The new Adult Recreation Center in Bentonville opens its doors Saturday, offering a dedicated space for residents 50 and older to gather, stay active, and connect with their peers.
Located at 1305 S. Walton Blvd., the center will host its grand opening celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 30. The event is free and open to the public, with guided tours, fitness demos, and light refreshments available throughout the day.
Rae Coslett, who teaches chair Zumba at the center, said the space already feels like a community hub. “People are excited to have a place that’s just for them,” she said. “It’s not about keeping up with younger folks or fitting into a generic gym vibe. This is their space.”
The 12,000-square-foot facility includes a fitness area with cardio and strength-training equipment, a multipurpose room for classes and events, a teaching kitchen, and a lounge area with seating and games. Programming will include fitness classes like yoga, tai chi, and watercolor painting, along with educational workshops and social gatherings.
Bentonville Parks and Recreation Director Chad O’Connor said the center was designed with input from local seniors. “We wanted to make sure it met real needs,” he said. “Whether that’s staying active, learning something new, or just having a place to hang out with friends.”
The project was funded through a combination of city resources and a federal Community Development Block Grant. Construction wrapped up in April, and staffing is now in place to support daily operations.
For many older adults in town, especially those who’ve lived in Bentonville for decades, the center fills a gap. “I’ve been retired for five years, and I love the trails and all, but sometimes you want to be around people who get it,” said Linda Meeks, a West Bentonville resident who’s attended a few early classes. “This feels like it was made for us.”
That sense of ownership is exactly what the city aimed for. The center sits just off the Razorback Greenway, near the intersection of South Walton Boulevard and East Central Avenue—a spot that’s walkable for many locals but still easy to reach by car. There’s plenty of parking out front, and the building is fully accessible.
Programming will run Monday through Friday, with most activities taking place between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Membership is free for Bentonville residents 50 and older. Non-residents can join for a small fee, and drop-in rates are also available.
Volunteers are being recruited to help with front desk duties, special events, and teaching classes. Anyone interested can sign up at the center or online through the city’s website.
For more information about the Bentonville Adult Recreation Center, including class schedules and volunteer opportunities, visit bentonvillear.com or stop by the center this weekend during the open house.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
