23 Things To Do In Fort Smith Arkansas

Although Fort Smith is the fourth largest and second-most populous city in Arkansas, it isn’t a destination that often appears on most travel plans, much like most of the state. This is a real shame as there are quite a few exciting attractions in Fort Smith, especially for those interested in history. Its location is conveniently placed right on the border between the north and south during the Civil War and on the eastern edge of the wild west frontier. This allows it to offer plenty of sights and sounds relating to two of America’s most important historical periods. Throw in stunning views of the Arkansas River, and there’s something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Fort Smith.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

23 Things To Do In Fort Smith

1- Uncover History At Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith National Historic Site is the location of the first fort of the United States District Court for Arkansas’ Western District.

Originally built in 1817 and then replaced by the second fort in 1871, the area was designated a United States National Historic Landmark on the 19th of December, 1960.

The complex has now been turned into a living museum that chronicles the history of the two forts, law and order in this part of the old west, and Native American culture in the region.

Most of the exhibits are located in a stunning 19th-century building that has served as a barracks, courthouse and jail building.

So, you can discover its fabulous range of artefacts, interactive exhibits and explore the historic buildings and grounds themselves.

Fort Smith National Historic Site is at 301 Parker Avenue.

2- Learn About Historical Aviation At The Fort Smith Air Museum

Located within Fort Smith Regional Airport, the air museum is dedicated to the aviation history of Arkansas and Oklahoma.

With exhibits including models of historic planes, photographs, diagrams, and accounts from past pilots, it tells the story of the region’s pioneers in both military and civil aviation and is a must-visit for any aircraft enthusiasts during their stay in the city.

3- Admire Art At The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

Fort Smith Regional Art is an exhibition space that displays the work of prominent and emerging artists from Fort Smith and the surrounding area.

While primarily focused on historical art, modern art is also included, with mediums covering everything from paintings to sculptures.

The Fort Smith Regional Art also offers art classes and workshops to help the next generation hone their skills.

It’s a great stop for anyone who wants to enjoy some beautiful works and show their support for the arts scene in the city.

4- Appreciate Clayton House Museum’s Architecture

Built in 1874, Clayton House is the former home of the United States Attorney for the United States District Court For The Western District Of Arkansas, William Henry Harrison Clayton.

It was listed on the United States National Register Of Historic Places in 1970 as one of the only remaining buildings to display the city’s historic architectural style.

Admire its wooden frame, Victorian trim, carved columns, brackets and window surrounds, and a panelled porch and bay.

The collection of authentic décor and furnishings inside is well worth a look, making it an ideal spot for anyone hoping to experience what the city would once have looked like first-hand.

5- Discover Hidden Gems At Fort Smith Trolley Museum

The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is an outdoor attraction dedicated to the history of the city’s railroad, streetcar, and other public transport systems.

It’s a fabulous destination for fans of historic vehicles or infrastructure.

It features an impressive collection of five streetcars, four steam locomotives and three buses.

One streetcar and four locomotives are individually listed on the United States Register Of Historic Places for their historical significance.

It also has an impressive three-quarter-mile streetcar track, which allows visitors to ride on one of these historic vehicles along a route that passes by four historic buildings.

6- Explore Belle Grove Historic District

The Belle Grove Historic District is a 22-block historic district located at the heart of Fort Smith and has been one of the most affluent parts of the city.

Established in 1842, it is also one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the state.

With beautiful buildings displaying Greek Revival, Victorian, and 19th and 20th-century architectural styles, it is a great place to take a walk or guided tour to see some of the city’s most historic buildings.

7- Pay A Visit To Miss Laura’s Visitor Center

Miss Laura’s Visitor Center is the official visitor centre for Fort Smith and an iconic attraction in the former Commercial Hotel building.

The building is known for its Second Empire architecture, Mansard roof, dormers, and wrought iron cresting.

Filled with artefacts and information about the town, it’s the perfect place to stop when you arrive in town to get the lay of the land, learn about its past and see one of its most stunning buildings.

Miss Laura’s Visitor Center is at 2 N B Street.

8- Examine The Artefacts In The Fort Smith Museum Of History

The Fort Smith Museum Of History is in one of Fort Smith’s oldest commercial buildings, the Atkinson-Williams Warehouse.

Having been listed on the United States Register Of Historic Places since 1979, its exhibits showcase the history and development of Fort Smith and the surrounding area.

It has interesting artefacts, including a 1920s soda fountain and a delightful gift shop.

9- Combine Education And Exercise At The Massard Prairie Battlefield Park

The Massard Prairie Battlefield Park was the place of the 1864 Battle Of Massard Prairie in the American Civil War.

The walking trail is filled with historical markers and monuments, making it an excellent place to enjoy the great outdoors and the landscape of Fort Smith while taking in some of its past.

10- Embrace The Great Outdoors In The Harry E. Kelley River Park

The Harry E. Kelley River Park is a great outdoor recreation area in the River Valley region on the south bank of the river.

With bike and skate parks, fishing spots, picnic tables, hiking trails, and an amphitheatre for outdoor performances, all set to a river backdrop, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air, have fun, catch a show, and enjoy the Fort Smith landscape.

11- Walk The Fort Smith Riverfront Trail

The Fort Smith Riverfront Trail follows the Arkansas River around the east, north, and west edges of the city.

Running for 6.25 miles (10 km), it lets visitors stroll the boundary of the city, exercising and enjoying views of the river, its wildlife, and the city skyline.

12- See The Fort Smith Confederate Monument

Located on the grounds of the Sebastian County Courthouse, the Fort Smith Confederate Monument is a 30 ft (9.1 m) sculpture of a Confederate soldier atop a pillar.

A beautiful monument built in 1903 to honour the lives of Confederate soldiers lost in the American Civil War, it has been listed on the United States National Register Of Historic Places since 1993.

13- Pay Your Respects At Fort Smith National Cemetery

Fort Smith National Cemetery is a 22.3-acre (8.9 ha) military cemetery listed on the United States Register Of Historic Places since 1999.

Created to house the city’s dead from the American Civil War, it includes lost souls from other conflicts.

In addition to the more than 13,000 internments, memorials honour those who died in the Vietnam and American Civil wars.

This historic cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable individuals, including Judge Isaac C. Parker, Civil War veterans, and U.S. Marshals.

14- Make The Most Of The Arkansas River

The Arkansas River is the sixth-longest river in the U.S. and the 45th longest in the world. It’s also the second-longest tributary in the Mississippi-Missouri system.

With the river running around the outskirts, the city gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy it.

Go for a stroll along its banks, swim its waters, kayak across it or sit and take in the nature and landscape of this stunning body of water.

15- Snap A Photo At The State Line Sign

While not for everyone, many visitors enjoy taking photos of each state line sign as they travel through the USA.

Fort Smith boasts Arkansas and Oklahoma welcome signs in its metropolitan area, giving you the perfect opportunity to add a photo to your collection without going out of your way.

16- Have Fun At Parrot Island Waterpark

Parrot Island Waterpark is a fabulous aquatic theme park where visitors of all ages can enjoy the water.

With attractions including water slides, rides, wave pools, kid’s pools, and cabanas, you can relax or run wild, whichever you prefer.

A team of lifeguards ensure all of your party remains safe at all times, while special events and the ability to host parties here make it a destination with endless potential for outdoor activities.

17- See The Area’s Wildlife

The AGFC Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is a fabulous place to learn about the region’s wildlife and landscape.

The attraction details everything you’re likely to see in the area, while canoe and kayak routes, hiking trails and fishing spots offer a hands-on experience.

There are toilets, a kids’ play area and an archery range.

18- Try Your Luck At The Choctaw Casino & Resort-Pocola

The Choctaw Casino & Resort-Pocola is a luxury establishment across the Oklahoma state line.

With a full casino, five eateries, bars, landscaped pools, luxury hotel rooms, and a wild west-themed nightclub, it offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy some luxury.

19- Enjoy The Views From The McClure Amphitheatre

The McClure Amphitheatre is a scenic point on the southeast outskirts of the city.

With stunning views of the city, a commemorative plaque, and performance artists occasionally setting up to perform a show, it’s a great place to be entertained. At the same time, watch the sunset.

20- Drink Beer At The Fort Smith Brewing Company

The Fort Smith Brewing Company is a microbrewery serving some of the finest local beers in town.

Sample some of their best brews, eat fabulous food and enjoy one of the live events and musical performances.

21- Discover The US Marshals Museum

The U.S. Marshals Museum is a national center dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the U.S. Marshals Service, the oldest federal law enforcement agency in America.

Located near the Arkansas River, the museum features interactive exhibits that highlight key moments in law enforcement history, including the role of the Marshals in Indian Territory and under Judge Parker, the “Hanging Judge.”

It’s an engaging destination for historians and a top spot if you’re visiting with your family.

22- Fort Smith Convention Center

The Fort Smith Convention Center in the heart of downtown is a premier venue for conferences and performances.

With over 40,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibit space, it hosts everything from trade shows and conventions to concerts and cultural shows.

Its modern amenities and central location make it a hub for community gatherings and regional attractions.

Visitors can enjoy nearby local restaurants, historical attractions and the vibrant energy of Fort Smith’s downtown district.

Choose from a diverse array of performances, including concerts, theatrical performances, comedy shows, and trade shows covering industries like technology and crafts. It also features art exhibitions, antique fairs, community festivals and charity galas.

23- Enjoy The Park at West End

The Park at West End in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a charming, retro-style attraction featuring a historic 1935 World’s Fair Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of downtown and the Arkansas River.

It is home to a vintage Italian hand-painted carousel, ferris wheel and a refurbished Pullman railcar diner, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy snacks from a double-decker bus and admire unique artwork by UK artist D*Face.