Bella Vista, Arkansas, nestled in the Springfield Plateau of the Ozark Mountains, is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor attractions. Established as a summer resort town in the 1910s, it later became a retirement community and now attracts families and young professionals. With a population of around 32,000, projected to grow to over 42,000 by 2030, many residents work for major companies in Benton County, such as Walmart and Tyson Foods. The city features a mix of Craftsman and ranch-style homes, with no uniform architectural style, and offers large parcels of land for building. Bella Vista's crime rates are significantly lower than state and national averages.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find over 100 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the Back 40 Loop, and seven lakes for fishing, kayaking, and water skiing. The largest lake, Loch Lomond, spans 477 acres. The city also boasts seven golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts, campgrounds, a beach, and a gun range. Bella Vista is conveniently located near the Arkansas-Missouri border, with Bentonville just 10 miles south and Northwest Arkansas National Airport 20 miles away.
Education is a highlight, with Bentonville Public Schools and Willowbrook Elementary School both receiving high ratings. The Bella Vista Farmers Market operates on Sundays from April to October, and the city’s Town Center includes various retail options. Cultural attractions include the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel and public art displays at trailheads and sculpture gardens. The annual Northwest Arkansas Festival features an arts and crafts fair, a barbecue competition, and canine competitions. Residents experience all four seasons, with longer summers and milder winters.
