Fort Smith National Historic Site

I was very impressed in what I found at the Fort Smith National Historic Site. I did not know what to expect for a historic site so close to the local downtown. They have done a great job of telling the story of the fort that stood here and was an important part to the development of the Western Frontier.

The cutaway exhibit of the jail is amazing, it is so well done it will blow your mind. I was also impressed with the historical depiction of the courtroom, you feel like they could be holding court later in the day. The exhibits were also very well done, with lots of information about the fort over time and the outlaws and lawmen that ended up here.

In addition, the gift shop had some great books and a nice selection of souvenirs.

Be sure that you do not miss walking out to the other building, the depiction of the quartermaster is very well done.

We went there on a Sunday and the museum was closed. But the grounds and a building was open to go in.

We spent 2 hours walking around and there is plenty to read and look at. There are many trails and everything was clean and well maintained.

There is plenty of parking for all kinds of RV’s. Bring plenty of water and good walking shoes. Most of the trails are paved.

It’s only a few minutes off the I-40. If you are traveling, this stop will be great to walk and burn off some calories.