Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville

Beautiful architectural achievement in a wonderfully wooded area! Before you ever even enter the museum, visitors are greeted by a peaceful wooded forest that is situated right above a large stream. Inside the facility, you'll find many wonderful American works of art that are available for viewing at no charge. Recorded audio guides are available to help navigate the museum. There are many great hiking trails that guests can enjoy. Maps are available to help navigate the grounds. We found that they were hard to read and asked for help locating specific trails. There was also a nice cafe and coffee shop. We didn't try them but would like to during a next visit.

If you like art museums you will love this one! They have several pieces I had only seem in textbooks before, such as a portrait of George Washington. Another one of my favorites is a sculpture the artist made of his own head at about four times the size, and it is creepily life-like. I think they rotate through their collection so if you go twice you might something new. The I've been through a couple of the special exhibitions and they were both enjoyable. The main galleries are free.