Tour Overview
Explore the remarkable rise of Walmart—from a small-town variety store to a global retail powerhouse—on this immersive sightseeing experience through Bentonville, Arkansas. Guided by Soul Compass Tours and Transport, this tour offers a unique, story-rich perspective on the people, places, and pivotal moments that built the Walmart legacy.
🛤️ What You’ll Experience:
1. The Walmart Museum & Original Walton’s 5&10
Begin where it all started—in the heart of downtown Bentonville. Step inside the recreated Walton’s 5&10 store, and explore rare memorabilia, early advertising, and Sam Walton’s famous red truck. It’s a charming and powerful look at the brand’s humble beginnings.
2. The Walmart Heritage Lab
Next, dive into the company’s innovation journey. The Heritage Lab blends history with forward-thinking design, showcasing how Walmart’s past continues to influence its future. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in the evolution of retail technology and storytelling.
3. The Bud Walton Home
We’ll cruise past the beautifully preserved home of Bud Walton, Sam’s brother and Walmart’s co-founder. Learn about Bud’s instrumental role in the early expansion years and his lasting impact on the company culture.
4. The Walton Family Home
Visit the entrance to the home where Sam and Helen Walton raised their children—an unassuming symbol of the family’s grounded lifestyle, even as the company rapidly grew.
5. Bentonville Cemetery
A quiet, reflective moment in the tour. Visit the resting place of Sam and Helen Walton, where we pause to honor their legacy and share stories of their deep connection to this community.
6. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
More than an art museum, Crystal Bridges is a shining example of how the Walton family has invested in culture and community. We’ll stop briefly to appreciate the stunning architecture and its connection to Walmart’s broader vision for Bentonville.
7. David Glass Technology Center
Named for former Walmart CEO David Glass, this tech hub symbolizes Walmart’s transformation into an omnichannel retailer. See where the next generation of retail innovation is being shaped.
8. The Original Walmart Home Office
Drive by the original headquarters—a no-frills, functional building that served as command central during Walmart’s explosive growth in the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
9. The New Walmart Home Office Campus
Cap off the tour with a glimpse into the future. The new home office campus is a sprawling, sustainable, and tech-forward development that reflects Walmart’s ongoing commitment to innovation, inclusion, and community investment.
Whether you're visiting for Shareholders Week, exploring the roots of retail, or just curious about the incredible Walton story, this tour offers rich insights and a deep appreciation for the people and places behind the Walmart name.
Hop in, buckle up, and let Soul Compass guide you through the past, present, and future of Walmart—right here in the place it calls home.