Bella Vista ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bella Vista, Arkansas.
1. Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel
STUNNING GLASS CHAPEL ARCHITECTURE
Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is one of Arkansas' three glass chapels nestled in the middle of a woodland area of Bella Vista. The chapel features a world-famous architectural design that showcases soaring glass walls and intricate steel beams. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere as natural light streams through the glass panels, creating a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by nature.
2. Tanyard Creek Nature Trail
SCENIC WOODLAND HIKING PATH
Tanyard Creek Nature Trail is a beautiful hiking trail located off the beaten path in Bella Vista, below the Windsor Lake Dam. The trail meanders through deep woods, featuring waterfalls, bluffs, and creeks that showcase the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained pathways that are suitable for various fitness levels while experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
3. Back 40
WORLD-CLASS MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAILS
Back 40 offers world-class mountain biking, trail running, and hiking trails in the Ozark Mountains of Bella Vista. The trails meander through deep woods, featuring waterfalls, bluffs, and creeks that create a spectacular outdoor experience. Built by nationally recognized trail designers, these paths provide varying difficulty levels for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Veterans Wall of Honor
TRIBUTE TO MILITARY HEROES
The Veterans Wall of Honor in Bella Vista is a moving monument that pays tribute to those who have served in the United States military. The memorial features walls inscribed with the names of veterans, providing a space for reflection and remembrance. Visitors often describe it as a powerful and emotional experience that honors the sacrifices made by service members throughout American history.
5. Blowing Springs Park and Arboretum
NATURAL SPRINGS AND GREENERY
Blowing Springs Park and Arboretum is a natural oasis in Bella Vista featuring bubbling springs, wooded trails, and diverse plant species. The park offers a combination of recreational activities including hiking and mountain biking alongside opportunities to observe local wildlife. Its namesake springs create a refreshing atmosphere, especially during warmer months, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
6. Bella Vista Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Bella Vista Museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of this unique Arkansas community. Exhibits showcase the transformation of Bella Vista from a summer resort in the early 1900s to the thriving residential community it is today. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the area's past to life in engaging ways.
7. Bella Vista Country Club Golf Course
PREMIER GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Bella Vista Country Club Golf Course offers golfers a premier experience amidst the rolling hills of northwest Arkansas. The well-maintained course challenges players with strategic layouts while providing stunning views of the surrounding Ozark landscape. Golf enthusiasts appreciate the combination of challenging play, beautiful scenery, and excellent amenities available at this established country club.
8. Lake Bella Vista Trailhead
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Lake Bella Vista Trailhead serves as a gateway to the area's extensive trail network while offering beautiful lakeside views. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and walking along the shoreline of this picturesque body of water. The trailhead connects to the Razorback Regional Greenway, making it an ideal starting point for longer adventures through northwest Arkansas.
9. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art houses a world-renowned collection of American masterpieces spanning five centuries, from the Colonial era to contemporary works. The museum building itself is an architectural marvel designed by Moshe Safdie, featuring a series of pavilions nestled around two spring-fed ponds. Visitors can explore the extensive collection while also enjoying the 120-acre grounds with miles of sculpture-lined walking trails through the Ozark forest.
10. Scott Family Amazeum
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
The Scott Family Amazeum is a hands-on, interactive children's museum that encourages learning through play and exploration. The facility features numerous exhibits focused on art, science, technology, and nature that are designed to engage young minds and spark creativity. Children and families can experience everything from a mock Walmart market to art studios, water play areas, and a climbable canopy in this 50,000-square-foot discovery space.
11. The Momentary
CONTEMPORARY ARTS SPACE
The Momentary is a contemporary arts space that serves as a satellite to Crystal Bridges Museum, housed in a former cheese factory. The venue presents visual, performing, and culinary arts with a focus on contemporary artists and performers from around the world. Visitors can experience rotating exhibitions, live performances, artist residencies, and culinary experiences in this innovative space that bridges art and everyday life.
12. The Walmart Museum
RETAIL ICON'S HISTORY
The Walmart Museum chronicles the remarkable journey of Sam Walton and the growth of Walmart from a single five-and-dime store to the world's largest retailer. Located in the original Walton's 5&10 on the Bentonville town square, the museum features Walton's office preserved as it was, along with numerous artifacts from the company's history. Visitors can conclude their tour at the Spark Café Soda Fountain, which serves nostalgic treats including Sam Walton's favorite, butter pecan ice cream.
13. Thorncrown Chapel
ICONIC GLASS WOODLAND SANCTUARY
Thorncrown Chapel is a stunning architectural marvel constructed primarily of glass and wood, nestled in the Ozark woodlands. The soaring 48-foot tall structure features 425 windows containing over 6,000 square feet of glass, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light, shadow, and nature. Designed by E. Fay Jones, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, this internationally acclaimed chapel has been recognized as one of the finest architectural works of modern times.
14. Bella Vista Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Bella Vista Farmers Market offers a vibrant gathering place where local farmers and artisans showcase fresh produce, handmade goods, and regional specialties. Visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, honey, and handcrafted items while connecting with community members. The market operates seasonally and provides a wonderful opportunity to experience local flavors and support small businesses in the Bella Vista region.
15. Scotsdale Golf Course
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Scotsdale Golf Course in Bella Vista offers golfers a championship-level experience amid the beautiful Ozark landscape. The meticulously maintained course features challenging holes, strategic water features, and well-designed fairways that test players of all skill levels. After a round, visitors can enjoy amenities at the clubhouse while taking in panoramic views of this picturesque golfing destination.