The former barracks, courthouse, and jail serves as the park's visitor center
Photo: NPS Photo
About
Explore life on the edge of frontier and Indian Territory through the stories of soldiers, the Trail of Tears, scandals, outlaws, and lawmen who pursued them. From the establishment of the first Fort Smith on December 25, 1817, to the final days of Judge Isaac C. Parker's jurisdiction over Indian Territory in 1896, Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves almost 80 years of history.
Location
301 Parker Ave
Fort Smith, AR 72901
Hours
wednesdaySunrise to Sunset
mondaySunrise to Sunset
thursdaySunrise to Sunset
sundaySunrise to Sunset
tuesdaySunrise to Sunset
fridaySunrise to Sunset
saturdaySunrise to Sunset
Activities
Guided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingJunior Ranger ProgramPark FilmMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park Store
Directions
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North Interstate 540 & Fayetteville: Take Interstate 40 Westbound to Interstate 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave and continue towards downtown Fort Smith. In the downtown area: On Rogers or Garrison Ave, turn south at 4th St. Turn right onto Garland Ave. Entrance to the main parking lot is at the end of the next block. Oversize parking is available.
Get directions →Weather
Fort Smith weather includes four distinct, yet temperate seasons. Spring and fall are usually mild while late summer is hot and humid. During winter months, temperatures occasionally dip into the teens. Forecast often changes dramatically due to surrounding weather influences. Arkansas's central location allows weather systems from all directions to influence its climate. The area is prone to flash flooding and river flooding in rainy seasons.