Downtown Bentonville & Market District | Neighborhood Guide - Rx Catering NWA
Downtown Bentonville & Market District
Explore the two vibrant districts that define Bentonville—from the historic charm of the Square to the modern, industrial cool of 8th Street.
Bentonville's energy is centered in two distinct but connected neighborhoods: the Historic Square, with its classic Americana feel and origins as SamWalton's retail birthplace, and the Market District (8th Street), an industrial hub of culinary innovation and contemporary art anchored by The Momentary.
Connected by trail and just minutes apart, these districts offer the best of the "New Ozarks"—a unique blend of small-town charm and cosmopolitan sophistication that has made Bentonville one of America's most exciting small cities. Whether you're exploring the Walmart Museum, grabbing ramen at 8th Street Market, or catching a show at The Momentary, these districts showcase why Bentonville has become an international destination. Rx Catering NWA serves corporate lunches, parties, and events throughout both of these bustling districts.
The Historic Square
The heartbeat of Bentonville. A perfect square of local shops, restaurants, and history. See full Bentonville guide →
The Walmart Museum
The original Walton's 5&10 store. Step back in time to the 1950s, see Sam Walton's office, and grab a scoop at the Spark Café Soda Fountain.
The Pressroom
A modern community gathering spot on the Square. Known for excellent coffee, brunch, and a lively atmosphere that buzzes from morning to night.
21c Museum Hotel & The Hive
Just off the Square, this boutique hotel features a free contemporary art museum open 24/7 and The Hive, one of NWA's most acclaimed restaurants.
8th Street Market District
A culinary and cultural hub located in a converted cheese factory and industrial park.
8th Street Market
A community-focused food hub featuring Bike Rack Brewing, Yeyo's (Mexican street food), Markham & Fitz Chocolate, and The Holler.
The Momentary
A contemporary art space transformed from a cheese factory. Hosts visual arts, music festivals, and culinary experiences. A satellite of Crystal Bridges.
CO-OP Ramen
Located in 8th St Market, serving lifestyle-focused ramen with rich broths and fresh ingredients. A favorite for lunch and dinner.
Living Like a Local
Best spots for coffee, biking, and hanging out experienced by locals.
Onyx Coffee Lab
With a location on the Square and the "Pink Onyx" at the Momentary, this locally-grown brand serves some of the world's best coffee.
Compton Gardens
A peaceful woodland sanctuary connecting downtown to Crystal Bridges via trail. A beautiful walk or ride right from the Square.
The Evolution of the Square
Bentonville's Square has been the seat of Benton County since 1836 and served as a typical rural county courthouse center for over a century. But the Square's destiny changed on May 9, 1950, when a young Missouri merchant named Sam Walton opened "Walton's 5&10" on the west side of the square. That modest store—which you can still visit today as the Walmart Museum—planted the seeds for what would become the world's largest retailer.
For decades, the Square retained its small-town character even as Walmart grew into a global giant. The real transformation began in the 2000s when the Walton family began investing heavily in making Bentonville a cultural destination. In 2011, Crystal Bridges Museum opened, putting the city on the international art map. The surrounding buildings have been painstakingly restored to house modern boutiques, chef-driven restaurants, and creative offices—all while preserving the historic character that makes the Square special.
In 2020, following nationwide conversations about Confederate monuments, the statue that had stood in the square since 1908 was relocated to a private park. It was replaced with a unifying public art installation, marking a new chapter in the Square's history while honoring its role as a gathering place for all of Bentonville's residents.
Farmers Market & Events
Bentonville Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning (April-October), the entire
Square shuts down to traffic. It's one of the best markets in the South, featuring local produce,
flowers, crafts, and live music. A must-visit visitor experience.
First Fridays: A massive block party held on the first Friday of every month (warm
seasons). Each month has a theme, food trucks, and free entertainment.
Lighting of the Square: In November, the Square transforms into a winter wonderland
with millions of lights. The official lighting ceremony is a major community tradition.
Walking the Market District
Start: The Momentary
Begin at this contemporary art space (free admission). Grab a coffee at the Onyx Pink House and explore the galleries.
Eat: 8th Street Market
Walk across the street to the market. Grab lunch at Yeyo's or a chocolate board at Markham & Fitz.
Drink: The Holler
A "local hang" inside the market. Play shuffleboard, work on your laptop, or enjoy a local craft beer.
Ride: The Greenway
Rent a bike from a nearby station and hop on the Razorback Greenway which runs directly behind the market, connecting you to Crystal Bridges in 15 minutes.
Parking & Logistics
City Lots: Free public parking lots are available one block off the Square in every
direction.
Market Parking: 8th Street Market has a large free lot, though it fills up during
festivals.
Shuttles: A free connector shuttle often runs between the Square, The Momentary,
and Crystal Bridges. Check the "Visit Bentonville" app for schedules.
Hosting a Corporate Lunch or Event?
Rx Catering NWA delivers directly to offices and venues in Downtown Bentonville and the Market District. Fresh, reliable, and delicious.
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