Strawberry Hill Museum | Kansas City KS

Compton Gardens and Conference Center is a botanical garden and event venue located in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Visual Characteristics

The gardens feature a variety of plant species arranged in distinct themed areas. Pathways are constructed from crushed gravel and paved sections. The conference center is a modern structure with a facade of glass and light-colored stone, designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape.

Location & Access Logistics

Compton Gardens is situated at 201 NW A Street in Bentonville, approximately 0.5km west of the downtown square. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot. The gardens are accessible via local bus routes serving the downtown area, with stops within a 0.2km walk.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The gardens were established in 1997, named in honor of the Compton family, who were early settlers and philanthropists in the region. The site was developed on land previously used for agricultural purposes, with a focus on showcasing native Arkansas flora and horticultural practices.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the garden paths, observe plant collections, and utilize the outdoor seating areas. The conference center hosts various events, and its grounds are accessible during non-event hours. Photography is permitted throughout the gardens.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the conference center building. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees and strategically placed pergolas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent within the gardens and conference center. Food vendors are not present within the gardens; however, dining options are available in the nearby downtown Bentonville area.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The gardens are most visually dynamic from spring through fall, with peak bloom periods varying by plant species. There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the Crystal Bridge, a conservatory housing tropical plants, which requires a separate admission fee and is not always open to the public. The gardens are maintained by a non-profit organization focused on horticultural education and conservation.

Nearby Landmarks

• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (0.3km North)
• Downtown Bentonville Square (0.5km East)
• The Momentary (1.2km West)
• Walmart Museum (0.6km East)