A charming Arkansas town with an old-fashioned downtown square, Bentonville is the birthplace of Walmart, one of the largest retailers in the world. From public gardens to cycling trails, breweries and a thriving arts district, there’s plenty of fascinating sights and culture in Bentonville.

Things to do

It’s hard to imagine visiting Bentonville without stopping by the Walmart Museum downtown. It showcases numerous exhibits chronicling the history of the retail giant and also cradles the original five-and-dime store that started it all. Pop into the Spark Café Soda Fountain, a throwback drugstore-style counter and café selling bottled sodas and ice-cream sundaes.

Explore the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which dates back to colonial times. The Scott Family Amazeum offers interactive science exhibitions, including a Nickelodeon Play Lab, while the Museum of Native American History features more than 10,000 Native American artefacts.

In the evening, snag tickets for a production by Opera in the Ozarks or the Symphony of Northwest Arkansas or take in a Broadway-quality play or concert at Walton Arts Center. For a different twist on entertainment, visit Brightwater, a centre that presents food as an art form and emphasises culinary wellness.

Rent a bike to cycle numerous paths at nature areas, such as Coler Park, Razorback Greenway and Blowing Streams. Relax with craft brews at Bike Rack Brewing Company in the Arts District or indulge in wood-fired pizza and live music at The Pedaler’s Pub.

Getting around

You can rent a car at Rogers Municipal Airport, about 15 minutes outside the city. Alternative ways to get around include bike rentals, rideshares, shuttles, taxis and limos.