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Image via River Valley Regional Food Bank Grab your loved ones and meet us at Parrot Island Waterpark this Thursday! The Drive Out Hunger fundraiser event, hosted by the River Valley Regional Food Bank, is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled day while making a difference in our community. Show off your surfing skills on the FlowRider® Double, take on the highest waves at the Caribbean Splash wave pool, or double-tube down the O'Hana Highway with a friend--all while combatting food insecurity happening right now in the Northwest Arkansas region. Ready to make a splash in your community this summer? more Soak Up the Sun and Drive Out Hunger! Parrot Island Waterpark is the perfect summer day trip in Fort Smith. It offers multiple attractions ranging from the family-friendly Tiny Turtle Island to the Pineapple Plunge's adrenaline rush, guaranteeing a day of excitement for all ages. The Drive Out Hunger event offers exclusive access to the park’s water slides, lazy river, wave pool, and splash zones, all contributing to the cause of feeding the hungry. By purchasing a wristband for $10 from the River Valley Regional Food Bank at 1617 South Zero Street in Fort Smith, you can help us provide a whopping 100 meals to a family in need, collected and distributed with the health of our communities in mind. As an active member of the Fort Smith community, Rath Auto Resources is proud to play a part by sponsoring this afternoon of summer family fun! Learn More About the River Valley Regional Food Bank The River Valley Regional Food Bank serves eight counties throughout West Central Arkansas, providing nutritious food to over 100,000 people across the area. Their network consists of nearly 150 member agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers, churches, and nonprofit groups. As one of 200 national Feeding America food banks, the River Valley Regional Food Bank is part of the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance and a founding board member of the Alliance. They're also a steadfast member of United Way of Fort Smith and a program of the Crawford-Sebastian Community Development Council (C-SCDC). How We Support Our Community at Rath Auto Resources At Rath Auto Resources, our philosophy is simple: a strong community benefits everyone. We consistently choose local businesses as our partners and collaborate on social media to boost their visibility alongside our own. Our commitment to giving back is something we're deeply proud of and we regularly support our local charities and non-profits, with the River Valley Regional Food Bank being a key beneficiary. We also love to engage with our community through fun events with our our prize wheel, shop truck, and our lively little bus, "Gary Bussy." Plus, our monthly contest, "The Winnin' and Grinnin' Give-A-Palooza," is a highlight for those looking for extra savings when buying a used car! For more information on the Drive Out Hunger event, visit the River Valley Regional Food Bank website. To learn more about our past community involvement and ongoing initiatives, check out our community page or read up on our blog for even more Fort Smith and Northwest Arkansas favorites. We look forward to seeing you at Parrot Island on Thursday to make a positive impact together!

Fort Smith, AR is one of the state's most important historical old-frontier cities. While it used to be a crucial military post, today Fort Smith is a thriving metropolis full of great summer activities for you and the whole family. No matter what you're in the mood for, Fort Smith has got it. Plus, your 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT, with plenty of space, front and rear cupholders, cruise control, and keyless entry, can get to all these spots in no time. more 1. Spring Levitt Amp Music Series Stop by the Spring Levitt Amp Music Series every Thursday evening at 121 Riverfront Drive. It's an excellent, family-friendly night out in Fort Smith, and the green space is pretty large, so you can bring a picnic dinner and some blankets to spread out and really enjoy yourself. Plus, there's ample parking right nearby, so this summertime favorite couldn't be more convenient. 2. Arkansas Oklahoma State Fair. The Arkansas Oklahoma State Fair, at 4400 Midland Boulevard, runs at the tail end of summer and is the ideal way to cap off your summer in style. With a huge midway full of fun rides, great food, tons of entertainment, and games where you can try your luck, this fair is wholesome fun for the entire family. There's also a more educational livestock area where you can teach your kids about farm life and taking care of animals. 3. Old Fort Days Rodeo Check out Old Fort Days Rodeo in late May and early June at Kay Rodgers Park, 4400 Midland Boulevard, for some of Fort Smith's best entertainment. This massive competition draws contenders from all over the world in events like wrestling steers, bull riding, and roping broncos. All throughout, you'll find kid's costume contents, plenty of performances, and a great sense of camaraderie at the rodeo. 4. True Grit Ride True Grit Ride, at 7313 Terry Street, is an annual mid-June event where bike riders can opt for 105, 62, 45, or 30 miles through some of the best parts of the state. There's also a 5K you can ride the day before. This excellent event is one of Fort Smith's top athletic challenges. Hop on your bike and challenge yourself, or cheer on the contestants from the sidelines. Either way, you're bound to have a great day. Experience the best of Arkansas with these great Fort Smith activities. From a fun and challenging bike ride through the scenic state to a genuine rodeo with heart-pounding contests and some of the best riders and ropers in the state, you won't get bored. You'll need a great vehicle to get around, though. Visit us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and take one of our great models for a spin today.

A great family vehicle like a used Honda Odyssey from our dealership deserves a great place to bring your family to for a meal out together. There are plenty of great family restaurants right here in the Fort Smith, AR area that let you get a great day out that's only a short drive away. Check out any of the restaurants that made our list below and your whole family will be in for a great time. more 1. Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen There's a meal for everyone at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, with options on the menu suitable for all different appetites. The grownups have great dishes like homemade chicken pot pie or ribeye steak to choose from, while the kids; menu has tasty options like a junior burger or penne pasta alfredo. Bring your whole family down to this place at 3907 Phoenix Avenue to enjoy a great meal together. 2. The Yellow Umbrella Need a crowd-pleasing meal your whole family can agree on? The burgers grilled up at The Yellow Umbrella certainly fit the bill. Whether you're craving the simple perfection of their hamburger deluxe or you want to go crazy with a chili burger or BBQ burger, every sandwich on the menu here is sure to be a hit with your family. Get a taste for yourself at 1608 S Greenwood Avenue. 3. Benson's Grill The family-friendly atmosphere at Benson's Grill makes it the perfect destination when you want to save yourself the trouble of cooking up a meal for your kids. Take your pick from their All American sandwich board and you can't go wrong, with options like a patty melt or a delicious reuben sandwich to choose from. Visit this spot anytime at 2515 Rogers Avenue. 4. Calico County A long-standing favorite in our area, Calico County is still one of the best places to bring your family to enjoy a quality meal together. They've got plenty of great meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, but the classic combo of tomato soup and grilled cheese is one of our absolute favorites. You won't be disappointed after dropping by at 2401 S 56th street for a bite to eat. 5. Lewis' Family Restaurant Great service will have your whole family leaving with a smile after a meal at Lewis' Family Restaurant. They do the breakfast classics you know and love to perfection here, like hash browns, biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, and so much more. Check this local gem out at 5901 U.S. 71 South. Great meals are waiting right around the corner at these restaurants, and so is a five-star dealership experience. Come to Rath Auto Resources to get the best vehicles at the best prices!

Fort Smith, AR, is an amazing place to explore, and you'll be sure to create lasting memories when you take in the majestic views. Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset, a stunning view of the city skyline or a breathtaking panorama of the countryside, the best views in Fort Smith will provide you with a breathtaking experience! more Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park is located at 15458 Sheperd Springs Rd, Mountainburg and is the perfect place to begin your journey to take in the top views in the area. The park encompasses over 1,000 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, boating, and fishing. But the best part about Lake Fort Smith State Park is the stunning views it offers. The lake itself is the centerpiece of the park and provides a stunning view of the lake and its surrounding landscape. The lake is surrounded by lush foliage and provides a peaceful atmosphere to relax and take in the view. The lake is also a great place to take a boat ride, fish, or just take a leisurely stroll along its shoreline. Devil's Den State Park Located at 11333 West Arkansas Hwy. 74, Winslow, Devil's Den State Park is one of the best places to go hiking near Fort Smith. The park contains over 1,000 acres of natural beauty with hiking trails that are sure to please any level of hiker. The trails through Devil's Den State Park offer scenic views as well as a chance to see wildlife such as deer and birds. There are also several other trails within the park that can take you to different areas of the gorge with more spectacular views of the river below. The main attraction at Devil's Den State Park is its namesake, a rocky outcropping known as Devil's Den. The rocks rise about 30 feet above the surrounding terrain, and they provide excellent views of Fort Smith and the surrounding areas. Harry E. Kelley River Park Harry E. Kelley River Park is located in downtown Fort Smith at 121 Riverfront Dr and offers an amazing view of the Arkansas River. The park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike and is home to a variety of activities, including kayaking, fishing, and swimming. But the best part about the park is the stunning views it offers of the Arkansas River. From the park, you can take in the beauty of the river and its surrounding area. The park provides a great view of the river and its banks and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or just sit back and relax. No matter what kind of view you're looking for, Fort Smith has something to offer. Some of these parks are a bit of a drive from Fort Smith, so make sure you're driving a car with excellent gas mileage, like the Nissan Sentra FE. Check one out at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith today!

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.

Fort Smith, AR, located along the Arkansas-Oklahoma state border, is a beautiful city with scenic views and breathtaking landscapes. Similarly, there are many parks to visit with your family and friends. The following is a list of amazing state parks near the city. more Arrowhead State Park Arrowhead State Park is in eastern Oklahoma, not far from Fort Smith, Arkansas. The state park is located on a peninsula that extends out onto Eufaula Lake, one of Oklahoma's largest lakes. Since its establishment in 1965, the park has been a popular tourist destination with various recreational activities. It is an ideal camping location with numerous camping grounds and RV camping sites. Enjoy a moonlight picnic dinner overlooking the beautiful Eufaula Lake with your significant other. You can also swim in the state park's swimming pool while your children play on the expansive playground. Alternatively, you can go horseback riding on the park's equestrian trails. It is also a popular angling destination, with many fish species, including crappie, largemouth bass, sand bass, and catfish. Lake Catherine State Park Take your kids on a road trip from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Lake Catherine State Park, located in the pleasant Ouachita Mountain Region. With your 2015 Chrysler Town's Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity, you and your kids can sing along to your favorite songs from your phone throughout the journey. Lake Catherine State Park preserves over 2000 acres of wildflowers, waterfalls, pinewoods, beautiful creeks, and a scenic lakeshore. Your children will enjoy watching nature and may even spot a white-tailed deer. You can take your kids camping at Lake Catherine State Park and teach them how to pitch a tent. You can also stay in neatly-furnished cabins with modern amenities to enhance your stay. After an exciting day of hiking in the park, you can also enjoy a relaxing family dinner in a tranquil setting. If your kids get tired on the trail, they can ride a horse back to camp. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park is situated near Fort Smith, Arkansas, in the scenic valley of the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozark Mountains. Lake Fort Smith, located on the western side of the 1,400-acre Lake Fort Smith, is a hub for outdoor activities. The park has a 165-mile hiking trail in the Ozark Highlands for hikers. Other multi-purpose trails in the park are ideal for walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Lake Fort Smith State Park has over 30 campsites, ten cabins, and a group lodge that can host up to 32 visitors. The park also has an operational marina with boat rentals, a large playground for children, a splash pad, a swimming pool, and a wading pool. The Lake Fort Smith State Park visitor center is extensive and includes a meeting room, beautiful exhibits, and an outdoor patio. The national parks listed above near Fort Smith provide a wide range of recreational opportunities for the entire family. Ensure your vehicle is adequately serviced as you plan your trip. Get in touch with Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith today to schedule an appointment.

If you want to get a glimpse of the wildlife that calls Fort Smith, AR home, birdwatching can be an excellent option. There are many opportunities to observe and identify bird species in the area, from songbirds to the migratory birds that make our region their home. Fort Smith has several popular hotspots, so you can meet new people while spending time outdoors. more 1. Trusten Holder State Wildlife Management Area There are numerous ways to experience Arkansas' diverse avifauna. You can go bird watching at one of the many designated wildlife management areas, such as Trusten Holder State Wildlife Management Area, just south of Fort Smith. If you're looking to see more than birds, you can also go canoeing, kayaking, or camping. This is one of the best areas to spot pelicans, including the endangered American white pelican. The largest bird on the continent, this species is often spotted around Arkansas lakes and ponds during the winter. While most pelicans migrate south in the fall, this population is unusually concentrated in Arkansas. You can often spot pelicans around Lake Conway and several other lakes throughout the state. 2. Lake Dardanelle If you are a nature lover, Lake Dardanelle is the perfect place to start your adventure. This lake is 34,300 acres of beauty and offers boating and fishing, picnic facilities, playgrounds, and dump stations. There are many bird species to see and listen to at this park, so bringing a camera is a good idea. 3. Ozark National Forest Another great place to go see birds in Fort Smith is the Ozark National Forest, which is a half-hour drive north of the city. This park is surrounded by wetlands and wooded areas and offers numerous vantage points to observe birds. The sound of birdsong can be heard from miles away, and you may even see a rare species of Bell's Vireo in your area. You might also spot a cerulean warbler or a wood thrush. 4. Crystal Springs Creek Fort Smith is home to hundreds of species of birds and many of these migrate through the area every year. If you are looking for a new place to take your family to enjoy bird watching, look no further than Lake Hamilton. Thousands of acres of trees provide vantage points for viewing the birds. You can hear the sounds of singing birds in the spring and summer months. Some of the species you can expect to see include: the Acadian flycatcher, Bell's Vireo, Painted Bunting, Wood Thrush, and Grasshopper Sparrow. The 2016 Jeep Compass Sport is the car that will take you safely around Fort Smith to see the many alluring birds. With its electronic stability control and roll stability control, you can have the confidence that you are safe driving around the city. Though this car was released a few years ago, it still packs a punch. Stop by Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith to see the variety of used cars we have in stock.

Farmers' markets are one of the best places to visit over the weekend for top-notch produce, artisan goods, freshly baked goods, plants, flowers, and many unique items. When you drive through Fort Smith, AR, you'll find fantastic handmade crafts, local performers, artists, and quality foods for your home. more 3 Favorite Farmers' Markets to Visit Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Fort Smith Farmers Market Fort Smith Farmers' Market is one of the best places to find locally-grown produce, meats, eggs, artisan goods, baked items, and one-of-a-kind crafts. You'll love the exceptional collection of art and handmade goods from nearby businesses and artisans. This market initially began in 2003 and is open every Saturday and Wednesday from early morning to noon. You can find this incredible market in downtown Fort Smith, in the town's historic district. When you visit the Fort Smith market, it's the perfect place to bring the family to enjoy the live entertainment, including musicians and live performers. There are up to 90 vendors available every week that feature a wide variety of products and businesses that are all locally owned and operated. 2. Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market If you're a fan of local arts and crafts, you'll want to plan a visit to Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market. This fabulous marketplace features local vendors, local farmers, crafts, live music, and excellent activities for kids. You'll see many great events at this market, such as yoga classes, art projects, and interactive performances that are perfect for the whole family. You'll also enjoy the live demos, entertainment themes, and food trucks. You'll find many notable attractions near Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market, including the Museum of Chaffee Historical, the Chaffee Barbershop Museum, an RV park, microbrewery, winery, and lots of local shops and businesses. 3. Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair is a seasonal event that features an incredible number of vendors, delicious food, drinks, and family events. This event includes a wonderful farmer's market highlighting the best quality in locally-grown and raised food, baked goods, and tasty treats, including cotton candy, nachos, and barbecue sandwiches. This event is fully accessible for everyone, with nearby accommodations, restaurants, and lots of parking space available. When you visit the state fair, you can easily spend the day exploring all the vendors, live events, midway rides, and games with the family. This event is a popular place to enjoy in the late summer. This popular seasonal market offers access to outstanding local performances, competitions, and exposure for local businesses and artists showcasing their products and services at the fair. It's the ideal place to plan a visit on your next family road trip. Fort Smith features a great variety of local farmers, artisans, crafts, produce, and small businesses at local markets, whether you visit during a specific season or year-round. Come see us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and discover the fantastic showroom deals and incredible inventory on your next drive through town. We offer excellent prices and financing plans for every budget and lifestyle. Image via Pixabay

Do you know where to go for a picnic in and around Fort Smith, AR? There are plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy the great outdoors without having to travel too far. Below, we've compiled some of our favorite picnic spots. Hopefully, one of them will be perfect for your next outing. more 8 Favorite Local Picnic Spots in and Around Fort Smith, AR Lake Atalanta Lake Atalanta is the perfect spot for a relaxing day. The green spaces are vast and filled with lots of shade, while serene views await you around every corner. They have covered pavilions where one can relax. There's also an expansive grassy area to spread out on if you want some fresh air. Fort Smith Park Fort Smith Park is a great place to go picnicking, kayaking, and swimming. The boat launch makes it easy for people who want the adventure of getting out on the water while others enjoy relaxing by the riverside covered pavilion with picnic tables. Devil's Den State Park Devil's Den State Park is the perfect place for a picnic. The views are breathtaking and water activities vary from boating and fishing to swimming in its beautiful lake with plenty of space available. Ross Pendergraft Park Ross Pendergraft Park is a public park in downtown Fort Smith. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and can be rented for events or just sitting out under the trees with friends on warm days. The park has clean restrooms and plenty of parking spaces. Shores Lake Shores Lake is a popular destination for picnicking and hiking. The 82-acre lake features hardwood forests and magnificent waterfalls, as well as plenty of places to picnic along the way. You can hike up a loop trail and enjoy incredible views from high above ground level. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park sits on the banks of a beautiful lake with breathtaking views. Set up your picnic at one of its many picnic sites, then spend more hours taking it all in. You can set up a tent and stargaze at night. Creekmore Park Creekmore Park is a great picnic site in the heart of downtown Fort Smith, right next door to the main branch library. If you're into golf, there's a mini-golf course in Creekmore Park. There's something for everyone at this incredible park. Lake Fayetteville Lake Fayetteville offers a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic with family and friends. There are plenty of activities for all ages. You can bike on winding paths through green spaces and scenic areas that offer stunning views. A romantic stroll around 5.5 miles worth of nature trails will leave you feeling refreshed. You now have an idea of where to go picnicking. You can start exploring these locales to determine which suits you best. While you're on it, stop by Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and check our latest inventory. Our dealership has just the perfect used vehicle for you and our prices are the best. Image via Pixabay

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

If you're ready for a fishing trip near Fort Smith, AR, there are plenty of fantastic lakes and places to find your next big catch. Whether you're looking to fish over a weekend or just in the afternoon, there are great fishing spots in and around the area. more 7 Great Fishing Spots Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Torraine Lake This excellent spot near town is ideal for nature lovers and anglers. Torraine Lake features fantastic scenery, biking trails, and lots of great areas to explore. It's a great place to relax while you fish by the lake. 2. Carol Ann Cross Park If you're looking for a recreational space to enjoy a day out with the family, you'll love Carol Ann Cross Park. This space offers a pond for fishing, hiking trails, a playground for the kids, and a pavilion for picnics with restrooms. It's a fantastic park to visit over the weekend or plan your next party or family event. 3. Lee Creek Park Lee Creek Park is situated along the Arkansas River and offers over 100 acres of spectacular outdoor space. This park is part of Van Buren's system of recreation areas and one of the largest in the region. It's an ideal place for canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and boating. 4. AGFC River Valley Nature Center This wonderful nature center offers many activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, birdwatching, and observing wildlife. You can enjoy a hike along the recreational center's trails to Wells Lake, where you can fish and savor the quiet, serene atmosphere of the park. All areas are well marked, so you can easily explore the lake, trails, and forests during your visit. 5. Mansfield Lake Mansfield Lake is considered a hidden gem by many locals and visitors to the area. You'll find this lake in Sebastian County, just one mile from town, and some great fishing. It's a serene place to enjoy a quiet afternoon, and there are picnic areas with a pavilion where you can plan a picnic with friends or family. 6. Truman Baker Lake Truman Baker Lake is one of the top places for fishing in the area. You'll discover a wide variety of fish, including sunfish, catfish, warmouth, bowfin, largemouth bass, bullhead, and more. It's a great spot for all levels of fishing, from beginner to experienced. This lake is just a short drive from The Pines, AR, and two miles from Waldron. 7. Sugar Loaf Lake If you're in search of great fishing and spectacular scenery, you'll love the photogenic landscapes of Sugar Loaf Lake. It's a fantastic spot to visit for a few hours, and there are nearby campsites and boating ramps available if you want to stay longer. This lake is the perfect spot to take photos and explore the natural beauty of the area. There are many terrific spots to go fishing in and around Fort Smith, whether it's a new skill or you're an experienced angler. Visit us at Rath Auto Resources on your next drive to town and check out our amazing inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles.

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.