Enjoy Northwest Arkansas

By Terri Nighswonger

CAN’T LEAVE WITHOUT

The Walmart Museum
105 N. Main St., Bentonville
Walmartmuseum.com

The Walmart Museum is the historic location of the very first Walmart. Established in 1950 by Sam Walton, this self-guided tour gives visitors a look at the humble 5 & 10 that sparked the beginning of a worldwide enterprise. Learn about Walton, see his original office, his Medal of Freedom and many other historic and fun artifacts, including his 1979 Ford F-150 pickup truck. The museum is free and open seven days a week.

Don’t forget to take time and enjoy an ice cream cone or vintage candy at Sparks Café and Soda Fountain.

WE GOTTA GO!

Northwest Arkansas is chock full of fun things to do. You might not have enough time to get to everything but the area is only an hour or so from Joplin so you will definitely want to plan several trips throughout the year.

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
600 Museum Way, Bentonville
Crystalbridges.org

The museum was founded by Alice Walton, daughter of Sam Walton, in 2011, and features American art from the Colonial era to the contemporary period. The facility, constructed of glass-and-wood, features a series of pavilions nestled around two creek-fed ponds and forest trails. The museum is free and open every day except Tuesday. Sculpture and walking trails link the museum’s 120-acre park to downtown Bentonville.

Arkansas Air and Military Museum
4290 S. School Ave., Fayetteville
Arkansasairandmilitary.com

Check out the colorful history of aviation and American military conflicts at the largest aviation museum in Arkansas. Housed in a vast, all-wood hangar, which was once headquarters for one of the United States’ many aviator training posts during WWII, the museum boasts historic aircraft, many of which still fly. See displays ranging from the golden age of aviation to the jet age, including Vietnam-era Army helicopters and a Navy carrier fighter. The museum is open daily.

Arkansas Heritage Trails System, Fayetteville
arkansasheritagetrails.com

Heritage trails that run through Fayetteville include the Trail of Tears, Civil War troop movement, and Butterfield Overland Mail Co. Stagecoach route. A Trail of Tears monument is located on Ark. 62 near the University of Arkansas. Don’t miss a look at the historic homes, including the Tebbetts House. Built about 1852, the house is known as the Headquarters House because it was used by both the Confederate and Union armies.

Daisy Airgun Museum
202 W. Walnut St., Rogers
Daisymuseum.com

“You’ll shoot your eye out!” Enjoy this fun walk through the history of the Daisy Company, including memorabilia from the popular Christmas movie A Christmas Story. Open Monday through Saturday, this quaint venue has more than enough to keep visitors young and old engaged.

Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
4603 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville
Bgozarks.org

This unique destination is a collection of 12 themed gardens and includes the region’s only butterfly house. Education programs include classes, lecture for adults in horticulture, conservation and other topics of interest to gardeners of all skill levels.

JUST BROWSING

Fayetteville’s central square is known for its beautiful gardens, unique shopping, craft beer and award-winning local Farmer’s market that runs three days a week beginning in early spring. Dickson Street is the main drag with unique shops, fantastic dining and nightlife featuring live music venues. Check out a symphony concert or performing arts event at the Walton Art Center or take in Fayetteville’s rich Civil War history.

Downtown Bentonville features equally charming shops, restaurants, night life, coffee shops, people watching, live music and more. Go to downtownbentonville.org for a calendar of events.

FILLING UP

The Hive
200 NE A St., Bentonville
thehivebentonville.com

The Hive offers country cooking with an emphasis on traditional foods of Arkansas. Locally-sourced produce in unique dishes will leave you wanting more.

The Pressroom
121 W. Central Ave., Bentonville
Eatatpressroom.com

Known for the best coffee in town, The Pressroom is famous for its collection of espresso-based drinks. Its menu boasts vegan, gluten-free and healthy options and the décor includes paintings and mixed media art. Open mic nights and music events happen regularly.

James at the Mill
3906 Johnson Mill Blvd., Fayetteville
Jamesatthemill.com

Blending traditional and contemporary American flavors with French cuisine, the best choice on the menu is a sample of everything. The tasting menu includes everything from seared diver scallops to hickory-grilled quail. The tall ceilings, water features and tree-like beams create a calm atmosphere.

Penguin Ed’s BBQ
6347 W. Wedington Drive, Fayetteville
penguineds.com

True barbeque lovers will enjoy the hickory-enhanced smoked meats including pulled pork, beef brisket, ham, Polish sausage and pulled chicken. Family-owned with more than 16 years of feeding Fayetteville, this is one joint you’ll want to check out with a large appetite.

SLEEP TIGHT

21c Museum Hotel
200 NE A St., Bentonville
21cmuseumhotels.com

Within walking distance of downtown Bentonville, the 21c Museum Hotel is a luxury boutique accommodation with the feel of an art gallery. Guests can enjoy dinner at The Hive and take in the beautiful art.

Inn at the Mill
Johnson Mill Boulevard, Springdale

The Inn at the Mill in Springdale is located near the Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville Historic District and the Clinton House Museum. Visitors can also take in nearby Dickson Street or take a short drive to Springdale or Fayetteville. Take in walk around the beautiful mill during your stay.

Crepes Paulette
100 SW 8^th St., Bentonville
crepespaulette.com

Don’t miss this restaurant that mixes “authentic and fusion, sweet and savory handheld crepes served with a smile and a side of quirk.” Check out the restaurant on SW 8^th Street or the food truck on Lawrence Avenue. Either way, you’ll enjoy a little bit of France in Northwest Arkansas.