The Compton, a new independent lifestyle hotel, will open its doors in late fall 2025, bringing a new dimension of hospitality to the heart of Bentonville. The 142-room hotel will pay homage to Dr. Neil Compton, a renowned conservationist who played a pivotal role in preserving the Buffalo River by designating it as the first National River. The project is being developed by Blue Crane, a local company dedicated to vibrant, community-focused development throughout Northwest Arkansas.
Located on Bentonville’s historic square, The Compton will serve as a welcoming homebase for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers and business travelers. The hotel will be flanked by Dave Peel Park and a new pedestrian promenade filled with garden nooks, café seating, play areas, and food trucks, that links the downtown area to the world-renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, known as one of the top art museums in the US. Bentonville is a thriving cultural, outdoor-recreation, and business destination located in Northwest Arkansas, which is known for its world-class museums, extensive public trail systems, performing arts venues, and three Fortune 500 companies, consistently earning its spot among the top U.S. regions for quality of life.
“The Compton stands as more than a building; it is a testament to the spirit of authentic adventure that Dr. Compton embodied,” said Brian Shaw, development partner at Blue Crane. “He was a visionary Bentonville resident, and his leadership provided a model for conservation that is still relevant. We aim to honor his legacy and share it with all future guests.”
The Compton’s design reflects the distinct character of Northwest Arkansas, led by design architects, Marvel Design and executive architects, BRR Architecture. Interior spaces, crafted by internationally acclaimed interior designer Créme Design, embrace the beauty and essence of the region, featuring moments of discovery that invite reflection and inspiration. The hotel’s public areas include a skylit lobby with soaring ceilings and comfortable seating, designed to blur boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Two retail spaces within the hotel enhance the overall guest experience. Amenities catering to outdoor enthusiasts—such as a bike valet, wash station, and secure storage—celebrate Bentonville’s claim as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World™. Those traveling to Bentonville on business will be drawn to The Compton for its refined design, homelike comforts and central location giving proximity to the city’s many successful corporations. The property also includes 3,750 square feet of meeting and event space, highlighted by a grand ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Compton’s restaurants and bars will be brought to life by Bentonville’s Ropeswing Hospitality Group. The new destinations include Field Notes, an all-day cafe and gathering place with patio dining, as well as Sestina, a refined Arkansas steakhouse, with weekend brunch. A full-service stylish cocktail bar overlooking Bentonville Square will round out the hotel’s dining concepts. With a reputation for creating exceptional culinary experiences that include The Preacher’s Son, Lady Slipper, and Blake St., Ropeswing Group will ensure that The Compton’s food and beverage offerings are as thoughtfully crafted as the hotel itself.
“The Compton isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to the heart of Bentonville and the Ozarks. We want guests to feel the authenticity of this community, to connect with the land and its people, and leave with a sense of having experienced something truly meaningful and memorable,” said Bashar Wali, Founder and CEO of Practice Hospitality, which has been entrusted with operations.
“Every element of The Compton is conceived with the adventurer in mind, mirroring the beauty of the Ozarks and catering to Bentonville’s vibrant cycling scene,” said Jared Faciszewski, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Crane.
The Working Group, a boutique real estate practice acting as director of design and development, is set to deliver The Compton for a scheduled late fall 2025 opening. For more information, visit www.thecompton.com.
Hotel website
The ComptonBentonville, AR United States
