Things To Do
in Fort Smith
Fort Smith is a city located in Arkansas, United States, known for its rich history and culture. It was originally a military outpost and later became a major trading post along the Arkansas River. Today, it is a bustling city with a diverse population and a variety of attractions including historic sites, museums, and outdoor recreation areas.
Fort Smith offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a unique destination for visitors.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Fort Smith Riverfront. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river and take in the beautiful scenery.
Head to the Fort Smith Museum of History to learn about the rich history of the area. Don't miss the exhibits showcasing the Old West.
Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the local eateries along the river. Enjoy a view of the sunset as you dine.
Visit the Fort Smith National Historic Site to step back in time. Explore the original military post and learn about its significance.
Take a guided tour of the U.S. Marshal's Museum to discover the history of law enforcement in the region. Engage with interactive displays.
Enjoy a casual dinner at a downtown restaurant. Wrap up with a stroll through the historic district to see beautifully lit buildings.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historic sites and attractions
- Access to outdoor activities, such as rivers, parks, and nearby mountains
- Growing community with a mix of urban and small-town feel
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Public transportation options are minimal
- Hot summers and cold winters may not appeal to everyone
- Higher crime rates in some areas compared to the national average
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Fort Smith
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic park alongside the Arkansas River, offering walking trails, picnicking areas, and stunning views.
Explore the history of Fort Smith through guided tours, historical exhibits, and beautiful grounds.
An expansive park with a variety of outdoor amenities, including a golf course, trails, and a lake for fishing and boating.
Tours
Uncover the best of Fort Smith with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Fort Smith
Visit one of these nice places.
The Garrison Avenue Bridge offers stunning views of the Arkansas River and downtown Fort Smith, making it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing.
Parrot Island Waterpark provides a unique aerial view of Fort Smith and the surrounding area from the top of its water slides, offering great photo opportunities.
Poteau Mountain features hiking trails that lead to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley and the Ouachita Mountains, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Fort Smith
Fort Smith Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender pork ribs slow-cooked to perfection and basted in a flavorful barbecue sauce. A must-try dish in Fort Smith.
Must-Try!
Fresh catfish fillets coated in seasoned cornmeal and fried until crispy. Best enjoyed with a side of hushpuppies and coleslaw.
A Southern classic featuring a tenderized steak coated in seasoned breading and fried to a golden crisp. Served with creamy gravy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Fort Smith better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Farmers Market for a vibrant array of fresh produce, local artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats. From farm-fresh vegetables to homemade jams, this market offers a true taste of Fort Smith's local food scene.
Explore a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from gourmet burgers to authentic street tacos. This vibrant food truck park is a hotspot for sampling different flavors in an open-air setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Fort Smith, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not stand too close when interacting with others.
Using 'please' and 'thank you' is common and expected in Fort Smith as a sign of respect and courtesy.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as being punctual and dressing appropriately, is important in Fort Smith as a sign of cultural respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Fort Smith with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Smith
Ensure a smooth experience
In Fort Smith, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, and other service industries. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Fort Smith is widely accepted through credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses also accept contactless payment methods for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Fort Smith.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is the best time to visit Fort Smith, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various outdoor activities.
Summer brings hot and humid weather, ideal for enjoying water activities on the nearby lakes and rivers.
Fall offers colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Winter can be cold, but it's a good opportunity for indoor cultural activities and enjoying holiday events in the city.
Fort Smith at Night
Hiking in Fort Smith
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cove Lake offers scenic views and hiking trails that meander through lush forests and along the water's edge, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Poteau Mountain features a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
This scenic drive features multiple hiking trails along the way, offering breathtaking views and the chance to explore the Ouachita National Forest.
Home to the highest point in Arkansas, Mount Magazine has various trails, including challenging hikes with panoramic views.
Known for its rugged trails and rock formations, Devil's Den offers a variety of hiking experiences, including scenic overlooks and challenging terrain.
Aiports
How to reach Fort Smith by plane.
Located approximately 76 miles northwest of Fort Smith, XNA serves the larger Northwest Arkansas region and offers several domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 112 miles east of Fort Smith, LIT is the primary airport for the capital city of Arkansas and has a wide range of domestic flights with some international service.
Located around 116 miles west of Fort Smith, TUL is the main airport serving Tulsa, Oklahoma, and offers various domestic and some international routes.
Approximately 185 miles southwest of Fort Smith, OKC serves Oklahoma City and has numerous domestic flights along with a few international destinations.
About 225 miles northeast of Fort Smith, MEM is a major airport for the region with extensive domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Fort Smith, accounting for a significant majority of the population.
The second largest group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Fort Smith.
A growing demographic, representing a vibrant community in the Fort Smith area.
A smaller yet important demographic group, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Includes individuals identifying with multiple races or other race categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport in Fort Smith, often played at schools and local clubs, drawing significant community interest during the fall season.
Popular in schools and recreational leagues, basketball engages many youth and adults in Fort Smith, with facilities available for both indoor and outdoor play.
Soccer has a growing following in Fort Smith, with numerous leagues for different age groups, promoting physical activity among kids and adults alike.
Baseball is a traditional American sport with a rich history in Fort Smith, featuring youth leagues and adult recreational teams.
Softball is popular among women and co-ed teams, with various leagues and tournaments taking place throughout the year.
Both indoor and beach volleyball have enthusiasts in Fort Smith, with clubs and events organized for recreational play and competition.
Golf is a favored pastime in Fort Smith, with several courses available for residents to enjoy the sport recreationally or competitively.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Smith.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Fort Smith offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options ranging from fresh salads and veggie burgers to plant-based twists on Southern classics.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating dishes at various eateries, including gluten-free pasta, pizzas, and protein options accompanied by gluten-free sides.