Bentonville Museums
Bentonville, Arkansas, a city that has rapidly transformed into a cultural beacon in the heart of the Ozarks, is home to an impressive array of museums, each offering unique insights into American art, history, innovation, and play.1 These institutions not only draw visitors from around the globe but also serve as vital community resources, enriching the lives of residents and cementing Bentonville’s reputation as a destination for lifelong learning and discovery.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: A Jewel in the Ozarks
Undoubtedly the most renowned museum in Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art stands as a testament to the power of art to inspire and connect. Founded by philanthropist Alice Walton, the museum opened its doors in 2011 with a mission to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit, uniting the power of art with the beauty of nature.2 Designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the museum’s striking pavilions are nestled around spring-fed ponds, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding 120-acre native Ozark forest.3
Crystal Bridges’ permanent collection spans five centuries of American art, offering a comprehensive journey through the nation’s artistic heritage, from early American works to contemporary masterpieces.4 Visitors can explore iconic pieces such as Asher B. Durand’s “Kindred Spirits,” Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of “George Washington,” Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Jimson Weed,” and Norman Rockwell’s “Rosie the Riveter.”5 The museum actively expands its collection to include diverse voices and underrepresented artists, ensuring a broad and inclusive narrative of American art.6 Beyond the galleries, five miles of art and walking trails adorned with outdoor sculptures link the museum’s expansive park to downtown Bentonville, providing opportunities to engage with art in a natural setting.7 General admission to Crystal Bridges’ permanent collection is always free, making it accessible to everyone.8
The Momentary: A Platform for Contemporary Art
An extension of Crystal Bridges, The Momentary takes a bold leap into contemporary visual, performing, and culinary arts.9 Housed in a decommissioned cheese factory, this innovative space, which opened in 2020, is designed as a platform for today’s art.10 It seeks to connect communities to dynamic experiences that move and provoke. The Momentary’s programming is eclectic and cutting-edge, featuring temporary exhibitions by international and local artists, live music concerts on its outdoor green, engaging performing arts pieces, and unique culinary experiences.11
The Momentary’s industrial-chic aesthetic provides a dramatic backdrop for its thought-provoking installations and performances. It embodies Bentonville’s forward-thinking spirit, inviting visitors to engage with the art of the moment in unexpected ways. From immersive visual art installations to multi-day music festivals and artist-in-residence programs, The Momentary is a vibrant hub that continually evolves, reflecting the pulse of contemporary culture.12
The Scott Family Amazeum: Where Play Meets Learning
For families and the young at heart, The Scott Family Amazeum is an interactive wonderland dedicated to fostering curiosity and lifelong learning through play.13 This hands-on museum, located near Crystal Bridges, opened in 2015 and quickly became a beloved destination for children, families, and even adults to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) concepts.
The Amazeum’s exhibits are designed for active engagement, encouraging discovery through playful exploration. Highlights include a climbable tree canopy, an indoor cave, the 3M Tinkering Hub where creativity is unleashed, the Hershey’s Lab for sweet scientific experiments, and the General Mills Lift, Load & Haul exhibit.14 Nearly an acre of outdoor space provides additional opportunities for seasonal experiments and nature-inspired play. The Amazeum’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that learning is often active, messy, and open-ended, creating a safe space for curiosity and risk-taking.
The Walmart Museum: A Legacy of Entrepreneurship
Located on the historic Bentonville Square, The Walmart Museum offers a fascinating journey into the origins and growth of one of the world’s largest retailers.15 While currently undergoing significant renovations, a temporary “Heritage Lab” allows visitors to continue exploring key aspects of Sam Walton’s vision and the company’s evolution. Once fully reopened, the museum will trace Walmart’s story decade by decade, from its humble beginnings as a five-and-dime store to its global impact.
Exhibits typically feature interactive displays, iconic artifacts, and stories that highlight the people-first values and entrepreneurial spirit that defined Sam Walton. Visitors can explore a re-creation of Sam Walton’s original office, delve into the company’s innovative approaches to retail, and understand the core principles that continue to drive Walmart. The museum also includes a classic soda fountain, The Spark Café, serving ice cream and nostalgic treats, adding a delightful touch to the historical experience.16 It’s a compelling look at American business ingenuity and its profound influence on Bentonville and beyond.
Museum of Native American History: A Journey Through Time
The Museum of Native American History (MONAH) provides a powerful and educational journey through 14,000 years of Native American history. Located just minutes from downtown Bentonville, MONAH is dedicated to preserving and presenting the rich heritage of Native peoples of the Americas.17 Its diverse collection spans from the Paleo-Indian period to modern times, showcasing artifacts from various tribes and regions across North and South America.
Visitors can explore galleries filled with ancient pottery, tools, weapons, ceremonial objects, and works of art, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity, spirituality, and daily lives of indigenous cultures. The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated to tell stories of resilience, cultural diversity, and the enduring legacy of Native Americans. MONAH serves as an important educational resource, promoting understanding and respect for indigenous peoples and their profound contributions to human history.18
Bentonville’s museums offer an enriching cultural tapestry, inviting visitors to explore everything from timeless art and contemporary expressions to the playful wonders of science and the enduring narratives of history and entrepreneurship.19 Each institution contributes to making Bentonville a truly unique and engaging destination in the American South.
bentonvillebuzz.com 