If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly getaway in Northwest Arkansas, Bentonville checks every box. Think world-class art, miles of bike trails, incredible food, and plenty of space for kids to run, explore, and burn off energy. Here’s a realistic, not-overpacked way to spend 72 hours in Bentonville with kids.
Day 1: Downtown + Crystal Bridges
Start your first day at the downtown square, the heart of Bentonville. It’s walkable, relaxed, and perfect for easing into the weekend. Let the kids run around the green space, pop into local shops, and if you’re visiting on a Saturday, don’t miss the farmers market.
Grab breakfast at Ozark Mountain Bagel (multiple convenient locations!), a casual and kid-approved spot, then enjoy time at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. It’s free, incredibly family-friendly, and offers outdoor trails with art that double as built-in entertainment for kids. The trails will lead you to a taste of Arkansas BBQ at Wright’s Barbeque for lunch — don’t miss out on their banana pudding! For dinner, Pedaler’s Pub is a great pizza option, followed a stroll and window shopping around the square.
Day 2: Bikes, Nature + The Momentary
On day two, lean into what Bentonville is known for: the outdoors. Bring or rent bikes if you can, it’s part of the experience! I’ve had great experience renting e-bikes through OZ E-Bikes, which offers several bike options for families. Head to Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, where you’ll find beginner-friendly trails, walking paths, and plenty of space for kids to explore. Stop at Airship Coffee at Coler (a coffee shop nestled in the woods that’s only accessible by foot or by bike) for a much-needed coffee and snacks. Even if you don’t bike, it’s worth visiting just to walk and enjoy the beautiful setting!
In the afternoon, visit The Momentary. The open lawn is perfect for letting kids run freely, and the space often features rotating art installations and outdoor concerts. It’s just a short walk from 8th Street Market and the brand new Walmart Home Office, where the whole family can enjoy a bookstore, chocolate shop, restaurants/food trucks, and paved trails.
In the evening, catch a movie at Skylight Cinema! It features reclining seats and you can order tasty food and drink to be delivered directly to your seat during the film.
Day 3: Easy Morning + One Last Stop
For your final day, keep things flexible. Enjoy a slower morning with brunch at Crepes Paulette, best known for handmade crepes (with a window so the kids can watch the process) and amazing soups.
After food, check out the Walmart Museum, which is an easy, free and interesting stop where you can learn a bit of Bentonville history without it feeling like a full museum day. Don’t miss the old-fashioned soda fountain located inside for inexpensive ice cream for a fun and budget-friendly treat. Afterward, visit one of Bentonville’s many beautiful parks before heading home. I have a full post dedicated to my favorite fenced-in parks that you can check out here.
Tips & Tricks
- Bring or rent bikes if you can, it’s part of the experience
- Keep your schedule loose, everything is close and easy
- Go early to popular spots on weekends
- Pack layers, weather can shift quickly
- Family-friendly outdoor dining options
Bentonville is one of those rare destinations that works just as well for parents as it does for kids. It’s active without being exhausting, cultured without being overwhelming, and easy to navigate. Whether you’re local or planning a quick getaway, this is a weekend you’ll want to repeat.