Bentonville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Bentonville, where to stay and eat, local culture, safety guidelines, transportation options and more.


Located in the scenic Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, Bentonville is a charming small town enough to make you feel like you took a step back in time with its historic buildings and serene atmosphere. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the must-visit attractions, outdoor activities, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and buy souvenirs, local culture, safety guidelines, and transportation options to make your Bentoville trip unforgettable.

Introduction to Bentonville

Bentonville is a tiny, picturesque town situated in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley which offers visitors the chance to explore historic sites, breathe fresh air and enjoy the verdant surroundings. This thriving town is home to a population of around 1500 people who decorate their main street with flowers and pride. With Civil War battlefields, historic museums, delicious food, and charming bed and breakfasts, Bentonville is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Bentonville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bentonville is home to several historically significant sites worth visiting, such as:

  • (The Bentonville Battlefield) This was the site of the last major battle of the Civil War in North Carolina.

  • (The House in the Horseshoe Historical Site) This historic house was owned by Governor Benjamin Williams in past times and was involved in a skirmish in the Revolutionary War.

  • (The Sampson County History Museum) This museum displays artifacts and exhibits that depict the history of Sampson County and the town of Bentonville.

Natural Attractions of Bentonville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bentonville is situated in the Shenandoah Valley, surrounded by lush forests, rivers, mountains, and valleys. Here are the top nature attractions worth exploring:

  • (The Little River) Take a dip in this sparkling river or go for a peaceful tubing ride.
  • (The Horse Shoe Farm Park) This park is perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Take a tour of the farmstead, try your hand at fishing or settle in for some bird watching as bird watching bliss settles in..
  • (The Onslow Creek) Catch some fish or have a peaceful paddle in this creek. Enjoy the sunset above the ridge while you paddle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bentonville

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, there are plenty of options to explore. You can hike the trails at:

  • (The Bentonville Battlefield) Explore the battlefield trails and study the markers that bear witness to the area’s storied past.

  • (The Black River Nature Trail) This trail showcases a diverse array of wildlife as well as the native flora and fauna of the area, perfect for hikers of all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Bentonville: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things you can do while visiting Bentonville:

  • Visit the Bentonville Battlefield Historical Site and catch a glimpse of the area’s history.
  • Take a excursion down the serene Little River and tube or fish until sunset.
  • Go biking on the historic scenic byway, Peaceful River Road. There are endless trails to explore by bike in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bentonville

Day 1: Visit the Bentonville battlefield site for a rich experience. Day 2: Spend a day at the Little River and try some tubing or fishing. Day 3: Hike the Black River Nature Trail and take in the wildlife and nature around you Day 4: Visit the historical House in the Horseshoe and learn about Revolutionary War history. Day 5: Try your hand at fishing in Onslow Creek or relax by the stream. Day 6: Take part in a guided tour of Bentonville’s historically significant sites, such as the Sampson County History Museum. Day 7: Explore the area’s local food, drink, and souvenir scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Bentonville

Must-Try Dishes

Bentonville is also well-known for its delectable food and drink. Don’t forget to try:

  • (The Bentonville BBQ Joint) Enjoy some of the best southern-style barbecue in the town.
  • (The Little River Café) This delicious café offers homemade pastries, savory dishes, and so much more.
  • (Sampson Community College Restaurant) This renown culinary program is a must for locals and visitors alike.

Local Beverages

You’ll also want to quench your thirst with some refreshing local drinks:

  • (Bentonville Brewery) Sample local craft beer, brews, and sours brewed right here in the town.
  • (Vino and Brew) Enjoy a glass of wine or an ice-cold beer as you take in the beauty of Shenandoah Valley.

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

Bentonville has plenty of lodging options available to suit every style and budget:

  • (The Bentonville Bed and Breakfast) This historic B&B is a favorite among visitors to the town, providing accommodation in a converted 19th-century farmhouse.
  • (The Little River Inn) This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with spectacular views of the Little River valley.
  • (The Bentonville Hostel) Offering simple rooms at budget prices, this hostel is perfect for backpackers and adventurers on a budget.

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

Don’t leave Bentonville without taking home some local souvenirs:

  • (The Bentonville BBQ Joint) Take some amazing southern-style barbecue sauce and rub with you to cook an unforgettable meal back home.
  • (The Bentonville Brewery) Bring home a few local craft beers and brews to enjoy.
  • (The Little River Café) Try some homemade pastries, cookies, and other specialty items as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bentonville

Bentonville’s culture is deeply rooted in its rich history. The town is deeply connected to its rural agricultural surrounding; their vibrant community provides a secure tryout of rural livelihood where farmers work in tandem. Visitors will enjoy the peaceful and quiet tempo that the town offers.

Best Time to Visit Bentonville

Bentonville is a year-round destination, and visitors can enjoy different activities and weather in every season. The fall season showcases beautiful foliage, while summer is perfect for outdoor adventures and water activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bentonville

Do:

  • Enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors in the area’s various nature trails and parks.
  • Taste a variety of local cuisines and locally brewed beverages.
  • Take part in a guided tour of the town’s historical sites and museums.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter in the Little River, a precious natural resource of the area.
  • Do not be disrespectful to the area’s rural and country folk that are protected by the town administration.
  • Do not undertake any physically demanding or adventurous activity such as hiking or climbing without proper recognition of the safety risks involved.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bentonville

Bentonville is generally considered a safe town with a low crime rate. Visitors should keep their belongings safe while enjoying outdoor adventures, and take standard precautions while in the town precinct.

Health in Bentonville

Bentonville has a medical center in close proximity, and visitors should take appropriate physical precautions when engaging in rigorous activities in the area.

Getting to Bentonville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bentonville

  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport - 82 miles

Bus Stations Near Bentonville

  • Greyhound Bus Station Fayetteville - 33 miles

Other Options

  • The town is easily accessible by car. Major highways like US 701 and US 421 connect the area to the rest of the state and nearby states like South Carolina.

How to Get Around in Bentonville

The town is easily accessible for walking or biking, although a car provides more flexibility and freedom to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Bentonville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are the following places you can visit next from Bentonville:

  • (Fort Macon State Park, NC) This state park offers sandy beaches and military history.
  • (Wilmington, NC) Visit historic downtown Wilmington to explore shops, restaurants, and galleries.
  • (Morehead City, NC) This coastal town is famous for its seafood and scenic boardwalks.

Conclusion

Bentonville offers an authentic southern hospitality experience to visitors with its rich history, great food, and laid back atmosphere. With outdoor adventures, historical sites, and rustic charm, it’s a must-visit destination for all. We hope this travel guide will inspire you to make a trip of your own to this intriguing little town!