Background

Clayton House: A Victorian Gem in Fort Smith

Explore Victorian elegance and legal history at Fort Smith's Clayton House, a beautifully restored 1882 mansion and museum.

★★★★★4.6 (107)

Step back in time at the Clayton House, a meticulously restored Victorian mansion in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Once home to William H.H. Clayton, a prominent prosecutor, this museum offers a glimpse into 19th-century life and the history of law and justice in the region.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Clayton House

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
514 N 6th St, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 72901, US
Tuesday
12 pm-4 pm
Wednesday
12 pm-4 pm
Thursday
12 pm-4 pm
Friday
12 pm-4 pm
Saturday
12 pm-4 pm
Sunday
1 pm-4 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Clayton House.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Take the guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the house's history and the Clayton family's significance.
Check the Clayton House's Facebook page for any temporary changes to opening hours.
Explore the Belle Grove Historic District, where the Clayton House is located, to see other examples of Victorian architecture.

Discover more about Clayton House

The Clayton House, located in Fort Smith's Belle Grove Historic District, is a captivating journey into the Victorian era. Built in 1882 for William Henry Harrison Clayton, chief prosecutor in Judge Isaac Parker's court, the house has been carefully restored to its original grandeur. Clayton, known for his work with Judge Parker, managed over 10,000 cases across 74,000 square miles.The house itself is an Italianate-style masterpiece, showcasing the affluence of the time with its elaborate molding, bay windows, and a stunning black walnut staircase. The museum features eight main rooms, a common area, and reconstructed servants' quarters, all filled with period furnishings. Many original features remain, including wide cypress planks and the grand walnut staircase.A visit to the Clayton House offers a glimpse into the lives of the Clayton family and the challenges of bringing law and order to the Indian Territory. The house also hosts weddings, parties, and other events, continuing its legacy as a gathering place.

Explore places near Clayton House

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Clayton House

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Walking

    The Clayton House is located five blocks north of Garrison Avenue in downtown Fort Smith. From Garrison Avenue, walk north on 6th Street. The Clayton House is on the southeast corner of 6th Street and 'F' Street. This is a straightforward walk on city streets.

    Public Transport

    Fort Smith Transit provides bus service within the city. Check the Fort Smith Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. From the nearest bus stop, follow the walking directions above to reach the Clayton House. A single bus fare is $1.25.

    Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Fort Smith. Request a ride to 514 North 6th Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901. The typical cost from downtown Fort Smith is approximately $8-$12.

    A brief summary to Clayton House

    Use Clayton House as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Fortsmithhist.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    More about Fort Smith

    Discover Fort Smith, Arkansas – A city where rich history, vibrant arts, and scenic outdoor activities create the perfect blend for an unforgettable visit.

    Tell me more about Fort Smith

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.