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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.
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
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