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When we think of an enriching family activity that most people enjoy, visiting a museum comes to mind, especially when the kids are out on school break. There are many good reasons to visit museums, from learning something fascinating and new to supporting your local historical societies. Here in Springdale AR, we are lucky to have several well-maintained museum spaces for learning about our area. Here are just a few of our favorites. more 1. Reilly P. McCarren Railroad Museum The Reilly P. McCarren Railroad Museum opened in 2016 to share the knowledge and history of the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad. Located in Springdale at 306 E. Emma Ave, this railroad museum offers an in-depth look at local railroad history and allows visitors to hang out inside real-life vintage train cars. The Reilly P. McCarren Railroad Museum offers free entry and is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. 2. Clinton House Museum The Clinton House Museum is located only a short drive away in Fayetteville. Clinton House is a historic house museum built in 1931 and is the first home of former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Inside the charming Tudor Revival home, you can see exhibitions on the life of the Clintons during their time teaching at the University of Arkansas. The Clinton House Museum is located at 930 W. Clinton Dr. and is open Thursday through Saturday. 3. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History Located in the heart of Springdale at 118 W. Johnson Ave, the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History aims to share and preserve the stories of Arkansas Ozark life. The Shiloh Museum presents curated exhibits depicting the everyday lives of early area settlers to the present day. So, why not load the family into your Mitsubishi Outlander for a day at the museum? The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. 4. Rogers Historical Museum If you take just a short drive up to nearby Rogers, you will find the Rogers Historical Museum at 313 2nd St., open Tuesday through Saturday. The Rogers Historical Museum is dedicated to sharing the rich heritage of Northwest Arkansas and its inhabitants. The Rogers museum has a wonderful children's section to keep the kiddos busy, but the entire family is sure to enjoy their day. After a fun-filled day learning about our local history, visit us at Rath Mitsubishi to look at our superior inventory of new and used vehicles. At Rath Mitsubishi, you can count on us to help you find the perfect car suited to your lifestyle, and we look forward to meeting you soon.

Need to plan a day out that will be both fun for the whole family and educational? Well, you won't have to go very far. Take a ride down to the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History and learn the rich history that has occurred right here in the Arkansas Ozarks. Let's take a closer look at some of this history and show you exactly what you can expect to find on your visit to the museum. Prehistoric Ozarks It can be easy to take for granted the fact that people have lived in this same land for thousands of years. You'll be astounded by artifacts left by Ice Age nomads as much as 15,000 years ago. You'll see the hunting tools they used to take down mighty beasts such as the mastodon and the musk ox, as well as examples of the cave art these prehistoric people left behind in their travels. more As the climate in the Ozarks became warmer after the end of the Ice Age, these nomadic hunters began to settle down in one place, and their lifestyle changed accordingly. You can see the implements they used to gather nuts and berries, and the fishing tools they used to make a living off the rivers. This area was left almost entirely depopulated by disease by the time European settlers arrived here, leaving many questions that remain a mystery today. From Early Settlers to the Civil War As European settlers arrived along the eastern coast and in the Cherokee heartlands, Osage Indian settlers moved into the Ozarks to find new land to work. They established the area's first farmsteads, orchards, and mills, and you'll see tools and other artifacts leftover from this first agricultural society to dwell in our region. In 1828 the Arkansas Territory was officially opened for settlement, driving the Osage further west. Less than half a century later, the Civil War came to Arkansas. This time period is also around when early cameras came in to use, and some of the museum's impressive 500,000 photographs in the Mary D. Parsons Photograph Collection document the people who lived right here where our neighborhoods stand today. Modern Times That collection of photographs continues to document life in the Ozarks right up until the present day. There are great examples of memorabilia from earlier 20th century residents of the region, like a jigsaw puzzle from the 1930s or a vintage camera that long predates digital technology. There are also fascinating war relics, such as a World War I poster and a “Patriot” radio used to get the latest news from the front in World War II. Learning this local history will show you the deep roots our community is founded upon. We try to keep that sense of community alive with how we do business. Come on in and see what difference that makes in your dealership experience. Stop by at Rath Mitsubishi today and let us help you!

Gorgeous parks, tranquil recreation spots, and interesting aquatic centers: Northwest Arkansas is home to many interesting sites. However, nothing beats a day with the family at several intriguing museums in Springdale and the nearby Bentonville. These museums are also great places to check out with your friends. 1. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History is at 118 W. Johnson Ave. in Springdale. Every Monday through Saturday, the staff welcomes visitors who want to learn more about the area. While admission to the museum is free, you'll enjoy exhibits that showcase the region from prehistoric times to the present. During your visit, you'll learn how the climate conditions in ancient times led to life changes for the people of the time, including what they hunted such as various dinosaurs and small game animals. There are clothes to try-on at the Shiloh Museum as well as music and photographs from different periods. more After you finish the exhibits in the main building, you can tour six different historic buildings on the grounds. And if you are researching something, there is a research library with over 50,000 photographs at the museum. 2. Crystal Bridges Museum Make the short trip to Bentonville to check out the Crystal Bridges Museum. The staff warmly welcomes you to 600 Museum Way every day except Tuesday. There is no admission fee; still, you can reserve timed tickets if you have a specific time in mind to visit the grounds. As you explore the different interpretations of art, you'll find photographs, paintings, and other mediums that bring the subjects to life. You can also observe different types of architecture, including a Frank Lloyd Wright property. Outside, there is a 50-foot diameter Fly's Eye Dome, which Buckminster Fuller designed, that catches your attention. Also, reconnect with nature as you enjoy more than 4 miles of trails. The trails showcase some of the Ozark's natural beauty and the museum's outdoor art installations. The shortest path is a quarter-mile loop, while the longest is a 1.1-mile loop. 3. Museum of Native American History The Museum of Native American History in Bentonville is ready to immerse you in America's pasts. It is open Monday through Saturday at 202 SW. O St, just blocks from the Crystal Bridges Museum. There is no admission fee, but they appreciate donations. Explore the exhibits at your pace with the free audio tour, which is available in English and Spanish. The audio will detail about six different time periods —such as the Paleo-Indian Period — covering mammoth hunting and the Clovis inventions, which were fluted objects that resemble modern arrowheads. You'll also learn about life before Columbus arrived, including exhibits that showcase the work of the Aztec, Maya, and Inca people. The museum hosts several interactive programs a year. Some let you create artwork alongside native artists, who can teach you. Children enjoy storytime and learn some crafts on the second Saturday of every month. Fun abound in these museums in and around Springdale. Check them out and recommend your favorites to friends and family in the future. Image via ShilohMuseum.org

If you want to explore the area around Springdale, Arkansas, you can find several fascinating places that are worth a visit. Plan your next day trip to one of the following locations for an enjoyable experience with your loved ones. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify the current state of operations for attractions described in the sections below by contacting the businesses directly. more 1. Bentonville Bentonville is about 20 miles outside of Springdale and is best known for being the birthplace and world headquarters of Wal-Mart Stores Inc. The world's largest retailer started in this city, which has a population of slightly more than 51,000 people. Learn more about the history of the global brand at the Wal-Mart Museum housed in the old five and dime store that started it all. Exhibits chronicle the history of Sam and Helen Walton's move to the city and how the brand grew to its incarnation today. Even the kids might enjoy this museum as they can view a collection of vintage toys on display. Bentonville also houses the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the please-touch Scott Family Amazeum children's museum, one of the homes designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and a museum dedicated to Native American history. Bentonville is a fascinating place with a rich heritage and plenty of history. 2. Siloam Springs Siloam Springs, about 25 miles from Springdale, is another spot for a day trip. Bob Henry Park, a fun place to spend some time, features a playground for the kids and tennis and volleyball courts. If you want to explore the natural surroundings, visit Natural Falls State Park. Located off U.S. Highway 412 outside the town limits, this park offers appealing amenities for visitors. The attraction gets its name from the fantastic waterfalls you can view from the hiking trails. Other amenities include a playground, covered picnic areas, and plenty of parking. If you want the best view of the waterfall, head up the Dripping Falls trail. 3. Eureka Springs Plan a visit to Eureka Springs, located about 40 miles northeast of Springdale. This small town has a historic downtown area where you can view beautiful architecture and walk through structures that make you feel like you've taken a step back in time. The Blue Spring Heritage Center is a botanical garden and site located on the Trail of Tears. Connect with the natural beauty and surroundings, as well as view the wonder of the blue spring, which has more than 38 million gallons of water flowing through its lagoon every day. Thorncrown Chapel is the spot to visit in Eureka Springs if you want to see a fascinating piece of architecture. This chapel won an award for its architectural style in 1980, showcasing crossed metal pieces set in front of tall glass walls. The grounds surrounding the chapel are also quite forested and peaceful, providing a serene place to get away from the bustle of daily life. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or learn more about the area around your town, you can enjoy many attractions and locations near Springdale. As you're planning a day trip to get out and explore, add the above places to your must-see list. Image via Pixabay.com

Cultural experiences can give you insights into different groups of people, allow you to take part in something new, and help you create memories that will last a lifetime. If you're looking for places to enjoy these types of experiences in the Springdale, Arkansas, area, take a closer look at a few of the top arts and cultural attractions. 1. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History opened in 1965 when the city of Springdale purchased a large collection of Native American artifacts. The collection features items gathered over six decades by a local resident and includes pamphlets and books on archeology and anthropology, as well as prehistoric artifacts. The museum is housed within the old Springdale Public Library building and named for the settlement and church established under the same name in the mid-19th century. more Over the years, the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History has continued to grow and expand, including additional exhibits and artifacts for the public to see. The museum organizes educational programs such as tours for school classes, a lecture series, and crafts workshops; displays new and improved exhibits; and houses restored historic buildings that date back to the 1800s and 1900s. 2. Springdale Public Library The Springdale Public Library also plays a significant role in the city's history. In the 1940s, the city received funding from the federal government to open and staff the library. During that time, the library became part of the Washington County Library System, which provided access to many more books. The library has expanded over the years and is now a state-of-the-art facility with 43,000 square feet of space. You can use the facility to read, find new reading material, access online research resources, or browse audio and visual materials. This library checks out nearly 2,000 items per day, on average, to members of the Springdale community. 3. Scott Family Amazeum Located in nearby Bentonville, the Scott Family Amazeum is a great place to visit if you want your kids to have a cultural experience. This family-friendly facility houses 50,000 square feet of exhibit space, allowing visitors to enjoy hands-on learning through inventive play. The interactive exhibits are engaging to children of all ages and showcase the industries and people that shaped the state's culture in the past, now, and in the future. Some of the exhibits include the 3M Tinkering Hub, the Hershey's Lab, Nature Valley Water Amazements, General Mills Lift, Load, and Haul, and the Nickelodeon Play Lab. The museum also features an acre of outdoor space where kids can take part in experiences inspired by the changing seasons and in scientific experiments that help define the way they view the world around them. The Amazeum also hosts various educational programs for a range of audiences. No matter what types of artistic and cultural experiences you enjoy, it's easy to find a place that caters to your preferences in the Springdale area. Check out these unique locations to discover what the city has to offer. ***Please note that due to the current national social state, site availability and hours of operation may change for all locations mentioned. Image via Arkansas.com

Springdale, Arkansas, sits on the Springfield Plateau in the Ozark Mountains. Because of its location, there is always something to do in Springdale. Whether you like to get outside and enjoy the fresh air or spend time inside, there are activities and attractions for everyone. See the sites in the fourth-largest city in Arkansas. Arvest Ballpark Arvest Ballpark in Springdale is home to the Northeast Arkansas Naturals baseball team. This is a great place for family entertainment throughout the summer. The ballpark hosts over 70 games for baseball lovers to enjoy, and you can also head to the ballpark several times a year for festivals and events. The stadium can seat over 7,300 people and it features food with made-to-order items created by Patina Catering. You can munch on hot dogs, Philly cheesesteaks, and barbecue dishes while you watch some ball, or stop by the fan zone for some team apparel and gear. more Parsons Stadium Parsons Stadium is home to the Rodeo of the Ozarks. Along with the rodeo, this community stadium hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Ozark Demolition Derby and Buckin' in the Ozarks. The annual Rodeo of the Ozarks draws over 10,000 fans each night and is one of the area's largest events. The Spring Carnival takes place at the stadium each May and brings rides, concessions, games, and tons of fun for the whole family. Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery Make a stop at Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery for beautiful scenery and delicious wine tasting. This winery sits in what was once a dairy barn that the owners renovated into a beautiful space. You can enjoy the view from one of the multiple decks off the back of the tasting room while sipping on wine. They produce award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, and syrah, and also serve a wide selection of wines from all around the world. War Eagle Cavern War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake is the only lakeside cavern entrance in Arkansas. Take a guided cavern tour that brings you along the edges of the stream that flows through the cavern. The path takes you through huge rooms that stay at a constant 58 degrees all year round, and your guide will tell you all about the domes and formations that you see along the way. They also offer Wild Cavern Tours for guests with a sense of adventure. These take you through unconditioned passages that you need to climb and crawl through, and you get to see cave wildlife and incredible natural formations. Lake Fayetteville Lake Fayetteville offers beautiful views and tons of activities. Spend the day out on water fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, or stay on the shores biking or playing disc golf. On the north side of the lake, there are bike and boat rentals, and you can also find fishing gear. There are a lot of sites to see and activities to try in and around Springdale. These are just a few of the ways you can spend a lovely spring afternoon. Image via WarEagleCavern.com

Historical marker at Scissors Crossing. "19 Miles. Vallecito-Butterfield Stage Station. One of the chief remaining landmarks of famous old stage line. Coaches and spring wagons carried passengers and mail. Stations were built at 20-mile intervals. The first stage on the line left St. Louis on September 15, 1858. Historical Landmark No. 304. Department of Public Works -- Division of Highways." Located in Northwest Arkansas, Springdale sits surrounded by the Ozarks and their natural beauty. While the mountains are a big draw, its rich history and variety of historic sites also bring visitors to the area. There are museums to explore and American Civil War battlefields to see. You can also see old Victorian mansions along with homes built before the Civil War that are still standing. Here are some of the best historical sites to explore in Springdale. 1. Springdale Bluff Cemetery The Springdale Bluff Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the area and it predates the Civil War. You can find the grave of John Holcombe, the man who founded Springdale, at this cemetery along with his wife. There are graves dating back to 1841, and this is the cemetery where you can find many of the early residents of Springdale. more 2. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The Shiloh Museum of Ozark History is a museum with exhibits that showcase the history and the people who settle the area. There are historic buildings on the grounds, a research library with over 500,000 pictures of early life in the Ozarks, and much more. Visit the museum to see exhibits such as Prehistoric Ozarks, Settling the Ozarks, and the Civil War to World War I. Some collections include Native American artifacts, tools, textiles, and original art. The seven historic buildings on the property include a log cabin from 1851, the Shiloh Meeting Hall from 1871, and the Steele General Store from the 1870s. Admission to the museum is free. 3. Butterfield Stage Line The Butterfield State Line was a stop along the Butterfield Overland Mail Company route. The barn on the Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead property was used by the mail company from 1858 to 1861. The property also includes an 1870s home, a pump house, native stone markers, a stable, and a cistern. Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead is a certified site on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. 4. Shiloh Church - IOOF Hall The original Shiloh Church was the first church in Shiloh. Settlers built it in 1840, but it burned to the ground during the Civil War. The church members had a new building constructed sometime around 1868 and later sold to the school district. The Shiloh Museum now owns the building, and it is on the National Register. 5. The Rogers Historical Museum Stop by the Rogers Historical Museum in nearby Rogers, Arkansas to see artifacts from Northwest Arkansas. This local attraction features exhibits such at Hawkins House, a restored Victorian house from the early 1900s with authentic furnishings. The Hailey Building has five galleries with exhibits that explore the history of the area. You can take a look at how the pioneers settled in northwest Arkansas and the impact of the Beaver Dam. Springdale and the surrounding areas have a long and rich history that dates back to the Indians and before the Civil War. These historic sites allow people to see a little of the areas past. Image via Flickr by GSEC

Welcome to the Arkansas Air & Military Museum, where the entire family can learn about military and aircraft history and more. Before you arrive at the museum, it's best to familiarize yourself with some of the exhibits you'll want to visit. There's so much to take in that you don't want to miss out. Here's just a sampling of what's in store for you at the museum. General Aircraft Exhibits If you're interested in aircraft history, you'll want to take in all the general exhibits. For example, there's an exhibit about the Travel Air Model R "Mystery Ship," which was built in 1928 for the 1929 air races. This race was the first time a civilian plane beat out military jets! more Another exciting exhibit is about the LearJet model 23. This jet was built in 1964, originally created by Bill Lear and further modified by Bobby Younkin. Lear was a successful manufacturer of aircraft instruments and a jet designer. He worked on the Lear 23 for about four years, and created more than 100 Lear 23s. Younkin, one of the most respected aerobatics pilots in the world, died tragically in a mid-air collision in 2005. There are many more general aircraft exhibits at the museum; see the website for a full listing. Military Aircraft Exhibits If your specific interest is in military aircraft, then you will find five great exhibits at the museum on this topic. There is an exhibit about the Bell UH-1H Huey Helicopter, which is possibly the world's most famous helicopter and one of the most recognized from the Vietnam era. The aircraft was used for medical evacuations, for troop transport, and as a gunship, and it flew for the first time in 1956. Another exhibit looks at the Boeing-Sterman N2S-S (PT-17), which many of America's pilots in World War II trained on. The Douglass A-4 Skyhawk is another Vietnam-era aircraft that is on exhibit. Diverse Shows While the museum offers many exhibits on aircraft and the military, there is also a diverse array of other exhibits. For example, check out "Large or Small, We Lead Them All," which is about the history of the Travel Air Company. And don't miss the exhibit "Aviation Pioneer Louise Thaden," which is about one of the most famous female pilots from the golden age of aviation. There is also an exhibit about other military vehicles, about such engines as the Rolls-Royce Spry and military engines, and more! For an educational experience that has a great deal of depth and brings to life the reality of the military and the creation of aviation, come visit the Arkansas Air & Military Museum. The museum is located at 4290 S. School Avenue in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It's open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays to Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entrance is $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 6 to 12, free for children younger than 5, and $25 for a family. Image via Flickr by Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.

The City of Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the largest cities in the state, thanks to its almost 80,000 residents. Found at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, the city consists of 42 square miles and contains several notable historic sites within its city limits. Keep reading to learn more about these locations and why they're so important to the area. Arts Center of the Ozarks Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., the Arts Center of the Ozarks (ACO) began as the Springdale Fine Arts Association in 1967. Located in downtown Springdale, the ACO has been providing and making art for the past five decades. Today, the nonprofit is known for its production and visual arts classes, theater productions, and its art on the gallery walls. more Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, the Fitzgerald Station and Farmstead in Springdale includes a barn, house, stable, chicken house, outdoor fire pit, and pump house. The barn was used by Butterfield's Overland Mail Company for three years in the 1800s. The site also earned designation by the National Park Service as a certified site found on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. The history behind the site is that John Fitzgerald, Sr. and his wife, Mary, moved their family from Alabama to the site in present-day Springdale in the late 1820s. The family owned slaves, and after Mr. Fitzgerald died in 1875, he mentioned a former slave, Louisa, in his will. She had remained with the family after her emancipation. In addition, the site was witness to two Cherokee detachments who were removed from their homelands to present-day Oklahoma. The B.B. Cannon detachment arrived at their homestead in 1837, and the Richard Taylor detachment passed by in 1839. The latter was part of the exodus known as the Trail of Tears. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History The museum's history began in 1965 when the City of Springdale purchased a huge collection of Native American artifacts that resident Guy Howard had amassed over more than 60 years. The collection featured 10,000 prehistoric and historic artifacts as well as 260 books that highlighted archeology and anthropology. Afterward, officials moved the items to an empty building and then the old Springdale Public Library was selected as the museum's first home. In 1991, the museum relocated to its current location, which is a 22,000-square-foot building. When visiting the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History, you can learn more about the regional history of the Northwest Arkansas Ozarks. You can learn about men, women, and children who lived in nearby towns and rural areas. There are core, temporary, and online exhibits available, and admission is free. Originally started as a small settlement in 1840 and named "Shiloh" after the local Shiloh church, Springdale became incorporated in 1878 and had its name changed. Since its establishment more than 200 years ago, the area has experienced quite a bit of history. These three locations house important documents, photos, and information regarding how Springdale, Arkansas, came to be. Image via Flickr by Victoria - Ozarks Crescent Mural

If you're looking for something fun to do with your friends or family in Springdale, Arkansas, be sure to put some of these popular museums on your must-see list. Each offers a unique and educational experience in a fascinating setting. Scott Family Amazeum Unlike a traditional museum, the Scott Family Amazeum is specifically designed to amaze and inspire children. With 50,000 square feet of exhibit and educational space, kids can explore the world around them, learn more about science and nature, and enjoy a fun and positive learning environment. The purpose of the museum is to evoke a sense of discovery and curiosity through hands-on activities. more The please-touch exhibits include the General Mills Lift, Hershey's Lab, a marketplace, the 3M Tinkering Hub, Load and Haul, a Nickelodeon Play Lab, and Nature Valley Water Amazements. When the weather is pleasant, spend some time in the acre of outdoor space, which provides a stunning backdrop for additional learning opportunities and experiments. Scott Family Amazeum is located on Museum Way in Bentonville and has dedicated spaces for younger kids as well as older kids. It is open on Mondays and Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. Shiloh Museum of Ozark History If you're interested in learning more about the Springdale area, pay a visit to the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History. Its goal is to preserve the history of past residents while providing a resource to enjoy, explore, and find meaning in the exploration of the Arkansas Ozarks. The museum has been open since 1965 when the city purchased a collection of Native American artifacts from a local resident. It has grown through the years to include new educational programs, including craft workshops, lecture series, and school tours, as well as more expansive and fascinating exhibits. Some of the permanent exhibits include Prehistoric People, Ozark Folklife, Historic Native American: The Osages and The Cherokees, and those focused on specific periods in the area's history. The Marketing Magic temporary exhibit includes historic advertising memorabilia, showcasing the way this industry has changed through the years. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art welcomes all who want to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that combines the beauty of nature with the power of art. Through late April, the Soul of a Nation exhibit focuses on art in the age of black power. Upcoming exhibits include pieces from Georgia O'Keefe and Native American artists. Admission to the museum is free, although there may be an additional charge for certain exhibits. The building is especially stunning, designed by world-famous architect Moshe Safdie. Along with the exhibits, the property includes two spring-fed ponds, a glass-enclosed gathering hall, a bridge overlooking the ponds, and a library with over 50,000 materials about art. Take a stroll along some of the walking trails to view sculptures and other pieces of art. With so many fascinating things to see and explore, these museums are well worth a visit. Spend an afternoon looking at the exhibits and enjoying the culture around you in Springdale. Photo by artistector Licensed under cc by 2.0