If you’re ever near Fort Smith and feeling a little hungry—or a little nostalgic—you have to make a stop at Ed Walker’s Drive-In.
It’s one of those places that simply glows with authenticity. You really will feel like you are stepping back into a simpler time.
Step Back in Time at Ed Walker’s Drive In: Fort Smith, Arkansas
We were recently in Fort Smith visiting all the historic sites and when we saw Ed Walker’s Drive In we knew we had to make a stop!
It honestly felt like stepping right into a scene from the 1950s.
And just so you know, this place isn’t just retro for the sake of being cute—it’s the real deal. They have been serving customers for over 80 years!
It is also the LAST restaurant in Arkansas where you can legally have a cold beer delivered right to your car.
Although it is a drive in we decided to go inside to eat. There is plenty of indoor seating with red vinyl booths, and swivel seats at the soda bar.
Here is a list of more iconic Arkansas restaurants that you might be interested in!
Plan Your Visit to Ed Walker’s Drive In
Address: 1500 Towson Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901
Be sure and check out their website for opening days and hours. I will mention that Ed Walker’s is open late! Just in case you are craving a late-night chocolate malt!
A Little History
Ed Walker’s Drive In has been around since 1943, and it shows in the best way.
Although it has been through a whole slew of owners, it remains Fort Smith’s oldest restaurant, and it’s clear that generations of families have made it a tradition.
You can tell that it’s a place that proudly holds onto its roots. It was even inducted into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame in 2020.
The Food: Come Hungry!
Now let’s talk about the food. If you’re into classic diner fare, Ed Walker’s will feel like paradise.
We had to try the French dip sandwich. I mean the sign outside says that they are famous for it.
The sandwich had thinly sliced, almost shaved, roast beef piled high on a toasted sour dough roll with au jus for dipping. I paired mine with curly fries. Yum!
And if you’re feeling truly ambitious (or you’re with a group), you have to see the five-pound burger. It’s more of a legend than a meal, and it draws curious diners from all over.
We didn’t attempt it.
But we did have onion rings, a piece of coconut pie, some nachos, and a delicious chocolate malt that tasted like summer in a glass.
Ed Walkers also has blue plate specials that change day to day.
Some of the historic sites in Fort Smith:
The Vibe
What really makes Ed Walker’s special isn’t just the food—it’s the atmosphere. The vintage signs, the red vinyl booths, it’s a little slice of Americana.
The staff is friendly and helpful. We were there in the evening after the dinner rush and felt so welcomed.
Whether you’re passing through Fort Smith or live nearby, Ed Walker’s Drive In is one of those iconic roadside gems that’s worth a detour.
It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
