Top Rated Attractions in Fort Smith

If you are touring in the state of Arkansas, then a visit to the Van Buren Historic District is a must. It contains a number of historic buildings exemplifying early Italianate and Victorian architecture, all neatly lining up the quaint street of Van Buren. These structures symbolize the economic growth of the town that took place in the early-19th Century. The district has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Few of the establishments worth visiting are the Crawford County Courthouse, the Confederate Monument, Albert Pike School, and Hebe Fountain.

Commissioned in the year 1999 by the state authorities, Fort Smith Air Museum aims to preserve and promote the eventful history of aviation in the eastern region o Oklahoma and the western part of Arkansas. Situated inside the Fort Smith Regional Airport's terminal, it displays a number of exhibits, including some abandoned military air ships. Some of the items on showcase also narrate the story of the 188th Air National Guard. 69 exhibit boxes pay a tribute to military and other important air planes. Some of its interesting models include a J-3 Cub and the P-38.

Plan a visit with your family or friends at the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center to experience nature and wildlife of the region. You can head to the Wells Lake to discover the various fish species or walk along the trails to capture some amazing landscapes. There are a few programs for both kids and adults like animal feeding, kayaking or canoeing, and archery where visitors will surely enjoy.

The Fort Smith National Cemetery spreads over 22.3 acres (nine hectares) of land and has over 13,000 interments. This once small cemetery has been expanded several times over the centuries. Fort Smith National Cemetery was placed on National Register of Historic Places on May 29, 1999.

Built in the year 1874, W.H.H. Clayton House is a two and a half story mansion located in the heart of the city. It is known as one of the luxurious houses of those times and was constructed for W. H. H. Clayton who served as a local prosecutor and was also a member of a family prominent in state politics. The L-shaped structure of the house comprises of a wooden frame and the interiors are covered with elegant furnishings. Quirky paintings on the walls, large dining room suitable for dinner parties, wooden furnitures and antiques are still preserved within the house. Presently serving as a museum, the W.H.H. Clayton House must definitely be visited if you wish to catch a glimpse of historic luxury.