Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Fort Smith, Arkansas. #Top Attractions

Spread the love!

Organizing a trip to Fort Smith, Arkansas, right now? Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and the best places to visit in Fort Smith, Arkansas, below. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world.

Bricktown Brewery

Bricktown Brewery Forth Smith Arkansas
Bricktown Brewery, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Mike Willis / Flickr

First of its kind in Arkansas, the Bricktown Brewery can be found at the historic Adelaide Hall. 

In 1870, Adelaide Hall was built, and it has served as a meeting spot for the town ever since.

Bricktown Brewery is a well-known craft brewery with several locations in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia. 

It is known for its pleasant and professional employees and excellent craft beer choices.

Local beers chosen by Bricktown Brewery’s brewmasters are served at the taproom, which also features award-winning craft selections.

To get the most out of Bricktown’s beer, pair it with some of the restaurant’s mouthwatering dishes.

You can try their Beer-Battered Avocado Fries and the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich with Salt and Pepper Honey.

Finally, it is recommended to try the Bricktown combo pizza.

It is loaded with various meat and vegetable toppings, cheese, and black bean chili for pizza enthusiasts!

Visit Bricktown Brewery to experience good food, good beer, and good company!

Address: 318 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901

Chaffee Barbershop Museum

Chaffee Barbershop Museum Forth Smith Arkansas
Chaffee Barbershop Museum, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Patrick Chaisson / Flickr

Ever wonder where Elvis Presley had his head shaved?

Here at Chaffee Barbershop Museum, you will know more about Elvis’ famous haircut.

It quickly became one of the city’s most exciting attractions.

The Camp Chaffee Tank Destroyer Battalion Historic District has included the bunker structure of the Chaffee Barbershop Museum.

As a matter of fact, in 2011, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

On March 25, 1958, this barbershop is where Elvis Presley had his first Army buzz cut.

Every year, on that day, a festival honoring Elvis Presley is held there.

With that, it draws many Elvis enthusiasts and associates of the Elvis Fan Club to even travel across the country.

Because of its extensive refurbishment, it looks exactly as it did on the day Elvis came in.

In fact, there are Elvis-related objects and memorabilia, including rare images, will be displayed at the museum.

Furthermore, you’ll find a slew of 1940s refugee and military memorabilia.

If you are a certified super fan of Elvis, head over to The Chaffee Barbershop in Fort Smith!

Address: Seaton Pl, Fort Smith, AR 72916

Creekmore Park

 Creekmore Park, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Creekmore Park is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

A park where children of all ages can enjoy? Pack up your lunch and thirst quenchers, and visit Creekmore Park!

In the heart of downtown Fort Smith, Creekmore Park is one of the city’s four community parks situated right across from the Fort Smith Public Library.

Creekmore Park in Fort Smith is an excellent option for families who want to enjoy a day outside.

Additionally, a playground for the kids is one of many extras at the park that will enrich your enjoyment of your visit.

Also, park visitors will surely love the Creekmore Express Train.

Plan a tour on one of the park’s three free miniature train trips for a delightful experience!

Moreover, you can also try the Creekmore Holiday Express, which has hundreds of multicolored lights throughout the Holiday season.

They also include an 18-hole miniature golf course and Creekmore Pool for kids.

Creekmore Park is a great place to spend the day with the kids. Make sure not to miss this out!

Address: 3301 S 31st Street, Fort Smith, AR 72903

Contemplating traveling to Arkansas? Little Rock and Eureka Springs are places you should not miss when in this country! Discover the enjoyable things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas, and the best things to do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

Doe’s Eat Place

Does Eat Place Forth Smith Arkansas
Does Eat Place, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Lamoreaux / Flickr

Craving for a juicy steak? Doe’s Eat Place will surely satisfy our cravings!

Dominic’ Doe’ Signa began cooking tamales and steaks for his family and friends in Mississippi in the early 1940s.

Since then, Doe’s Eat Place business was born that is located in the Old Knoble Brewery.

German immigrant Joseph Knoble constructed this three-story cobblestone house in 1848 to serve the 37 bars in downtown Fort Smith with beer.

Also, the original basement cellar where beer was kept is still intact.

The property has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since restored in the early 1990s.

An exquisite dining experience unlike any other awaits tourists and residents of Fort Smith.

Using entire beef loins that have been matured to draw out all of their inherent qualities, each steak is sliced fresh every day.

Dine at Doe’s, you can count on getting only the freshest, highest-quality beef. 

Overall, you can choose from various flavorful cuts of meat for the main dishes, such as sirloin, porterhouse, filet mignon, T-bone, or ribeye. 

Ensure your food is paired with the right beer or wine for an unforgettable dining experience.

Address: 422 N 3rd St, Fort Smith, AR 72901422 N 3rd St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Farmer’s Market

Farmers Market Forth Smith Arkansas
Farmers Market, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Steve Byrne / Flickr

Have a taste of the local products only found in Fort Smith Farmer’s Market!

The Fort Smith Farmer’s Market is a charming year-round marketplace focusing on local producers and artisans.

Get a sense of the region’s geography by wandering around.

You will discover a wide variety of locally-made goods that you won’t find anyplace else in town.

Locally produced food is the focus of the Fort Smith Farmer’s Market.

However, honey, jams, candies, and pastries are also available.

100+ vendors and artisans came together to market their wares that were lovingly cultivated and made.

Each time you visit, you’ll be able to sample a variety of flowers and dishes that represent the distinct flavor of Fort Smith.

Many local artists, including musicians and street performers, fill the market every Saturday, ensuring a fun day for the whole family.

During your stay in Fort Smith, you’re likely to pick up some great souvenirs to remember your trip.

Address: 2nd & Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, AR, AR 72901

Planning to travel to Arkansas? View our noteworthy trip ideas for Bentonville and Fayetteville. Look over for more wonderful things to do in Bentonville, Arkansas, and the best things to do in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Fort Smith Brewing Company

 Fort Smith Brewing Company, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Fort Smith Brewing Company is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Make sure to rest after drinking the one-of-a-kind beers Fort Smith Brewing Company serves!

You can always find a beer that suits your tastes in their cozy taproom every time you visit.

Many beers are seasonal, so you may go whenever you like.

They provide everything you need to make your own batch of beer if you’re a homebrewer.

Also, suppose you’d prefer to drink your beer in the company of others. In that case, you’ll find a comfortable and welcoming setting with great meals.

Moreover, Fort Smith Brewing Company is committed to using only high-quality ingredients, most of which are found here in Fort Smith.

These popular, award-winning beers were once featured on KFSM, Arkansas Business, and Untappd, among other publications and channels.

Several of the in-house brews on tap are the Trailblazer IPA, the Dat Nguyen Stout, and 1817 Pale Ale, which was their first ale for the Fort Smith region to be brewed.

Try some of their in-house specialties, including pizza, sandwiches, and new sides to your brews.

Address: 7500 Fort Chaffee Boulevard, Fort Smith, AR 72916

Fort Smith Museum of History

Fort Smith Museum of History, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Fort Smith Museum of History is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Fort Smith Museum of History is one of the top attractions in Arkansas.

A fun way to learn history? Make sure you don’t miss out on the Museum of History in Fort Smith!

The Fort Smith Museum of History, which opened its doors in 1910, is an excellent resource for learning about the historical past and culture of the city.

The museum’s purpose is to collect, protect, and share a variety of exhibits and artifacts so that visitors and residents alike can learn about the history of Fort Smith.

During World War II, William Darby, the man behind the city’s Darby Rangers, is well-documented.

Fort Smith’s African American community’s history is documented in an exhibit.

The museum is situated in the Atkinson-Williams Warehouse, which is registered under the National Register of Historic Places.

Following your visit to the exhibits, take a stroll through the 1920s pharmacy and stop by the soda fountain for an old-fashioned ice cream treat. 

While museums are not for everyone, this one is well worth a trip just to indulge in the delectable desserts.

Address: 320 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith National Historic Site Forth Smith Arkansas
Fort Smith National Historic Site, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Mike Goad / Flickr

Immerse yourself in Fort Smith’s history only on the National Historic Site!

In addition to the National Historic Site, this frontier city’s fascinating history includes its time during the Trail of Tears and its controversial past.

After the first fort was constructed in 1817, a second fort was built on the site, later becoming a military facility.

The Fort Smith National Historic Site’s visitors’ center is located in the old barracks and courthouse building, which serves as the site’s headquarters.

Hence, the military history of Fort Smith and the expansion of the western United States will be featured in several exhibits.

On your tour of Fort Smith, you’ll come across the ruins of a fort dating back to 1800.

In fact, it is an old commissary from 1838 and the recently restored gallows utilized by the federal court.

The park’s walking route, which parallels the Arkansas River, is also available for you and your family to enjoy!

Address: 301 Parker Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center

Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is one of the best places to visit in Arkansas.

You should definitely check out the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center if you love nature!

The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is one of four owned and administered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

It will be a delightful experience for visitors and locals alike.

More than 170 acres of land encircle the 14,000-square-foot center, with upland forests, valleys, lakes, marshes, and pine woods.

To name just a few of the many options available to you, you may go hunting, fishing, canoeing, boating, or archery.

For both residents and visitors, Wells Lake is a favorite fishing site. Rental tackle boxes and poles are available at the Nature Center; bring your own lure.

Inside, you’ll discover a variety of interactive displays and real animals.

In addition, along the Arkansas River, you’ll be able to see an aquarium with fish and turtles.

If fishing isn’t your style, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center trails are an excellent alternative.

All in all, it is highly recommend taking one of their guided treks around the beautiful environment.

You’ll learn a lot about the local wildlife and plant life during your time there.

Address: 8300 Wells Lake Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72916

Massard Prairie Battlefield Park

Massard Prairie Battlefield Park, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Massard Prairie Battlefield Park is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Explore the site of a battle that shaped the course of history!

The Massard Prairie Battlefield Park offers an intriguing insight into the area’s Civil War-era history to its visitors.

You may be inspired to buy a book or two from the gift store, which is handled by friendly tour guides eager to share their knowledge with you.

Surprising Union troops were caught off guard on July 27, 1864, when Confederate forces launched Massard Prairie Battlefield Park.

In fact, it was part of Arkansas’ most effective attacks against Union forces.

As a result, the location was added to the Arkansas Register of Historic Places. 

Also, there is a walking tour of the famous grounds that will allow you to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers and honor the momentous fight there.

The parade ground, the camps of Companies B and D, and the kitchen have all been preserved for the benefit of camp visitors.

Additionally, several memorial flags, monuments, historical markers, and other artifacts are on the grounds. 

Take a stroll through Fort Smith’s rich history as your family enjoys the scenery.

Address: Red Pine Drive and Morgans Way, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Miss Laura’s Visitor Center

Miss Laura’s Visitor Center, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Miss Laura’s Visitor Center is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Get reminded of the city’s lesser-known history in Miss Laura’s Visitor Center!

Previously known as Miss Laura’s Social Club, the Miss Laura Visitor Center is located on the banks of the Arkansas River in Fort Smith’s historic downtown.

An ex-red-light district row house, which is all that remains of seven that once existed, is on the National Register of Historic Places because of its significance.

Many exhibits and objects are on display at the property, which has been renewed to its former glory.

Moreover, there are statues of women in old-fashioned and exotic outfits throughout the interior. 

You can also purchase prints of the artwork featured in The Unexpected Murals Project at the center, providing visitors with handy city maps.

Every day, visitors can take a complimentary tour of the Victorian mansion to learn more about the structure’s history.

All in all, you can avail the free tour around the renovated and transformed Victorian Mansion and immerse yourself in its history!

Address: 2 N B St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

National Cemetery

National Cemetery, Fort Smith, Arkansas
National Cemetery is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Suppose you’re a historical enthusiast or want to show your respect to those laid here. In that case, the Fort Smith National Cemetery is well worth a trip!

It lies near the junction of Garland Avenue and South 6th Street.

With its 22 acres of land, Fort Smith National Cemetery was once a border fort built in 1817.

The grounds are well-kept, and the graves are frequently decorated with new garlands and flowers, making it a very memorable location.

Moreover, the cemetery is open to the public and has numerous historic gravestones, including several from the American Civil War.

A stone monument to the Alexander E. Steen and Brigadier General James M. McIntosh and Unknown Confederate Dead is one of the most notable features.

Additionally, there are several monuments, tombs, and cemeteries that visitors should examine when they visit Fort Smith.

If you are interested in paying respects to be legendary and important people in Fort Smith, head over to the National Cemetery.

Address: 522 S 6th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Parrot Island Waterpark

Parrot Island Waterpark, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Parrot Island Waterpark is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Parrot Island Waterpark is one of the best things to do in Arkansas.

You can cool down and have a good time with friends and family at Parrot Island Waterpark!

Parrot Island has something for everyone, with four water slides, a labyrinth, and a wave pool.

Among the many things to do at the resort are the 85,000-gallon Caribbean Splash’s wave pool and the Toucan’s Cove recreational pool.

All of which link to Crocodile Creek’s lazy river.

Additionally, Tiny Turtle Island features a variety of climbing structures, waterfalls, and water slides for children of all ages.

The Tangerine Twist, Pelican Plunge, and Pineapple Plunge are just a few of the most daring rides at this water park.

Overall, you may relax on the lawn or in one of the many deck chairs and read a new book while the youngsters play. 

A vacation wouldn’t be complete without some relaxation! Don’t forget to bring your swimwear to Fort Smith for your vacation. You’re going to need them!

Address: 7300 Zero St, Fort Smith, AR 72903

Regional Art Museum

Regional Art Museum Forth Smith Arkansas
Regional Art Museum, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Fargo-Moorhead CVB / Flickr

An avid fan of art? The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum is the place for you!

RAM as it is more often known was established in 1948.

Presently, the museum is inside the 16,000-square-foot structure that provides many essential services for regional and local artists.

The museum’s mission is to promote cultural understanding and appreciation among all community members.

They accomplish this by providing various educational and cultural opportunities and a world-class art gallery.

Moreover, art lovers can find a wide variety of works to admire in their permanent and seasonal displays.

Artworks by Pop Geometry by Todd Gray and Modern Master David Hayes are also on display.

Furthermore, you’ll be able to attend talks, artist-led seminars, galas, camps, receptions, events, and lessons for emerging artists.

If you’re a fan of art, you’ll definitely want to stop by.

Address: 1601 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Rivervalley Artisan Market

Rivervalley Artisan Market, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Rivervalley Artisan Market is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Get familiar with Fort Smith’s culture by visiting the Rivervalley Artisan Market! 

Visiting the Rivervalley Artisan Market, which is free and open to the public.

Also, it is an excellent opportunity to meet some locals, taste the best of what Fort Smith has to offer and just have a good time.

Creekmore Park in Fort Smith hosts the River Valley Artisan Market, a free event for the whole family.

Furthermore, there are works of local artists, craftsmen, and musicians are on display.

Additionally, food trucks are serving up their best delicacies to go along with it.

There are paintings, ceramics, jewelry, health and body items, and ready-to-eat meals in the market.

If you’re looking to help the local economy, this is a beautiful place to start.

Visit River Valley Artisan Market to meet new people, enjoy good music, and bring home local products to serve as a remembrance of the place! 

Address: 200 Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901, United States

Saint Scholastica Monastery

Saint Scholastica Monastery Forth Smith Arkansas
Saint Scholastica Monastery, Forth Smith, Arkansas / Leszek Kozlowski / Flickr

The majestic structures of the Saint Scholastica Monastery could be available to the public if you come at the right moment!

Birds, squirrels, and other small animals populate the well-kept environment that will entertain children.

You may visit the gift store and the pond with grotto, sculptures, and a gift shop when it is open.

Fort Smith’s Saint Scholastica Monastery, previously the Saint Scholastica Convent, is a renowned place of worship.

F. W. Redlich, an Oklahoma City architect, created the iconic structure, which was completed in 1923.

The monastery, which is now part of the National Register of Historic Places, was originally built as a church, school, and convent residential quarters.

Moreover, the property’s interior and exterior features have been meticulously designed to delight architecture enthusiasts.

One or more days of private retreats can be arranged at the center. There are several programs, workshops, and seminars held throughout the whole year.

Address: 1301 S Albert Pike Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72903

Temple Live

Temple Live, Fort Smith, Arkansas
Temple Live is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Relive history in Temple Live!

Temple Live, formerly known as the Mason Temple Building, was built in 1929 and is a historic and one-of-a-kind venue for socializing, dining, and seeing live events.

The 53,000-square-foot structure, renovated in 2015 and added to the National Register of Historic Places, has a Bedford stone structure.

Art Deco-style architecture has been preserved to provide unique performing art and gathering facility in the Temple.

Moreover, there are hand-crafted drinks and world-class cuisine are just a few of the amenities you’ll get from an exclusive membership at Sphinx Club.

Also, all major touring shows and acts are met or exceeded by the theater’s advanced temperature control and audio/video systems, which have been installed with state-of-the-art technology.

Three opulent banquet halls, a prominent commercial kitchen, and a massive auditorium with 1,100 people are all part of this enormous complex.

Visit and admire the theater’s unique collection of 87 hand-painted backdrops that it uses for various performances, including concerts and plays.

Address: 200 North 11th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas,

The Clayton House

The Clayton House, Fort Smith, Arkansas
The Clayton House is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Visit one of the most popular and maintained attractions in Fort Smith. The Clayton House!

When it comes to Fort Smith’s Victorian period, the Clayton House has been dubbed a “living history book.”

The Italianate-themed residence is located in the Belle Grove Historic District. It is open to the public to see.

William Henry Harrison Clayton formerly lived there.

You’ll discover a lot about the home throughout your guided tour, including the fact that it was built when there was no modern plumbing or lighting.

The home’s beautiful, vivid yellow exterior will greet you.

The authentic 19th-century furniture is on display once you enter.

Also, the mansion has been well taken care of despite its age, and it still serves as a fascinating glimpse into a previous era.

After you tour the house, you may pick up some souvenirs at the gift store.

Visitors are welcome at the Clayton House any day of the week except Mondays.

Address: 514 N 6th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

The Park at West End

The Park at West End, Fort Smith, Arkansas
The Park at West End is one of the best places to go in Gulf Fort Smith, Arkansas

Take a time out and enjoy the rides in The Park at West End!

One of the most beautiful parks you’ll ever find is the Park at West End in Fort Smith.

Phil White of Fort Smith acquired it in 2005 and had it transferred from the Rapids on the Reservoir water park in Brandon, Mississippi, where it had been since 1940.

The park has been attracting tourists of all ages for years because of its numerous spectacular attractions.

The 19,637-pound, 16-seater Ferris wheel towers 55 feet, 234 inches above the park and overlooks the Arkansas River.

With that, this Ferris wheel is a treasured Fort Smith landmark.

In addition to an antique carousel hand-painted in Italy and a Ferris Wheel from the San Diego World’s Fair, there are many more things to see and do in this beautiful location.

Visiting the Park at West End isn’t complete without a bite to eat from the Double Decker Bus concession stand or a meal in the Pullman railcar café.

Address: 115 Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Trolley Museum

Trolley Museum Forth Smith Arkansas
Trolley Museum, Forth Smith, Arkansas / bill_comstock / Flickr

Have a glimpse of the modes of transportation in the past in the Trolley Museum!

Before 1985, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum existed as a concept at the former Midland Valley train yard.

The Fort Smith Streetcar Restoration Association and Dr. Art Bradley Martin Sr. began purchasing and restoring railcars in the late 1970s.

Moreover, beautiful streetcars, such as the Fort Smith Light and Traction #205 and the Fort Smith Light & Power #10, are a favorite among visitors of all ages.

You’ll also find a complete rail inventory with the trolleys, including locomotives and speeders.

Furthermore, the museum joins in several events, such as the well-known Sweet Treats Trolley all throughout the year,

In fact, it brings a variety of sweets to the museum for your enjoyment.

Seeing how people used to get around back then is enjoyable!

Take your time to stroll around this museum to gain new knowledge of transportation in the past!

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Still undecided on visiting Fort Smith Arkansas? Click here for why visit Fort Smith, Arkansas, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 100 S 4th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901

Spread the love!