Family members of every age will enjoy exploring art, animals and traditional cultures at museums throughout the Natural State. Here are some of the best museums for the family.
Ozark Folk Center
Ozark heritage comes to life at the Ozark Folk Center. Witness pioneer skills and crafts like pottery making, quilting, doll making, musical instrument construction, candle making and many more, and even try your hand at a few. Let the enticing aromas lead you to the diverse organic herb garden. Traditional folk music fills the air, adding to the authenticity. For a taste of the Ozarks, make sure to try the authentic country cooking.
Address: 1032 Park Ave., Mountain View, AR 72560
Phone: 870-269-3851
Website: www.ozarkfolkcenter.com
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Housing over 150 tigers, lions, leopards and other abused, abandoned or neglected animals, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers an educational experience that will be hard to forget. Get up close and personal with a variety of big cat species in more natural habitats while listening to the refuge’s keepers talk about the different species and the refuge itself. The animals are fed every evening, and you will definitely want to witness the feedings of these massive animals.
Address: 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Phone: 479-253-5841
Website: www.turpentinecreek.org
Historic Washington State Park
Take a step back in time and allow the Historic Washington State Park to transport you to the 19th century. This historic town is a slice of living history. From the restored historic buildings to the unpaved streets and the townspeople costumed in traditional period clothing, you will believe that you are in an earlier era. Take a guided walking tour, horse-drawn carriage or surrey through the town. Visit the courthouse, homes, blacksmith shop and other buildings and make sure to enjoy traditional regional food.
Address: 402 S. Washington St., Hope, AR 71801
Phone: 870-983-2684
Website: www.historicwashingtonstatepark.com
Museum of Discovery
There is something for family members of every age to discover at Little Rock’s Museum of Discovery. Earth, science, history and technology become tangible at this interactive museum. Learn about the geography and topography of Arkansas, body systems and functions, how math is part of our everyday life, or the ways energy is harnessed and distributed. Head over to the Tinkering Studio where you’ll learn building techniques and create your own structures.
Address: 500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 150, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 501-396-7050
Website: www.museumofdiscovery.org
Mid-America Science Museum
Over 100 hands-on exhibits make science fun and memorable at the Mid-America Science Museum. Earth science, architecture, optical illusions, light, energy and matter are a few of the topics visitors will explore. There is also more to discover outside on the nature trail and at the dinosaur discovery site. For a stunning display you won’t forget, watch the laser light and sound show. In addition to the permanent exhibits, there are also countless temporary exhibits throughout the year.
Address: 500 Mid America Blvd., Hot Springs, AR 71913
Phone: 501-767-3461
Website: www.midamericamuseum.org
Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum
Hobnob with celebrities, meet historical figures and witness battle scenes at the Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum. There are 30 different settings ranging from historical to the more contemporary. The wax statues are so lifelike you’ll have a hard time remembering they’re not real, but don’t let that stop you from taking a picture with your favorite statue and showing it off to friends.
Address: 250 Central Ave., Hot Springs, AR 71901
Phone: 501-623-5836
Website: http://www.rideaduck.com/waxmuseum
Clinton Presidential Center and Park
Photos, videos, artifacts and interactive exhibits tell the story of the Clinton presidency at the Clinton Presidential Center. Learn about Clinton’s presidency from the campaign trail to inauguration, work in the White House, and everything in between and beyond. There’s also a timeline placing the Clinton Administration in historical perspective and illuminating how Clinton’s presidency fits into the world political scene. The presidential library holds the documents and records of President Clinton and his White House staff.
Address: 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 501-374-4242
Website: www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org
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