Fort Smith historical sites
Fort Smith has a deep history. Several sites let you explore its past.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
The Fort Smith National Historic Site stands at 301 Parker Avenue. Here, Mexican War and Civil War soldiers once drilled. Visitors can pause along the Trail of Tears. You can also stand where the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas held court.
301 Parker Avenue
U.S. Marshal Museum
The U.S. Marshal Museum is an interactive experience. It is located at 789 Riverfront Drive. The museum has five immersive galleries. These galleries teach guests about America's oldest federal law enforcement agency.
789 Riverfront Drive
Fort Smith Museum of History
Visit the Fort Smith Museum of History at 320 Rogers Avenue. This museum works to preserve about 40,000 artifacts. These items tell the story of the city's history. The museum also cares for its 1907 building.
320 Rogers Avenue
Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum
The Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum is located at 7313 Terry St. Bldg. #803. This site is part of the Museum of Chaffee History. Visitors can see a special Elvis chair at the museum.
7313 Terry St. Bldg. #803
Fort Smith historic districts
The Belle Grove Historic District offers a look into Fort Smith's past. Another area to explore is the Chaffee Crossing Historic District at 7313 Terry St. These districts showcase the city's historical architecture and character. The Indian Territory Sidewalk also highlights the region's Native American history.
Chaffee Crossing Historic District: 7313 Terry St
Fort Smith arts and culture
Fort Smith supports a lively arts scene. You can find visual arts and live performances here.
Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM)
The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM) is at 1601 Rogers Avenue. It is a fine arts museum. RAM shows rotating contemporary exhibitions. It also hosts annual competitions. The museum has a permanent collection of works. They offer opening receptions for new exhibits.
1601 Rogers Avenue
Performing arts and murals
The ArcBest Performing Arts Center is located at the Fort Smith Convention Center. This venue hosts many events. Downtown Fort Smith also features colorful murals. One mural shows birds covering a brick building. The ACHE Event Center at 1000 Fianna Way hosts events like the Spring Art Reception and Exhibition.
ArcBest Performing Arts Center: Fort Smith Convention Center
ACHE Event Center: 1000 Fianna Way
ACHE Spring Art Reception and Exhibition at ACHE Event Center (Apr 20 - May 22, 2026)
Fort Smith outdoor activities and parks
Fort Smith is a great hub for nature and outdoor fun. There are many options for hiking, biking, and fishing.
Local and regional parks
Ben Geren Regional Park has paved paths that weave through trees. It's especially scenic in the fall. The city offers various local and regional parks for play. You can also enjoy the beauty of the Arkansas River.
Nearby state parks
Several state parks are close to Fort Smith. These include Devil's Den, Mount Magazine, and Lake Fort Smith. These parks provide more opportunities for outdoor activities. The Buffalo River is also mentioned for fly fishing.
Nature centers
The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is an outdoor gem. It offers programs like "Critter Crunch". It's a good place to experience nature.
Critter Crunch at Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center (Apr 20)
Fort Smith entertainment and recreation
Fort Smith offers various entertainment options. You can find places for games, nightlife, and shopping.
Bowling and gaming
For indoor fun, try 810 Billiards & Bowling at 5609 Rogers Ave, Suite F. Another option is Bowling World at 6100 South 36 Street. If you like gaming, Choctaw Casino - Pocola is nearby at 3400 Choctaw Road.
810 Billiards & Bowling: 5609 Rogers Ave, Suite F
Bowling World: 6100 South 36 Street
Choctaw Casino - Pocola: 3400 Choctaw Road
Nightlife and shopping
For nightlife, visit 906 Cocktail & Cigar Lounge at 906 Garrison Avenue. The Electric Cowboy is at 6107 South 31st Street. Fort Smith also has eclectic shops. Belle Starr Antiques & Vintage Market is located at 410 North B St. The Park at West End in Downtown Fort Smith has a ferris wheel and a nickel & dime shop.
906 Cocktail & Cigar Lounge: 906 Garrison Avenue
Electric Cowboy: 6107 South 31st Street
Belle Starr Antiques & Vintage Market: 410 North B St.
Family-friendly fun
Fort Smith offers various activities suitable for families. These include parks and interactive museums. The Fort Smith Public Library holds events like a Pet Food & Supply Drive for Fort Smith Animal Haven. You can also try the Fort Smith Scavenger Hunt: Sidewalk Secrets of Fort Smith for an engaging activity.
Fort Smith Public Library Pet Food & Supply Drive for Fort Smith Animal Haven (Apr 20 - Apr 30, 2026)
Fort Smith Scavenger Hunt: Sidewalk Secrets of Fort Smith (Apr 20)