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As the weather cools and summer vacations come to an end, don't give up on fun. Check out the concerts and events in your area and make the most of the fall season. Here are five fall concerts in the Fort Smith area. Tyler Childers at the Fayetteville Town Center On October 7, Tyler Childers will be playing at the Fayetteville Town Center, just about an hour from Fort Smith. A Kentucky native, Tyler Childers writes songs about growing up in the south. His first album, Purgatory, is full of stories from Tyler's childhood in Lawrence County. Head to Northwest Arkansas in the historic downtown area of Fayetteville to enjoy some bluegrass-style music from a talented artist. more Fort Smith Symphony at the Fort Smith Convention Center At the Fort Smith Convention Center on Sunday, September 8 at 3 p.m. the season opener for the Fort Smith Symphony will feature the talented pianist, Drew Petersen. Guests will also enjoy "Sounds of Joy" from the symphony as it plays classics like Beethoven's Symphony No. 7, Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20, and Wagner's Siegfried Idyll. The symphony is a great idea for a romantic date. Get dressed up, make reservations for dinner afterwards, and enjoy a sophisticated and beautiful show. Buckcherry at Temple Live Temple Live is an old Masonic Temple in the downtown area of Fort Smith. This large event venue will welcome the alternative rock group Buckcherry on September 21. A band of musicians from California, Buckcherry has a handful of hits from their albums released since 1995. In 2019, they released their eighth album, Warpaint, and began touring the country shortly after. Catch this show for an exciting night. Home Free at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center On October 1, the a cappella group, Home Free, will be putting on a show at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center. Five singers, Adam Chance, Adam Rupp, Austin Brown, Rob Lundquist, and Tim Foust, make up this group. You might recognize them from the NBC show, The Sing-Off. They competed in the fourth season of the show. Seeing these guys perform is a real treat. You'll hear some great classic songs. Blue October at George's Majestic Lounge You can catch Blue October performing at the oldest live music venue in the state of Arkansas, George's Majestic Lounge, on October 20. Located in the heart of Fayetteville, this is a great spot for a fun night. Enjoy the show and experience a piece of history as George's Majestic Lounge dates back to the 1930's. You can even grab a few drinks during the show at the full bar on site. Blue October is an alternative rock band. They released their ninth studio album in August of 2018. Their current tour is promoting their new album, but they'll be playing some of their older songs too. No matter your taste in music, there's something coming to the Fort Smith area for you this fall. Check out one of these shows for a memorable time. Image via Flickr by fegavronski

When you venture to the Fort Smith, Arkansas area, don't forget your bathing suits. There are many exciting places where you and your family can cool off from the heat. Before "diving in" to the fun, note that there are seven public pools in the Fort Smith area and two beach areas with lifeguard duty. A family pass for all of them is $185 (though this won't include water parks). Be sure to check whether your favorite park is included in your pass before heading over. Parrot Island Water Park Welcome to Parrot Island Water Park in Fort Smith! Open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, this park offers tons of family fun in a beautiful atmosphere. Amazing attractions include the popular FlowRider. Brand new in 2019, this watery activity gives children the sensation of surfing upon the ocean. It's challenging, but a lot of fun! more For kids of all ages, there is the Caribbean Splash area, a wave pool that's refreshing and a perfect area to play. For older children who are more adventurous, there are four core slides, such as the Pineapple Plunge, which is 135 feet long. Season tickets and private party accommodations are available. DeGray Lake Resort State Park Located at 2027 State Park Entrance Road in Bismarck, Arkansas' DeGray Lake Resort State Park has a great deal of activities, including swimming, golfing, camping, horseback riding, tennis, hiking, and shopping. Boat rentals are available; these include kayaks and paddle boats at the marina. You can also stay overnight in one of their great facilities. Daisy State Park Daisy State Park provides a lovely timeout for family fun and relaxation. Come with the whole family for a day of fishing and kayaking! Kayak rentals are available. The park is located on Lake Greeson, by the stunning Ouachita Mountains, where you can take in the picturesque view. After you are refreshed by the water, why not try a lake tour where you can see the fantastic rock formations? There is also ATV riding along the Bear Creek Cycle Trail. The Crater of Diamonds State Park is not far away, and there are numerous campsites, picnic areas and pavilions in the area. Village Creek State Park Village Creek State Park is located at 201 County Road 754 in Wynne. It is large, covering a sprawling 7,000 acres. There is plenty to do and to see there, in addition to the ability to spend time lakeside. Enjoy thirty-three miles of trails, with campgrounds where you can stay overnight (there are places to bathe as well). Two lakes are on site, as well as plentiful pavilions and areas for picnics and play. There are also outdoor and indoor theaters, a museum, and visitors' center. If you want to stop by on a particular day, then have a look at their list of upcoming events in advance. There is something for the whole family at Village Creek State Park. There are myriad beautiful sites you and your family can visit in Fort Smith in order to rest and refresh. Try one of these lakes or pools and enjoy your summer in Arkansas. Image via Flickr by Antrell Williams

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

Corona Farmers Market in Queens, New York is one of the most dynamic and diverse farmers markets in the city and is steps off the subway and mass transit system for the city. USDA Photo by Preston Keres The second largest city in Arkansas, Fort Smith is known for its rich western history but also boasts some darn fine shopping. Local artisans, farmers, and craftsmen provide high-quality goods and larger storefronts let you purchase all the essentials in one location. Discover some of the best shopping destinations in Fort Smith. BrickCity Emporium Located at 3215 South 74th Street in Fort Smith, in a sprawling 20,000 feet of shopping and dining, BrickCity Emporium is a unique shopping experience you won't want to pass up. Over 160 vendors populate the space and offer unique goods and one-of-a-kind gifts from boutique clothing and handmade jewelry to paintings, home decor, and specialty foods. You'll want to plan to spend a couple hours at BrickCity to see everything the unique boutiques have to offer. Each time you visit BrickCity Emporium you'll find unique new items for sale. more Central Mall The largest shopping center in the region, Central Mall is located at 5111 Rogers Avenue. It boasts larger department stores like JCPenney and Dillards as well as smaller boutiques so you can get all your shopping done in one place. There are plenty of places for a quick bite to keep your energy up as you shop. Fort Smith Farmer's Market To sample Fort Smith's local flavor, head to the farmer's market at Second and Garrison Avenue, open year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy a family-friendly, open-air shopping experience where street performers and local musicians provide entertainment while you peruse different booths. Vendors sell locally-sourced seasonal produce and goods like jewelry, handmade soap, local honey, and art from within a 90-mile radius of Fort Smith. You're also giving back to the community when you shop at the Farmer's market since purchases you make help support local farms and businesses. Colquitt Bath Co. The Colquitt Bath Co. crafts high-quality, small-batch skin products like moisturizers, bath bombs, body scrubs and facial products. By using as many natural ingredients as possible, the Colquitt Bath Co. let's you pamper yourself with spa-quality products. Find them inside Greenpointe Shopping Center. The shop smells wonderful and is a great place to shop for gifts or products to help you unwind. Check out their Shower Sniffies, menthol and eucalyptus infused shower tabs that come with a bag to hang in the shower to allow the vapors to diffuse with the steam and open up those sinuses. True Grit Running Company True Grit Running Company houses a small but mighty selection of footwear and running gear at 6808 Rogers Avenue. Whether you're a seasoned runner or are looking to pick up a new hobby, this shop will get you set up with what you need to hit the pavement. The knowledgeable staff is passionate about running and can advise on run routes and get you connected to the local run club. Whether you're shopping for gifts, clothing, specialty items or local produce, Fort Smith has many shopping locations and much to offer. Image via Flickr by FarmersGov

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

Late spring is that magical time of year when nature is fully reborn after the long and cold winter. One of the best ways to experience the sights, sounds, and aromas of the season is by taking your friends or family on a hiking trip. Those living in or around Fort Smith, Arkansas, are lucky to have a wide variety of hiking spots to choose from. Here are some of the most interesting. 1. H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area The H.E. Flanagan Prairie Natural Area is less than 30 miles east of Fort Smith, and it's the ideal natural spot for a late spring hike. Part of the Cherokee Prairie Complex, which used to occupy about 135,000 acres of Arkansas Valley's western portion but now covers 534 acres, this tallgrass prairie's charm is its wild and natural feel. There are no designated trails, but hiking through the tall grass and blazing star flowers is a more immersive experience than walking down a clear path. more 2. Wells Lake Trail If you don't have the time or the inclination to travel long distances in order to find the perfect hiking spot, Wells Lake Trail is the perfect solution, as it's very close to downtown Fort Smith. As its name suggests, the 7-mile hiking trail goes around Wells Lake, offering breathtaking views as well as fishing opportunities for those looking to set up camp after a hike. Most of the trail is paved, making it a good hiking spot for people with disabilities. While you're there, you shouldn't miss the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center 's fascinating exhibits. 3. Warren Hollow Trail Another great hiking trail located only minutes away from Fort Smith, the Warren Hollow Trail is the ideal hike for those who don't have much time but need the energy boost that only nature can provide. The trail is only 0.6 miles long, meaning that a round trip will give you 1.2 miles of mildly challenging woodland trails. It first goes downhill and then uphill, with a basketball court and a group cabin at the end. Overall, it's a short and somewhat easy hike, with great lake views along the way. 4. White Rock Rim Trail If amazing views are what you're after, White Rock Rim Trail is the ideal late-spring hike for you. Located about an hour away from Fort Smith, on White Rock Mountain in the Ozark National Forest, this 1.6-mile hike goes around the top of the mountain, offering unique panoramic views along the way. It's a moderately difficult trail with less than 100 feet of net elevation change. There are, however, many dangerous bluffs and no guardrails, making it a less than ideal hiking spot for children. Spring is the time of year when all nature comes back to life, and by the time we reach late May and early June, everything is in full bloom. These few weeks of nature at its peak should not be missed. Any of these hiking trails will make you forget all about concrete and glass, enabling you to focus on what really matters in life. Image via Flickr by miketnorton

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

Fort Smith is the second biggest city in Arkansas and located near a bunch of different attractions that are perfect for a day trip get-a-way. Check out some of these destinations to get an idea of what the surrounding area has to offer. 1. Hot Springs National Park Nicknamed "The American Spa," for its pools of hot spring water, Hot Springs National Park is located in central Arkansas adjacent to the city of Hot Springs. This is the oldest park managed by the National Park System and features a ton of things to do. Besides all the beautiful trails, trees, streams, and hills of the park, some of the things that Hot Springs National Park has to offer include spas and baths, a museum, sporting opportunities, and live events. There are also restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world. more For more information on everything Hot Springs National Park has to offer, either check out their website or give them a call at (800) SPA-CITY. 2. Ouachita River If you are looking for a slow, lazy river that you can quietly float on while basking in the summer sun, then the Ouachita River is the place for you. At over 600 miles long, the river flows begins at Mena and runs all the way down to Louisiana. Besides lazily floating away your day, there is great fishing, camping, trails, and general outdoor fun. The Ouachita River is open all year long. 3. Arkansas Wine Trail Catch a ride and visit the amazing wineries on the Arkansas Wine Trail. The trail runs from Tontitown down to Big Rock Township and comprises seven different wineries where you can try out tasty samples, get a bite to eat, and purchase a bottle or two for home. Between each of the stops is beautiful countryside to see on this 4-hour tour. Here is an itinerary you can use as a guide. 4. Eureka Springs Eureka Springs is an amazing little tourist town that has lots of attractions, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can check out the unique buildings like the Thorncrown Chapel, the 1886 Crescent Hotel, and the famous Quilt Shop. There is something unique and quirky around every corner of this fun little town and the rich history and delicious restaurants will keep visitors coming back. 5. Lake Greeson This underrated lake is found near Murfreesboro and is a great place to take off to for a day of relaxation. Swimming, boating, kayaking, and sunbathing are all on the menu at Lake Greeson but finding a spot can be difficult on the weekends due to its popularity, so try to head there in the middle of the week if you can. With all the places to take a daycation at around Fort Smith, you can literally do something new every weekend if you want to. Make sure you check out one of these great destinations the next time you are planning to get out of town for the day. Image via Flickr by Ken Lund

Fort Smith, Arkansas, has a rich history, culture, and many landmarks. As Arkansas' second largest city, Fort Smith offers a piece of the Old West with a mix of modern life. From War memorials, native territory, 19th century architecture to a diverse array of natural beauties, wandering Fort Smith in spring is an enjoyable and eye-opening experience. Here, we look at favorite spring attractions this historic city has to offer. Fort Smith Natural Historic Site The Fort Smith Natural Historic Site is a repository of the city's history. The site is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and provides exhibits depicting the city's martial heritage. It hosts the commissary building (1838), the site of old Fort Smith and old barracks, courthouse and jails. more Fort Smith National Cemetery If you are a student of the American Civil War history, this place will interest you. The Fort Smith National Cemetery spans 22 acres, and houses several graves, monuments and tombs. Prominent memorials on the grounds include those dedicated to Brigadier General Alexander E. Steen, James M. McIntosh, Civil War Confederate Richard C. Gatlin, Hal Smith of the U.S. Air Force and a granite memorial in tribute of Vietnam Veterans. Take your time to explore the grounds while reflecting on the sacrifices of the interred. Parrot Island Waterpark Parrot Island Waterpark offers you and your kids an expansive aquatic playground to relax and have fun. Attractions at the park include the 85,000 gallon Caribbean Splash Wave pool, the Toucan's Cove activity pool, and the famous Crocodile Creek lazy river the locals love so much. For kids, the Tiny Turtle Island offers an abundance of climbing toys, waterfalls and slides such as the Tangerine Twist, Pelican Plunge and the Pineapple Plunge. Fort Smith Museum of History Founded in 1910, the Fort Smith Museum of History provides in-depth details into the city's culture. The museum is on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases artifacts that offer visitors a better understanding of Fort Smith.  It has an old pharmacy from the 1920s that serves ice cream soda, ice cream sundae, and other refreshments. Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center Sitting on a 14,000-square-foot nature center, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center offers a variety of landscapes including pine forests, wetlands, lakes, upland forests, and valleys. It is an excellent place to hunt, fish, canoe, and practice your archery skills. The spectacular scenery makes it perfect for hiking and the rich biodiversity is a nature lover's paradise. Fort Smith Farmer's Market For an authentic feel of the culinary delights Fort Smith residents enjoy in their homes, head over to the Fort Smith Farmer's Market. While its name suggests farm produce, the market hosts other vendors, street performers, musicians, and artisans. From fresh carrots and cucumber, a mishmash of local flavors and flowers, to adorable keepsakes and souvenirs, your time at the Fort Smith Farmer's Market will be one to remember. This piece cannot do justice to the number of attractions in Fort Smith. We hope the few spots here will encourage you to explore more of this great city. Image via Flickr by Aquiamigo

On the edge of town lies a sparkling oasis and cure for the pressures of everyday life. It's just a quick drive away and it's begging to be explored. So grab your car keys and let's visit Lake Fayetteville Park. Relax Your Way 458 acres of land surround the 194 acres of water and most neighbors know the watershed as a fisherman's dream, but there's so much more there than just casting. The Lake Fayetteville area is comprised of several parks that offer very different facilities. North Shore Park boasts a fast-paced disc golf course, while the Veteran's Memorial Park attracts families and sportsmen with its horseshoe pits and hiking trails. more If sports are on your mind, check out the Lake Fayetteville Softball Complex where there always seems to be something going on. If you're looking for a more sedate and reflective spot, meander through the gorgeous Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. Lake Fayetteville sparkles in every season and visitors love to take in her beauty on the 5.5-mile nature trail. For those longing for a smoother path, the 4.3-mile hard surface trail provides many Instagram-worthy opportunities. The generous shade along the paved trail makes it enjoyable year-round. Explore the Sights Another fun aspect of the trail is that it links up with the Razorback Regional Greenway, a 36-mile paved trail that opened in 2015. It links Lake Fayetteville to a number of local sites including Emma Avenue, Downtown Bentonville, Compton Gardens, and Lake Bella Vista. If Instagram is your thing (or you just love natural beauty), you can't beat the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. This captivating destination features twelve themed gardens and a butterfly house. Frolic amid the colorful blooms or enjoy a moment of solitude in the Japanese Garden. The garden conservancy also offers workshops and classes on topics like gardening and floral and landscape design. Enjoy Countless Activities But Lake Fayetteville isn't just a postcard. It's best enjoyed in active pursuits. Those include hiking, fishing, running, biking (you can rent mountain bikes and trail bikes at the park), and playing sports (softball, horseshoes, volleyball, and disc golf). Children can enjoy free play or create their own adventures on the playground equipment. If you love the water but don't have your own boat, boat rentals are available. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and pontoon boats. Leave your fishing gear at home? No worries. The rental facility at the lake has you covered. You can purchase equipment there as well. With all this activity and communing with nature, you might work up an appetite.  If you do, you'll be pleased to know there is a food truck city with picnic benches located on the street side overlooking the lake. Lake Fayetteville feels like a world away from your busy life but it's only a quick drive. If you need some relaxation set to sparkling lake views or you want to spend more time getting in shape and hate the sterility of a gym, it's well worth the very short trip. See you on the trails! Image via Flickr by timpeartrice

There are several music venues in Fort Smith and many in the surrounding areas, so if you enjoy listening to your favorite genre of music live on stage, you don't have to go far. Throughout the spring season, there are some well-known bands coming to town along with many local acts that will perform. Check out these can't miss spring concerts in Fort Smith. FS Symphony: It's Time for Piano On April 13, 2019, the FS Symphony will perform at the ArcBest Performing Arts Center. The It's Time For Piano show, led by Tony DeSare, is a must-see event this spring. DeSare is one of the most prominent rising stars in the Jazz world and has performed in many different symphony orchestras all around the world. Some of the music you will hear at this concert include "Hungarian Rhapsody No 2" by Franz Liszt and "Barcarolle" by Jacques Offenbach. You'll also hear songs by Billy Joel, Elton John, and Ray Charles. more Celtic Women On April 23, you can catch Celtic Woman at the ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center. This timeless music celebrates centuries of Ireland and Irish music. You'll get to see a one-of-a-kind act at a Celtic Woman show with some of the best musical talents along with a unique stage production. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. You can get tickets through the University of Arkansas Fort Smith website. Buckcherry Buckcherry will perform at Temple Live on Friday, April 26. The Temple Live venue is a historic theater that originally opened in 1929 during the prohibition. It's now a one-of-a-kind gathering place that serves as both a dining and club facility with a laid-back speak-easy feel. The Sphinx club downstairs serves specialty cocktails and American cuisine with a farm-to-plate focus. The 1,100 capacity theater is a great place to see a concert, and Buckcherry is sure to make the most of the state-of-the-art venue. Ronnie Milsap You can catch Ronnie Milsap at Temple Live on March 23. This show gets started at 8 p.m. but if you get there early, you can take advantage of all that the venue has to offer. Ronnie Milsap is a popular country music singer and one of the most successful country crossover artists with music that appeals to both country and pop fans. You can hear some of his hits, such as "Smoky Mountain Rain," "There's No Gettin' Over Me," and "It Was Almost Like a Song," at his show. Skerryvore Head to the Blue Lion on North 2 Street to see Skerryvore on March 28. This unique performance combines folk, trad, rock, and pop for a sound unlike any other. The eight band members come from different backgrounds, and each person brings a unique sound of Scotland to the mix. Tickets are $25, and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. These are just a few of the many concerts coming to Fort Smith this spring. You can see and hear all kinds of music, whether you prefer classical, country, rock, or pop, with thousands of other fans or in a more intimate setting. Image via Flickr by limaoscarjuliet