Don’t Miss KAWS: FAMILY in NWA This Summer

Discovering my Happy Place…you can experience it too!

Growing up in Fayetteville, I never imagined my hometown would one day host exhibitions from artists like KAWS. But here we are.

Now through July 28, 2025, the world-renowned KAWS: FAMILY exhibit is on display at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. You don’t want to miss out on this bold, whimsical, and thought-provoking collection that’s already drawing national attention.

And, beyond that, Northwest Arkansas offers a vibrant mix of culture, nature, and food that’s hard to match.

Here’s what makes a visit unforgettable:

🎨 Art and Culture

• View KAWS: FAMILY at Crystal Bridges and explore their permanent collection
  Image Rights: KAWS Family 

   

•  Catch contemporary installations at The Momentary and interactive exhibits at Amazeum.
• Attend a performance at TheatreSquared, Walton Art Center or the Walmart AMP.
• Visit smaller galleries and public art trails in Bentonville and Fayetteville.

🚲 Outdoor Escapes

• Hike Devil’s Den, Tanyard Creek, or Lost Valley.
• Kayak the Buffalo River, float the Illinois River, or paddleboard on Beaver Lake.
• Bike world-class trails like Slaughter Pen, Coler Mountain, and Back 40.
• Explore the Razorback Greenway, stretching 40 miles through the region.

🍽 Local Flavor

• Savor upscale fare at The Preacher’s Son, Atlas, Bar Cleeta, and Eleven.

• Discover hidden gems like Mockingbird Kitchen, Yeyo’s, and Stone Mill Café.
• Enjoy craft brews at Bike Rack Brewing, Ozark Beer Co., or Fossil Cove.
• Watch for new spots like RYN, opening soon with bold, local flavors.

🛍 Events + Shopping

• Don’t miss the War Eagle Craft Fair and sister events like the Ozark Regional Arts & Crafts Festival, held every fall in October.
• Shop local at the Bentonville Farmers Market, Fayetteville Square Market, and 8th Street Market.
• Browse boutiques and galleries in Eureka Springs, Springdale, and Rogers.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local like me, now’s the time to (re)discover what makes NWA so special.

Start planning your trip at AllThingsNWA.com

Photos: Barry Gass Photography