American Indian tribes settled in the region before they encountered the first Europeans. Fort Smith sits on a beautiful landscape, and it has been a good site for settlement because of its proximity to the rivers, which attracted France to claim the land. The French and the American Indians used the waterways for trading, transportation, and supplying other goods to villages and settlements. The United States acquired the land in the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, and in 1806, the Pike Expedition took place. Following the Expedition, the U.S. founded Fort Smith in 1817 as a military post. The site took the name of General Thomas Adams Smith, who commanded the U.S. Army Rifle Regiment. However, the military abandoned the fort in 1824. While the military moved in 1824, a small settlement had begun around the fort. John Rogers, a land speculator and an Army victualer, bought the former government-owned land. Rogers promoted the growth of the new civilian town, resulting in population increase and economic development. Its strategic location compelled the federal government to re-establish a military presence. Fort Smith was a strategic location during the Mexican War, U.S. Civil War, and World War II. The city’s strategic location has attracted the federal government and private corporations, contributing to its growth. Land investment in the region is an excellent idea because the city will continue to experience growth.

Fort Smith rests heavily on its history and Western heritage, which have made it one of the top destinations in Arkansas. Learn about the region’s history by visiting the Fort Smith National Historic Site, where you will uncover more than 80 years of preserved history. You will explore Judge Parker’s courtroom, jails, and reconstructed gallows to make you feel like you have gone back in time.

Don’t forget to walk through an actual battlefield at the Massard Prairie Battlefield Park. The park serves as a memorial for the people who lost their lives during the 1864 conflict. You will walk the ground where the Confederate Army led an attack on the Union soldiers. The site features walking trails, informative monuments, and benches.

Recreational activities are endless, especially during the summer months. Cool off at Parrot Island, a full-size water park featuring a lazy river, an area for children, water slides, and a wave pool. The Downtown Splash has ten dancing fountains, and it is a free park open to the public.

Skaters and bikers of all levels can have fun at the Riverfront Skate & Bike Park, overlooking the Arkansas River. The park features a mountain bike playground, 12,000 square feet of skate obstacles, and pump tracks. Other things you could do include watching plays at Fort Smith Little Theater, riding streetcars, and experiencing outdoor activities. Fort Smith has something for everyone, and you will never be bored.