Fort Smith, Arkansas

Fort Smith is located along the Arkansas River, where the state of Arkansas borders Oklahoma. It is set 57 miles (92 kilometers) south of Fayetteville, 159 miles (256 kilometers) northwest of Little Rock, and 118 miles (190 kilometers) southeast of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Fort Smith is the seat of Sebastian County, and is home to 80,268 people.

The Fort Smith National Historic Site is a must-see attraction for all newcomers. Highlights include the Trail of Tears, the original 1817 fort, the restored gallows, and the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas, which was once presided over by "Hanging Judge" Isaac C. Parker. Nearby is the Museum of History, which traces the development of the city using artifacts, displays, and interactive exhibits. Fort Smith is also home to the Trolley Museum and Air Museum. You can also pay a visit to Fort Chaffee, a military base that trained soldiers (including Elvis Presley in 1958) for World War II and the Korean War. Visitors can see the barracks and several memorial plaques, and also enjoy fishing and hunting in the surrounding areas.

Many historic homes are located throughout Fort Smith, including Darby House, Hangman's House, and the Vaughn-Schaap House which is now an Art Center with both permanent and changing exhibits. History buffs can explore these heritage sites on foot, by trolley bus, or in a horse-drawn carriage. Want to see the beautiful Ozark Mountains and relive the romance of the past? Try a ride aboard the A&M Scenic Railway in an authentic 19th century passenger car.

For a great night's entertainment, check out the latest performance from the Fort Smith Symphony, the Fort Smith Little Theatre, or Miss Laura's Players, a musical comedy group that spoofs early Fort Smith life in the days of "Hanging Judge" Isaac Parker.

Looking for more? An hour's drive will bring you to Altus and the award-winning vineyards of Arkansas' Wine Country. For a longer journey, try a drive along the 54-mile (87-kilometer) Talimena National Scenic Byway, which offers spectacular views from the top of the Ouachita Mountains and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. More outdoor fun can be found at the Ben Geren Regional Park. This 1,300-acre (526-hectare) park is the largest county park in Arkansas, and offers trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife-viewing, as well as swimming pools, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

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