Top Things to do in Fort Smith, Arkansas

Here is our guide to some of the best things to do in Fort Smith, Arkansas!

Fort Smith is the third most populated city in Arkansas and it is chock full of history, art, outdoor activities, and a surprising array of delicious restaurants for a city of its size!

We hope that this list of great things to do in Fort Smith help you plan your trip to this wonderful town in the Arkansas River Valley.

Best Things to do in Fort Smith, Arkansas

Dive into History

Fort Smith is all about history. Here are some of the best places to explore the past of this once frontier town.

• Fort Smith National Historic Site: Step back in time at the Fort Smith National Historic site where you can see the remains of the fort on the Arkansas River, learn more about the Trail of Tears, and visit the courtroom of Judge Isaac C. Parker, famously known as the “Hanging Judge. You will also hear stories of famous US Marshall Bass Reeves. This site is a must for history enthusiasts.

• US Marshals Museum: This modern museum uses interactive exhibits and historical artifacts to tell the history of the US Marshals. The building is gorgeous and was designed in the shape of a star with panoramic views of the Arkansas River. We loved this museum! It provides a fascinating look into the legacy of the nation’s law enforcement legacy.

• Miss Laura’s Brothel Museum: Miss Laura’s Brothel Museum tells the lesser known stories of Fort Smith. This old building was the last remaining brothel from what was once an entire legal district of brothels known as “The Row.” We thought that this was a really interesting museum and a great way to learn about the grittier side Fort Smith’s past. NOTE: Due to the mature subject matter this museum doesn’t allow visitors under the age of 16.

• Chaffee Barbershop and Military Museum: Just before WWII Fort Chaffee was built to serve as a training ground for US soldiers and house German POWs. Perhaps it is best known as the place where Elvis Presley received his military haircut. Today you can see that barbershop which has been meticulously restored to its 1950s appearance. In addition the museum delves into Fort Chaffee’s extensive military history.

• Fort Smith Museum of History: Established in 1910, the Fort Smith Museum of History is the oldest functioning museum in the state. It is located in the historic 1906 Atkinson-Williams Warehouse in downtown Fort Smith and is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the city and the surrounding region. We thought that there are some very interesting displays and artifacts here.

• Fort Smith National Cemetery: The Fort Smith National Cemetery is a very peaceful spot. It was officially established in 1867, but its origins trace back to a military post cemetery in 1819. A couple of noted individuals interred there include Judge Isaac C. Parker and Brigadier General William O. Darby, founder of “Darby’s Rangers.” The cemetery features several monuments including a Vietnam Veterans memorial erected in 1998

Embrace the Arts

Fort Smith is known for its vibrant art scene!

• Downtown Murals: One of the most amazing things about Fort Smith is the collection of murals around town. We are always SO impressed with these gorgeous works or art. Many are within close proximity in the downtown area so that you can walk from one to another. Others are just a short drive away. All are absolutely stunning.

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• Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM): The RAM has an extensive permanent collection of art and also hosts important traveling exhibitions. They showcase art by emerging artists and offer educational programming. They really are the Fort Smith hub for art and culture!

• Riverfront Amphitheater: If you are going to be visiting Fort Smith you can go here to see what events might be happening at the Riverfront Amphitheater.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Situated in the Arkansas River Valley just between the Ouachita Mountains and the Ozark Mountains Fort Smith is a haven for those who love the great outdoors.

Not only are there are plenty of excellent parks in town, Fort Smith is also a great “jumping off” point for further outdoor adventures into Arkansas and Oklahoma.

• Creekmore Park: This park is located just across from the Fort Smith public Library. It is a popular spot for families and features playgrounds, a train ride, a mini-golf course, and plenty of space for picnics and recreation.

• Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center: This excellent nature center offers a blend of education and outdoor recreation. Diverse habitats are represented at the center along with various exhibits which include a 1,200-gallon aquarium with native Arkansas fish and a life-sized oak tree display. The center also provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation.

• Ben Geren Regional Park: This expansive park offers mixed use walking and biking trails, a fitness trail, a disc golf course, a mini-golf course. There are also plenty of sports facilities such as tennis courts and sand volleyball courts. You can even fish at a 15 acre stocked lake. This park has it all.

• Parrot Island Waterpark: Parrot Island Waterpark has 400,000 gallons of aquatic activities. There are twisty turny waterslides, a lazy river, a play area for younger children and all kinds of amenities. Perfect for a hot Arkansas summer day of fun.

• Lake Fort Smith State Park: This state park is Just a short drive away from the city. This beautiful state park offers hiking, fishing, and stunning views of the Ozark Mountains. You can also camp at this state park or rent one of 10 cabins.

More Museums and Experiences

• The Bakery District: The Bakery District is a fun, not to be missed area of Fort Smith. This is a multi-purpose site built in and around the old Shipley Baking Company. This 35,000 square foot building was originally constructed in 1921 and produced bread and baked goods until 2008. Now the building has food vendors, a co-working space, the Fort Smith Coffee Co, a bar, and various shops.

• Fort Smith Trolley Museum: Ride a trolley and explore exhibits that celebrate the history of the trolley system in Fort Smith.

• Clayton House Museum: This home is located in the Belle Grove historic district of Fort Smith. You can tour the beautifully restored Victorian-era home of W.H.H. Clayton, a prominent attorney in the late 19th century. This historic house offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

• The Shops at Brick City: This is such a fun concept! This is a shopping center featuring a variety of boutiques and local businesses. You can find everything from clothing to gifts to gourmet foods to home decor all in one spot.

Food and Drinks

We were SO impressed with all the restaurants that Fort Smith had to offer. From one of the cutest coffee shops I’ve ever seen to tons of Vietnamese and other ethnic foods.

I highly recommend eating your way around town. We will have a post about our favorite restaurants in Fort Smith coming soon!

I hope that you have fun planning your visit to Fort Smith and find that our list of the best things to do in Fort Smith is helpful.

This is truly a city where history meets modern charm. You will find a great blend of cultural, historical, and recreational activities.

Thanks so much for stopping by!