This post is by Danielle Smith, an agricultural communications student at the University of Arkansas.
You may have read about Crystal Bridges Museum in this post 5 Unexpected Treasures of Northwest Arkansas. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Crystal Bridges, as well as the Norman Rockwell exhibit. Here is a look at my visit to this extraordinary Northwest Arkansas treasure.
Alice Walton founded the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in 2005; the museum opened to the public in fall of 2011. Alice grew up riding horses, playing with her brothers, and enjoying nature on the the 200+ acres of land where the museum is built.
The Museum currently features the limited-time exhibition American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell. While Crystal Bridges is free to visitors, the Rockwell exhibit cost $12 for adults.
It is well worth additional cost. This exhibit is extraordinary and relates to every generation. Included with the entrance fee is a personal iPod that explains each piece through the voice of Rockwell’s son. The exhibit will be featured March 9 through May 27, 2013.
One of Norman Rockwell’s many famous pieces “Rosie the Riveter” is part of Crystal Bridges permanent collection.
Crystal Bridges features something for everyone from sculptures and statues to classic and modern art; it is nearly impossible not to find something that interests every visitor.
Can you see the alphabet? This piece is featured as you walk into the main entrance just before you enter the delicious Eleven café.
Another excellent view of the crystal waters that surround the museum.
Crystal Bridges also features scenic wooded areas with six walking and biking trails, creating s a unique experience for visitors where nature and art merge as one.
My family and I loved visiting Crystal Bridges Museum and we hope you will too!
Crystal Bridges is located in Bentonville, Arkansas and open Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Wednesday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Museum is closed on Tuesdays, as well as on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Crystal Bridges’ trails are open from sunrise to sunset, every day.
What is your favorite part about visiting an art museum? Please share in comments below.
A native of Stilwell, Kansas, Danielle plans to return to the Kansas City area upon graduation.
Danielle is currently working as a social media intern with VentureTime Travel. When she isn’t working or in classes, Danielle enjoys traveling the world with her fiancée Will.
Learn more about Danielle here.
Other posts your may enjoy reading…
- Destination Discovery: Mount Magazine, Arkansas.
- Destination Discovery: Kimballton, Iowa is home for this “Little Mermaid”
- Destination Discovery: Peanuts on Parade, St. Paul, Minnesota
- Destination Discovery: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Destination Discovery: Glacier Bay, National Park and Preserve, Southeast Alaska
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