Fort Smith National Historic Site: Frontier Justice and the Trail of Tears
Explore frontier justice, military history, and the Trail of Tears at this significant National Historic Site in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Explore the tumultuous history of the American West at Fort Smith National Historic Site, where the legacy of frontier justice under Judge Isaac Parker intersects with the poignant Trail of Tears. See the remains of two military forts, Judge Parker's courtroom, and the infamous 'Hell on the Border' jail, all set against the backdrop of the Arkansas River.
A brief summary to Fort Smith National Historic Site
- 301 Parker Ave, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 72901, US
- +1479-783-3961
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Visitor Center to get an overview of the site's history and plan your tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on paved trails.
- Allow at least 45 minutes to tour the exhibits inside the Visitor Center.
- Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant weather.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-40 Eastbound, exit at Roland and drive six miles on Highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From I-40 Westbound and North I-540, take I-40 Westbound to I-540 South, then exit west on Rogers Avenue and continue to downtown. In the downtown area, turn south on 4th Street from Rogers or Garrison Avenue, then turn right onto Garland Avenue. The entrance to the main parking lot is at the end of the block. Parking is free in the main lot and along 3rd Street.
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Public Transport
Fort Smith Transit provides public transportation within the city. Several fixed routes serve the downtown area. From the Fort Smith Transit Transfer Station on Garrison Avenue, the historic site is a short ride away. Check the RouteShout 2.0 app for real-time bus tracking and schedules. A single ride fare is around $1.25.
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Walking
From downtown Fort Smith, the National Historic Site is within walking distance. From Garrison Avenue, walk south on 3rd or 4th Street, then follow the signs to the site. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on your starting point.
Discover more about Fort Smith National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Smith National Historic Site Parking
0.1 km
Explore the Fort Smith National Historic Site, a key historical landmark in Arkansas, revealing the rich narrative of America's frontier and law enforcement evolution.
Old Fort Smith Commissary
0.2 km
Explore the Old Fort Smith Commissary, the city's oldest building, and step back into the 19th-century frontier era. A must-see for history buffs!
Bass Reeves Monument
0.2 km
Explore Bass Reeves Monument in Fort Smith, Arkansas, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of America's first Black Deputy U.S. Marshal.
Ft. Smith Confederate Monument
0.4 km
Explore the Ft. Smith Confederate Monument - a significant historical site in Arkansas that reflects on the complexities of the Civil War era.
Fort Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau
0.4 km
Discover Fort Smith: Your one-stop resource for exploring the city's history, culture, and attractions. Plan your unforgettable Arkansas adventure today!
Fort Smith Historic District
0.5 km
Step back in time at Fort Smith Historic District, where history, culture, and Southern charm converge in a captivating experience.
Old Iron Bridge
4.4 km
Discover the historic Old Iron Bridge in Fort Smith, Arkansas, a landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich local heritage.
Things to do in Fort Smith
4.6 km
Discover Fort Smith, AR: Where Wild West history meets modern attractions, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant arts scene.
Drennen Scott House
8.3 km
Discover the rich history of Van Buren at the Drennen Scott House, a beautifully preserved historical site showcasing early American life.
Van Buren Historic District
8.8 km
Discover the Van Buren Historic District, a beautifully preserved area with charming architecture, unique shops, and a vibrant local culture that transports you back in time.
Cavanal Hill
41.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cavanal Hill, the highest hill in the world, and enjoy stunning views of Oklahoma's landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Smith Museum of History
0.2 km
Discover Fort Smith's captivating past through immersive exhibits and artifacts at the city's oldest history museum.
Old Fort Smith
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Fort Smith at Old Fort Smith, a historic site showcasing military life and cultural heritage.
Park at West End
0.3 km
Discover vintage charm and family fun at Park at West End in Fort Smith, featuring a historic Ferris wheel and unique attractions.
Fort Smith Trolley Museum
0.3 km
Step back in time at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, where vintage streetcars and railway history come to life in the heart of Fort Smith.
Miss Laura's Visitor Center
0.4 km
Explore Fort Smith's Wild West history at Miss Laura's Visitor Center, a restored bordello offering tours and information about the city's colorful past.
Fort Smith National Cemetery
0.5 km
A historic national cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas, honoring the brave men and women who served the nation from the Civil War to today.
Unexpected Project
0.5 km
Discover stunning murals and urban art installations in the heart of Fort Smith, where art meets history and revitalization takes center stage.
Harry E. Kelley River Park
0.7 km
Experience outdoor fun and community events at Fort Smith's scenic Harry E. Kelley River Park on the Arkansas River.
Belle Grove Historic District
0.8 km
Explore Victorian architecture and rich history in Fort Smith's Belle Grove Historic District, a 22-block neighborhood with stunning homes and landmarks.
Cisterna Park
0.9 km
Discover a tranquil urban escape at Cisterna Park in Fort Smith, Arkansas, featuring lush landscapes, a beautiful fountain, and historical monuments.
Clayton House
0.9 km
Experience Victorian elegance and Wild West history at Fort Smith's Clayton House, the beautifully restored home of Judge Parker's chief prosecutor.
Fort Smith Riverfront Trail
1.0 km
Explore history and nature along the scenic Arkansas River at the Fort Smith Riverfront Trail. Paved paths, historical insights, and outdoor fun.
Anniversary Rose Garden
1.1 km
Discover a vibrant floral paradise at Fort Smith's Anniversary Rose Garden, a serene escape filled with stunning roses and picturesque landscapes.
United States Marshals Museum
1.2 km
Explore the history of America's oldest law enforcement agency through immersive exhibits and historical artifacts at the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, AR.
Fort Smith Regional Art Museum
1.5 km
Discover world-class art and enriching experiences at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, a cultural gem in the heart of Arkansas.
Essential places to dine
Bricktown Brewery
0.2 km
Discover flavorful American cuisine and craft brews at Bricktown Brewery in Fort Smith, where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Wild Waffles
0.3 km
Discover deliciously creative waffle dishes at Wild Waffles in Fort Smith - where breakfast dreams come true!
Neumeier's Rib Room
0.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Neumeier's Rib Room in Fort Smith – where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
21 West End
0.3 km
Savor exquisite flavors and elegant dining at Fort Smith's premier fine dining destination.
5th Street Cafe
0.3 km
Discover the best breakfast in Fort Smith at 5th Street Cafe - where every meal feels like home.
Prima Italia
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Prima Italia – where fine dining meets a cozy atmosphere in Fort Smith.
Doe's Eat Place
0.7 km
Experience the best steakhouse in Fort Smith at Doe's Eat Place - where flavor meets lively entertainment!
Thai Curry
0.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Fort Smith with flavorful dishes and a warm atmosphere at Thai Curry - perfect for every palate.
Rolando's Restaurante
0.8 km
Discover Rolando's Restaurante: A Taste of Authentic Latin American Flavors in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
AJ's Oyster House
0.9 km
Experience the best seafood in Fort Smith at AJ's Oyster House - where fresh flavors meet southern hospitality.
Fort Smith Jazz & Blues Grill
1.2 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue paired with live jazz and blues at Fort Smith Jazz & Blues Grill - a true taste of Arkansas culture.
Emmy's German Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Germany at Emmy's German Restaurant in Fort Smith - where tradition meets taste in every bite!
Taliano’s Italian Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Taliano's Italian Restaurant in Fort Smith - where every meal is a celebration of taste.
El Lorito Mexican Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Lorito Mexican Restaurant in Fort Smith – where delicious meets affordable.
R & R's Curry Express
1.5 km
Experience authentic North Indian cuisine at R & R's Curry Express in Fort Smith—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olen & Co. Market
0.2 km
Explore Olen & Co. Market in Fort Smith for a unique blend of vintage clothing and antique treasures that captures the essence of nostalgia.
Designer Again
0.3 km
Uncover unique fashion and home decor treasures at Designer Again, a charming consignment shop in Fort Smith, AR.
Belle Starr Antiques & Vintage Market
0.4 km
Explore a charming vintage market brimming with unique antiques and collectibles in Fort Smith, Arkansas, perfect for every treasure hunter.
Bookish: An Indie Shop for Folks Who Read
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Bookish, Fort Smith's indie bookstore that offers a vast collection, cozy reading spots, and a community for book lovers.
Strange Brew Occult Shop
0.6 km
Explore the mystical realm at Strange Brew Occult Shop, where a world of tarot, crystals, and esoteric knowledge awaits every curious traveler.
Second Time Around Consignment
0.8 km
Explore Second Time Around Consignment in Fort Smith, AR, where treasure hunting leads to unique finds and unbeatable bargains.
1440 Wholesale Fort Smith
0.8 km
Uncover unique treasures at 1440 Wholesale Fort Smith, the ultimate thrift store experience in Arkansas for savvy shoppers.
Timeless Oddities and Curiosities
0.8 km
Explore a whimsical gift shop filled with unique treasures, home goods, and metaphysical supplies in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Army Surplus
0.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of authentic military gear at Army Surplus in Fort Smith, Arkansas. A must-visit for military enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Fifth J Vendor Marketplace
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and vintage treasures at the Fifth J Vendor Marketplace, your go-to spot for eclectic finds in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Habitat For Humanity ReStore
1.3 km
Shop sustainably at the Habitat For Humanity ReStore in Fort Smith, where every purchase helps build homes and community!
Legends Sports Cards & Collectibles
1.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of sports memorabilia at Legends Sports Cards & Collectibles in Fort Smith, AR, where every fan can find their passion.
Through the Years Antique Mall
2.1 km
Discover unique treasures and rich history at Through the Years Antique Mall in Fort Smith, Arkansas, a haven for antique enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Colquitt Bath Co.
2.8 km
Explore the charm of Fort Smith at Colquitt Bath Co., a unique gift shop offering artisanal selections and local treasures.
Now & Then Shoppe Inc
2.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of vintage finds at Now & Then Shoppe Inc, the premier antique store in Fort Smith, Arkansas, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Town Grain & Feed
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Old Town Grain & Feed, a unique bar and live music venue in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Amigos Bar and Grill
0.5 km
Discover the savory flavors of American cuisine at Amigos Bar and Grill, a must-visit destination in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Prohibition
0.5 km
Discover the 1920s speakeasy vibe at Prohibition, Fort Smith's premier bar for craft cocktails and live music in an intimate setting.
Roosters
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Roosters, Fort Smith's go-to bar and night club for drinks, music, and unforgettable memories.
Arlie Muck's
0.7 km
Discover Arlie Muck's in Fort Smith, a lively cocktail bar and pool hall offering expertly crafted drinks and vibrant nightlife.
906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge
0.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of craft cocktails and premium cigars at the 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Tipsy's Pub
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local charm of Tipsy's Pub in Fort Smith, offering a delightful selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hero's
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hero's in Fort Smith, Arkansas - a welcoming bar known for its affordable drinks and lively atmosphere.
Club Kinkead's
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Fort Smith's nightlife at Club Kinkead's, where great drinks and unforgettable entertainment await every visitor.
Ice House of Fort Smith
1.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavor at the Ice House of Fort Smith, a must-visit bar for tourists seeking fun and entertainment.
Shooter's Bar & Grill
2.4 km
Experience the flavors of America at Shooter's Bar & Grill in Fort Smith, where great food meets a fun atmosphere.
Suzie Q's
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Suzie Q's, Fort Smith's favorite bar offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Farewell Party Bar
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Farewell Party Bar in Fort Smith, where delicious drinks and friendly faces await.
The Knotty Pint
4.8 km
Discover The Knotty Pint, where cozy ambiance meets a vibrant bar scene in Fort Smith, Arkansas, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local music.
Branding Iron
5.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink menu at the Branding Iron, Fort Smith's top bar for relaxation and entertainment.
