Disclosure: This post is sponsored, however all opinions are my own.
If you love stunning art, architecture, and nature – Crystal Bridges is the place for you. Located in Bentonville, Arkansas, this museum features sculptures, paintings, walking trails, and a cafe. It’s only a 3.5 hour drive from Kansas City and I got the chance to spend the a few days there. I’m so excited to tell you why you should visit Crystal Bridges this summer.
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Art
Crystal Bridges has an expansive collection of American art including works by Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Edward Hopper. There’s over 2000 paintings, sculptures, and pieces made from every material from canvas to shoelaces. These exhibits are permanent, but Crystal Bridges also has traveling pieces that are currently here for the summer.
Color Field is an outdoor collection of giant colorful sculptures in the North Forest. It’s beautiful, whimsical, and you even get to learn a little about color theory. It was definitely my favorite! Color Field is at Crystal Bridges until September 30.
Another seasonal exhibit is Nature’s Nation: American Art and Environment. As someone who loves both art and nature, this was a fascinating collection. Go see it in Bentonville before it leaves September 9!
Architecture
Crystal Bridges was designed by architect Moshe Safdie who is known for using dramatic curves, geometric patterns, and lots of natural light. As you walk through this museum, you’ll notices large windows, lots of green spaces, and high ceilings. The building itself is beautiful from the inside and outside, and includes meeting spaces and a library in addition to art.
Nature
The nature trails of Crystal Bridges are full of gorgeous trees, flowers, streams, and sculptures. The museum sits on 120 acres of Ozark forest and these paths are a great way to explore a piece of it.
I stayed at 21C Hotel and was able to walk a trail to get to the museum. It was such a cool experience being able to get from the hotel to the museum with a nice nature walk. It was about a mile, but so beautiful and definitely worth it!
Food
I had lunch at Eleven, the restaurant inside Crystal Bridges. I enjoyed a salad and grilled cheese. Everyone highly recommended the 11 burger, so next time I think I’ll try that. 😉 This restaurant offers local and sustainable dining described as “High South.” This is a taste of southern home cooking with a classy vibe.
Music
Crystal Bridges is hosting a Forest Concert Series! Every Saturday this summer from June 1st to July 27th there will be a concert on the Coca Cola stage. Tickets and lineup are available online and admission is free for children 18 and under.
Crystal Bridges has something for everyone. I spent my weekend exploring nature trails, listening to live music and experiencing contemporary and classical art. Ready for a fun weekend getaways? Head to Bentonville, Arkansas make sure you visit Crystal Bridges!
If you’re planning a trip to Bentonville make sure to check out the top 10 things to do in Bentonville, Arkansas.