Benton

CityMissouri, United States

Benton is a CITY in Missouri, United States.

Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, Benton, Arkansas, offers a charming blend of small-town warmth and outdoor adventure. Stroll through the historic downtown with its antique shops and local eateries, or explore the scenic trails at the nearby Saline River and Hurricane Creek. The city is a gateway to the Ouachita National Forest, perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping. Benton's rich history is showcased at the Gann Museum, the only building made of bauxite. With a vibrant arts scene, family-friendly festivals, and a welcoming community, Benton is an ideal stop for travelers seeking authentic Southern hospitality and natural beauty.

Best time to visit Benton

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild temperatures and vibrant foliage, ideal for outdoor activities. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cool but pleasant. Avoid peak summer if you dislike heat.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Clear
Temperature
16°
Feels like
15°
Humidity
56%
Wind
7 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 11-23°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Beautiful foliage

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

LIT

Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport

International

40 km away

FSM

Fort Smith Regional Airport

Domestic

180 km away

XNA

Northwest Arkansas National Airport

Domestic

280 km away

Getting around

"Benton is car-dependent; renting a car is the most convenient option. Local bus service (Rock Region Metro) is limited. Ride-sharing like Uber and Lyft are available. Biking is possible on some trails. Downtown is walkable."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Walmart or carrier stores from $10

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime, but watch for petty theft

Night safety

7/10

Low crime, but watch for petty theft

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Benton is generally safe, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so keep valuables secure. Downtown is well-lit and safe for evening walks. Use common sense when hiking alone. Weather-related risks include occasional tornadoes; check forecasts during spring."

Entry and health

Health information

"Benton has several hospitals and clinics, including Saline Memorial Hospital. Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are available. For emergencies, dial 911. It's advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit for outdoor activities."

Culture

Local customs

"Southern hospitality is key—greet people with a smile. Casual dress is fine, but nicer attire for dining out. Tipping 15-20% at restaurants is standard. Respect personal space and avoid loud conversations in public. Outdoor activities are popular, so dress for the weather."
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Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a mid-range meal costs ~$12

Hotels

$80-120 | budget hotels range $80-120/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Car rental ~$40/day

Timezone

America/Chicago
Local time 21:19

More facts

Population

863

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Benton, Бентон, Benton County

Major HubHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingOutdoorSmall Town