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Fort Smith, Arkansas has the perfect mix of old Western flavor and historic elegance. It was named the #1 Top Western town by True West magazine in 2013 and #2 in the 2017 edition. Take a look at the landmarks from this list and see why Fort Smith, AR is considered a gateway to the "True West." more 1. Fort Smith National Historic Site The Fort Smith National Historic Site is set at the intersection of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers. The site is comprised of the remains of the first Fort Smith, the Trail of Tears Overlook, the commissary, the Fort Smith gallows, and the site of the second Fort Smith. It is also an important historic site for the U.S. Marshals. The jail, gallows, and courthouse were converted into today's Visitor's Center. Learn about Native American history, military history, the Trail of Tears, and Wild West outlaws at this fascinating historic site. The courtroom was where the famous judge Isaac C. Parker presided over 13,490 cases. 79 of those cases ended in executions, leading to Parker's nickname as the "Hanging Judge." 2. The Clayton House The Clayton House is an elegantly restored house built in 1881 that is currently on the National Registry of Historic Places. Experience Victorian life as it was in 1880s Fort Smith with daily guided tours through the house and beautifully kept grounds. The home was originally furnished and renovated by William Henry Harrison Clayton, the lead prosecutor for Judge Isaac C. Parker. 3. Fort Smith Museum of History As you tour around town in your new Nissan Rogue, a must-see stop on your list is definitely the Fort Smith Museum of History. The museum is located in the 1906 Atkinson-Williamson Warehouse, a local listing on the National Registry of Historic Places. Visitors can enjoy ice cream sundaes, floats, and handmade ice cream sodas at their authentic, old-fashioned soda fountain. You might want to check out the gift shop for locally produced crafts, gifts, and art. The museum offers a rotating schedule of exhibits, so check the website or give them a call to find out more. 4. Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum The Fort Chaffee Barbershop Museum is better known as the Elvis Barbershop Museum. This is where Elvis Presley gave up his famous pompadour haircut to join the U.S. Army in 1958. The barbershop is preserved just as it was on March 24th, 1958. Fans around the world worried that losing his famous haircut would fizzle his music career. From then on, it was known as "the haircut heard round the world". Now that you have a jam-packed itinerary to consider, it's time to think about how you're going to get there. Come down to Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith, where we will help you see the sights in style.

Situated on the Arkansas-Oklahoma state border, Fort Smith, AR is an important location in the military and frontier history of the US. The Wild West and civil war history is maintained here. Read on to discover the best museums to visit while in town. more 6 of the Best Museums to Visit Near Fort Smith, AR 1. National Historic Site So much has happened here throughout the years, and here you can retrace the footsteps of the past. Belle Point offers a delightful view of the Arkansas and Poteau rivers and a chance to see the foundations of the first Fort Smith. The commissary is the oldest building and has mind-blowing exhibits of the jail cells and a replica of the gallows where many outlaws met their end. 2. Museum of History Proudly preserving and honoring the many contributions of local citizens to the area and the country, this museum is not to be missed. The many vintage vehicles and antique items on display here are kept in immaculate condition, each one with a memorable and fascinating story attached. Learn all about the engrossing exploits of local legends like “Hanging Judge” Parker and General Darby. Grab a sundae or ice cream soda from the old soda fountain in the working 1920s pharmacy exhibit. 3. Regional Art Museum There is a lot to love about this place; the quirky exterior with vibrant flower beds and cool sculptures, the effortless parking, warm friendly staff, and best of all, the free entry. The five galleries here display works from artists like Raee Dunn, Jeff Willard, and Patrick Angus. The exhibits change regularly meaning there is always something new and interesting to enjoy. The “touch gallery” is a novel inclusion to a museum, as you can feel all the exhibits! 4. Trolley Museum Enjoy a history lesson on the move in a refurbished trolley! The enthusiastic and knowledgeable conductor will regale you with facts about the landmarks that you pass on the way round this ¾ mile track. The Fall Tractor show is held here annually, showcasing historical trains, trolleys, tractors, and automobiles. 5. Chaffee Barbershop Museum Situated in Fort Chaffee Joint Manoeuvre Training center, this once active barbershop is the site of one of the most famous haircuts in history. In March 1958, Elvis Presley left his world-famous sideburns on the barbershop floor as he received his first military haircut as part of his induction into the Army. Stuffed full of military memorabilia, this is a must-visit to learn about the history of the Fort and Elvis' time here. 6. Miss Laura's Visitor Center From the original seven houses which comprised the Old West red light district, Miss Laura's is the only one still standing. This is the only former brothel ever to be added to the National Register of Historic Places and it has been restored to its original splendor. The informative and entertaining free tour will take you back in time as you learn about a captivating part of American history. This may well be the most unusual visitor center you ever enter. Come to Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and check out our spectacular September specials. Image via Pixabay

Located along the Arkansas – Oklahoma state line, Fort Smith, AR has a population of almost 300,000 in its metropolitan area and is also known by locals as Belle Point. Originally established as a fur trading hub, the city became a frontier military post in the late 1810s. Nowadays, Fort Smith is the second-most populous city in Arkansas and features several excellent local attractions, such as the Fort Smith Trolley Museum and the Fort Smith National Historic Site. more 3 Favorite Local Attractions to Discover in Fort Smith, AR 1. Fort Smith Trolley Museum The Trolley Museum of Fort Smith was established in 1985 just a few feet away from the banks of the Arkansas River in the downtown area. This museum features a series of permanent exhibitions showcasing historic steam locomotives and streetcars, four of which have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The place is owned and administered by the Fort Smith Streetcar Restoration Association and can be visited all year round from Tuesday to Sunday. When you visit this place, make sure to check out the streetcar line operated by the museum, which was inaugurated in 1991 and has been extended several times. Nowadays, the streetcar goes through the West Garrison Avenue Historic District and other areas in the downtown Fort Smith Area. Once you are back in the museum, make sure to check out the 1919 Frisco 4003, an old steam locomotive donated to the property in 2004. 2. Fort Smith National Historic Site Designated as a National Historic Landmark in the early 1960s, the Fort Smith National Historic Site is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. The area, originally part of an Indian Territory, saw its first fort established in 1817 and became the site of the United States District Court for the Western District of Arkansas in 1875. Nowadays, the area receives around 100,000 visitors coming from all over the country each year. The designation of the place as a National Historic Landmark had the objective of protecting the remains of the two military forts within its territory, as well as providing visitors information and a historical background on the military past of the city. Although you can visit this historic site on your own, it is recommended to ask for a local guide to take you through the different sections and explain their history and significance. 3. Garrison Avenue Once you are done checking out the museums of the city, you will probably be hungry and looking for a place to try the local gastronomy. There is no better place for this than Garrison Avenue, which passes through the city center and is lined with the best restaurants and cafés that Fort Smith has to offer. Whether you want to try out some local dishes or have some Mexican or Italian food, Garrison Avenue is the place to be. Are you ready to check out the best tourist spots in town? Before you start your trip, visit us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and check out the extensive inventory of quality used cars we have available for you.

The Trolley Museum in Fort Smith is an exceptional destination for people who are interested in local history and in railroads and trolleys. Whether you are bringing your children or visiting with an expert on the railway, you will find something at the museum to please every person in your group. Ride the Trolley When you ride the authentic 1926 electric Birney Streetcar, you will be stepping into history. The trolley takes you on a short tour of downtown Fort Smith. The tracks run between Garrison Avenue and the National Cemetery. You'll see the sites while you have a great time riding the trolley as people did many years ago. more Learn Local History The museum offers a unique and fun perspective on the history of Fort Smith and the surrounding area. It takes you to a time when streetcars and trolleys were the most technologically advanced form of transportation. The first trolleys were electric and had an operator who engaged the brakes by hand. These were soon replaced by cars with airbrakes and even heated seats. Trolleys remained central to transportation in the small city until automobiles became popular and accessible to everyone. Then the Great Depression was the final challenge that caused the trolleys to be shut down for good. Thankfully, the museum brings the magic of that time back for visitors today. See Vintage Vehicles The museum is home to several of the original Fort Smith trolleys. The oldest models are from as early as 1904. You will also see a collection of railroad cars. The display includes passenger cars, locomotives, freight cars, and a caboose. You will also have the opportunity to view maintenance machinery from the railroad and trolley tracks. Train and transportation enthusiasts will love the opportunity to see these authentic vintage trains and trolleys. Meet the Trolley Cats Several fantastic cats are always available for interaction at the museum. These are the trolley cats and they can often be found lounging in the museum and waiting to greet visitors. There are 5 cats in all, and each approached the museum one day and decided to stay. The museum gives the cats veterinary care so they are healthy and safe for making friends with museum guests. Witness a Trolley Robbery There are a variety of events hosted at the museum throughout the year included haunted trolley rides and holiday events. One event that many families enjoy is the annual reenactment of a trolley robbery at the replica historical western village outside the museum. Whether you are a visitor to Forth Smith or an area resident, you don't want to miss a visit to the Trolley Museum. Between the exciting display of vintage vehicles and the fun opportunity to ride on a real electric trolley, you are sure to have a wonderful time. To shop for your own transportation, stop and see our fantastic selection at Rath Auto Resources. We will help you discover the perfect car for your family.

Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers residents and visitors over 200 years of history. Known as the original gateway to the Wild West, Fort Smith played an important role in history, especially during the frontier days. There are many historic sites to see around the area, including museums, monuments, and more. Here are some of the must-see historical sites in Fort Smith. 1. Fort Smith National Historic Site A visit to Fort Smith Historic Site brings you back through almost 80 years of history. You can tour the building, which includes two jails and the federal courthouse used by Judge Isaac C. Parker in the late 1800s. This building first served as the military barracks and was converted to a courthouse. Downstairs, the two former mess halls became the jail cells. more You can also visit the gallows, where over a period of 23 years, 86 men were executed for capital offenses. The gallows that stands there today is a Reconstruction, but it gives visitors a sense of what the original looked like. 2. Fort Smith National Cemetery The Fort Smith National Cemetery dates back to the founding of the military outpost that sat at the confluence of the Poteau and Arkansas Rivers. The first known burial at the cemetery is Thomas Russel, a surgeon at the fort, and you can also find the grave of Isaac C. Parker. He was known as the hanging judge because he was responsible for 151 death sentences during his time on the bench. This cemetery was designated a National Cemetery in 1867. 3. The Clayton House The Clayton House in the Belle Grove Historic District is an Italianate-style mansion. It was the home of William Henry Harrison Clayton, the chief prosecutor in the court of Judge Issac C. Parker. Stepping into the home brings you back to 1882 with its coal-burning fireplaces and period furniture. Visitors can take a guided tour where you'll hear stories about the true-grit effort to bring justice to the Territory. Walking through the home helps you get a feel for Victorian-era life in Arkansas. 4. Belle Grove Historic District The Belle Grove Historic District is a 22-square block of historic sites and homes. Sites within this district include The Clayton House, the McKibben-Bonneville House, Fort Smith Art Center, and the Darby Houses. All of these sites feature different architectural styles and have been restored. Tours are available to give you an up-close look at these historic Springdale homes. 5. The Darby House The home of General William O. Darby is now a heritage museum in Fort Smith. Darby founded Darby's Rangers, who fought in Italy during World War II and eventually became the Army Rangers. He grew up in Fort Smith, and his childhood home now features personal military memorabilia and other memorabilia from World War II. The home is open to visitors Monday through Friday and on weekends by appointment. History buffs will enjoy time in Ford Smith. The area has a long history with many sites and attractions that showcase its rich past. Image via ClaytonHouse.org

The next time you're in the vicinity of Fort Smith, get yourself ready for some wonderful historical experiences. The district is full of opportunities that will peak a variety of interests. Here are a few places you should check out. Belle Grove Historic District The Belle Drove Historic District is aptly named, as it is truly a beautiful area. The lovely radius of town includes a 22-square block within North Fifth Street, North H Street, North Eighth Street and North C Street. Upon visiting, you will find impressive architecture dating back 130 years. Various styles reveal a diversity of time periods, and many of the homes have been attractively restored. more Specific houses are, in fact, available for touring. Consider stopping at The Clayton House, the McKibben-Bonneville House, the Fort Smith Art Center or The Darby House. A & M Railroad Excursions If you are mystified by transport systems and the era of the railroad, you won't want to miss out on the A & M Railroad Excursions. With this service, you can actually travel in the original railroad, through the Arkansas River Valley and Boston and Ozark Mountains. The line is one of the rare ones that remain in use for commercial purposes. The passenger coaches are nicely refurbished, yet maintain their original style. There are three different journeys you can choose from, and you may choose between coach tickets, club tickets, caboose tickets, or first class tickets. Fort Smith National Historic Site For an intensive experience where you can learn all about the various facets of Fort Smith's history, check out the Fort Smith National Historic Site. There many areas worth seeing at this wonderful historical preservation location. Some examples include Belle Point, which was created in 1817, and where Arkansas and Poteau River meets. There is also the "Trail of Tears," an exhibit that speaks of five indigenous tribes who had been removed from the region by force. There is also the Commissary building, which is among the oldest remaining in Fort Smith. Visit the Historic Barracks, Courthouse and Jail Building, where the Visitor's Center is located. At the Center, you can learn details of events and tours, too. The Fort Smith National Historic Site is open from Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 301 Parker Avenue. The entrance fee is $6. The Elvis Barbershop Museum In 1958, Elvis had his sideburns cut in order to serve in the US army. As such, the location of his hair-cutting is memorialized, well loved and remembered. At this historic site, you can re-visit that day when Elvis was at the shop, while also commemorating the importance of the locale of Fort Chaffee and all the region's contributions to history. The barbershop is located at 7020 Taylor Avenue and is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance to the museum is free. On your next adventure to Fort Smith, Arkansas, get ready for some wonderful sites. From stunning architecture to military and indigenous history, there is truly something for everyone to learn. Image via Flickr by FortSmithNPS

The historic downtown area of Fort Smith, Arkansas, has plenty to explore when you're in town. Whether you want a tasty bite to eat or want to watch live music, there are plenty of places to go in Fort Smith. 1. The Sound Room The top place to go in Fort Smith for food and premier entertainment is The Sound Room. It's great for meeting friends for drinks after work or bringing the whole family to for a meal. They have a constantly rotating lineup of the best bands in the area in addition to touring acts from around the nation that stop by. If you want to watch your favorite sports team play, they also have over a dozen flat-screen TVs for that. more The menu includes bratwurst, gourmet burgers, grilled chicken, a variety of appetizers, salmon, fish and chips, and more. The bar serves imported and domestic beer, wine, and mixed drinks. The venue is all ages during the weekdays and 18 and older during the evenings on the weekends when there are concerts. 2. Fort Smith Farmers Market The Fort Smith Farmers Market is a great place to stock up on local produce and other goodies. Take home vegetables, fruit, honey, baked goods, and arts and crafts while you're there. Over 90 different merchants and growers can be found selling their items each week. During the Saturday market, there are many locals, tourists, community organizations, street performers, and local musicians. This is located on Garrison Avenue and is open each Tuesday and Saturday during the year from the hours of 7 a.m. to 12 .p.m. While it does go through the winter, many vendors take a break during this time, so April and on is when it starts to get more crowded. 3. Neumeier's Rib Room When you're craving BBQ, head to Neumeier's Rib Room & Beer Garden. Start your meal with one of their appetizers such as jalapeno poppers, fried pickles, or street corn bites. This restaurant has a variety of meat such as pork shoulder, ribs, pork loin, and chicken all smoked in an authentic, hickory wood-burning smoker. They don't use any marinade, tenderizers, rubs, or boiling, so you'll get a pure, healthy taste. You can get their famous meat a la carte, in a sandwich, or in a platter with Texas Toast and two side dishes. They also have a variety of taters such as pork and cheese or chili and cheese. Make sure to save room for dessert with choices like pecan cobbler and funnel cake straws. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Voodoo Lounge stays open until midnight, and there is a beer garden to enjoy when the weather is warm in Arkansas. There is no shortage of things to do when visiting historic downtown Fort Smith, Arkansas. From authentic smoked meat to fresh produce at a farmer's market, you'll love visiting the town. Image via Flickr by republiccountryclub

Every year, the Old Fort Days Rodeo brings in professional bull riders and cowboys from across the globe to compete for the largest rodeo prize in the state. If you're a fan of the sport, or simply want to try something new, you're sure to have an incredible time at the Old Fort Days Rodeo, which has been held annually since 1933. Here's a quick look at all of the amazing attractions at this year's event. History of the Old Fort Days Rodeo This rodeo has been operating for over 80 years and has become a tradition among locals and rodeo fans across the state. Over the years, the rodeo has grown significantly, adding a first-class arena, extra events, and more. Today, the Old Fort Days Rodeo attracts globally recognized bull riders thanks to its large prize pool. more Exciting Events at the Old Fort Days Rodeo There are eight awesome events to watch when you attend the rodeo. Be sure to arrive early and check the schedule to most effectively plan your day. Bareback bronc riding is always exciting and unpredictable. With no saddle and nothing but a simple handle to hang on to, riders must stay on for at least eight seconds using only one hand. Scores range from 0-50. The rider and horse each receive a score, then the two are added together and the rider with the highest total score wins. There is also a saddleback bronc riding event which uses a saddle designed specifically for competition. Outside of the addition of the saddle, the rules and scoring are the same. In steer wrestling, two cowboys team up to wrestle a steer to the ground. One rider runs parallel to the steer, ensuring it runs in a straight line. The other rider must ride up to the side of the bull, drop from their horse, and wrestle the bull to the ground. Team roping also involves two riders and a steer. The goal is to toss a loop of rope around the steer's hind legs to bring it down, then tie it up. A professional pair of cowboys can complete this task in just four to 12 seconds, a mind-numbing feat you have to see to believe. There are time penalties for only roping one leg or breaking barriers. Tiedown roping involves a calf and a single rider. The calf is released from a spring-loaded gate and gets a 28-foot head start. The rider must rope the calf, bring it to the ground, and tie it down. The fastest time wins. The Main Event Of course, bull riding is the event which draws the biggest crowds. Similar to bronc riding, the goal is to remain atop the bull for eight seconds. Judges watch for form and efficiency to help determine a winner. The difficulty of the bull's behavior is also factored into the scoring process. Spending a day at the rodeo is an exciting way to have some fun. If you're a fan of cowboys and rodeos there's no better way to have fun this June. Image via Flickr by andrusdevelopment

Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a treasure trove of historical treasures that make for a great day of exploration. Here are some places to check out in the Fort Smith area where you can learn a bit about the history of the area. Fort Smith National Historic Site The city's namesake is a famous frontier fort that was originally established on Christmas day in 1817 and served as an outpost for almost 80 years until 1896. In that time, the fort served as a frontline position against the Native American tribes that were ultimately relocated during the Trail of Tears, a base of operations during the Civil War, and ultimately as home to a branch of the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. more There is a rich history here replete with tales of valor, epic battles, justice, and tragedy. Visitors can tour the fort, including the soldier's barracks, jails, and the old courthouse. There are all sorts of artifacts on display as well as stories written down by the people who lived an incredible life on the frontier plains of a much younger United States. For more information on the Fort Smith National Historic Site, visit their website or give them a call at 479-783-3961. Fort Smith Trolley Museum In 1985, after five years of restoration on original trolley cars that had been purchased through private sales, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum opened its doors to the public. They were still a work in progress at the time and those early visitors were treated to seeing the 100 South Fourth Street and 65 South Third Street locations built up and restored as they examined the 1920s era trolley cars. Today the cars are fully restored and visitors can explore the history of the early 20th-century trolley cars and even take a ride on them. There are all sorts of artifacts on hand and special events held throughout the year. For more information on the Fort Smith Trolley Car Museum, you can either check out their website or give them a call at 479-783-0205. Trail of Tears National Historic Trail Remember and commemorate the tragic struggle of the Cherokee people by retracing the footsteps of their forced relocation from their homelands in Georgia and Alabama to their destination in the Indian Territories (now Oklahoma). There are 25 sites where you can stop to learn about the history of injustice inflicted upon the Cherokee and also their strength of will to survive. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail runs through the states of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. For more information on the trail, visit the website or call 505-988-6098. The Fort Smith area has a lot of history and luckily there are great places where you can go to learn some new things. If you enjoy learning about the past, then make sure to check out the places on this list to learn about the area's rich history. Image via Flickr by adam*b

There is no shortage of attractions for history buffs in and around Fort Smith. The area has a long and unique history that includes an old bordello, outlaws, and Native Americans. You can learn all about all of this and more by visiting some of the historic sights. Check out these top spots for history buffs near Fort Smith, AR. The Clayton House Go back to 1882 during a visit to the Clayton House. This was the year that William Henry Harrison Clayton moved to the area to help with the true grit effort. He wanted to help support the effort to restore peace to the Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma. The Clayton House features a large collection of restored 19th-century furniture and still has the original coal-burning fireplaces. more Oak Cemetery & Sexton House Museum The Oak Cemetery on South Greenwood Ave is a National Historic Landmark. The oldest monument in the cemetery dates back to 1842 and marks the grave of Captain Gookin. This cemetery is also the final resting place of up to 28 outlaws hanged by Judge Issac C. Parker. You can see the grave of the founder of Fort Smith along with several mayors and over 100 Confederate soldiers. The Darby House General William O Darby created the famous Darby Rangers that fought in Italy during World War II. This group evolved into what is now the Army Rangers. The Darby House is General Darby's childhood home and is currently a heritage museum with personal memorabilia along with some other World War II memorabilia. This museum also features tributes to Darby and some artifacts from Cisterna, Italy. Miss Laura's Visitor Center One of Fort Smith's unique historic attractions is Miss Laura's Visitor Center. This is the last of the seven-row houses that once stood in the Old West red light district, and it is the only former bordello on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit the visitor's center and take a tour of the restored house to see what was once the most celebrated bordello in the Southwest, and you can even check out the costume room with clothing worn by the women working as prostitutes. Fort Smith Air Museum The Fort Smith Air Museum has 64 different displays showcasing military aviators from western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. The museum moved to the Fort Smith Regional Airport Terminal in 2002, and the display cases sit across from the American Eagle and Delta ticket counters. The displays chronicle the history of airline service to Fort Smith, the history of the 188th Air National Guard, and the history of the Fort Smith Civil Air Patrol. You can also see exhibits that chronicle the growth of corporate and general aviation. These are just a few of the historic places you can visit in the Fort Smith area. There are many more that showcase the city's and region's unique history, including the barbershop where Elvis Presley received his haircut after joining the army. Image via Flickr by aquiamigo

Fort Smith, Arkansas, has a great and varied history. There are plenty of places where you can travel back the last hundreds of years and learn where we came from as a nation and a people. Here are some of the best places to discover Fort Smith's history. 1. Fort Smith Museum of History The Fort Smith Museum of History is one of the best museums in the area if you want to look into the town's past. more The museum was established in 1910 and has amassed a collection of important historical items. Experience life in the 1920s to 1940s as you travel through a pharmacy and ice cream shop. Learn about the lives of great citizens and their accomplishments as they helped build the nation. Tickets are $7 for adults and $2 for children. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2. Fort Smith Trolley Museum To get a look into the history of transportation, the Fort Smith Trolley Museum is a must-see destination. Its collection of electric streetcars, passenger train cars, freight cars, locomotives, work equipment, and motor buses are all on display and ready for visitors to explore. The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter. 3. The Clayton House Stepping into the Clayton House is like stepping into 1882. The house is a great example of the area's Victorian-style architecture. Take a guided tour through the home to explore the ins and outs of life in the 19th century. The Clayton House is open Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. 4. Fort Smith National Historic Site This is where the town gets its name from. The original Fort Smith was established Dec. 25, 1817. This is the best way to travel back to the American frontier and the beginnings of the Indian Territory. You'll learn about soldiers, the Trail of Tears, executions, outlaws, and more. Fort Smith National Historic Site is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week, and the visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $10 a person to see the exhibits inside the visitor center, but walking around the grounds is free. 5. Belle Grove Historic District The Belle Grove Historic District is a beautiful collection of antique architecture styles from 130 years of history. Belle Grove has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. You'll rarely get a chance to see such a collection of buildings embodying different styles of architecture, including Colonial Revival, French Colonial, Italianate, Carpenter Gothic, Queen Anne, Eastlake, and Mission. The Belle Grove neighborhood covers 22 square blocks between North Fifth Street, North H Street, North Eighth Street, and North C Street. Exploring the history behind the city of Fort Smith is a great experience and educational opportunity. Take some time to see everything the town has to offer! Image via Flickr by aquiamigo

Fort Smith, Arkansas, dates back over 200 years, and its long history is a unique one. Fortunately for history buffs, and for those who just enjoy a good story, there are plenty of attractions around the area that tell the stories of the soldiers, outlaws, and the Native Americans that shaped Fort Smith. Here are some of the quirkiest historic sites to see. Miss Laura's Visitors Center The Visitor Center in Fort Smith sits in the historic downtown area and in one of the row houses that lined what was once the Old West red light district. The former bordello is the only home that still stands and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Back in 1898, Laura Ziegler bought the house, and in 1898 opened it as a brothel. Her business became one of the most sophisticated bordellos in the Southwest. more You can now stop in the visitor center and take a tour of the Victorian mansion and even see some of the clothing that the women wore while working as prostitutes. Chaffee Barbershop Museum It doesn't look like much from the outside but as soon as you step inside the Chaffee Barbershop Museum to see where Elvis Presley got his first buzz cut before joining the Army. The cut took place on March 25, 1958, and the museum celebrates on that day every year. The barbershop was restored to look just like it did when Elvis stopped in for his cut including authentic items from the 50s and photographs of Elvis. The museum sits in a barrack-style building in the Camp Chaffee Tank Destroyer Battalion Historic District and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Fort Smith Trolley Museum Stop by the Fort Smith Trolley Museum to ride on a 1926 electric Birney Streetcar. This ride carries its passengers along a three-quarter mile stretch of track that runs between Garrison Avenue and the National Cemetery. The museum also has a unique collection of rail cars to see, and there is a western themed village just outside. The museum also hosts a re-enactment of a Wild West Shootout, and a Robbing of the Fort Smith Trolley performed by The Indian Territory Pistoliers. Oak Cemetery & Sexton House Museum Oak Cemetery features the oldest monument in Fort Smith. The statue, which dates back to 1842, is the marker for Captain Gookin's grave. Gookin was one of the earliest settlers of Fort Smith and one of the first schoolteachers. This cemetery is also a resting place for outlaws hanged by Judge Issac C. Parker and for other outlaws who were sentenced to hang but died while waiting in jail. The museum in the Sexton House has pictures and artifacts, and there is also a multimedia center with videos to watch about Fort Smith's history. These landmarks and historic sites tell the story of this city's unique and colorful history. Start your day at the visitor's center to see the former bordello and then make your way through the other sites for an unforgettable experience. Photo by exit78 | Licensed under Public Domain Mark 1.0