Make the Drive to These Top 3 Tourist Attractions Near Fort Smith, AR

Fort Smith, AR, on the Arkansas River banks, is full of history and culture, with numerous significant historical sites and museum attractions. Go for a drive in a Hyundai to visit the top tourist attractions and learn about the city’s history, culture, and economic development, life on the edge of the frontier and Indian Territory, and take a walk through the charming and colorful Park at West End to see beautifully restored rides.

1. The Fort Smith National Historic Site

The fascinating Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves nearly 80 years of history, from the city’s establishment on December 25, 1817 to the final days of jurisdiction over the Indian Territory in 1896.

The museum focuses on military history, western expansion, the impact on Indian Territory, Federal Indian policy, and Indian removal. Learn about The Trail of Tears, the notorious outlaws and the formidable lawmen who chased them, and the brave soldiers of the era.

Address and Hours

Visit the Fort Smith National Historic Site at 301 Parker Avenue in Fort Smith all year round from sunrise to sunset.

2. The Fort Smith Museum of History

The Fort Smith Museum of History was established in 1910 and tells the story of the history and the cultural, political, and economic development of Fort Smith through interesting exhibits and a vast selection of historical artifacts and antiques.

The museum features displays of the local men and women who participated in World War II, a beautiful old fire engine, the 1920s to 1940s pharmacy, and rare telephone exchange equipment. The vintage soda fountain, where visitors can enjoy floats, handmade ice cream, and sundaes, is one of the most popular working exhibits at the museum.

Address and Hours

The Fort Smith Museum of History is at 320 Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith and is open Tuesday to Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

3. The Park at West End

The Park at West End in downtown Fort Smith is a quaint, charming, and colorful spot to take a walk, go on vintage rides, watch the kids run through the LED-lighted splash pad, and grab a delicious bite to eat at the Double Decker Bus concession stand.

The unique park exhibits colorful murals, a renovated Pullman Railcar Diner, and a beautiful vintage carousel hand-painted in Treviso, Italy. The park is also home to a Ferris wheel from the 1935 World’s Fair held in San Diego. Entrance to the park is free, and each ride is paid for individually.

Address and Hours

The Park at West End is on Garrison Avenue and North 2 Street in Fort Smith. Please visit their website for seasonal opening hours.

Drive around in a Hyundai and immerse yourself in Fort Smith’s rich history and culture. While you are out and about, swing by Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith to take a closer look at the new Hyundai models on the showroom floor.

Image via Pixabay.

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