Fort Smith is a vibrant city located near the border of Oklahoma and Arkansas. With its rich history and scenic natural beauty, Fort Smith offers visitors an authentic taste of small-town Southern culture. From historic sites to outdoor adventures, here are 10 of the top attractions to check out in Fort Smith.
Situated near the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers, Fort Smith has played an important role in the history and development of the American West. As the Second Capital of the Louisiana Purchase from 1819 to 1826, Fort Smith served as an economic and trading hub on the Western frontier. Today, remnants of Fort Smith’s turbulent past can be discovered at several well-preserved historic sites. Meanwhile, the city is surrounded by natural beauty, offering hiking trails, gardens, and views of the surrounding Arkansas River Valley.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the outdoors, Fort Smith has appealing attractions for all types of travelers. This guide will introduce you to 10 top spots to explore, including museums, historic districts, and scenic nature areas. With almost 300 years of stories to tell, Fort Smith transports visitors back in time while also providing relaxing modern amenities.
1. U.S. Marshals Museum
Slated to open in late 2022, the U.S. Marshals Museum will honor the service and sacrifices of America’s oldest federal law enforcement agency. Located in the historic Fort Smith National Historic Site, the museum will feature dynamic exhibits showcasing the Marshals’ role in enforcing laws and protecting pioneers throughout the 19th century American frontier.
Artifacts, footage, and interactives will bring historic events to life, from tracking down outlaws like the James-Younger gang to safeguarding judicial proceedings. A must-see for history buffs, the museum preserves Fort Smith’s legacy as the “Toughest Little City in the West.”
2. Belle Grove Historic District
Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1973, Belle Grove represents some of the finest antebellum architecture in Arkansas. Stroll along tree-lined streets and admire Greek Revival, Italianate, and Gothic Revival-style homes dating back to the 1830s.
Highlights include the two-story Carson-Young House, known for its detailed hand-carved woodwork, and the simple yet elegant Blair House. Free tours are offered on Saturdays from April through October. Wander through time and envision what life was like for early settlers in this tranquil riverfront neighborhood.
3. Chaffee Crossing
Formerly an Army post called Fort Chaffee, this 22,000-acre region is now home to a growing nature preserve and outdoor recreation paradise. Within Chaffee Crossing, discover more than 30 miles of multi-use trails ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Popular routes go through forests and prairies teeming with wildlife. For panoramic perspectives, ascend 800-foot Price Mountain by foot or enjoy scenic drives. After burning calories in nature, cool off at the scenic Lake Fort Smith swimming area. History and splendor await at every turn in Chaffee Crossing.
4. Fort Smith National Historic Site
At the birthplace of federal law enforcement west of the Mississippi River, immerse yourself in the lawless frontier days of the late 1800s. Follow self-guided trails through the restored barracks, officers’ quarters, and jailhouse inside the reconstructed frontier military post.
Authentic furnishings and artifacts bring the rough-and-tumble days to life. In summer, join a ranger for free programs on frontier justice, military life, and Native American cultures. For sweeping vistas, climb to the top of Observation Tower. Learn how Fort Smith tamed the untamed Wild West.
5. Belle Point
Once a private gentleman’s estate, Belle Point is now a 12-acre public park offering the finest river views in Fort Smith. Wander grassy trails and discover why this blufftop oasis was such a coveted retreat for early settlers.
Admire the Arkansas River 500 feet below while enjoying picnic areas and play spaces for the whole family. During warm seasons, catch live music at the outdoor amphitheater. For a unique experience, join Park staff and volunteers as they revive heritage gardens using period plants. Stroll through this scenic pocket of tranquility any time of year.
6. Garrison Avenue
Lined with late 19th- and early 20th-century commercial buildings, Garrison Avenue encapsulates Fort Smith’s turn-of-the-century vibrancy. Window shop at boutiques inside century-old storefronts and browse goods at festivals held along the historic streetscape year-round.
Don’t miss the restored 1909 Wells-Bell Hardware building and its magnificent cast iron facade. Afterward, dine at sidewalk cafes or stop for a local brew at one of several brewpubs in restored warehouses. Take a step back in time strolling this lively main street full of character.
7. Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center Museum
Located within the former Fort Chaffee Army Post, this small but engaging museum brings the base’s military history to life. Through artifacts, uniforms, vehicles and interactive exhibits, learn about Fort Chaffee’s roles in World War II, the Vietnam War, and as a military training ground.
Special emphasis is placed on the base’s service as an initial point of entry for refugees from Southeast Asia in 1975. Outdoor grounds contain military vehicles and equipment. The museum offers rare insight into Fort Chaffee’s impact on national security. It’s a must for military history buffs.
8. Ormand Rock
For unique geological formations, guide yourself to Ormand Rock. Here, hiking trails wind among huge granite boulders scattered on a former creek bed. Moss-covered rocks tower up to 100 feet tall, creating a sheer canyon-like feel.
In autumn, vibrant hues complement the scenery. Within this 100-acre natural area, look closely and you may spot birds, lizards or prairie flora growing from cracks. Reserve an afternoon to wander and marvel at the rugged terrain carved by Mother Nature.
9. Fort Smith Air Museum
Housed inside a historic World War II-era hangar at the Fort Smith Regional Airport, this museum pays tribute to American aviation history. Permanent and changing exhibits spotlight significant aircrafts like the Wright Brothers’ Wooden Glider, as well as artifacts commemorating local aviators and the nearby Air Force Base.
A replica of the Enola Gay B-29 bomber commands attention. Don’t miss flight simulators, videos of aerobatics and barnstorming, plus educational programs for all ages. For plane-spotters, it’s the finest aviation attraction in West Arkansas.
10. Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Learn how trolleys transformed transportation at this classic streetcar museum. Among the collection are several restored trolleys that once plied the streets of Fort Smith from the 1890s through 1933. Climb aboard to experience smooth rides and examine turn-of-the-century details like mahogany paneling and art glass windows.
Knowledgeable guides offer rides on weekends and teach about the trolley system’s impact on local infrastructure and commerce. It’s a fun, accessible way to learn urban mass transit history from Fort Smith’s past.
Conclusion
With a diversity of historical sites, outdoor beauty, and small-town charm, Fort Smith proves why it remains a top cultural destination in Arkansas. From reconstructed forts to hidden natural gems, this guide has uncovered 10 top attractions that collectively preserve the city’s 300-year history while welcoming modern travelers.
Whether you’re into Americana, military history, or simply relaxing outdoors – Fort Smith offers memorable experiences around every corner. Be sure to set aside time to fully explore several places on this list during your next visit.