Here's the weekend highlight itinerary you've been looking for!
This idyllic Arkansas community known as "the new capital of cool" is fast growing and offers large city culture with a small town feel. I love how Jewel described it recently in an interview…elevated, but not elitist. We recently took a trip to Bentonville and experienced a side we had never seen before. And I truly think that’s one of the most special things about it…the hidden gems around every corner. We explored a lot of nooks and crannies and have created a full weekend itinerary with some of our favorites! Let's dive in!!
We stayed at the historic Jackson House and it was perfection! Built in 1918, this beautiful property is located across the street from the Ledger Building and is just blocks from the downtown Bentonville square, with plenty of shops and eats in between. We had the entire lower level of the home, but there are also additional bedrooms upstairs. The backyard gardens and fountain make the Jackson House standout in both beauty and peace. It’s also available to rent for special events and weddings and is the perfect backdrop for special occasions!
I also love that the Jackson House had a garage, because one of the best ways to see Bentonville is by bike! There are several places in town to rent bikes if you’re not able to bring your own, but I HIGHLY recommend getting ebikes. I cannot even tell you how spoiled I am after using an ebike the week we were there. From downtown to Coler to all the bike-in restaurants and breweries, biking across Bentonville will give you a whole new perspective on fun!
And download TrailPilot for audio directions during your ride of 18 different tours covering over 200 miles in Northwest Arkansas!
A few of our favorite places to bike-in in Bentonville: (though there are many more!!)
The Ledger - the world's first bikeable building (and a co-working space if you need to get some work done while you’re in town). Make sure you bike to the top to get a birds eye view of downtown.
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve - it may be known as mountain bikers paradise, but Coler also has a concrete path running right down the center perfect for an easy ride or a beautiful walk. They also were recently named as a Certified Firefly Habitat and I’m already looking forward to going back this summer just to see it!
Airship at Coler - Whether it’s coffee or a beer and nachos you crave, Airship is the perfect oasis in the center of Coler and can only be reached by walking or bike.
The HUB Bike Lounge - Fantastic eats and drinks are served up at the Hub! Get that triple dip and the birria tacos…they’re also known for their margaritas!
Bike Rack Brewing Company at 8th Street Market - Local beers are always on tap at Bike Rack. Make it easy on yourself and just get a flight so you can try them all!
Did you know there’s a golf cart tour called Big on Bentonville? Learn the history of the area and see Fixer to Fabulous houses on this informative tour all over downtown. They also have a boozy tour perfect for bachelorette parties or girls night out!
And if you’re interested in more Fixer to Fabulous, stop by the Visit Bentonville offices to pick up the official guide and take a selfie with the Dave and Jenny Marrs cut-out.
Right around the corner from there, you’ll find The Momentary. This special museum and grounds are the hub of incredible music all summer long with the Live on the Green Concert Series. Live entertainment runs through the end of September and will include incredible acts like John Legend, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, SLASH, TLC & Shaggy and even Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight. We had the absolute pleasure of seeing Jon Batiste and it was an incredible night!! Make plans to visit the Tower Bar at the top of the Momentary while you’re there for delicious libations with spectacular views.
Now, let’s talk food! You can always count me in to eat my way around town and Bentonville is definitely the place to do that. With an EXCEPTIONAL foodie scene, you’ll discover foods for every appetite, no matter what time of day it is.
Here are a few of our favorites…
Breakfast:
Sunny’s
Table Mesa Bistro
Onyx Coffee Lab (check out their outdoor coffee robot too!)
Lunch: Tusk & Trotter (amazing Sunday brunch!!) Danger Dave’s Wright’s BBQ Dinner: Conifer Table at the Hickory Inn The Preacher’s Son
No visit to Bentonville is complete without a trip to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, but have you ever experienced Skyspace at sunset? James Turrell's Skyspace, “The Way of Color” is an artistic feat in light manipulation, but the best way to experience the show is at sunrise or sunset. Plan on arriving about 15 minutes before dusk as the colors begin to change. I don’t want to give too much away, but just make sure you stay until the rapid transitions.
Currently going on at Crystal Bridges, you can also experience “The Portal”, an art experience by Jewel. I cannot even tell you how blown away we were by the blending of art and music, culminating in a 200 drone light show. This special event runs through the end of July, so make plans now to attend. Watch our video here!
Are you ready to plan your trip to Bentonville? Check out www.visitbentonville.com for more places to shop, eat and stay! I was also recently a guest on the Visit Bentonville Podcast, "A New American Town", and shared even more of Bentonville, as well as traveling the state! Click here to listen! And if you want to see even more fun places, check out these Northwest Arkansas Creators: Foodies - @munchinwithmantha @nwatransplants @hangrypedalernwa
Family Friendly - @nwarkansasmamas @katepantier Find more Bentonville family-friendly fun in this video and article from @Coleyraeh
Sarah Heer is the founder and Chief Creator of Arkie Travels. She travels full-time with her husband, Paul, showing off why Arkansas is the best kept secret in the South.