THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art welcomes all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. We explore the unfolding story of America by actively collecting, exhibiting, interpreting, and preserving outstanding works that illuminate our heritage and artistic possibilities.
Website: Crystal Bridges
Walmart Museum
Northwest Arkansas is the home to the largest corporation in the world, and the Walmart Museum gives visitors a fascinating look into the company's history, growth, and culture.
The creation of the Walmart Museum (or Visitor Center, as it was called back then) was, as Sam Walton put it, “a labor of love” for many associates. Led by Betty Holmes, the team scrupulously documented the beginnings of the Walton family, the growth of Sam Walton as a leader and businessman, and the founding of Walmart. Holmes traveled extensively with Sam, most often by plane with Sam as their pilot. From the architecture to the cabinets’ craftsmanship, the associates involved reminisce to this day about how the museum came together. There were many people involved in the first incarnation of the museum, and many of those also worked as uniformed greeters after its opening.
Website: Walmart Museum
Museum of Native American History
The Museum of Native American History invites you to "Walk Through America's Past," where we will give you a glimpse into what life was like for America's first inhabitants. The museum is divided into five different time periods that will guide you through the constant changing lives of the Native Americans, as seen through their artifacts . Our displays feature relics that date from over 14,000 years old to historic times. Come visit our museum and enjoy seeing some of the finest treasures ever created by early craftsmen.
Website: Museum of Native American History
The Momentary
The Momentary is a new contemporary art space satellite to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in downtown Bentonville.
Situated along the Razorback Regional Greenway near 8th Street Market, we’ve transformed a decommissioned 63,000-square-foot cheese factory into a multidisciplinary space for visual and performing arts, culinary experiences, festivals, artists-in-residence, and more.
The mission of the Momentary is to champion contemporary art’s role in everyday life.
The Momentary was founded by the Walton family, based on the vision of Tom, Olivia and Steuart Walton. The Walton Family Foundation is supporting this project as a way to enhance the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas. Its commitment to cultivating arts and cultural experiences provides more opportunities for education, engagement, and enjoyment in our region.
Explore the galleries, catch a performance, enjoy a savory bite or refreshing drink, or just hang out. The Momentary welcomes all with free general admission.
Website: The Momentary
Pea Ridge National Military Park
On March 7-8, 1862, 26,000 soldiers fought here to decide the fate of Missouri and the West. The 4,300 acre battlefield honors those who fought for their beliefs. Pea Ridge was one of the most pivotal Civil War battles and is the most intact Civil War battlefield in the United States.
Website: Pea Ridge National Military Park
Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
Authentic, expansive, and well-preserved, Prairie Grove is known as one of America’s most intact Civil War battlefields. With more than 900 acres, this park commemorates the site of the Battle of Prairie Grove, where on December 7, 1862, Confederate and Union forces clashed in a fierce day of fighting that resulted in 2,700 casualties. This battle marked the last major Civil War engagement in Northwest Arkansas. The park offers walking and driving tours, programs, and weekend events. At the Hindman Hall Museum, artifacts recovered from the battle are displayed. Admission to the museum is free.
Website: Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks is a unique destination in Northwest Arkansas that draws more than 80,000 visitors a year. The Garden is a collection of twelve themed gardens and includes the region’s only butterfly house. Our mission is to provide educational, entertainment, and recreational opportunities for students, residents, and Garden visitors to increase their appreciation of the native and natural ecosystem of the Ozarks.
Website: Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks