Is it possible to create a React app with animations and modern UX on Webflow, and what would be the best approach for building this type of site?

Yes, it’s possible to integrate a React app with animations and modern UX into a Webflow site, but it requires a hybrid approach since Webflow doesn't natively support React. Here’s how to effectively combine Webflow design with React functionality.

1. Use Webflow for Visual Layout and CMS

• Design your static pages and CMS content in Webflow.
• Export the HTML/CSS if you're hosting elsewhere, or publish directly on Webflow if React will be embedded as a widget.
• Utilize Webflow CMS for content that doesn't need React interactivity, like blogs or portfolios.

2. Embed React Apps via Custom Code

• Use Webflow’s Embed element or the Custom Code sections (Site Settings > Custom Code or Page Settings > Custom Code) to insert your React bundles.
• You must compile your React app using tools like Vite, Webpack, or Create React App, and mount it to a container div (e.g., <div id="my-react-app"></div>).
• Add the JavaScript and CSS bundles via <script src=...> and <link rel=...> tags in the custom code fields.

3. Use React for High-Interactivity Features

• Isolate interactive modules like product configurators, dashboards, or dynamic forms in React.
• Mount these apps into specific Webflow pages or sections, keeping the rest of the site managed through Webflow.
• Use portal mounting strategies to prevent React from interfering with Webflow-managed DOM.

4. Handle Deployment Separately (if needed)

• If the React app is large or requires routing, consider deploying it separately (e.g., on Vercel or Netlify) and embedding it via an iframe on Webflow.
• Use Webflow for marketing/CMS pages and the React app for web app functionality.

5. Optimize for Performance and UX

• Use loading="lazy" for embedded iframes or heavy React components.
• Minimize hydration cost by using partial hydration or dynamic imports in React.
• Ensure responsive design consistency between Webflow and React components.

Summary

To build a modern animated React app with Webflow, design the UI in Webflow, then embed React apps for high-interactivity areas using custom code or iframes. This hybrid approach lets you take advantage of Webflow’s visual capabilities and manage advanced UI logic through React.