One of my absolute favorite weekend getaways was also one of the most unanticipated: Bentonville—a well-known favorite to many, but an unknown secret to, still, many more. It is a hub for a world-class art museum, coffee, craft beer, and cuisines for the foodies, and it is the mountain biking capital of the world. It is a regional, experiential transformation that everyone must see for themselves.
Here are my top picks to explore this Northwest Arkansas town fit for foodies, creatives, adventurists, and inspired bucket-list travelers!
Where to Stay:
21c Museum Hotel Bentonville: Part art museum and part boutique hotel, this contemporary property is conveniently located near the town square and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
Local Eats:
The Preacher’s Son: Housed within a restored-historic church, the elevated food and drink menus paired with the unique aesthetic celebrate the seasonality of NW Arkansas’s farm-to-table dishes and offer exceptional wines and hospitality.
Onyx Coffee Lab: With locally roasted coffee and exceptionally beautiful packaging, this award-winning coffeehouse specializes in ethically traded coffee beans and has a far-reaching, loyal following for a reason.
Pressroom: This all-encompassing restaurant, bar, and hangout on the town square is bright and lively with its rotating art-clad walls and locally influenced American menus for brunch, lunch and dinner.
Louise @ Thaden Field: Where else can you pair your al fresco meal paired with views of executive planes taking off and landing on the runway? Named after a legendary Arkansas aviator, menus serve up “in-flight classics” as well as food for the “Lil Cadets.”
Ozark Mountain Bagel Co.: New York-style bagels in the heart of Bentonville, OMBC is spreading joy, love, and cream cheese. Grab and go or dine in while enjoying a casual vibe that complements the mountain biking pastime.
Airship Coffee Roasters: Hike, bike or run your way to this open-air cafe hidden within the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, and energize with classic coffees, smoothies, baked goods and local kombucha on tap.
Oven & Tap: Home to wood-fired pizzas, craft beers, fine wines and specialty cocktails, enjoy indulging in its cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Beer & Cocktails:
Bike Rack Brewing Co. @ 8th Street District: Aptly named, this taproom is a highlight of the 8th St. Market. Enjoy a Night Ride or Urban Trail and soak up the day or night sights and sounds of this dynamic destination.
Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico: Follow your beer tastings with delectable Mexican food With Soul. Sip on mezcal and margaritas, nosh on tacos and tamales, and find inspiration in the colorful Mexican design.
Bentonville Brewing Company: Perfect for large gatherings, this expansive craft brewery provides a huge outdoor landing spot to imbibe after a fun day of exploring the town.
Local Destinations:
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: This stunning display of architecture, art collections, and 120 acres of Ozark nature combines the power of art with the beauty of nature, and operates a satellite contemporary art space in downtown Bentonville called The Momentary.
The Momentary: This spacious indoor and outdoor hangout hosts performing arts, rotating art galleries and refurbished open spaces offering food and drink, shopping, and a stunning illuminated You Belong Here neon sign starting at dusk.
