Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Branson West, Missouri and Bentonville, Arkansas
Branson West, Missouri and Bentonville, Arkansas are two beautiful cities located just a few hours apart in the Ozark Mountains. Embarking on a road trip between these two cities is an exciting adventure for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and history. The trip offers many highlights, including a stop in Cassville, MO, a small city located in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Table Rock Lake
One activity that visitors are sure to enjoy is a visit to Table Rock Lake, which is located just outside of Branson West. This stunning lake offers a multitude of water activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, and more. The lake is surrounded by beautiful wooded areas, which makes it a great place for nature lovers as well.
Interesting Fact
Table Rock Lake is known not only for its beauty but also for its fish population. This lake is known to have some of the best bass fishing in the state.
2. The Titanic Museum
The Titanic Museum in Branson West is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history. The museum is a replica of the famous Titanic ship, and visitors can take a tour of the museum to learn about the ship's history and see artifacts from the ship's wreckage.
Interesting Fact
The Titanic Museum has the largest collection of Titanic artifacts anywhere in the world. From the famous staircase to the actual violin played by one of the ship's musicians, this museum is a treasure trove of Titanic history.
3. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville is a must-visit for any art enthusiast. The museum boasts an impressive collection of American art, including works by Norman Rockwell, Georgia O'Keefe, and Andy Warhol.
Interesting Fact
The Crystal Bridges Museum was founded in 2005 by the Walton family of Walmart fame. The museum is a testament to the family's commitment to preserving and promoting American art.
4. The Ozark National Forest
The Ozark National Forest spans over 1 million acres and offers miles of hiking trails, pristine rivers to fish, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors should be sure to check out the Pedestal Rocks Trail, which offers stunning views of unique rock formations and is known for its wildflowers in the spring.
Interesting Fact
The Ozark National Forest is one of the few places in the United States where tourists can spot the Ozark big-eared bat, a federally endangered species.
5. The Walmart Museum
Finally, the Walmart Museum in Bentonville is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in the history of the famous company. The museum features exhibits on the early days of Walmart and the company's impressive growth over the years. Visitors can even see inside Sam Walton's original 5&10 store, which is now a part of the museum.
Interesting Fact
The Walmart Museum was once the location of Sam Walton's original Walton's 5&10 store. The store was opened in 1950, and the Walmart Museum now has an interactive exhibit recreating the store's original layout.
Conclusion
This road trip from Branson West, Missouri, and Bentonville, Arkansas, offers a great mix of nature, adventure, and history. Travelers can go fishing and boating at Table Rock Lake, learn about the Titanic's history at the Titanic Museum, admire American art at the Crystal Bridges Museum, explore the Ozark National Forest, and learn about the history of Walmart at the Walmart Museum. The distance between these two destinations is just a few hours, making it a great option for a weekend getaway. Overall, this road trip is a great way to explore the Ozarks and learn about Missouri and Arkansas's unique cultures and history.