4 Fun Specialty Parks to Visit in Fort Smith

Most of its citizens know Fort Smith, Arkansas, to be a fun city, but even as a resident, you may not be aware of the specialty areas right in our backyard. On your next free day, visit one of these four themed parks. 

Massard Prairie Battlefield Park

Massard Prairie Battlefield Park is a historic attraction in Fort Smith for being an important site in the history of the Civil War. It was right on this spot on July 27, 1864, that Confederate troops attacked Union soldiers, an attack that is considered by many to be one of the most successful ones in Arkansas. The purpose of this park is to both remember those who lost their lives and to provide a place to educate the public about what took place.

At this park, there are four preserved areas from that time, including the mess hall and some camps, along with historic markers that tell more about the battle, a monument to the time, and a walking trail that’s easy enough for the whole family to enjoy.

Riverfront Skate and Bike Park

There’s nothing quite like Riverfront Skate and Bike Park, a 12,000-square-foot park for both skateboarders and mountain bikers. Here you’ll be able to practice your ollies, heel-flips, and grinds on the park’s pump track, which is made with bumps and curves of all kinds. Scale a 12-foot vertical wall or the Plexiglas wall on your four wheels, but you don’t have to be an expert to love it here — there are areas for every level, from beginner to advanced.

Riverfront Skate and Bike Park overlooks the Arkansas River and connects to the 7-mile Greg Smith River Trail, making it perfect for a walk or bike ride.

Creekmore Park

Creekmore Park, located in downtown Fort Smith, is fun for the whole family. This park can easily serve as an all-day activity because there is no shortage of things to do here. First, start with the Creekmore Express Miniature Train, which runs from May through October. There are three types of trains you can ride, and all rides are completely free. During the month of December, visit again to take the Creekmore Holiday Express and enjoy the colorful lights all along the ride.

At this park, you’ll also find an 18-hole miniature golf course, tennis center and courts, a playground for the little ones, a fitness trail for a nice walk, and an Olympic-sized swim and dive facility, the largest outdoor one in the region.

Park at West End

Another popular downtown Fort Smith park is the Park at West End, a spot that can make you feel like you’re visiting a vintage carnival. Take a ride on the 56-foot ferris wheel that’s directly from the 1935 World’s Fair in San Diego and the hand-painted carousel from Italy. Then, have a bite to eat in the refurbished railcar diner or concession stand that’s been built into a double decker bus. You and your children will love the covered arcade area for some friendly competition.

Fort Smith’s themed parks have something for everyone. Find the one that resonates the most with you and your family and enjoy the sunshine.

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