Benton, Arkansas 2025

Sure, I'd be happy to provide some information about Benton, Arkansas!

Benton is a city located in Saline County, Arkansas, and is part of the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 Census, the population of Benton was approximately 36,000.

The culture of Benton is a mix of small-town charm and southern hospitality. The city has a strong sense of community, and residents take pride in their town's history and traditions. There are several annual events that take place in Benton, including the Benton Freedom Fest, which is a Fourth of July celebration with fireworks, live music, and food vendors; the Saline County Fair, which features livestock shows, rodeos, and carnival rides; and the Holiday Open House, which is a festive event that takes place during the holiday season.

One of the city's biggest attractions is the historic downtown area, which is home to several antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Royal Theatre, which was built in 1926, is also located in downtown Benton and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances and film screenings.

The food scene in Benton is diverse, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from southern comfort food to international cuisine. Some local favorites include David's Burgers, which serves up delicious hamburgers and milkshakes; Taco Mama, which offers authentic Mexican street food; and the Old South Restaurant, which has been serving up Southern classics like fried chicken and collard greens since 1956.

The people of Benton are friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong sense of community pride in the city. Many residents have deep roots in the area and can trace their families back several generations.

As for history, Benton has a rich and fascinating past. The city was founded in 1833 and was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a senator from Missouri. During the Civil War, Benton was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops, and the city was the site of several skirmishes and battles. Today, visitors can learn more about the city's history by visiting the Saline County Museum, which is located in downtown Benton.

Overall, Benton is a wonderful place to visit or call home. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm and welcoming people, it's easy to see why so many people love this charming Southern city.