The small-town charm of the picturesque community of Bentonville owes much to its genuine Southern hospitality. Located in northern Arkansas, Bentonville is a modest town of 35,000 residents. It is famous as the birthplace of the world’s largest retail chain. Visit Bentonville to learn about the history of Walmart, to sample the cuisine that the state is famous for and to explore the many museums and cultural institutions in the town. Use Bentonville as a launching pad to explore the Ozark Mountains and the Buffalo River as well.
Once you arrive in the town, acquaint yourself with the local culture at the Bentonville Convention and Visitors Bureau. Pick up a map outlining the city’s major historic attractions to discover Civil War sites and the 72 historic buildings and homes that date back nearly two centuries. Visit the 1875 Peel Mansion and Heritage Gardens for an excellent example of late 19th-century architecture from the region.
Hear the story of the world’s largest retailer at the Walmart Museum. The company was founded in Bentonville and its headquarters remain in the town.
Spend a day seeing famous paintings and sculptures at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or learn about the indigenous people of Arkansas at the Museum of Native American History.
When you’re hungry at the end of the day, enjoy the local cuisine. In the downtown precinct you’ll find a cluster of restaurants and bars open until late in the evening. Try fried catfish, twice-cooked chicken or a platter of fried pickles, all served with a little bit of Southern hospitality.
The easiest way to reach Bentonville is via Kansas City or Tulsa. Both have major international airports and are well connected by highway and bus services. Rent a car at the airport to explore Arkansas’ natural beauty on your way to Bentonville. Stop by Eureka Springs to dip your feet in the water or hike the trails that traverse the Ozark Mountains.
