A New American Town - Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville, Arkansas's oldest church, is home to one of the most iconic restaurants in town because of its historic Gothic-era architecture and unique experiences from rooftop to basement.  In this episode, Natalie welcomes Head Chef Neal Grey and General Manager John Robinson to discuss why it's so unforgettable. From the restaurant’s architectural roots to the story behind the menu an...

In this episode, we explore a game-changing affordable housing initiative designed to support Bentonville’s essential workers, including teachers, hospitality staff, and service industry professionals through the new partnership between Bentonville ISD and the Excellerate Foundation.  Hear from the Superintendent of Bentonville Schools, Dr. Debbie Jones, and our CEO, Kalene Griffith, about the pro...

Join the movement and sign up today!  TriFest for MS began when Jo Rampey, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, set out to complete a personal triathlon, sparking a movement that has since raised nearly $900,000 for MS research.  What started as a private challenge became a beloved Labor Day weekend tradition in Bentonville, drawing hundreds to celebrate determination and community. Held in an urban...

Join Visit Bentonville and creator Nichole as we share expert local insights on how to make the most of your time in Bentonville, Arkansas! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to the MTB Capital of the World, this episode is packed with insider tips on top attractions, outdoor adventures, and must-visit spots around town. From biking downtown and exploring world-class t...

Get the inside scoop on the "Bentonville Best Practices Lab" Hear from Kalene Griffith, CEO of Visit Bentonville on the vision behind the program, as well as recent attendee, Amy Stearns, executive Director of Project 412 in Minnesota. From speakers, activities, events, and tours to discovering hidden gems and indulging in unforgettable dining experiences, we plan a unique itinerary that...

Join Bike Bentonville as we share expert local insights on how to make the most of your time mountain biking in Bentonville, Arkansas! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to the MTB Capital of the World, this episode is packed with insider tips with pro rider and coach, Anneke Beerten, on the Slaughter Pen trails, outdoor adventures, and must-visit spots around town. Fr...

Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) has the most nonstop flights in the region with 26 flights across America.  Join us as we talk to Breeze Airlines—the fastest-growing airline in the world focused on high-quality travel experiences while remaining cost-effective for anyone's budget. Breeze currently offers 4 nonstop flight options to Bentonville: New Orleans, Pensacola, Tampa, and Orl...

Step back in time with us as we explore one of Bentonville’s most treasured landmarks—the Peel Museum and Botanical Garden, now celebrating its 150th anniversary. In this episode, take a journey through the rich history of the Peel family home, its decline and remarkable restoration, and its role today as a vibrant cultural destination. Together, we’ll uncover the stories behind this iconic estate...

Bentonville is home to the Museum of Native American History (MONAH), known for its collection of thousands of artifacts from indigenous cultures across the Americas, and always free admission.  Join us as we talk to MONAH about what makes the museum so special, what you can't miss, and why it needs to be apart of your Bentonville itinerary.  Find out more about MONAH here: monah.org A New Am...

Natalie sat down with Northwest Arkansas native and folk singer Jude Brothers to dive into what we can look forward to this year at FreshGrass and how this area has shaped her as a musician.  Set in the beautiful Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, FreshGrass at The Momentary is a two-day, all-ages festival that brings in the best in American and global roots music and folk traditions—right in...

Fresh seafood in landlocked Northwest Arkansas sounds impossible, but Barry Furuseth and his team at Blu Fresh Fish Marketplace have turned that impossibility into a nationally recognized achievement. Tune in to learn  how ocean-fresh fish makes its way to the Ozarks. Come experience why seafood enthusiasts from across the region make the journey to this unassuming garage-turned-restaurant that&ap...

Bentonville, Arkansas was recently spotlighted in The New York Times for its transformation from a business hub to a world-class cycling destination. In this episode, host Nat welcomes local leaders in the cycling industry to reflect on the national attention and share a deeper look into how we got here. Together, they explore what makes Bentonville’s trail system unique, how the shift to a leisur...

Join host Nat Ross, Mountain Bike Hall of Famer, as he welcomes 9x World Champion Kenny Belaey, founder of the Bentonville Bike Fest, for an inside look at one of the most exciting cycling events in North America. 🎉🚴‍♂️ Now in its fifth year, Bike Fest has grown from a grassroots event into a global celebration of all things biking, featuring: ✅ Action-packed stunt shows and jaw-dropping trial...

Join Visit Bentonville as we share expert local insights on how to make the most of your time in Bentonville, Arkansas! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to the MTB Capital of the World, this episode is packed with insider tips on top attractions, outdoor adventures, and must-visit spots around town. From biking downtown and exploring world-class trails to discovering...

Spring is one of the best times to experience Bentonville’s vibrant arts and outdoor scene! In this episode, we’re joined by an expert from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary to talk about the ultimate ways to enjoy the season—from art-filled nature trails to live music performances, seasonal exhibits like "KAWS:FAMILY," and immersive experiences. Whether you'r...

Join Visit Bentonville with travel creator and influencer Amy Eastin of Everyday Outdoor Family about the best family road trip to Bentonville, Arkansas!  Amy shares her expert tips on biking downtown, exploring scenic trails, and visiting top family-friendly spots like the Amazeum and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. From unforgettable meals to outdoor adventures, Amy discusses how her family made t...

Discover how Northwest Arkansas Community College here in Bentonville is shaping the future of outdoor recreation! In this episode, we dive into the Trail Tech program with a current student and instructor to learn about how they are transforming trail-building with cutting-edge technology, hands-on learning, and more.  Learn how you can get involved in creating the next generation of trails and o...

Looking for outdoor adventures in Bentonville? In this episode of A New American Town, we chat with Kyla Templeton from Bike School Bentonville Whitney Selk and Lane Berrey from the Peel Compton Foundation about the exciting spring and summer camps happening in town! From mountain bike skills classes to guided rides, archery, and wetland tours, there’s something for everyone—kids and adults alike!...

Join host Nat Ross and special guest Matt Timboe as they dive into everything you need to know about visiting Coler Mountain Bike Preserve in Bentonville, AR.  From world-class mountain biking and scenic trails to unique camping experiences and the hidden gems of this outdoor oasis—this episode is your guide to experiencing Coler like a local! 🌲☕🚴 Learn more about Coler Mountain Bike Preserve h...

Bentonville is known for its world-class trails, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly attractions—and at the heart of it all is the Scott Family Amazeum, an interactive museum designed to inspire curiosity, learning, and creativity in visitors of all ages. Join us as we talk to Holland Hayden about how the Amazeum brings hands-on learning to life through innovative exhibits, STEAM programming,...

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, with three Fortune 500 companies, plus numerous businesses and startups eager to contribute to the local innovation scene. Join us as we talk to Nelson Peacock, President/CEO of the NWA Council—a private, nonprofit organization working to advance job opportunities, talent recruitment, physical infrastructure, health care, and...

Did you know that the Walton Design Excellence Program promotes the highest level of design and belonging in Northwest Arkansas? This week you'll find out all of the projects, how to throw your hat in the ring, on and some favorite Bentonville architectural moments including these Design Excellence Projects: Thaden School Helen Walton Children's Enrichment Center Quilt of Parks Crystal B...

Meet Coach Kyle Lem, head softball coach at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and champion behind the return of the Alvy Early Memorial Classic Softball tournament.  He and Visit Bentonville CEO, Kalene Griffith, joined us to talk about softball, women's sports, and the amazing amenities here in Bentonville. From the economic impact of sports on a destination and why Visit Bentonville...

Meet Lauren Pickman, businesswoman, race director, cancer survivor, wife, mother, and voice behind OZ Trails and Will Eubanks, experienced arts leader in bringing world-class, community-oriented experiences to Northwest Arkansas. They give us a general overview of the Send it South Bike and Music Festival coming to Bentonville, AR this February 7-9, 2025. Find more information about Send it South...

Join us for a look into Bentonville's cultural hotspot, as we chat with the Momentary about the upcoming season of indoor and outdoor concerts, the nightclub series, art, and more. We'll unveil the 2025 lineup featuring artists like Megan Maroney, Real Estate, and Shemedia Copeland. Discover the family-friendly FreshGrass Festival, a celebration of American global roots and folk music, c...