Benton Travel Guide

Plan your Arkansas trip with this travel guide to Benton. Discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this vibrant city in the south of USA.


Introduction to Benton

Benton is a charming city in the heart of Arkansas, surrounded by rolling hills and green forests. Its historic downtown area has a quaint atmosphere, with antique shops and local restaurants lining the streets. Benton’s rich cultural history dates back to the Civil War era, with numerous historic sites and museums that showcase the city’s unique past. In addition to its fascinating history, Benton is also known for its outdoor activities, with hiking and biking trails abound.

List of Places to Visit in Benton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Benton has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical sites. The Saline County History and Heritage Society is dedicated to preserving the history of Saline County, with exhibits on early settlers, Native Americans, and Civil War soldiers. The Gann Museum of Saline County is also worth a visit, featuring a collection of artifacts from the Civil War era.

The Old Statehouse Museum is another must-see attraction in Benton. This historic building served as the state capitol until 1911 and now houses a museum that showcases Arkansas’s political history. Another notable site is the McAlmont Cemetery, where many of Benton’s Civil War soldiers are buried.

Natural Attractions of Benton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Benton is surrounded by natural beauty, with ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Ouachita National Forest is a vast wilderness that offers hiking and camping opportunities, with trails that wind through dense forests and scenic overlooks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Pinnacle Mountain State Park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, with hiking trails that lead to the top of a 1,000-foot mountain. The park also has picnic areas, boat rentals, and opportunities for fishing and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Benton

Benton has a plethora of hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. The Arkansas River Trail is one of the most popular routes, stretching for 17 miles along the Arkansas River and offering scenic views of the water. The Delta Heritage Trail State Park is another option, with 73 miles of trails that wind through forests and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Benton: Activities and Tours

For a unique way to experience the city, take a tour of the Saline County Courthouse Bell Tower. This historic tower offers stunning views of downtown Benton and beyond. The Benton Farmers Market is a great place to shop for local produce and crafts, while the Sunset Lake Park offers a relaxing getaway with its beautiful lake and picnic areas. For those interested in the arts, the Royal Players Theater is a great spot to catch a play or musical performance.

Week-Long Itinerary for Benton

Day 1: Visit the Old Statehouse Museum and the McAlmont Cemetery. Day 2: Hike the trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and enjoy a picnic lunch. Day 3: Take a tour of the Saline County Courthouse Bell Tower and visit the Benton Farmers Market. Day 4: Explore the exhibits at the Saline County History and Heritage Society and the Gann Museum of Saline County. Day 5: Spend the day at the Ouachita National Forest, hiking and enjoying the beautiful vistas. Day 6: Visit the Royal Players Theater and catch a play or musical performance. Day 7: Relax at Sunset Lake Park and enjoy a leisurely picnic.

Food and Drink Scene of Benton

Benton has a flourishing food and drink scene, with a range of local restaurants and bars offering a variety of cuisine and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

For a taste of southern cooking, try the fried catfish at the famous Wright’s Catfish Restaurant. The Eat My Catfish restaurant offers another take on this local favorite, with unique recipes featuring the delicious catfish. The Silks Bar and Grill is a great spot for steak-lovers, while the Riverside Grocery and Catering is known for its delicious barbecue.

Local Beverages

Benton is home to the Bentonville Brewing Company, which offers a range of locally brewed beers and hosts regular events and tastings. The Benton Wine and Spirits is another popular spot to sample local wines and beers.

Where to Stay in Benton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Benton has plenty of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. The Benton Inn is a historic hotel that has been serving visitors since 1928. The Country Inn and Suites and the Fairfield Inn and Suites are more modern options that offer amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Benton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Benton’s arts and crafts scene also offers unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home. The Arkansas House Gifts and More is a great spot for handmade crafts and locally-made products. The Book Warehouse is another favorite for book-lovers, with a vast collection of books on local history and culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Benton

Bentonans are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. Visitors are often struck by the warm welcome they receive while in the city. The city’s strong sense of community is also reflected in its many festivals and events, which celebrate everything from the arts to food and drink.

Best Time to Visit Benton

The best time to visit Benton is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Benton

Do:

  • Try the local catfish
  • Take a tour of the Saline County Courthouse Bell Tower
  • Hike the trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park
  • Attend the city’s many festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks or on the trails
  • Overlook the city’s many museums and historical sites
  • Skip out on sampling the local beer and wine

Safety and Health

Safety in Benton

Benton is a safe city to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly community. Visitors should always take common safety precautions like locking their cars and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Benton

Benton has several medical facilities, including Saline Memorial Hospital and the CHI St. Vincent Hospital, for any health needs of visitors.

Getting to Benton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Benton

The Little Rock National Airport is the nearest airport to Benton, just 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Benton

Benton is serviced by the Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA), with buses that connect to nearby cities like Little Rock and Hot Springs.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive in Benton by car, with several major highways running through the city.

How to Get Around in Benton

Visitors can rent a car or take public transportation to get around Benton. CATA buses connect the city’s major attractions and landmarks. Taxis and ride-share services are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Benton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Little Rock, the state capital, is just 20 miles away and offers a range of attractions, from the Bill Clinton Presidential Library to the Little Rock Zoo. The nearby Hot Springs National Park is another popular destination, known for its thermal springs and scenic trails.

Conclusion

Benton is a fascinating and charming city that offers something for everyone. From its historic sites and museums to its beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities, there is much to discover and explore in this vibrant city in the heart of Arkansas.