21c Museum Hotel Bentonville
"How did it strike you on arrival?I'm amazed this refined and chic hotel is in Arkansas. Artwork is clearly part of this property's DNA, and I wasn't disappointed in what I saw. Nice. What’s the crowd like?This crowd feels like they came straight from Art Basel. Upon arrival, the lobby played host to a coven of chic, Rick Owens-wearing folks who sported sunglasses indoors and glared at the art. How was check-in? No issues. I was expecting arrivals to feel icy, but was greeted and promptly showed to my room. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.I was in a Luxury King suite. Though the decor followed a modern aesthetic, the room still kept a cozy vibe. I had concerns that it was going to be like staying in a gallery with a bed, but the 386-square-foot room was bright and inviting. The colors in the room were very neutral, but pops of art on the wall kept it all interesting. The lighting in the bathroom made for incredible selfies, and I was obsessed with the brass fixtures. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?I was so smitten with the original artwork on the walls. Malin+Goetz bath amenities and in-room Nespresso were perfect touches. Room service and food: Worth it?The on-site restaurant is called The Hive. Keeping with the name, the spot is decked out with honeycomb and bees, a curious look. I loved how The Hive played on its southern location and offered familiar flavors like deviled eggs, pimento cheese, and pasture-raised fried chicken, but had an unfamiliar and refreshing take on them. Go for the Hive Burger. Pimento cheese and tomato jam make it one of a kind. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Bentonville is honestly adorable. You'll be able to explore by foot and soak-in the small town vibes of the place. Do visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Truthfully, I feel like there's a lack of value in the property for the price of the room. Though the service and dinning was memorable, the hotel feels like a one-note type of stay, relying too heavily on what's on the walls." - Corbin Chamberlin
