Fort Smith, Arkansas

Fort Smith, Arkansas, boasts a rich history and a diverse range of attractions, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Established in 1817, the city features the renowned Fort Smith National Historic Site, which preserves nearly 80 years of history between the early establishment of the fort and the final days of Judge Isaac C. Parker’s jurisdiction over Indian Territory in 1896.

In addition to its historical significance, the city also offers a variety of experiences that cater to different interests. From the annual Fort Smith International Film Festival to the Arkansas Oklahoma State Fair, there is always something happening in Fort Smith. Nature enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors, with picturesque parks and trails dotting the landscape.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Fort Smith has something for everyone. Delve into the charm and allure of this Southern jewel, and discover the numerous attractions that await you in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Explore Fort Smith

Fort Smith, located in Arkansas, is a city with a rich historical background and various attractions that draw visitors from all around the country. In this section, we will briefly explore some of the must-see places in Fort Smith, such as the Arkansas River, Fort Smith National Historic Site, Trail of Tears, and museums.

Arkansas River

The mighty Arkansas River flows through Fort Smith and offers visitors the chance to enjoy scenic views and engaging outdoor activities. There are various parks along the riverbanks that provide relaxing environments for picnics, outdoor sports, and family activities. Walking along the river trail is an excellent way to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Smith National Historic Site

The Fort Smith National Historic Site is a must-visit attraction that commemorates the historical aspects of the city. It includes the site of the First Fort Smith, which was established in 1817 as a frontier military post. The Visitor Center offers informative exhibits about the fort’s role, military life, and its involvement in the Civil War.

Trail of Tears

Fort Smith played a crucial role in the infamous Trail of Tears, the forced relocation of Native Americans from their ancestral lands. The Fort Smith National Historic Site includes exhibits that detail these events and their impact on the Native American communities. Visitors can learn about the hardships faced by these communities and pay their respects to those who suffered during this dark chapter in American history.

Museums

Fort Smith is home to several museums that exhibit the city’s rich history. One such museum is the U.S. Marshals Museum, which chronicles the role of federal law enforcement in the region. The museum showcases historic artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the U.S. Marshals’ efforts in maintaining order in the nation’s western territories. Another notable museum is the Fort Smith Museum of History, which offers a comprehensive view of the city’s past, from its earliest days to the present. This museum contains numerous artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that illustrate the evolution of Fort Smith over time.

Outdoor Activities

Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy while exploring this historic city. From parks and trails to fishing along the Arkansas River, there’s something for everyone.

Parks and Trails

Fort Smith has numerous parks, with some of the most popular ones being Creekmore Park and The Park at West End. These parks provide visitors with a chance to relax, play sports, or simply wander around and take in their lush green surroundings. In addition to parks, Fort Smith also features trails for hiking and mountain biking, allowing those who prefer a bit of adventure to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Another important outdoor location is Fort Smith National Historic Site, where you can walk around the fort grounds, marvel at the cannons and wagons, and learn about the park’s history. A short walk will lead you to Belle Point, the site of the first fort.

Fort Smith is also known for its proximity to the Arkansas River, which creates opportunities for waterside picnics, birdwatching, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Fishing

Anglers will not be disappointed when visiting Fort Smith, with numerous fishing spots available throughout the city and surrounding areas. The Arkansas River offers visitors a chance to reel in catfish, bass, and bream, among other species.

For those looking for a more secluded experience, there are smaller ponds and creeks surrounding Fort Smith that can serve as excellent fishing locations as well. No matter your skill level or preference, the city’s diverse waterscape ensures a memorable fishing experience.

Events and Festivals

Fort Smith, Arkansas is a vibrant city with numerous events and festivals happening throughout the year. In this visitor’s guide, we will focus on the exciting happenings in March, May, September, and November.

March

In March, Fort Smith celebrates the arrival of spring with various outdoor events. One notable event is the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade features live music, a variety of floats, and of course, plenty of green attire. Another popular event in March is the Bell Park Art Walk, which brings together local artists and artisans showcasing their creations in a lovely park setting.

May

May is an excellent time to visit Fort Smith as there are several activities to enjoy. The Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Festival is a prominent event where music lovers can indulge in live blues performances from both local and national artists. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, don’t miss the Annual Fort Smith Bike Fest which features cycling races, group rides, and other fun activities for all ages.

September

September ushers in the fall season, and Fort Smith offers plenty of festivities. One major event is the Bikes, Blues & BBQ motorcycle rally, which not only exhibits an exciting array of motorcycles but also includes delicious BBQ, live blues music, and various family-friendly activities. Additionally, the Fort Smith Fall Festival takes place in September and celebrates the season with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and plenty of autumn-inspired treats.

November

November is a time for giving thanks, and Fort Smith has several events centered around Thanksgiving. The Fort Smith Turkey Trot is a fun and charitable 5k run/walk that occurs on Thanksgiving morning, allowing participants to give back to the community while burning off some of those holiday calories. Furthermore, the Downtown Fort Smith Holiday Market kicks off in November, providing shoppers with a festive and unique shopping experience focused on local businesses and artisans.

Eat and Stay

Dining Options

Fort Smith, Arkansas offers a wide range of dining options for both visitors and locals. From southern-styled fried chicken and catfish, championship BBQ, collard greens, and Cajun specialties to more exotic cuisines of Mexico, Peru, El Salvador, Greece, Italy, China, Japan, and many others, it is the perfect destination for any food lover. Check out some popular Fort Smith restaurants to treat your taste buds on your visit.

To give you a sense of variety, let’s look into their local dining scene:

Southern Comfort: Neumeier’s Whippoorwill Restaurant for a genuine taste of Southern cuisine
Mexican Delight: Head over to La Huerta for some delicious Mexican dishes
Asian Flavors: Sample sushi and hibachi delicacies at Shogun

Make sure to explore the city’s diverse dining scene and find your favorite spot!

Accommodations

Fort Smith offers various accommodations that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you are in the city on business, enjoying unique attractions and festivals, or simply passing through, you will find a range of overnight and extended-stay lodging options to suit your needs.

Here are some stay categories in Fort Smith along with a few examples:

Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott
- Wyndham Fort Smith City Center
Motels:
- Motel 6 Fort Smith
- Knights Inn Fort Smith
Bed & Breakfasts:
- The Clayton House
- Beland Manor Inn
Campgrounds & RV Parks:
- Fort Smith KOA
- Park Ridge RV Campground

You can find a full list of Fort Smith lodging options on their website. With so many accommodation options available, you’re sure to find the perfect stay for your visit to Fort Smith, Arkansas!

Visitor Information

Visitor Center

The Fort Smith National Historic Site in Arkansas offers a wealth of fascinating history that attracts tourists every year. At the heart of this experience is the Visitor Center, housed in the former barracks, courthouse, and jail buildings. This is the ideal starting point for your visit to Fort Smith, as it provides all the information and resources you need to explore the attractions thoroughly.

When planning your visit to the Visitor Center, allocate at least 45 minutes to tour the exhibits. These displays cover several captivating historical topics, including the establishment of the first Fort Smith in 1817 and significant events up until 1896 during Judge Isaac C. Parker’s jurisdiction.

Teachers planning a school visit can appreciate the educational value of the Visitor Center’s exhibits, which provide valuable insights into Fort Smith’s past. Besides history-focused displays, there are interactive elements to engage students and make the learning process enjoyable.

Here are some highlights of the exhibits you can expect at the Visitor Center:

Fort Smith History: Delve into the origins of Fort Smith, from its establishment in 1817 to its evolution through the years.
Judge Isaac C. Parker: Discover the life and achievements of the prominent figure who presided over Indian Territory cases from 1875 to 1896.
Interactive Elements: Engage with hands-on exhibits that offer a unique learning experience for all ages.

With the Fort Smith Visitor Center’s wealth of historical exhibits, visitors are guaranteed an informative and fascinating experience, helping them gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the area’s rich past.