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Drive Around Town: 3 Local Attractions to See in Fort Smith, AR

local attractions in fort smith arkansas

Whether you're local to Fort Smith, AR or made the drive down from Fayetteville or another location in your Chevrolet Spark, the endless local attractions ensure you do not return home disappointed. The city has a rich history with plenty of remnants of yesterday left to explore, as well as plenty of modern places to visit and explore. We recommend visiting the four attractions on this list when you are looking for something fun to do.

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Parrot Island Waterpark

When it is hot outside, cool down at the Parrot Island Waterpark, located in the Ben Geren Park. With more than 360,000 gallons of water in the park, visitors can always cool off as they enjoy themselves splashing around in the sun. The waterpark offers fun for all ages, including kids, teens, and adults. Parrot Island is home to the region's only wave pool, although there is so much more offered here.Take a break at the lazy river, take the kids to the aquatic play area, or enjoy time in the pools and on the slides. Cabana rentals are available. Rent one and make your trip even more special. Keep in mind the waterpark does get crowded during the summer, so arrive early to get the best waves and splashes.

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

Located in the downtown area, Fort Smith Regional Art Museum features fine art spread across five amazing galleries. Find work created by local and national artists displayed in the gallery. There are tons of educational opportunities for children and adults, including lectures, art camps, and artist-led workshops.Fort Smith Regional Art Museum also provides gallery tours and in-person and online classes to help more people learn about the arts and expand their knowledge. Sketching classes, make and take art classes, and drawing classes are among the offerings at RAM.

Fort Smith National Historic Site

True crime enthusiasts and history buffs will appreciate visiting the Fort Smith National Historic Site where Judge Isaac Parker served as a U.S. District Judge from 1875- 1896. Known as the “Hanging Judge,” Parker sentenced eight of 18 convicted murderers to death, hanging them on the same day.  Altogether, parker sentenced 160 people to death with 73 executed on the gallows. More men were put to death by the U.S. government at this location than at any other.At the Fort Smith Historic Site, visitors can explore the grounds, the commissary building, and a reconstruction of the gallows used to hang the 73 executed men. The walking trail along the Arkansas River, the Trail of Tears, has great exhibits along the way. For educational information about the site, the visitor's center has you covered, offering a plethora of exhibits and written material.Visit us at Orr Chevrolet Cadillac when you are in the market for a new or certified pre-owned vehicle. Our massive inventory includes vehicles for every budget and driving pleasure. Come by and see our selection and we'll put you behind the wheel of a vehicle you love!

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hiking trails near fort smith arkansas

4 Favorite Hiking Trails You Can Drive to Near Fort Smith, AR

Fort Smith, AR is a dynamic and fun city with plenty of things to do. There is also no shortage of hiking trails conveniently located in the city itself. The 2020 GMC Acadia Denali is a rugged and reliable choice with adaptive cruise control and an intuitive navigation system that can help you find all of the best outdoor spots near Fort Smith. Photo by: asmuSe via pixabay.com more 1. Fort Smith National Historic Site Loop Trail Find the Fort Smith National Historic Site Loop Trail at 301 Parker Avenue. This great trail is about a mile and a half long and runs in a lovely look with epic views, historic buildings, and through shaded, beautiful areas. You'll have the chance to see a lot of different birds and some local wildlife, and relax near the Arkansas River. This trail gives you the best of nature while still being easy enough for most people to enjoy comfortably. Plus, it's right in the middle of Fort Smith. 2. Rice Cardin Levee Trail Rice Cardin Levee Trail, at Riverfront Park, 121 Riverfront Drive, is a longer trail that runs for just over 12 miles. It's an out-and-back trail with plenty of great winding trails where you can hike, bike, or try to spot some of Arkansas's local birds. There are several different aspects to this hike, including a paved area in the city and then a wide dirt trail that takes you into the rugged forested area of Fort Smith. Although this trail is pretty long, there are plenty of benches where you can relax and marvel at the scenery. 3. Torraine Lake Visit Torraine Lake at 10000 Chad Colley Boulevard and enjoy a fun hike around the lake. There's a paved trail that winds itself part of the way around the lake. This hike is leisurely and family friendly, and you can couple it with some fun water sports of Torraine Lake itself. There are plenty of opportunities to go fishing or kayaking at this favorite Fort Smith spot. 4. Ben Geren Fitness Course Those looking for an easy, fun hike in the city should check out the Ben Geren Fitness Course at 7200 Zero Street. The trail is well-maintained and runs about a mile and a half through Ben Geren Regional Park. It's a relatively easy course with plenty of amenities that will give you a small taste of the country in the heart of one of Arkansas' most cosmopolitan cities. You don't have to travel far to see the great outdoors in Fort Smith, but you do need an excellent vehicle to get around. Visit us at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith and test drive your next ride today.

vegetarian restaurants near fort smith, arkansas

5 Vegetarian Restaurants Worth the Drive Near Fort Smith, AR

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