Our family enjoys adventure. We love to go on vacations. We love to see and do new things. Of course, we enjoy all of the major landmarks or destinations. But every now and then, we find ourselves on the road less traveled. I endeavor to seek out all the interesting things that could be great along our journey.
On a vacation to Branson, MO (which is a regular destination for our family), we drove off the normal route. We went to what most would call a small town in northwestern Arkansas. It was a very charming place called Bella Vista, AR. Being from Oklahoma, I am used to people’s stereotypes about me and my way of life. Trust me, Arkansas has a similar stereotype. I haven’t been all over Arkansas, but I am here to tell you that this place is beautiful! Bella Vista sits on the bottom of the Ozark Mountains. The Ozarks are not as stately as the Rocky Mountains or other major mountain ranges. It is, however, among the most beautiful.
If you drive just off the main highway, there is a charming little chapel that is nestled into the woods.
Meet the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel. Isn’t this little chapel adorable. The architecture is just astounding. The arches coupled with the glass creates such lines that makes your eyes want to keep looking. It is mesmerizing.
Just look at the arches. The beams are made of steel. It is both beautiful and unexpected. I love how they overlap, combine, and drawn you in. Let’s step inside and see what beauty lies within.
I love nature. So, the glass walls only broken up by the steel arches allows the natural beauty to really shine through. It is so unassuming, yet so prominent.
Wouldn’t it be so beautiful to get married here? The chapel is available for weddings and events.
Here is a look to the back. I love those wooden doors. They might be my favorite focal point on the entire chapel.
Here is a good look at the details.
If you are traveling or live near the northwest Arkansas area, you should dedicate a couple of hours to view this hidden marvel in the woods. It has a great parking lot. The sidewalks that lead you to the chapel are in good shape and appear to be very well maintained. This chapel sits just off a body of water. There is a sidewalk that leads around the chapel and through the woods. It is a great short hike.
Arkansas has two of these little chapels. Both lie in the northwest part of the state. I’m not completely sure why these ultimately came to pass, but I am grateful someone took the time to design, finance, and maintain this place. Even if your journey never makes it to this particular place, I want to encourage you to jump off the beaten path and see the small things that can be some of the most beautiful.