Join our conversation with Amy Springer, sports sales manager at Visit Bentonville, to explore how a hometown kid helped shape a destination that wins over event owners and fans alike. From elite turf complexes and ESPN-ready gyms to walkable hotel-to-field access, Amy explains why Bentonville converts first-time visitors into repeat partners.

We dig into the nuts and bolts of sports tourism: prospecting the right events, elevating existing tournaments, and delivering “unreasonable hospitality” that goes beyond swag. Think team pizza deliveries that fuel connection after the final whistle. Amy shares a standout case study—how Bentonville stepped in after a hurricane canceled collegiate mountain bike nationals, and then pulled off a full championship in just three and a half weeks.

Looking ahead, Amy is targeting niche sports with dedicated traveling audiences—pillow fighting, hobby horsing, USA Yoga—and placing them in unexpected venues to expand the calendar without overloading fields. With traditional sports already driving millions in economic impact and cycling pushing totals even higher, the focus is smarter growth and memorable experiences. If you’re a coach, organizer, or governing body, you’ll hear exactly how Bentonville partners on trainers, permits, meals, banquets, and creative touches that make your event stand out.

A New American Town is here to help you plan your trip to Bentonville, Arkansas. From guides, events, and restaurant highlights. Find all this and more at visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.

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How Bentonville Turned Unreasonable Hospitality Into A Sports Advantage