Fall is one of the best times to explore Compton Gardens. As the trees start to change, the garden feels a little quieter, a little brighter, and full of reasons to slow down and look around. Whether you’re here for a walk, to explore art, spot wildlife, or bring the kids for some hands-on fun — we’ve got you covered.

Here’s how to make the most of a fall visit.

Plan Your Visit: Essentials

Location & Admission

• 312 N Main St., Bentonville, AR

• Admission is free

Hours
The gardens are open sunrise to sunset. The Exhibit Room (inside the house) is open Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

Trails & Connectivity
Paved walking paths traverse the gardens, making them accessible to pedestrians, bikers, and even those using assistive devices. The Razorback Greenway passes through the gardens, linking to regional trails. Also, keep in mind that one trail connection leads toward Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, making a combined walk possible. 

Enjoy the Fall Color

Our garden features native trees and plantings that put on a great show each fall. Expect to see red maples, dogwoods, and oaks turning brilliant shades of orange, gold, and red.

Several of our trees are Arkansas Champions, including a Chinese chestnut hybrid and pagoda dogwood — worth a stop if you’re into tree spotting. Trails loop through woodland and meadow spaces, offering good views and a variety of textures as the season shifts.

Peak color usually happens in mid to late October, but every year is a little different depending on weather.

Art Along the Trail

Keep your eyes open — there’s art throughout the garden. Some you’ll see right away, some are a little more tucked in.

• Group of Bears by Paul Manship

• Heartland by Daniel Popper

• Other pieces include wind chimes, glasswork, and metal sculptures

The garden also connects to the Art Trail, so if you want to continue walking, you can head toward Crystal Bridges and see even more outdoor art.

Step Inside the Exhibit Room

Our Exhibit Room is a great place to learn about Dr. Neil Compton — the man who inspired this space. He was a physician, conservationist, and helped lead the effort to preserve the Buffalo River.

Inside the exhibit, you’ll find historic photos, personal items, and a look at how Compton Gardens came to be. The Exhibit Room is open Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM.

What Wildlife to Look For

Fall is a good time for spotting animals — especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

• Deer are often seen near the wooded edges

• Squirrels and birds are active collecting food

• Butterflies and bees can still be seen earlier in the fall when it’s warm and flowers are blooming

We’ve even seen zebra swallowtail butterflies near pawpaw trees and monarchs during migration in September and early October.

Kid-Friendly Activities

If you’re bringing the kids, here are a few simple ways to keep them engaged:

Leaf Collecting & Rubbing

Pick up a few fallen leaves in different shapes and colors. Use paper and crayons to make leaf rubbings — a fun, hands-on way to look closer at what’s underfoot.

Scavenger Hunt

Challenge your kids to find:

• A red or yellow leaf

• A squirrel or bird

• A sculpture that looks like an animal

• Something rough and something smooth

Photo or Sketch Time

Let kids take photos or draw one thing they saw — a leaf, a tree, or a sculpture. It’s a great way to slow things down and help them focus on details.

Take a Break

Pack a snack or a book and find a bench or a quiet spot. Even a short pause helps reset the energy, especially if you’re walking the full loop.

See You in the Garden

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or stopping by again to catch the color, we hope Compton Gardens offers you a calm, inspiring place to connect with nature — and maybe learn something new along the way.