Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Time Needed: 1-2 hours, half-day
Experience Type: art & architecture, cultural heritage
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art blends world-class art with the beauty of the Ozarks. Founded by Alice Walton, the glass-and-wood structure houses works from colonial times to contemporary pieces. Outside, miles of sculpture trails wind through natural landscapes.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Wander the Galleries – This free museum showcases a vast collection spanning five centuries of American art, from early works to modern masterpieces.
- Explore Nature Trails – With more than five miles of paths, the grounds invite immersion in the natural landscape. The 0.5-mile Art Trail features native plants and outdoor sculptures.
- Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Bachman-Wilson House – Explore this relocated Usonian-style home on the museum grounds showcasing Wright’s signature mid-century modern design.
- Take a Guided Tour – Drop-in tours are free, offering insights into the museum’s permanent collection and the architectural design of its campus buildings.
- Make Your Own Art – Visit the Studio, a hands-on space for all ages to get creative. Equipped with art supplies, the studio is open to guests throughout museum hours.
Sleep Soundly: Keep the art inspiration going with a stay at 21c Museum Hotel, where gallery spaces, contemporary works, and airy rooms mirror the creative spirit of Crystal Bridges. It’s the perfect art-forward base for your Bentonville stay.
Photo Credit: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism