American Heritage Ozark Attractions
- Kylen Laws
- May 15
- 7 min read
Seniors love Simple Pleasures in Bella Vista because it offers a charming step back in time, filled with vintage cars, nostalgic décor, and classic Americana that brings back fond memories of their youth. The peaceful, scenic setting combined with warm hospitality makes it a relaxing and enjoyable stop, while the curated atmosphere—complete with jukebox tunes and restored memorabilia—creates a sense of joy and familiarity. Guests can connect through lighthearted group activities, games, and even win silly prizes that add laughter and fun to the experience. To top it all off, a hearty, home-style dinner is served, making the visit feel both personal and memorable—like stepping into a simpler, more joyful era.
Ken Minor - Founder of Simple Pleasures
Kylen Laws - Event/Trip Coordinator
Phone: Ken 479-876-5959
location: 13718 Mesa Dr, Bella Vista, AR 72715
Simple Pleasures in Bella Vista, Arkansas, was founded in 2002 by Ken Miner and his wife Elaine. Originally from the Kansas City area, the Miners envisioned creating an event center that would reflect small-town charm (A copy of their childhood) and immerse visitors in memories of a simpler time. They transformed the venue into a nostalgic retreat featuring vintage-style architecture, lush landscaping, and a collection of classic cars and memorabilia from the 1920s to the 1990s. The Miners' dedication to preserving and showcasing Americana has made Simple Pleasures a beloved destination for seniors and motorcoach tours seeking a unique and heartfelt experience .
Seniors love visiting Har-Ber Village for its charm and peaceful setting. Founded by Harvey Jones as a tribute to Ozark settlers, Bar-ber Village was designed to preserve and showcase their rich history and culture. Nestled along Grand Lake in Oklahoma, this open-air museum features historic log cabins, a working blacksmith shop, and antique collections that transport visitors back in time. Seniors appreciate the leisurely pace, shaded walking paths, and friendly volunteers who bring history to life. Whether enjoying the scenic views and history Har-Ber Village provides a delightful and enriching experience.
Juanita Roher-Programs Coordinator
Phone: 918-971-3607
location: Har-Ber Village Museum, 4404 West 20th Street, Grove OK 74344.
History of Harvey Jones
Harvey Jones, 1900-1989 was born a farm boy just east of Springdale Arkansas. At age sixteen, Jones moved to Springdale, where he set up his first business venture, a mercantile store. Two years later, in 1918, when the railroad went on strike, Jones purchased an old Springfield wagon and two mules to haul goods between Rogers and Fayetteville Arkansas, a daily thirteen-hour trip. In 1919, Jones sold his wagon and mules to buy a Federal truck and named his business Jones Transportation Company. In the 1920s, and 30s, Jones trucking grew nationwide. In 1949, the Jones Truck Lines was incorporated, as the nation's largest privately owned and operated truck line.
Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel is spectacular art. Placed majestically in a forest of beautiful pines and majestic oaks, this one-of-a-kind non-denominal chapel blends Middle Ages Majesty with modern engineering, Forty-five hundred square feet of glass and fifteen steel arches tower 50’ above the flagstone floor of this magnificent chapel
Cindy, Programs Coordinator
Phone: 479-855-6598
Email: mcooperchapel@att.net
“The Glass Chapel” designed by world-renowned architects E. Fay Jones, and Maurice Jennings, is an inspiration of faith and art.
Follow the colorful history of aviation in Arkansas and American military conflicts through numerous displays of original artifacts and aviation memorabilia! The historic aircraft in the Arkansas Air & Military Museum are unusual among museum exhibits because many of them still fly. Static displays at the museum range from the golden age of aviation to the jet age, including Vietnam-era Army helicopters and Navy carrier fighters. While visiting, guests get to climb inside and explore 3 different aircraft.
Hallie or Lacy
Phone: 479-521-4947
location: 4290 S. School Avenue, Fayetteville, AR 72701
The Arkansas Air & Military Museum, located at Drake Field in Fayetteville, Arkansas, was established in 1986 as the Arkansas Air Museum. In 2012, it merged with the neighboring Ozark Military Museum to form the current institution, preserving and showcasing the state's aviation and military history.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, is a destination for everyone but especially Seniors seeking a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. The museum offers a world-class collection of American art, featuring masterpieces from colonial times to today. Seniors will appreciate the easy-to-navigate galleries, peaceful indoor spaces, and stunning outdoor trails surrounded by lush Ozark scenery. Free general admission makes it accessible for all, and guided tours provide enriching stories behind the artwork. Comfortable seating, a lovely café, and engaging temporary exhibits ensure a leisurely and inspiring visit. Crystal Bridges blends history, beauty, and serenity into a delightful experience
Phone: 479-418-5700
location: 600 Museum Way Bentonville, AR 72712
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was founded in 2005 by philanthropist Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, and officially opened to the public on November 11, 2011. Situated on 120 acres of Ozark forest in Bentonville, Arkansas—a landscape cherished by the Walton family—the museum was designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie. Its name derives from a nearby natural spring and the bridge-like structures incorporated into its design. The museum's mission is to celebrate the American spirit by uniting the power of art with the beauty of nature, offering free admission to all visitors.
Alice Walton's passion for art began in her childhood, painting watercolors with her mother during family camping trips. Her personal collection formed the foundation of the museum's holdings, which now encompass over 3,500 works spanning five centuries of American art. The Walton Family Foundation provided significant support, including an $800 million endowment and the donation of the land.
The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad is a sightseeing bonanza. Senior’s enjoy comfortable restored vintage railcars, as the train winds past rolling hills, deep valleys, and high trestles! Panoramic views. and the gentle sway of the train reinforce the nostalgic rail Journeys.
Peaceful charm, rich history, and breathtaking views best describe Windslow. Nestled in the Boston Mountains, The town’s slower pace and friendly locals, create a welcoming atmosphere, while shopping and restaurants . Winslow delivers a delightful escape for senior travelers.
Fort Smith Transload Facility
Location: 1301 N. 4th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901
Phone: 479-785-1857 Fax: 479-783-1971
Michele Burgess - Facility Manager (479-200-5491)
Springdale Transloading Facility
Location: 200 E. Hwy 264, Springdale, AR 72764
Phone: 479-751-4483
Will Barnes - Superintendent of Transload Operations (479-530-1824)
The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad (A&M) was established in 1986 as a Class III short line railroad operating a 150-mile corridor from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Monett, Missouri. Founded by an investor group, the A&M was spun off from the Burlington Northern Railroad and began operations in September 1986. The railroad's mission was to create and maintain a first-class, profitable operation, a vision that continues to guide its business practices today .
The A&M's tracks were originally part of the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway (Frisco), constructed between 1880 and 1882. Passenger service on the line was discontinued in 1965, and the Frisco was merged into Burlington Northern in 1980. The A&M purchased the line from Burlington Northern in early 2001, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Today, the A&M operates freight services and seasonal passenger excursions, offering scenic train rides through the Ozark Mountains and Boston Mountains, attracting tourists and rail enthusiasts alike .
United States Marshals Museum
The U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers an immersive experience into the history of America's oldest federal law enforcement agency. Visitors are encouraged to allocate at least 1 to 2 hours for their tour, though many find themselves spending several hours exploring the five immersive galleries.
Established in 2007, Fort Smith was chosen as the museum's location due to its significant historical ties to the U.S. Marshals Service. The city served as a pivotal center during the frontier era, with more marshals and deputy marshals losing their lives riding out of Fort Smith than in any other period of the nation's history. The museum's design is both modern and symbolic, featuring a star-shaped structure that traces the history of the Marshals Service from its inception in 1789 to the present day.
Phone: (479) 242-1789
location: 789 Riverfront Drive Fort Smith, AR 72901
The museum's design is both modern and symbolic, featuring a star-shaped structure that traces the history of the Marshals Service from its inception in 1789 to the present day.
Inside, the five immersive galleries educate guests about the critical and evolving role of the U.S. Marshals, making it a significant historic attraction in Fort Smith.
For those planning a visit, the museum is located at 789 Riverfront Drive, Fort Smith, AR 72901. As of March 1, it operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Labor Day.
Near Route 66 and Carthage, MO, Precious Moments Chapel is a serene and heartfelt destination inspired by the beloved artwork of Samuel J. Butcher. This peaceful retreat features stunning hand-painted murals, intricate stained glass, and beautifully sculpted angels, all celebrating faith, love, and family. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, reflect in the chapel, and explore the gift shop filled with collectible figurines. Precious moments is a touching stop for those seeking inspiration or a nostalgic connection.
Group tours often appreciate the a glimpse into Carthage's rich history, with displays and artifacts that trace the town’s roots back to the 19th century. visitors leave with a lasting impression of the art historic spirit and creativity.
Phone: 800-543-7975
location: 4321 Chapel Road, Carthage, MO 64836
The Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, Missouri, was founded by artist Samuel J. Butcher in 1989 as a tribute to his faith and artistic vision. Butcher, known for creating the beloved Precious Moments figurines, envisioned a sanctuary where visitors could experience the stories of the Bible through his distinctive teardrop-eyed characters. Inspired by Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, Butcher meticulously designed and painted 84 murals and 30 stained-glass windows over several years, transforming the chapel into a serene space that reflects his spiritual journey and artistic dedication.
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