The Walmart Museum Heritage Lab
Explore the Walton 5 & 10 Museum: A Step Back in TimeWelcome to the Walton 5 & 10 Museum, an iconic stop on our Bentonville tour! This museum, located on the historic downtown square, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the early days of retail and the beginnings of the global retail giant, Walmart. It’s a place where history, architecture, and entrepreneurial spirit come together in an unforgettable experience.
Bud Walton Home
Bud Walton, co-founder of Walmart and younger brother to Sam Walton, played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in building the retail empire. Born in 1921 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, Bud shared Sam’s values of frugality, discipline, and hard work—traits shaped during the Great Depression and their early years in small-town America. After serving as a Navy pilot in World War II, Bud entered the retail business, joining Sam in expanding their variety store ventures. While Sam was the visionary and public face, Bud managed real estate and operations, helping drive Walmart’s rapid growth across the South and Midwest. Known for his quiet strength, sharp business sense, and deep loyalty to his brother, Bud was instrumental in shaping Walmart’s no-frills, customer-first culture. A generous philanthropist, he supported education, youth programs, and athletics—most notably contributing to the University of Arkansas’s Bud Walton Arena. Bud passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, humility, and transformative impact on American retail.
The Walton Family Property
Set just a few blocks from Bentonville’s historic square, the Walton family home is a modest, mid-century ranch-style house that quietly echoes the values of the family who once lived there. Built in the 1950s, the home features a low-pitched roof, wide front lawn, and a simple brick exterior typical of post-war American suburban design. While not architecturally grand, the house is rich in historical and emotional significance.This was the home of Sam and Helen Walton and their four children—Rob, Jim, Alice, and John—during the years when Sam was building his business, first with Ben Franklin franchises and eventually with the first Walton’s 5&10, which would evolve into Walmart. Even as his success grew, Sam Walton stayed committed to living simply. He was known to walk to work from this very home, passing neighbors with a smile and wave, often stopping to chat.Inside, the home reflected Helen Walton’s warm, practical style. Family meals were shared in a small dining room, and stories say the living room often doubled as a brainstorming space for early Walmart ideas. Sam was rarely flashy, and this home—free of elaborate features or luxury finishes—mirrored his values of humility, hard work, and focus on family.The Waltons raised their children with a deep sense of discipline and community involvement. The values learned within these walls would later influence their roles in philanthropy, business, and the arts. Even after Walmart’s meteoric rise, the family remained rooted in Bentonville, and this home stands as a living symbol of that commitment.Though not open to the public, the house is a meaningful stop on the Walmart History Sightseeing Tour. It serves as a quiet reminder that one of the most powerful retail legacies in the world was built not in boardrooms or skyscrapers, but here—on a quiet street, in a simple home, by a family who believed in doing things differently.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
WelcomeEmbark on an artistic journey at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where the vibrancy of American art meets the serene beauty of the Ozark landscape in Bentonville, Arkansas. This museum isn't just a place to view art; it's an immersive experience that intertwines creativity with nature, inviting you to explore the American spirit through a world-class collection and culinary delights of the high south.Nice to Know: Founded by Alice Walton, the museum is a nonprofit charitable organization for all to enjoy Nestled in the midst of 120 acres of lush Ozark forest surrounded by trails, sculptures, and gardens Home to architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s reconstructed Usonianstyle Bachman-Wilson House On-site restaurant, Eleven, sits on a glass-enclosed bridge overlooking the ponds Shop in the Crystal Bridges' Museum Store designed by local architect Marlon Blackwell Enjoy outdoor artwork and 5 miles of trails, which link to the downtown area There is no cost to view the museum's permanent collection. General admission to Crystal Bridges is always free and is sponsored by WalmartHistorical Highlights Founding Vision: Initiated by Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, Crystal Bridges opened its doors in 2011 with the mission to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit. Artistic Evolution: The museum's collection spans five centuries of American art, from colonial times through contemporary works, featuring icons like Asher B. Durand's "Kindred Spirits" and modern masterpieces by artists like Kerry James Marshall. Cultural Impact: Since its inception, it has become a cultural beacon, attracting visitors from across the globe to this unexpected art hub in Arkansas, enhancing the cultural landscape of the region. Architectural Gems Moshe Safdie’s Design: Celebrated architect Moshe Safdie designed the museum to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The building features pavilions that span a ravine, creating two spring-fed ponds. Natural Integration: The architecture not only houses art but also showcases the beauty of nature, with large windows and open spaces blurring the lines between indoors and the forested exterior. Bachman-Wilson House: A unique addition is the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Bachman-Wilson House, relocated from New Jersey to the museum grounds, offering a glimpse into Wright’s "Usonian" architectural philosophy. Fun Facts Free Admission: The permanent collection is free to view, thanks to an endowment from the Walton Family Foundation, making art accessible to everyone. Extensive Grounds: Over five miles of trails weave through the museum's 120-acre park, featuring outdoor sculptures and natural beauty. The Momentary: Crystal Bridges has expanded its influence with The Momentary, a contemporary art space focusing on visual and performing arts, located nearby. SummaryCrystal Bridges Museum of American Art is more than just an art museum; it's a celebration of American creativity set within a natural wonder. It's a place where art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families can find connection, inspiration, and education.Getting Here Address: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, USA Phone Number: (479) 418-5700 Website: www.crystalbridges.org Price of Admission: Free for the permanent collection Special exhibitions may have an additional fee. Hours of Operation: Monday: 11 AM - 6 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday to Friday: 11 AM - 6 PM (extended to 8 PM on Thursday and Friday) Saturday & Sunday: 10 AM - 6 PM Crystal Bridges invites you to step into a world where art and nature harmonize, offering not just a visit but an experience that will compel you to return time and again.
David Glass Technology Center (DGTC)
David Glass was a transformative figure in Walmart’s history, serving as CEO from 1988 to 2000. Under his leadership, Walmart expanded from a regional retailer into a global powerhouse, emphasizing technological innovation and operational efficiency. In recognition of his contributions, Walmart established the David Glass Technology Center (DGTC). This state-of-the-art facility serves as the hub for Walmart Global Tech and are pivotal in safeguarding the company's digital infrastructure .It's significant not only for its role in Walmart's operations but also for what it symbolizes: the company’s deep investment in technological infrastructure and digital resilience. The building itself is purpose-built to support a high level of security and technical functionality, with redundant power systems, advanced network architecture, and climate-controlled environments that ensure uninterrupted operation of mission-critical systems. Inside, cross-functional teams work on innovations that impact every level of Walmart’s business—from refining algorithms that improve supply chain efficiency to developing backend systems that support mobile payments, self-checkout, and real-time inventory tracking. The layout encourages agility and rapid iteration, with flexible workspaces and secure labs that support a 24/7 cycle of development and monitoring. As Walmart continues to evolve from a traditional retailer into a tech-enabled enterprise, the David Glass Technology Center is a physical and strategic anchor—an engine room for the digital systems that now drive modern retail. The DGTC embodies Glass's legacy by fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, ensuring that Walmart remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the retail industry.
New Walmart Global Campus
A new era of Walmart is taking shape in the heart of Bentonville. The New Walmart Home Office Campus is not just a collection of buildings—it’s a visionary workplace designed to honor the company's legacy while embracing its future. Covering over 350 acres and designed with sustainability, collaboration, and innovation in mind, the campus is a physical expression of the values Walmart was built on—and where it’s headed next.🌿 Sustainability at the CoreWalmart’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident at every turn. The campus is being built with LEED certification goals, featuring: Energy-efficient buildings Native landscaping Extensive natural light On-site solar power Rainwater harvesting systems Bike trails, green spaces, and walking paths connect the campus, promoting wellness and reducing reliance on cars. Even the parking structures are designed with the future in mind, including EV charging stations and mobility hubs for carpooling and alternative transport.🏢 A Workplace Designed for CollaborationThe old home office was famously frugal—Sam Walton’s leadership team once worked in tight quarters and used doors as desks. The new campus is still grounded in practicality but now infused with a modern, people-first design.Expect open, flexible workspaces instead of traditional office cubicles. The layout encourages cross-functional teamwork, with collaborative zones, shared amenities, and breakout areas designed to bring people together.The architecture prioritizes natural light, with large windows, interior gardens, and communal outdoor spaces. There are fitness facilities, cafes, reflection areas, and even a child care center—all aimed at supporting the well-being of the 14,000+ associates who will eventually work here.🧠 Innovation Meets Everyday EfficiencyThe campus reflects Walmart’s ongoing transformation into a tech-enabled, omnichannel retailer. It’s built to support cutting-edge logistics, real-time data analysis, and a seamless blending of digital and in-store experiences.On-site tech labs and smart conference spaces will allow teams to prototype faster, test new retail technologies, and adapt to customer needs in real time. It’s not just a home office—it’s an innovation ecosystem.🌍 Tied to Community and CultureEven as it reaches into the future, the new campus stays rooted in Northwest Arkansas. Materials and artwork from local sources are woven throughout the site. The layout encourages walking and biking to nearby attractions like Crystal Bridges, the Momentary, and downtown Bentonville.It also reflects Walmart’s commitment to inclusion and community connection, with thoughtful design features that promote accessibility, diversity, and openness.As your tour rolls by this landmark in progress, take a moment to imagine the future being built here—not just for Walmart, but for the tens of millions of customers, employees, and communities it serves. The New Walmart Home Office is more than a headquarters. It's a home for ideas, collaboration, and global impact—with deep Arkansas roots.
Legacy Walmart Home Office
Step back in time and experience where it all began at the Original Walmart Home Office in Bentonville, Arkansas. This unassuming building served as the nerve center for Walmart during its formative decades—from its early days as a regional discount store to its rapid rise as a global retail powerhouse. Walking through its halls offers a glimpse into the modest roots and relentless work ethic that shaped the company’s culture. You’ll find original furnishings, historical photos, and stories that bring to life the pioneering spirit of Sam Walton and his dedicated team. It stands as a landmark representing the company’s operational headquarters and is preserved as part of Walmart’s living history, reflecting the values of frugality, innovation, and customer focus that continue to define the brand today. Visitors are welcome to view the exterior and take in the context of the space, especially during Walmart Shareholders Week or on guided historical tours in the area.
