CLIMB Bentonville
- Bentonville Community Center Aquatics
- Scott Family Amazeum
On good weather days, we take advantage of the outdoors:
- Fishing at Lake Bentonville
- Osage Park Climbing Playground
- Bentonville Bike Playground
Read: 12 Unique Dining Experiences for Kids
Things to See and Do in Bentonville for All Ages
Bentonville, Arkansas, offers a good amount of variety with a combination of unique attractions and classic tourism draws.
- Thaden Fieldhouse (Aviation)
- Crystal Bridges Art Museum
- Peel Mansion & Museum
- Museum of Native American History
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House (Architecture)
- Bentonville Brewing Company
- 21c Museum
- Compton Gardens & Arboretum
- The Skylight (Movie Theater)
Read: Taste the NWA Food Trucks
Book a Stay in Bentonville
Are you ready to see what all the fuss is about? Book a stay for a weekend getaway. You’ll find all your favorite brands, including Hilton, Hyatt, and Holiday Inn, alongside a variety of unique accommodations ranging from tiny houses to mountain biking motels.
Read: The Top Upscale & Trendy Culinary Experiences in NWA
There’s More to Do Nearby
While Bentonville has plenty to offer, there are several other towns and cities within a short driving distance that have a little more to offer. If you’re in the area, here is what’s worth checking out.
What’s Close Enough for a Day Trip:
Favorite Nearby Attractions:
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Rescue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas (1 hr)
Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri (2 hr)
Tanyard Creek Nature Trail (20 m)
Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, MO (2hr)
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