Area
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.
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland, and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith. From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North I 540 & Fayetteville, take Interstate 40 westbound to I 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave. and continue to downtown. In the downtown area: On Rogers or Garrison Ave turn south at 4th St. Turn right onto Garland Ave. At the end of the next block is the entrance to the main parking lot. Parking is also available on Third Street.
Entrance fee is $10.00.
The entrance fee is for individual admittance into the exhibits inside the visitor center building. Your receipt will be good for seven days from the time of purchase. There is no fee for viewing the grounds.
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.
