Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City | Kansas City KS

Information

Landmark: Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City
City: Kansas City KS
Country: USA Kansas
Continent: North America

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Kansas City, Kansas City KS, USA Kansas, North America

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is an art museum located in Bentonville, Arkansas. It houses a significant collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day.

Visual Characteristics

The museum complex comprises several pavilions constructed from glass, wood, and steel, designed by architect Moshe Safdie. The structures are integrated into the natural ravine landscape, featuring cantilevered sections that extend over a spring-fed pond. Exterior materials include natural wood, stone, and extensive glass curtain walls. The pavilions vary in height, with the main gallery spaces generally lower to the ground, blending with the topography.

Location & Access Logistics

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is situated at 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Arkansas. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of downtown Bentonville. Ample free parking is available on-site, including designated areas for buses and RVs. The museum is accessible via local bus routes, with stops near the main entrance. Bicycle racks are also provided, connecting to the local trail system.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was founded by Alice Walton and opened in 2011. The site was developed on land that was previously undeveloped woodland and ravine. The architectural design aimed to preserve and integrate with the natural environment, utilizing the existing springs and topography. The collection's origin lies in Alice Walton's personal art acquisitions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore galleries featuring American art from the 16th century to the present. The museum grounds offer 3.5 miles (5.6 km) of walking and biking trails that wind through the Ozark forest and connect to the surrounding community. Outdoor sculpture installations are present throughout the grounds. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum pavilions. Shaded areas are provided by the museum's architecture and the surrounding tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the museum and on the grounds. On-site dining options include Eleven, a full-service restaurant, and a grab-and-go cafe. Gift shops are also located within the museum.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal natural light within the galleries, visiting during daylight hours is recommended. The surrounding trails are best explored during spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and foliage. The spring-fed pond and water features are visible year-round.

Facts & Legends

The museum's architecture is designed to appear as if it is floating on water, with pavilions extending over the pond. The collection includes significant works by artists such as Norman Rockwell, Andy Warhol, and Georgia O'Keeffe. A unique feature is the inclusion of a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian home, relocated to the museum grounds.