Pura Vida View
Bentonville
Bentonville, Arkansas is home to Walmart's headquarters and where the Walton family and foundation have made significant investments into the Bentonville area. My husband has an office there and when we were dating and I first tagged along on a business trip, I was not expecting to find this beautiful place with so much to see and do.
As one of the fastest growing regions in the country, the Walton family has helped transform this once sleepy small town into a thriving business and tourist community.
Crystal Bridges
Museum Of American Art
Alice Walton's, the daughter of Sam Walton, love for art led her to spearhead the Walton Family Foundation's involvement and funding of Crystal Bridges Museum. The museum, which opened in 2011, houses a permanent collection of American art masterpieces from the colonial era to modern day and they also do a touring collection from national art institutions.
They offer daily free admission! Definitely worth the visit, any art connoisseur or amateur (like me) will enjoy and appreciate strolling through the halls of this beautiful museum!
The museum was designed by internationally renowned architect Moshe Safdie, he created a space to reflect the surrounding Ozark landscape. The museum got it's name from Crystal Spring which is a natural spring that runs along the walking paths and wooded areas surrounding the museum and from the unique bridge construction that is part of the building's design.
I love walking/running the paths surrounding the museum and experiencing the natural beauty along with the additions of sculptured art they have placed along the path.
Below are a few pictures I have taken on my many visits, but this is a place you need to experience on your own.
Mountain Biking
"Mountain Biking Capital of the World"
Bentonville may have self proclaimed the title of, "Mountain Biking Capital of the World," which is a bit of a stretch, I couldn't find them on most top 10 lists. However, they have certainly made a name for themselves and have a very impressive ride for most any level biker. With over 40 miles of trails and 150 more connecting throughout Northwest Arkansas, there is access to some pretty epic trails. I was amazed to see bikers flying through the landscape of the Slaughter Pen trails as I ran on a nearby paved path near Chrystal Bridges Museum. Best of all the trails are easily accessible to great hotels, restaurants, bars, art, shopping and museums.
Restaurants
This once small town is now booming with rich culture, a growing discerning population, art, outdoor fun, and outstanding chef driven innovative restaurants. Bentonville Square and surrounding areas are packed with some amazing eateries, where farm-to-table is what diners have come to expect and experience.
Award nominated chefs, highly acclaimed menus, and beautifully designed restaurants makes every dining experience something worth every moment and calorie...in my opinion!
Indulge and Enjoy!
Where to Stay
There are many choices of where to stay when visiting Bentonville. If you want to enjoy the square, I always like staying within walking distance of Downtown. We often rent a vacation rental, but sometimes we stay at my favorite hotel, 21c Museum Hotel.
