The Walmart Museum — Bentonville, Arkansas

Discover The Walmart Museum in Arkansas

Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, The Walmart Museum offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the origins and growth of one of the world’s largest retail companies. This immersive Corporate Heritage & Museum Tour explores the story of founder Sam Walton, the first Walmart store, and the company’s transformation from a small-town retailer to a global enterprise. Guests can walk through the original Walton’s 5&10 storefront, browse historical exhibits, and learn about the principles that shaped Walmart’s culture.
Why it’s special: The museum is housed in Sam Walton’s original 5&10 store on Bentonville’s historic square, preserving the exact location where the Walmart story began.

History & Story of The Walmart Museum

The story of Walmart began in 1962, when Sam Walton opened his first Walmart store in Rogers, Arkansas. However, the roots of the company trace back even further to Walton’s earlier retail ventures, including Walton’s 5&10 in Bentonville. The Walmart Museum preserves this early history, showcasing original artifacts, photographs, and personal memorabilia that illustrate how a small-town business grew into a global retailer.

What You’ll See & Do at The Walmart Museum

• Explore the restored Walton’s 5&10 variety store

• View Sam Walton’s original office and personal items

• Learn about Walmart’s early expansion and business model

• Watch short films about company history and culture

• Visit Spark Café for nostalgic ice cream treats

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits and digital displays throughout the museum.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout public exhibit spaces.
Souvenirs & Extras: Museum shop offering Walmart-branded merchandise, memorabilia, and collectibles; on-site Spark Café serving ice cream.

Pricing of The Walmart Museum

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)
General admission to the museum is free.

Visiting information

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Age limits: All ages welcome
Accessibility: Fully accessible museum galleries
Working hours: Open Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday Closed.

Nearby

• Bentonville Town Square

• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

• The Momentary

FAQs About Visiting The Walmart Museum

Is this the original Walmart store?
The museum is located in Sam Walton’s original Walton’s 5&10 store, which predates the first Walmart store.

Is admission really free?
Yes. General admission to The Walmart Museum is free.

Can I see Sam Walton’s actual office?
Yes. Walton’s office has been preserved and is part of the exhibit experience.

Is this museum interesting if I’m not in retail?
Yes. The exhibits focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and small-town beginnings, making it engaging beyond retail history.

Is the Spark Café part of the museum?
Yes. The Spark Café is located inside and serves classic ice cream treats inspired by old-fashioned five-and-dime stores.