AC Hotel opens at the new Walmart home office

The 153-room AC Hotel Bentonville at 1201 S.E. Eighth St. in Bentonville recently opened at the entrance to the new 350-acre Walmart Home Office, according to a news release. AC Hotels is a Marriott International brand.

Walmart paid the city of Bentonville for a commercial building permit valued at $25.35 million. It was issued in February 2023. Walmart, the hotel owner, signed a franchise agreement with Marriott International to operate the property as AC Hotel by Marriott.

Dallas-based BOKA Powell was the architect of record for the five-story, 90,000-square-foot building that features a rooftop lounge and more than 9,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. Boston-based Shawmut Design and Construction was the contractor. Dallas-based Coury Hospitality is the hotel operator.

“We’re honored to introduce AC Hotel Bentonville to the Northwest Arkansas community at such an exciting time in the region’s growth,” said Celine Peruzzi, general manager. “Whether you’re joining us for a rooftop cocktail, a business event, or a weekend adventure, our team is committed to delivering warm, attentive service and an elevated experience rooted in the character of Bentonville.”

The rooftop lounge, Falfurrias, pays homage to Sam Walton’s love for the outdoors and his frequent retreats to Falfurrias, Texas, “a place known for simplicity, connection and camaraderie,” the release shows.

The lounge has a covered terrace and a rotating menu of cocktails, beer and food. On the main floor, AC Kitchen will serve a European-style breakfast with pastries, fruit and espresso. Other hotel amenities include a fitness center and bike storage. About 75 staff work there.