Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith National Historic Site is located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, along the Arkansas-Oklahoma border. It encompasses a historical area that played a significant role in the settling of the American West.

The site's history dates back to 1817 when a military fort, known as Fort Smith, was established at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau rivers. Its prime location served as a crucial supply station for soldiers and settlers traveling along the frontier. Over the years, the fort evolved into a major hub for westward expansion, as it became an important trading post and the center for law and order in the region.

During the mid-19th century, Fort Smith served as a key outpost during the Indian Removal era. Thousands of Native Americans, including the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole, were forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands to present-day Oklahoma. The fort also gained fame as the jurisdiction for the famous federal court called the "Hangin' Judge" Court, presided over by Judge Isaac C. Parker. This court was responsible for bringing law and order to the Wild West, handling numerous high-profile cases and ultimately carrying out over 160 hangings.

Today, visitors to Fort Smith National Historic Site can explore the preserved remains of the military fort, including reconstructed buildings and original artifacts. They can also visit the historic courthouse that functioned during Judge Parker's time and view exhibits that shed light on the fort's diverse history. Guided tours and educational programs provide valuable insights into the fort's role in westward expansion and its cultural significance.

Beyond the historic site itself, there are additional attractions near Fort Smith. The nearby Belle Grove Historic District offers a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage, with well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman-style homes. Visitors can stroll along the trails of the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center, which showcases the region's natural beauty and wildlife. Additionally, the Clayton House Museum, located in a beautiful antebellum home, provides an in-depth look at the area's history and offers guided tours.

Overall, Fort Smith National Historic Site is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts seeking to delve into the fascinating stories of the American West. With its well-preserved historical structures, engaging exhibits, and nearby attractions, it offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for visitors.

Fort Smith National Historic Site is located in the western part of Arkansas, nestled at the point where the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers converge. Situated on the border of Arkansas and Oklahoma, the site occupies a strategic position that provides a unique view into the history and culture of the region. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, Fort Smith National Historic Site offers a tranquil setting that contrasts with its tumultuous past. The geographical location enhances the visitor experience as it allows for a deeper understanding of the site's significance in shaping the development of the Arkansas River Valley and the American West as a whole.

Address & Contact

301 Parker Ave
Fort Smith, AR 72901
Driving Directions
Phone: 4797833961
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Smith National Historic Site would be during the spring months of April and May when the average maximum temperatures range from 74°F to 81°F. During this period, the average minimum temperatures range from 50°F to 60°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation during these months is around 5.0 inches, which is slightly higher than other months but still manageable for exploring the historic site.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Smith National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Smith National Historic Site: Animals Birds Archeology Transportation Westward Expansion River and Riparian Explorers and Expeditions Military African American Heritage Schools and Education Women's History Scenic Views Forts Artillery Wars and Conflicts Civil War Cavalry Tribal Conflicts Incarceration Ruins Medicine Hospital Trains and Railroads Jails and Prisons

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center, Gallows, and Commissary

This building has evolved over time. Beginning in 1846, it was the enlisted men's barracks and dining hall. In 1872, it was converted to a courthouse and jail. A second, more modern jail was added in 1888. The last major change occurred between 1996-2000 when the buildings were renovated and exhibits added, making the building more accessible to visitors. The visitor center helps tell the story of Fort Smith from 1817 to 1896.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center, Gallows, and Commissary.

Campsites within or near Fort Smith National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Smith National Historic Site

Hampton Inn Fort Smith

A stay at Hampton Inn Fort Smith places you in the heart of Fort Smith, within a 5-minute drive of Central Mall and Mercy Hospital Fort Smith. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. This hotel has 3 meeting rooms available for events. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request).
Address: 6201 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
Web: Link

Quality Inn Fort Smith I-540

Located in Fort Smith, Quality Inn Fort Smith I-540 is in the historical district, a 2-minute drive from Central Mall and 8 minutes from Fort Smith Convention Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2120 Burnham Rd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
Web: Link

Baymont by Wyndham Fort Smith

Located in Fort Smith, Baymont by Wyndham Fort Smith is in the business district, within a 5-minute drive of Central Mall and Mercy Hospital Fort Smith. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2123 Burnham Rd, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

Wyndham Fort Smith

When you stay at Wyndham Fort Smith in Fort Smith, you'll be connected to the convention center, within a 10-minute walk of Trolley Museum and Fort Smith Museum of History. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Fort Smith? This hotel has facilities measuring 15276 square feet (1419 square meters), including a conference center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 700 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

Courtyard Marriott Fort Smith Downtown

With a stay at Courtyard Marriott Fort Smith Downtown, you'll be centrally located in Fort Smith, just a 4-minute walk from Fort Smith Convention Center and 7 minutes by foot from Trolley Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Fort Smith? This hotel has facilities measuring 2500 square feet (232 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 900 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

Rodeway Inn Fort Smith I-40

A stay at Rodeway Inn Fort Smith I-40 places you in the heart of Fort Smith, within a 5-minute drive of Central Mall and Mercy Hospital Fort Smith. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and coffee/tea in a common area. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 6001 Rodgers Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72903
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Fort Smith

With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Fort Smith in Fort Smith, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Sparks PremierCare and Baptist Health-Fort Smith. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2301 Towson Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

River Valley Inn and Suites

When you stay at River Valley Inn and Suites in Fort Smith, you'll be near the airport, within a 5-minute drive of Sparks PremierCare and Baptist Health-Fort Smith. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area. This hotel has 2 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5103 Towson Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

Red Roof Inn Fort Smith Downtown

A stay at Red Roof Inn Fort Smith Downtown places you in the heart of Fort Smith, within a 15-minute walk of Fort Smith Convention Center and Trolley Museum. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1021 Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link

Michael's Mansion

Located in Fort Smith, Michael's Mansion is within a 5-minute drive of Sparks PremierCare and Central Mall. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2900 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72901
Web: Link