Background

Potts Inn Museum: A Step Back in Time

Discover 19th-century Arkansas at the Potts Inn Museum, a preserved stagecoach stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route.

4.9

The Potts Inn Museum in Pottsville, Arkansas, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life as a preserved stagecoach station on the historic Butterfield Overland Mail route. Explore the meticulously restored antebellum home, filled with period furnishings and artifacts, and discover the stories of the Potts family and early settlers.

A brief summary to Potts Inn Museum

  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's limited operating hours (Thursday - Saturday) before visiting to ensure the availability of tours and access to exhibits.
  • Allow at least 60-90 minutes to fully explore the main house and the outbuildings.
  • Consider visiting during one of the museum's community events, such as the Butterfield Days festival, for a more immersive experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Interstate 40, take exit 81 for AR-247 toward Pottsville. Follow AR-247 South for approximately 4 miles until you reach E Ash St in Pottsville. Turn left onto E Ash St, and the Potts Inn Museum will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. Expect to pay around $0 - $5 for parking in the area.

  • Walking

    If you're already in Pottsville, the Potts Inn Museum is located on E Ash St. From most points in the town center, it's easily accessible by foot. Simply head east towards the residential area, and you'll find the museum on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.

Unlock the Best of Potts Inn Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Potts Inn Museum

Step back in time at the Potts Inn Museum, a well-preserved stagecoach inn dating back to 1858. Built by Kirkbride Potts, the inn served as a vital stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route, connecting Memphis and Fort Smith. The museum showcases the Potts family's life and the experiences of travelers in the 19th century. The two-story, wood-frame structure features a side-gable roof and a two-story gabled portico, reflecting classic antebellum architecture. Inside, you'll find nine rooms filled with period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. Explore the community room, where men once smoked cigars and discussed politics, and imagine the children sleeping in the attic when the inn was full. Outside, five historic log structures house fascinating collections, including antique clothing and hats, a doctor's office display, a doll collection, and antique farm equipment. The museum also hosts community events, such as Easter egg hunts and the annual Butterfield Days festival, making it a cultural hub for Pottsville. Knowledgeable tour guides provide insightful narratives, ensuring visitors leave with a profound appreciation for local heritage.

Popular Experiences near Potts Inn Museum

Popular Hotels near Potts Inn Museum

Select Currency