Locals Explore the Rich Cultural Heritage of Arkansas

For seasoned travelers Linda and Jerry Richman, the appeal of a journey was in discovering the unexpected in Arkansas. Having explored destinations in Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, and even the Arctic, the couple once slept in an ice hotel in Quebec and spent nights in a luxury treehouse in Panama.

Seeking a vacation with art and outdoor recreation, the Richmans “cottoned” to the “Natural State.”

Their trip to Arkansas began with short nonstop flight. During the 1960s, Arkansas became the base of the Walmart Corporation, headquartered in Bentonville.

The Mississippi and the Arkansas Rivers and the Ozarks ramble around. From the world of former President Bill Clinton to former Gov. Mike Huckabee, now U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Jewish influence has a place; and like Georgia, Arkansas invests in Israel Bonds.

Arkansas’ growing reputation as an arts destination is traced to Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Jerry Richman mused, “What does the richest woman in the world do with her fortune?”

Alice Walton has invested heavily in bringing world-class art experiences home, transforming Northwest Arkansas into a cultural hub. The centerpiece of that effort is Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville. Designed by acclaimed Israeli architect Moshe Safdie, the museum blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape of forests, ponds, and walking trails. Even more remarkable, admission is free.

Alice Walton’s influence extends beyond Crystal Bridges. She also helped establish The Momentary, a contemporary arts venue in Bentonville, and has supported the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock, helping ensure broad public access.

The Richmans began in Bentonville where construction cranes dot the skyline, reflecting the city’s rapid growth. A visit to the town square offered a glimpse into the company that transformed retailing. The Walmart Museum chronicles Walmart’s history, displaying products and memorabilia that evoke memories. One highlight was the museum’s old-fashioned ice cream parlor, where a hot fudge sundae still costs only a few dollars.

Linda and Jerry stayed at the 21c Museum Hotel, a contemporary property located within walking distance of downtown attractions and Crystal Bridges. They ate at nearby restaurants — The Preacher’s Son, housed in a restored church, and the popular Table Mesa Bistro. Bentonville has also become one of America’s premier cycling destinations, drawing riders with its network of trails.

The Momentary featured a striking black-and-white photography exhibition showcasing music’s most iconic performers like Elton John, David Bowie, Leon Russell, Johnny Cash, Mick Jagger, and Paul McCartney. From Bentonville, the Richmans headed south toward Hot Springs, stopping at Garvan Woodland Gardens, meandering through forests, ponds, and landscapes with whimsical modern birdhouses and an elegant musical tower.

Next, they explored Hot Springs. Designated as an urban national park, the city is known for its historic bathhouses lining Bathhouse Row. With advance reservations, the Richmans had a soak in one of the authentic thermal baths.

Their trip continued to Little Rock, checking into the historic downtown Capital Hotel. The Richmans rented E-bikes and set out along a scenic 17-mile trail following the Arkansas River. They saw the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, featuring more than 75 works along landscaped terraces overlooking the river, and the Clinton Presidential Library which chronicles the eight years of President Clinton’s administration through exhibits, photographs, artifacts, and art (including Judaica). One famous item was his notorious saxophone. Linda and Jerry stepped inside a replica of the Oval Office for a photo opp. Dinner that evening was at the casual Flying Fish restaurant.

The final day of the trip was at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, where they explored collections by artists from Arkansas, the American South, and the U.S. Admission is also free thanks to philanthropic support. Their final discovery was the ESSE Purse Museum, one of only two museums in the world dedicated entirely to handbags. Through fashion and colorful exhibits, the museum traces the evolving role of women throughout the 20th century.

With direct flights connecting both Bentonville and Little Rock to Atlanta, the Richmans labeled Arkansas as “accessible.” Combining art, history, outdoor recreation, and Southern hospitality, sometimes the best trips are close to home. Jerry said, “We love art, hiking, and new adventures. Arkansas fit the bill and did not disappoint.”