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Bentonville City Square

About

In the very heart of the historic district, where the pulse of Bentonville beats, lies the charming City Square. This cozy public space in the USA serves as a primary gathering place and promenade, blending the atmosphere of an old American town with modern luxury. Surrounded by stylish boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, and fragrant bakeries, the square is rightfully considered a center of attraction for both tourists and locals.

Bentonville City Square. Source: Kupi.com AI

In essence, it is a multifunctional community park that lives in the rhythm of events year-round. Here, you can see unique art installations and sculptures reflecting the creative spirit of the region. With a high trust rating among visitors, Bentonville City Square is an ideal starting point for exploring the culture of Arkansas.

Whether on winter evenings, when everything shines with festive holiday lights, or summer days filled with the bustle of farmers' markets, the square invariably gives a feeling of celebration. It is a historic site where every facade hides its own legend, and every garden invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Contacts

To contact the park administration or obtain up-to-date information about events, you can use the official contact details. The square is a public space managed by city services.

Address 100 N Main St, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA
Phone +1 479-464-7275
Official Website bentonvillear.com
Google Maps Open Map

What to Do

There is never a dull moment at Bentonville City Square, as there is always something happening here. Shopping enthusiasts can spend time in trendy boutiques, while gourmets can enjoy signature cuisine at upscale restaurants or grab a cup of coffee in a cozy café. The square is literally steeped in art: be sure to find the famous "LOVE" sculpture and explore the numerous street installations that make excellent backdrops for your photos.

If you find yourself here at the right time, you can catch the famous First Fridays—monthly festivals featuring live music and entertainment. Farmers' and art markets, sports races, and cycling events are also regularly held on the square. In winter, the place turns into a fairy tale thanks to extensive light displays that bring the whole community together.

For those interested in history and architecture, the square is a gateway to the past. The Walmart Heritage Lab is located nearby, and within walking distance are picturesque alleys featuring murals dedicated to the city's prominent figures. Walking these paths allows you to see the hidden gems of Bentonville that often escape the average tourist's notice.

Getting There

Finding this vibrant spot in the heart of the city is easy. Bentonville City Square is located at 100 N Main St. If you are in the historic downtown area, the most convenient way to get here is on foot or by bicycle—the city is famous for its well-developed network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

For those arriving from other regions, the nearest major transport hub is Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA); a taxi ride from there takes only 15–20 minutes. If traveling by car, use highway I-49. Take the exit toward Bentonville and follow the signs to Main St. Free parking for visitors is available around the square and in nearby parking garages.

Public transport in the city is provided by Ozark Regional Transit buses. Routes pass through the city center, making it easy to reach the square from various neighborhoods. Nevertheless, many tourists prefer taxis or rideshare services for faster travel between more distant attractions.

History & Facts

The history of this place began back in 1836. It was on September 30th of that year that the site was officially chosen to serve as the administrative center for Benton County. Interestingly, the settlement was originally named Osage—after the Native American tribe whose hunting grounds were located on these lands in the early 19th century. It wasn't until 1843 that the city received its current name in honor of Senator Thomas Hart Benton.

Thanks to its strategic location on the Ozark Plateau, access to clean water, and fertile soil, the square quickly became a commercial and social hub for the region. In the 19th century, life here was buzzing: farmers brought produce from apple orchards and traded tobacco and famous fruit brandy. Many of the buildings surrounding the square were erected during the Reconstruction era after 1873 and are carefully preserved as architectural landmarks.

By the early 20th century, the square had firmly established its status as the heart of the city. Monuments and important public structures were installed here. Today, Bentonville City Square is a unique example of how the historical heritage of a farming settlement has harmoniously merged with the modern pace of life in a dynamic US tourism and business center.

Time Needed

For a simple tour of the square and a short walk around its perimeter, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This time is enough to take beautiful photos, appreciate the art objects, and pop into a few local shops. If you plan to explore the surrounding alleys with their famous murals, allow about 3 hours for your visit.

If your visit coincides with a farmers' market, a festival, or if you decide to have lunch at one of the prestigious restaurants overlooking the square, exploring the location could take half a day. The square invites leisurely relaxation, so there is certainly no need to rush.

Working Hours

Bentonville City Square functions as a public park and is accessible daily. You can plan your visit from early morning until late evening: it is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

The operating schedule remains consistent throughout the week:

  • Monday — Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
This schedule allows you to enjoy both the morning silence with a cup of coffee and the bright evening illumination after dinner.

Nearby

Bentonville offers many interesting locations just steps away from the central square. A stroll through the adjacent streets will allow you to dive deeper into the culture and history of this amazing region.

Attraction Type Distance (km)
Massey Hotel Historic Building 0.1
Bentonville West Central Historic District Historic District 0.3
Bud Walton Mansion Landmark 0.5
Pedaler's Pub Gastronomy 0.7
Grave of Sam Walton Memorial Site 0.8
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House Architecture 1.0
James H Berry Park Park 1.0
Peel Museum & Botanical Garden Museum and Garden 1.3
Briartown Neighborhood 1.5
Benton County Memorial Wall Memorial 2.2

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