Thaden Fieldhouse
Welcome to the Thaden Fieldhouse at Louise M. Thaden Field (ICAO Identifier: VBT)— a vibrant celebration of aviation heritage, modern design, and community spirit. Serving as the cornerstone of Arkansas’ FLY OZ network, this dynamic destination blends history, adventure, and local charm, making it a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Thaden Fieldhouse a standout in Bentonville.🕰️ Historical RelevanceThe Thaden Fieldhouse is named after Louise McPhetridge Thaden, a trailblazing aviator born in Bentonville in 1905. Thaden took to the skies in 1927, quickly making her mark by setting aviation records and breaking gender barriers. In 1928, she became the first woman to win a National Air Race and later claimed the prestigious Bendix Trophy, cementing her legacy as a pioneer for women in aviation. The Fieldhouse, located at Bentonville’s municipal airport, honors her contributions by serving as a hub for aviation education and adventure, reflecting her passion for flight. It stands as a tribute to her groundbreaking achievements while fostering a connection to the region’s rich aviation history.🏛️ Architectural GemsOpened in September 2018, the 22,000-square-foot Thaden Fieldhouse is a modern architectural marvel designed to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. The structure houses a flight school, an aviation exhibit hangar, a conference room, a lounge, and the popular Cafe Louise, all thoughtfully integrated to create a welcoming environment. Its sleek design incorporates large windows and open spaces, offering stunning views of planes taking off and landing, as well as the adjacent Lake Bentonville. The Fieldhouse’s outdoor area is equally impressive, featuring a spacious lawn for games and relaxation, with plans for future additions like a walking trail around the lake. The building’s clean lines and innovative layout earned Thaden Field the title of “The Coolest Airport in the Country” by FLYING Magazine, a testament to its seamless fusion of aviation heritage and contemporary design.🔍 Fun Facts Aviation Hub: Thaden Fieldhouse is the heart of Arkansas’ FLY OZ network, connecting aviators to over 60 grass strips within 100 nautical miles, perfect for backcountry adventures to rivers, hiking trails, and restaurants. OZ1 Flying Club: The Fieldhouse is home to the OZ1 Flying Club, a social hub for pilots to share costs and camaraderie, making aviation more accessible. Lake Bentonville Activities: Visitors can soon rent canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards to explore Lake Bentonville, adding a water-based adventure to the aviation experience. Cafe Louise: Named after Louise Thaden, the full-service cafe offers an all-day menu, making it a great spot for locals and travelers to enjoy a meal while watching planes. Exhibition Hangar: The Fieldhouse’s aviation exhibit hangar showcases aircraft, offering a hands-on look at the machines that define flight. 📌 Know Before You Go📍 Address: Thaden Fieldhouse, 2205 SW I St, Bentonville, AR 72712📞 Phone: (479) 254-0817🌐 Website: www.thadenfield.com💳 Cost of Admission: Entry to the Thaden Fieldhouse is free, though specific activities like flight training, scenic flights, or canoe rentals (when available) may have associated costs. Contact the Fieldhouse or check the website for pricing details.⏰ Hours of Operatio: The Fieldhouse is generally open daily, with Cafe Louise serving from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Hours for specific amenities like the flight school or exhibition hangar may vary, so it’s best to confirm via the website or by phone.🎶 Vibe: Thaden Fieldhouse exudes a unique blend of nostalgic aviation charm and modern Ozark hospitality. It’s a place where pilots, families, and curious visitors converge, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping coffee at Cafe Louise, exploring the exhibit hangar, or watching planes soar overhead, the Fieldhouse feels like a community gathering spot that celebrates adventure and connection. The personal touch from staff, as noted by Legends Air Center, ensures a warm, welcoming experience that’s anything but corporate.The Thaden Fieldhouse a destination that invites you to explore the skies, savor local flavors, and connect with Bentonville’s aviation legacy. Whether you’re an aspiring pilot or simply looking for a unique outing, this “basecamp for adventure” promises an experience that soars.
Meteor Guitar Gallery & Museum
Welcome to Meteor Guitar Galler, where music, history, and architecture converge into a singular, soul-stirring experience. Beyond the guitar shop or a venue that it is, it's more a celebration of music's past, present, and future. Whether you're a musician, an art lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story, Meteor Guitar Gallery promises an unforgettable journey through sound and space.Historical Highlights From Theater to Music Haven: Originally the Plaza Theater from 1927, this space transformed into the Meteor Theater before becoming the guitar gallery we know today. It has seen silent films, talkies, and now, the strumming of guitars. A Musical Legacy: The gallery opened its doors as a music venue and guitar shop in 2014, bringing a new cultural vibrancy to Bentonville. It's a place where music history is not just told but experienced through the instruments on display and the artists who perform here. Cultural Impact: Meteor has hosted everything from local bands to national acts, making it a cornerstone of Bentonville's burgeoning arts scene, and a testament to the city's commitment to cultural enrichment. Architectural Gems Historic Theater Restoration: The building retains much of its original 1920s charm, with ornate moldings, a grand stage, and balcony seating, now repurposed into a guitar museum and performance space. Balcony Museum: The balcony, once for movie-goers, now houses a small museum with artifacts from the theater's past and music memorabilia, blending history with the gallery's contemporary purpose. Gallery Layout: The first floor is designed like a museum, showcasing guitars in a way that invites exploration, while the stage area continues to serve as a live music venue. Fun Facts Vintage and Modern: Meteor boasts an impressive collection of both vintage and modern guitars, appealing to collectors and players alike. Local Art: The walls are adorned with art from local artists, adding another layer of cultural experience to your visit. Live Music Hub: Known for hosting events like the Bentonville Film Festival, Meteor is where you can catch a concert, film screening, or even a party, all under one roof. Meteor Guitar Gallery is more than a shop; it's a cultural institution where the love for music and history intertwine. With its unique setting in a historic theater, it offers not just guitars but an immersive experience into the world of music, art, and Bentonville's cultural heritage.
Compton Gardens & Arboretum
Compton Gardens is a 6.5-acre botanical sanctuary celebrating the Ozarks’ native flora and conservation heritage. Visitors can stroll scenic trails, admire diverse plantings, or relax in shaded nooks, with the nearby Conference Center hosting community events. Part of Northwest Arkansas’s vibrant outdoor scene, it complements nearby attractions like Crystal Bridges, offering a tranquil, family-friendly retreat that highlights the region’s commitment to nature and community.🕰️ Historical RelevanceNamed for Dr. Neil Compton, a Bentonville physician and conservationist, the gardens honor his pivotal role in saving the Buffalo River, designated America’s first National River in 1972. Located on the site of his former home, Compton Gardens reflects his passion for preserving the Ozarks’ ecosystems. Established by the Peel Compton Foundation, the site promotes environmental stewardship through native plantings and serves as a pedestrian link to the Crystal Bridges Trail, tying Bentonville’s natural and cultural heritage together.🏛️ Architectural GemsCompton Gardens prioritizes natural design over built structures, creating a living architectural masterpiece. Its winding trails, shaded woodlands, and vibrant native plantings blend seamlessly with the Ozark landscape. A small pavilion hosts events, while educational signage highlights the area’s flora and Compton’s conservation legacy. The layout balances open meadows with intimate paths, offering a tranquil setting for walking or biking, enhanced by its proximity to downtown Bentonville and cultural sites like Crystal Bridges.🔍 Fun Facts Champion Trees: Home to two Arkansas Champion Trees, recognized for their exceptional size and botanical significance. Native Plant Sale: The annual Dr. Compton Native Tree & Plant Sale in September features over 56 varieties of native trees, shrubs, and perennials. Trail Gateway: Acts as a key access point to the Crystal Bridges Trail, connecting visitors to Bentonville’s broader trail network. Eco-Friendly Focus: Emphasizes sustainable practices with native plants that support local wildlife and reduce water use. Community Hub: Hosts events like open houses and plant sales, fostering education and appreciation for Ozark horticulture. 📌 Know Before You Go 📍 Address: 312 N Main St, Bentonville, AR 72712 📞 Phone: (479) 254-3870 🌐 Website: www.peelcompton.org 💳 Cost of Admission: Free to enter; some events, like plant sales, may have associated costs (check website for details). ⏰ Hours of Operation: Open daily, dawn to dusk. Event-specific hours vary; confirm on the website. 🎶 Vibe: Compton Gardens offers a peaceful, grounding escape with a meditative vibe. Its quiet trails, native blooms, and natural beauty create a serene setting for families, solo visitors, or cyclists. Described as a “hidden gem” by locals, it’s perfect for reflection or a leisurely stroll, though amenities like restrooms are absent (available at nearby restaurants), keeping the focus on nature. 🌅 Enjoy!Compton Gardens and Arboretum is a living tribute to Dr. Neil Compton’s conservation legacy and Bentonville’s natural charm. Whether you’re exploring its trails, learning about native plants, or simply soaking in the tranquility, this greenspace is a refreshing retreat in the heart of the city. Visit to discover the Ozarks’ enduring
The Momentary
Housed in a repurposed cheese factory, The Momentary is a contemporary art hub featuring rotating exhibits, live performances, and a culinary scene celebrating local flavors. Visitors can explore immersive installations, enjoy concerts on the outdoor green, or sip cocktails at the Tower Bar. A key player in the region’s cultural scene, it complements nearby attractions like Crystal Bridges, drawing diverse crowds to engage with art, music, and community in a lively, accessible setting.🕰️ Historical RelevanceFounded by the Walton family and opened on February 22, 2020, The Momentary is rooted in the mission to enhance Northwest Arkansas’s quality of life through art and culture. Housed in a decommissioned 63,000-square-foot Kraft cheese factory, the space pays homage to Bentonville’s industrial past while reimagining it as a modern art venue. The Walton Family Foundation’s vision, led by Tom, Olivia, and Steuart Walton, transformed this site into a platform for innovative art, music, and culinary experiences, fostering education and engagement in the region. The Momentary acknowledges the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw peoples, honoring the ancestral land it occupies.🏛️ Architectural GemsDesigned by Wheeler Kearns Architects, The Momentary is a stunning example of adaptive reuse, preserving much of the original cheese factory’s structure to minimize its carbon footprint while creating a contemporary art space. The 70-foot-tall building features open galleries, mezzanines for performances, and a striking glass tower adorned with an arrow pattern by Osage artist Addie Roanhorse, inspired by traditional Osage attire. The campus includes expansive outdoor areas like The Momentary Green, ideal for concerts and picnics, and the Tower Bar, offering panoramic views of Bentonville. Its blend of industrial heritage and modern design creates a unique, inviting environment.🔍 Fun Facts Former Cheese Factory: The Momentary was once a Kraft cheese plant, repurposed into a cultural hotspot, blending Bentonville’s industrial history with cutting-edge art. Rotating Exhibits: True to its name, The Momentary’s exhibits are ever-changing, ensuring fresh experiences with each visit. The Buckyball: A standout outdoor installation, this glowing geometric sculpture is a favorite for photos, alongside the neon “You Belong Here” sign. Onyx Coffee Lab: The on-site coffee shop serves local Ozark brews, perfect for a relaxing break with courtyard views. Free Concerts: The Momentary Green hosts free outdoor concerts from May to September, drawing music lovers to its lively lawn. 📌 Know Before You Go 📍 Address: 507 SE E St, Bentonville, AR 72712 📞 Phone: (479) 367-7500 🌐 Website: www.themomentary.org 💳 Cost of Admission: General admission to the campus and galleries is free; some special events or performances may have ticketed entry (check website for details). ⏰ Hours of Operation: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The Tower Bar and Onyx Coffee Lab may have extended hours; confirm on the website. 🎶 Vibe: The Momentary radiates a lively, inclusive energy, blending contemporary art with a relaxed, communal feel. Whether you’re exploring provocative exhibits, sipping cocktails at the retro-inspired Tower Bar, or enjoying a concert on the Green, it’s a welcoming space for art lovers, families, and curious visitors. The mix of industrial roots and modern creativity makes every visit feel fresh and inspiring. 🌅 Enjoy!The Momentary is a celebration of art, music, and community in the heart of Bentonville. Whether you’re drawn to its innovative exhibits, historic roots, or vibrant atmosphere, it’s a place where creativity thrives and every moment feels alive. Visit and discover your own artistic spark!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a world-class destination showcasing the breadth of American creativity. Founded by Alice Walton, this museum blends stunning architecture, diverse art collections, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for art lovers and casual explorers alike. Here’s a deep dive into what makes Crystal Bridges a cultural gem.🕰️ Historical RelevanceOpened on November 11, 2011, Crystal Bridges was established to celebrate American art and make it accessible to all. The museum’s name, inspired by the crystal-clear springs on its 120-acre grounds, reflects its connection to the Ozark landscape. Its collection spans five centuries of American art, from colonial portraits to contemporary works, with pieces by icons like Norman Rockwell, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol. Crystal Bridges also acknowledges the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw peoples, whose ancestral lands it occupies, weaving regional history into its mission of art education and community engagement.🏛️ Architectural GemsDesigned by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, Crystal Bridges is a masterpiece of organic architecture, harmonizing with its natural surroundings. The museum’s distinctive copper-clad, bridge-like structures span two spring-fed ponds, creating a seamless blend of art and nature. Its glass-walled galleries and curved roofs offer breathtaking views of the forested grounds, while indoor spaces like the Great Hall provide versatile settings for events. The 120-acre campus includes sculpture trails, outdoor installations, and walking paths, inviting visitors to explore art both inside and out. Safdie’s design earned international acclaim for its innovative integration of architecture and environment.🔍 Fun Facts Massive Collection: The museum houses over 4,000 works, including masterpieces like Norman Rockwell’s Rosie the Riveter and Maxfield Parrish’s The Lantern Bearers. Outdoor Art Trails: Over 3.5 miles of trails feature sculptures, such as James Turrell’s Skyspace and Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room, blending art with nature. Frank Lloyd Wright House: The museum relocated and restored the 1954 Bachman-Wilson House, a rare example of Wright’s Usonian architecture, open for tours. Free Admission: General admission is free, thanks to Walmart’s sponsorship, making art accessible to all. Culinary Delights: Eleven, the on-site restaurant, offers farm-to-table dining with views of the museum’s serene ponds. 📌 Know Before You Go 📍 Address: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712 📞 Phone: (479) 418-5700 🌐 Website: www.crystalbridges.org 💳 Cost of Admission: General admission is free, courtesy of Walmart. Special exhibitions or events may have fees (check website for details). Bachman-Wilson House tours require a separate ticket, typically $10–$15. ⏰ Hours of Operation: Monday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; Wednesday–Friday, 11:00 AM–8:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Eleven restaurant hours may vary; confirm online. 🎶 Vibe: Crystal Bridges exudes a warm, inclusive atmosphere, blending high-caliber art with the tranquil beauty of the Ozarks. Whether you’re strolling the sculpture trails, marveling at iconic paintings, or dining at Eleven, the vibe is both sophisticated and approachable, welcoming art enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers. The seamless integration of indoor galleries and outdoor spaces creates a serene yet inspiring experience. 🌅 Enjoy!Crystal Bridges is more than a museum—it’s a celebration of American art, nature, and community. Whether you’re exploring its trails, admiring its architecture, or diving into its vast collection, a visit to Crystal Bridges is an unforgettable journey through creativity and connection. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in this Ozark treasure.
The Amazeum
Welcome to the Amazeum--a 50,000-square-foot hub of interactive learning, offering exhibits like the Nickelodeon PlayLab and General Mills Lift, Load & Haul. Visitors can tinker, climb, or explore outdoor play spaces, fostering creativity and collaboration. As a cornerstone of Northwest Arkansas’s family-friendly scene, it complements nearby cultural gems like Crystal Bridges, drawing locals and tourists to engage with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) in a dynamic, welcoming setting.🕰️ Historical RelevanceOpened in July 2015, the Scott Family Amazeum was founded by Lee and Linda Scott through the Walton Family Foundation to foster lifelong learning and community engagement. Inspired by the innovative spirit of Northwest Arkansas, the museum has welcomed over 1 million visitors, offering hands-on experiences that reflect the region’s culture, history, and landscape. Named after its benefactors, the Amazeum continues to evolve as a dynamic educational hub, encouraging creativity and discovery in Bentonville’s growing cultural scene.🏛️ Architectural GemsDesigned by Lake|Flato Architects, the Amazeum’s 50,000-square-foot facility is a modern marvel that blends seamlessly with its Ozark surroundings. Its open, light-filled design features interactive exhibit halls, including the Hershey’s Lab and 3M Tinkering Hub, with a signature climbable tree canopy offering panoramic views. Nearly one acre of outdoor space, including a learning lawn and water play area, encourages free-range exploration. The architecture emphasizes sustainability and accessibility, creating an inviting space that enhances the hands-on STEAM experience.🔍 Fun Facts Interactive Exhibits: Features zones like the Walmart Market, where kids can play shopper, and a real truck cab in the General Mills Life, Load, & Haul exhibit. Traveling Exhibits: Quarterly rotating exhibits from national museums keep the experience fresh and engaging. Climbable Canopy: The tree canopy climber, a Bentonville icon, challenges visitors with heights and tight spaces, ending with a stairway descent. Curiosity Corner: The gift shop doubles as an educational hub, offering STEAM-focused toys and resources. Priceless Nights: Sponsored by the Willard and Pat Walker Family Foundation, these Wednesday evening events offer pay-as-you-wish admission. 📌 Know Before You Go 📍 Address: 1009 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712 📞 Phone: (479) 696-9280 🌐 Website: www.amazeum.org 💳 Cost of Admission: $14 for adults and children 2+; free for members and kids under 2. Special tickets for Hershey’s Lab may be required (available at the welcome desk). ⏰ Hours of Operation: Monday, Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM; Wednesday Priceless Nights, 4:30 PM–7:30 PM; closed Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. 🎶 Vibe: The Amazeum buzzes with joyful, hands-on energy, perfect for families, school groups, and curious minds. Its interactive exhibits and outdoor play spaces create a lively, welcoming atmosphere that sparks creativity. Visitors describe it as a “hub for fun and discovery,” where kids and adults alike can tinker, explore, and learn in a colorful, Ozark-inspired setting. 🌅 Enjoy!The Amazeum is a celebration of curiosity and creativity, blending Bentonville’s innovative spirit with playful learning. Whether you’re climbing the canopy, experimenting in the Tinkering Hub, or splashing outdoors, it’s a place where STEAM comes alive. Plan your visit for an unforgettable adventure in discovery!
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve
Welcome to Coler Mountain Bike Preserve! Nestled just minutes from downtown Bentonville, this isn't just a mountain bike park; it's an adventure playground for riders of all levels, where trails weave through nature, art, and community. Whether you're here to shred the mountain bike trails, enjoy a leisurely walk, or camp under the stars, Coler invites you to explore, connect with nature, and have fun in one of the most vibrant outdoor spaces in Northwest Arkansas.Historical Highlights A New Chapter: Opened in phases starting in 2017, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve was developed on land dedicated to enhancing Bentonville's reputation as a cycling mecca. Peel Compton Foundation: The preserve is managed by the Peel Compton Foundation, known for its commitment to community enrichment through nature, education, recreation, and preservation. Cultural Enhancement: Designed to honor the area's first settlers, the park integrates local history and culture into its trails and installations, providing a unique blend of outdoor adventure and heritage. Architectural Gems The Hub: A striking 20-foot tall steel-and-wood structure at the mountain's top, The Hub is both a functional and artistic landmark, serving as a launch point for various trails. Airship Coffee: An architectural gem in itself, this modern, bike/hike-in-only coffee shop blends seamlessly into the natural environment, offering a unique rest stop for adventurers. The Rise: Inspired by workout stairs in Santa Monica, this 185-step ascent to "The Hub" is not only a physical challenge but also an architectural nod to enhancing pedestrian experiences amidst nature. Fun Facts Art in Nature: Along the trails, you'll encounter various art installations, including the "Singing Bridge," which uses wind to create music, enhancing the sensory experience of your ride or walk. Inclusive Trails: With over 20 miles of trails designed for beginners to experts, Coler ensures there's something for everyone, including accessible paths for those with mobility challenges. Camping Experience: Offering both tent and camper sites, the preserve provides a unique camping experience where you can wake up to the sounds of nature and the thrill of nearby trails. Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is more than a trail system; it's a community hub where nature, art, and outdoor sports converge. With its diverse trail offerings, stunning architecture, and commitment to inclusivity, Coler is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Bentonville's outdoor offerings.
Museum of Native American History
The Museum of Native American History (MONAH) in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a captivating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples across the Americas. With its extensive collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits, MONAH offers an educational and inspiring experience for all ages. Here’s a closer look at what makes this museum a must-visit destination in Northwest Arkansas.🕰️ Historical RelevanceFounded in 2006 by David Bogle, a Cherokee Nation citizen, the Museum of Native American History began as a private collection and evolved into a public institution celebrating Indigenous cultures. The museum’s exhibits span over 14,000 years, from Paleo-Indian times to the historic period, covering the diverse histories of Native American tribes. Located in Bentonville, a city with a growing cultural scene, MONAH acknowledges the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw peoples whose ancestral lands it occupies, making it a vital resource for understanding Native American contributions to the region and beyond.🏛️ Architectural GemsHoused in a modern, purpose-built facility, MONAH’s design prioritizes accessibility and engagement. The museum’s layout is organized chronologically, guiding visitors through five time periods with clear signage and audio guides. Its clean, open interior features high ceilings and large windows, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Notable exhibits include a fossilized mammoth skeleton at the entrance and a walk-in tipi, while display cases showcase intricate pottery, arrowheads, and headdresses. The exterior’s simple yet elegant design blends with Bentonville’s urban aesthetic, complemented by a small gift shop offering Native American crafts.🌟 Tripadvisor HighlightsMONAH earns a stellar 4.8/5 rating on Tripadvisor from numerous reviews, praised for its “informative and well-curated” exhibits. Visitors highlight the self-guided audio tour, comprehensive artifact collection, and the “incredible” mammoth skeleton, with one reviewer noting it’s a “hidden gem” for history buffs. The friendly staff and free admission are frequently lauded, though some suggest allocating at least 1–2 hours to fully explore. Check out more reviews here.🎥 YouTube VideoStep into the rich heritage of MONAH with this delightful video.:. It showcases the museum’s artifacts, mammoth skeleton, and immersive exhibits.🔍 Fun Facts Fossilized Mammoth: A real woolly mammoth skeleton greets visitors, setting the stage for a 14,000-year journey. Tipi Experience: Features a life-sized tipi where kids can search for arrowheads, a hands-on favorite. Extensive Collection: Houses thousands of artifacts, including rare pottery with animal and human effigies. Audio Guides: Offers free handheld audio devices for self-guided tours, enhancing the educational experience. Traveler’s Choice: Consistently ranks in Tripadvisor’s top 10% of attractions worldwide for its quality and visitor satisfaction. 📌 Know Before You Go 📍 Address: 202 SW O St, Bentonville, AR 72712 📞 Phone: (479) 273-2456 🌐 Website: www.monah.org 💳 Cost of Admission: Free; donations appreciated to support museum operations. ⏰ Hours of Operation: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Sundays and major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day). Confirm online for updates. 🎶 Vibe: MONAH radiates a reflective, educational vibe, blending reverence for Native American heritage with welcoming Ozark hospitality. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious visitors, its engaging exhibits and serene setting create an inspiring atmosphere, ideal for learning and connection. The Museum of Native American History is a profound journey through Indigenous cultures, offering a rich tapestry of artifacts and stories. Whether marveling at ancient pottery or exploring the tipi, this Bentonville gem promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to discover the heart of Native American heritage!
The Peel Mansion
Welcome to the Peel Mansion in Bentonville, Arkansas, where history isn't just seen but felt. This beautiful mansion, built in 1875, invites you into the world of the late 19th century, with a tale of intrigue involving the English twins who once called it home.Historical Highlights Samuel and Mary Peel: Constructed by Samuel West Peel, a prominent lawyer and politician, and his wife Mary Emaline, the mansion was a symbol of post-Civil War prosperity. A Family Legacy: Beyond the Peels, the mansion had various owners, but one story that captures the imagination involves the English family, particularly the twins, Margery and Elizabeth. The English Twins: In the 1920s, W. L. English, an agricultural agent for the Frisco Railroad, bought the mansion and turned the surrounding land into an apple orchard. His daughters, Margery and Elizabeth, became part of the mansion's folklore. Architectural Gems Italianate Villa Style: With its central tower and intricate detailing, the mansion showcases the elegance of the period. Restoration and Preservation: The mansion's charm lies in its well-preserved or meticulously restored Victorian-era features, including wallpapers and furnishings. Fun Facts Twin Tale: Margery and Elizabeth English were known for their adventures on the farm, listening to the tales of the mansion's supposed hauntings from tenant workers. The Ghostly Incident: One chilling story tells of Margery, who, while playing tennis, suddenly felt a sharp pain in her side. The doctor found nothing initially, but it was later understood that her appendix was on the wrong side—a rare condition for twins. She was operated on in the mansion, with the room becoming a temporary operating theater. Margery "died" during surgery, only to revive, believed to have fallen into a medically-induced coma, leading to rumors of the mansion being haunted. Apple Orchard: The English family's ambition to turn the mansion's lands into an apple orchard adds another layer to its history. The Peel Mansion is not only a marvel of architecture and history but also a keeper of intriguing tales like that of the English twins. Visiting here is like walking through the pages of a historical novel, where every room has a story, with the tale of Margery and Elizabeth especially captivating.Step into the Peel Mansion for a journey through time, where history and mystery intertwine, especially with the enigmatic story of the English twins. It's an experience that promises to leave you with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the past.
