Planning a trip to Bentonville, Arkansas? Known for its art scene, stunning natural beauty, and the iconic Walmart headquarters, Bentonville offers a unique and engaging experience. But before you start exploring the Crystal Bridges Museum or hiking the scenic trails, you'll need to know how to get there. Finding the closest airport to Bentonville is the first step in your adventure. Let's explore your options and make your travel planning a breeze.
What is the closest airport to Bentonville, Arkansas?
The closest airport to Bentonville, AR, is the Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA), located in Highfill, Arkansas. While not directly in Bentonville, XNA is conveniently situated approximately 20-30 minutes away, making it the most practical option for the majority of travelers. Its proximity and ease of access make it the preferred choice for those visiting Bentonville for business or leisure.
What other airports are near Bentonville?
While XNA is the closest and most convenient, there are other airports within a reasonable driving distance, though they significantly increase travel time:
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Tulsa International Airport (TUL): Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, TUL offers more flight options but adds a considerable driving time of approximately 2-3 hours to your journey. This might be a viable alternative if you find significantly cheaper flights or have more direct options from your origin city.
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Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF): Situated in Springfield, Missouri, SGF presents another option, but with a similarly long driving time of around 2-3 hours to Bentonville. Consider this airport only if it offers significantly better flight connections or pricing.
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Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM): Located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, this airport is further away than XNA and may not have as many flight options. It's generally not the recommended airport for Bentonville visitors.
How far is Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) from Bentonville?
Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) is approximately 20-30 minutes from downtown Bentonville, depending on traffic and your exact destination. The drive is relatively straightforward and well-marked. Renting a car is the most common and convenient method of transportation from the airport to your accommodation in Bentonville.
What are my transportation options from XNA to Bentonville?
Several transportation options are available from XNA to Bentonville:
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Rental Car: The most popular choice, offering flexibility and convenience to explore the area at your own pace.
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Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Readily available at XNA, offering a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to renting a car.
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Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport but may be less cost-effective than ride-sharing services.
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Shuttle Services: Some hotels and tour operators may offer shuttle services directly from the airport. Check with your hotel or tour provider to see if this is an option.
Is there public transportation from XNA to Bentonville?
Unfortunately, there's no direct public transportation connecting XNA to Bentonville. Renting a car, using ride-sharing, or a taxi remain the most feasible options.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Bentonville Trip
Ultimately, the best airport for your Bentonville trip depends on your priorities:
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Convenience & Speed: XNA is the clear winner, offering the shortest travel time.
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Flight Options & Cost: TUL and SGF might be considered if flight options and costs are significantly more favorable, but remember the increased travel time.
By understanding your options and weighing the pros and cons, you can confidently choose the airport that best suits your needs and start planning your exciting Bentonville adventure!
