A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Bentonville, Arkansas: A Hidden Treasure in the Heart of America

Overview

Bentonville is a vibrant and growing city in northwest Arkansas, United States. It is known for being the global headquarters of Walmart, the world's largest retail chain. But Bentonville is much more than that. With a population of just over 50,000 residents, the city offers a unique blend of southern charm, American history, and contemporary culture.

Tourist Attractions

The city of Bentonville is a growing tourist destination with a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the main attractions you can't miss:

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

This free art museum, funded by the Walton family of Walmart, houses an impressive collection of American art spanning five centuries. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie.

The Square District

The heart of Bentonville is its vibrant square district, which hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. The square is also home to the original Walton's 5 & 10, a five and dime store that now serves as the Walmart Museum.

The Peel Mansion

This beautiful Italianate-style mansion was built in 1875 and is now a museum offering a glimpse into 19th-century life in Arkansas.

Parks and Recreation

Bentonville boasts over 20 parks and an extensive network of biking and hiking trails. Compton Gardens and Arboretum are especially popular, with beautiful gardens and nature trails.

Surroundings

Beyond Bentonville, northwest Arkansas offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. The region is known for its Ozark Mountains, which provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and bird watching. The city of Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas, is just a half-hour drive away and offers a vibrant cultural and sports scene.

Gastronomic Products of Bentonville

Southern Fried Chicken

Bentonville, being a city in the southern United States, is known for its southern fried chicken. This dish is prepared by marinating the chicken in a mix of spices and then it is breaded and fried until it is crispy. Southern fried chicken is a classic comfort dish that can be found in many restaurants in Bentonville.
Ozark Style Barbecue

Ozark style barbecue is another specialty of Bentonville. This barbecue is characterized by its tomato and vinegar-based sauce, which is used to marinate the meat before slow roasting it. The meat is often served with a side of baked beans and coleslaw, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Apple Butter

Bentonville is also known for its apple butter, a product that is made by cooking apples with sugar and spices until they turn into a thick paste. Apple butter can be spread on toast, used in baking recipes, or simply eaten by the spoonful. It is a delicious and versatile product that reflects Bentonville's rich agricultural tradition.

Highlighted Gastronomic Places in Bentonville

From high-end restaurants to cozy taverns, Bentonville offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its rich cuisine. Below, we present some of the most outstanding:

The Hive

Located in the 21c Museum Hotel, The Hive is a restaurant that stands out for its focus on local Arkansas ingredients. Chef Matthew McClure, a James Beard Award nominee, offers a menu that enhances the flavors of the Upper South region. Here you can taste dishes like fried chicken with truffle honey or beef steak with mashed potatoes and red wine sauce.

Tavola Trattoria

If you're looking for authentic Italian cuisine in Bentonville, Tavola Trattoria is the place to visit. This restaurant offers a variety of classic Italian dishes, such as homemade pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizzas. In addition, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Italian wines.

Table Mesa Bistro

Table Mesa Bistro is a Latin cuisine restaurant that offers a blend of flavors from different countries. Here you can enjoy dishes like fish tacos, chicken enchiladas, and shrimp ceviche. In addition, its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this place a perfect option for an unforgettable meal.

Fred's Hickory Inn

For an authentic Arkansas barbecue experience, Fred's Hickory Inn is a must-visit. This restaurant has been serving smoked pork ribs, steaks, and other meat dishes since 1970. In addition, its rustic atmosphere and large stone fireplace create a cozy environment perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal.

Sporting Activities in Bentonville

Mountain Biking

Bentonville is known as the world capital of mountain biking. With over 140 miles of dirt trails, there are routes for all skill levels. You can explore the famous Slaughter Pen Trail or the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve.

Hiking

Enjoy the natural beauty of Bentonville with a hike on one of its many trails. Hobbs State Park is a popular spot for hiking, with over 12,000 acres of wooded terrain to explore.

Golf

If you prefer a quieter sport, Bentonville has several high-quality golf courses. The Pinnacle Country Club and the Bella Vista golf course are just two of the available options.

Fishing

With numerous lakes and rivers, Bentonville is an ideal place for fishing. You can try to catch a variety of species, including bass, catfish, and trout.

Nearby Places to Bentonville

If you're in Bentonville and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Fayetteville (Arkansas)

Fayetteville, located in northwest Arkansas, is a city full of southern charm, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for being the home of the University of Arkansas, this city offers a variety of tourist attractions that attract visitors from all over the world.

Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs, a charming tourist destination in Arkansas, is famous for its Victorian architecture, hot springs, and a vibrant culinary scene offering everything from authentic Southern cuisine to international gourmet delights.

Rogers

Rogers, in Arkansas, is a vibrant tourist destination, renowned for its charming historic downtown, thrilling outdoor activities, and a thriving culinary scene offering everything from authentic Southern cuisine to innovative fusion dishes.