Crystal Bridges Museum Of American Art Is The Best Museum In Arkansas

Marking its 13th anniversary this year, Bentonville’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has made it its mission “to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature.” It pairs those spheres beautifully, inviting visitors to explore indoors, where they can learn about American art through the centuries, and outdoors, where the Ozark landscape beckons. This year, it has the distinction of being voted the South’s Best Museum in Arkansas by Southern Living readers, and a glimpse into its thrilling collection of art and the natural wonders that surround it will show you exactly why.  

The History of Crystal Bridges

Established in 2011 by Alice Walton, a member of Walmart’s founding family, Crystal Bridges makes its home on 120 lush, forested acres and offers free admission to all guests. The grounds encompass many notable features, including Crystal Spring, which gives this museum its name; a glass-enclosed bridge; a restaurant, Eleven; a coffee bar featuring beans from local roastery Onyx Coffee Lab; a library containing more than 50,000 reference volumes; and about 5 miles of nature trails.

The Crystal Bridges Collection

Pieces from the museum’s 3,500-item (and growing) collection can be found both inside and out. Vibrant glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly nestle into the woods surrounding the building, while Maman, a gigantic spider by Louise Bourgeois, forms a dramatic archway. In the galleries, find noteworthy pieces of art spanning genre and media. Beyond paintings and sculptures, in past years there have been exhibits featuring photographs, textiles, and clothing too. 

Pieces on display include Norman Rockwell’s illustration of Rosie the Riveter as well as paintings by artists Amy Sherald, John Singer Sargent, Roy Lichtenstein, and many others. Crystal Bridges is also the steward of a structure designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Bachman-Wilson House, which was transported from its original home in New Jersey to Bentonville to become a key part of the museum’s collection.

New Additions To Crystal Bridges

Across town is The Momentary, a partner museum that’s located in a reimagined former cheese factory. In addition to showcasing stunning contemporary works of visual art, it also hosts live music and other experiences in the realms of performance art and educational programming. It’s also a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat: The Tower Bar features floor-to-ceiling windows that provide a bird’s-eye view of Bentonville, a place where art and nature coexist.