Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas is not only a haven for art lovers but also an excellent destination for families looking to explore nature, engage in hands-on activities, and enjoy art in the outdoors. Located in Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum is the premier high-end art museum in the state. With guided tours and a vast space, the museum offers an educational experience that gives kids space to explore. If you’re looking for an educational adventure for your next family day, consider the beautiful art collections and scenic trails of Crystal Bridges and utilize this guide to prepare for your trip!
Preparing for Your Visit to Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas
Before your visit, consider preparing your kids with the following resources to enhance the experience:
- Art Activities at Home: Crystal Bridges offers guided art activities that families can do together before visiting the museum. These projects introduce children to art concepts they’ll see at the museum, such as creating sculptures from natural materials or drawing inspiration from animals in art. These activities make the visit more engaging for children when they encounter similar art at the museum.
- Books to Read Before You Go: Introduce your kids to the world of art through books like The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds or Katie and the Impressionists by James Mayhew. These books will get them excited about exploring the artwork and the stories behind it.
- Download the apps: Crystal Bridges has both an indoor and outdoor app that details the exhibits and provides a virtual tour of the art. You can get familiar with what you’ll see in person and choose pieces to add to your must-see list!
Visiting Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas
Location: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712
Opening Days & Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.
(479) 418-5700
[email protected]
Admission: Free general admission; some special exhibitions may have a fee. The North Forest Time Loop Exhibit has a $25 entrance fee.
When you arrive at Crystal Bridges, you’ll find several resources to make your visit smooth and enjoyable. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the museum to aid in your exploration.
- Maps and Guides: The museum offers detailed maps and family guides to help you plan your visit. These guides highlight family-friendly areas, key exhibits, and rest areas so you can maximize your time.
- Audioguides: Crystal Bridges provides Collection Conversation Audio Tours that offer interactive and engaging descriptions of the exhibits. These guides are perfect for helping kids connect with the art in a way that’s fun and understandable.
- Guided Tours: If you prefer a guided tour, the museum offers several options. They even offer School Tours for homeschool or public school groups and After-School Tours specifically designed to engage youth!
Must-See Exhibits for Kids at Crystal Bridges
The museum is massive and not specifically created for children. While each child is different, there are a few areas that might interest them more than others.
1. Early American Art Gallery
This gallery includes portraits, landscapes, and scenes that illustrate America’s history from the 18th to the early 19th centuries. This exhibit won’t be the most exciting for kids, but it’s probably the best learning opportunity for both art history and general American history.
Three pieces that may particularly appeal to children include:
- Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze – This dramatic painting depicts the famous moment when George Washington led his troops across the Delaware River during the American Revolution. Kids will be drawn to the action-packed scene filled with determination and bravery.
- The Indians’ Perspective by George Catlin – This vibrant work showcases Native American culture and life, sparking curiosity about different traditions and the history of the indigenous people.
- The Peale Family by Charles Willson Peale – This family portrait features a large group of Peale family members, making it interesting for children as they see the differences in clothing and family dynamics of the past.
2. The Art Trail
The Art Trail is one of Crystal Bridges’ biggest draws for families. This outdoor walking path winds through beautiful landscapes dotted with sculptures and art installations, combining art and nature in a way that feels playful and organic.
Tip for Parents: The Art Trail is stroller-friendly, so bring along wheels for younger kids if needed. Pack some water and snacks, as the trail offers plenty of shady spots to rest.
3. The Orchard Trail
The Orchard Trail is my personal favorite. It includes the Fly’s Dome—a massive geodesic dome by artist Buckminster Fuller that is a fascinating sight for kids. Originally created as a form of economical housing, the 50-foot dome is now a prominent exhibit on the Orchard Trail.
I also love the gigantic flower art installation by Yayoi Kusama. The large sculpture collection features brightly colored and patterned flowers that take on human-like poses. The Infinity Mirror Room, another Kusama creation, is located in the indoor permanent collection and is another must-visit for kids! It features mirrors and colored lanterns that transform in a mesmerizing light show.
4. Skyspace by James Turrell
James Turrell’s Skyspace installation features a specialized concrete structure that transforms light. It’s an immersive experience that uses light and color to engage visitors. The space is particularly striking at sunrise or sunset when the ceiling appears to open up to the sky, filling the room with mesmerizing colors.
Family Conversation: Ask your kids how different colors make them feel and encourage them to describe what they see in their own words. This installation introduces them to the idea that art doesn’t have to be a painting or sculpture; it can be an experience.
5. Untitled (L.A.)
Most art is a no-touch zone, but this immersive experience by artist Felix Gonzalez-Torres invites kiddos to take a piece of candy for the road. The piece is restocked and reimagined every day.
6. Nick Cave’s Sound Suit
This colorful, intricate suit is sure to capture kids’ attention. Made from found objects like buttons and painted wood toys, the suit is outlandish with a bit of whimsy and fantasy.
7. Chihuly’s Glass Sculptures:
The vivid colors and intricate shapes of Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures make them popular with kids. The playful shapes offer a great opportunity to talk about how artists use different materials to create their visions.
Outdoor Adventures: The North Forest
Some of the most interesting areas of the museum for kids are outside the walls. It’s an outdoor sanctuary, with numerous trails for families to explore. If the weather is nice, plan to spend most of your day outdoors. We’ve already discussed the Art Trail and the Orchard Trail above, but here are a few more of the must-visit areas for a family visit.
The North Forest is a special part of the museum’s outdoor landscape. The forest exhibits offer and mindblowing adventure through an alternate universe where art and science collide in a big way.
What You’ll Find in the North Forest
- Klip Collective’s North Forest Lights: This exclusive outdoor experience features six immersive installations, each one designed to interact with the natural landscape. Klip Collective, founded in 2003 by projection pioneer Ricardo Rivera, combines projection mapping, lighting, and sound design to create immersive, site-specific art experiences. It’s very sciency and hard to explain what happens in the North Forest, so you’ll just have to trust me that it’s an interactive and fantastic art exhibition for the family!
- Educational Exploration: The North Forest also features several trails and exploration stations, where families can stop to learn about the local flora and fauna. It’s a perfect mix of art, education, and outdoor adventure, all rolled into one beautiful package. You can utilize their online plant guide to make your trip more informative! Here are a few of the best trails for kiddos.
The Crystal Springs Trail
This picturesque trail takes you around Crystal Springs, a beautiful, spring-fed pond surrounded by lush forests. It’s a gentle, easy-to-navigate trail that’s ideal for young children. You may even spot some local wildlife.
The Quartz Grotto
A hidden gem in the museum’s outdoor areas, the Quartz Grotto is a whimsical installation made from local quartz and stone, creating a magical cave-like atmosphere. Children can touch and explore the walls and textures of the grotto. It’s a great spot for children to experience the tactile nature of art and nature combined.
Family Programs and Workshops
Aside from normal tours, Crystal Bridges offers a host of family-friendly programs that can enhance your visit:
The Studio
The Studio is a hands-on art-making space where kids can create their own art inspired by the museum’s exhibits. It’s a great place to relax and get creative after exploring the galleries or the trails. I recommend doing this towards the end of your day after you’ve had some time to explore and gather inspiration!
Family Workshops
Throughout the year, the museum hosts workshops for children exploring all art forms, techniques, and materials. These workshops give kids the opportunity to learn new skills and create their own masterpieces to take home.
Summer Camps
The museum also offers summer camps that combine art-making with outdoor exploration. Kids, ages 4-18, enjoy a weeklong camp that incorporates STEM learning and art, as well as a load of fun!
Teen Council
For older children and teens, the Teen Council provides an opportunity to get involved with the museum by organizing events, assisting with programs, and helping curate exhibits. This program fosters leadership skills and a deeper understanding of the arts.
Seasonal Activities at Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas
Fall Break
During fall break (Nov 25-27, 2024), Crystal Bridges offers special activities that families can enjoy together. The museum hosts unique themed activities each afternoon, including hands-on art projects, live music, dance performances, and fall-themed scavenger hunts. These activities are free and open to all visitors from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Mini Camps for Kids: For children interested in a more in-depth art experience, the museum offers mini-camps during fall break. These camps provide opportunities to learn new art techniques and create projects inspired by the season.
Tips for Visiting With Kids
- Dress for the Outdoors: Many of the museum’s outdoor installations and trails are accessible year-round. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and check the weather forecast before you go.
- Bring Snacks and Water: If you plan to spend time exploring the trails or walking the outdoor spaces, be sure to bring water and snacks for the kids.
- Download the App: Make use of the Outdoor App to learn more about the installations you’re viewing. It’s a great way to keep kids engaged and help them understand the art.
- Take Breaks: With so much to explore, kids may get tired. Take breaks in between exhibits or enjoy a snack at one of the museum’s designated rest areas.
- Reflect Together: At the end of your visit, take some time to talk about the highlights of the day. Ask your kids what they liked best and why. This reflection deepens their engagement with the art.
- Eleven Restaurant offers a kid-friendly menu and a relaxing space to recharge. For families, it’s a convenient spot to break up the day and talk about the art they’ve seen.
Why Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas is a Must-Visit With Kids
Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas offers more than just a collection of high-end artwork. It provides a holistic experience for families, blending art, nature, and hands-on creativity. With the outdoor trails, interactive art installations, and seasonal activities, there’s no shortage of ways to engage children and introduce them to the beauty of both art and the natural world. Whether you’re spending time on the Art Trail, discovering the Quartz Grotto, or experiencing the immersive North Forest Lights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Crystal Bridges isn’t the only awesome museum in Arkansas. For more interactive learning zones, take a look at our list of “The Best Arkansas Museums for a Cultural Family Fun Day.”
For more family adventures in the Natural State, check out our full Arkansas Travel Blog. We update every Tuesday with a brand new family activities article!