Pea Ridge is situated in the northeastern corner of Benton County, just a few miles south of the Arkansas-Missouri State Line. Part of the Ozarks Region, it boasts rich history and heritage. One of the biggest draws of the area is Pea Ridge National Military Park, which was the site of one of the largest Civil War battles west of the Mississippi River. The Union's effort to secure control of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers and protect the arsenal at St. Louis culminated successfully at Pea Ridge, which made the supply of Gen. Grant's Vicksburg campaign possible. Covering an area of 4,300 acres, the park includes a seven-mile, self-guided tour with 10 stops that feature wayside exhibits.

The park's Elkhorn Tavern is a historic site not only concerning the Civil War but also because of the Butterfield Overland Mail Co and the Trail of Tears. Although the tavern wasn't an official stop, it was a popular stop for the stagecoach. One of the most well-preserved parts of the route can be walked northward of the rebuilt tavern. The National Park and Butterfield Overland trail form part of the Arkansas Heritage Trails System, a statewide system of historic trails that not only educate residents and promote state history but also encourage cultural and heritage tourism.