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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

One of the best ways to get some real rest and relaxation without taking a whole week vacation is to hit up a local day spa. Sometimes, a day at the spa is even better than that aforementioned week-long vacation. Just imagine you and an afternoon of total relaxation. The Fort Smith area has plenty of full-service spas that are perfect for one-day getaways. Head over for a relaxing massage now, and your body will thank you tomorrow! Fountain Gate Spa and Boutique This full-service spa and boutique offers a wide selection of massage options to help you relieve muscle tension and get relaxed.  They also offer beauty services such as facials, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, and spa packages which offer a combination of services. more Facial services include everything from children and teen facials to microdermabrasion, non-surgical facelifts, and age defense peels. Facial services range from $45 to $165. If you're looking for a great massage, Fountain Gate has a complete menu of massage options, including Swedish massage, hot stone massage, deep tissue sports massage, couples massages, and therapeutic massage. If you plan to order multiple services, look into one of their spa packages, which usually include a massage, scrub, and pedicure. Luminescence Medi-Spa If you're looking for more long-term spa services, head over to Luminescence. They do not offer traditional day spa services such as massages and pedicures. Instead, Luminescence provides specialized services such as laser treatments, injections, permanent makeup, and hair removal. Luminescence has a full suite of laser services, making it great for tattoo removal, wrinkle and spider vein repair, and those with chronic nail fungus. The injection services include Botox, Dysport, fillers, and Sculptra, which will give your treatment areas lasting new life. Hair removal and permanent makeup services make keeping up with everyday maintenance less of a chore. Inner Peace Massage and Body Studio Another great option for a relaxing day at the spa is Inner Peace Massage and Body Studio, located in Fort Smith. Once there, you can treat yourself to a wide variety of massages, facial treatments, and hydrating body wraps. You can also enroll in some yoga classes if you feel the need to stretch out. Inner Peace has plenty of relaxing and rejuvenating massage options to choose from. For something unique, try the hot stone massage or raindrop massage, which combine aromatherapy with traditional massage methods to create a balance in the body. Of course, Inner Peace Massage and Body Studio offer more traditional massages, deep tissue massages, and couples massages. Those interested in taking a yoga class or two can purchase five or 10 sessions in advance, or simply pay to drop in per diem for $10. Don't forget to give your skin the ultimate hydrating experience with a body wrap, which uses shea butter, avocado oil, and other emollients to leave your skin amazingly hydrated. Never underestimate the power of a relaxing day at the spa. You'll feel incredibly relaxed, and your muscles will feel like they're brand new.   Image via Pixabay.com: https://pixabay.com/en/towels-tables-bathroom-laundry-569139/

Are you passionate about food? Do words like seared and sauteed get your culinary juices flowing? Then why not take a few cooking classes? There are tons of schools in the region where you can learn a few new tricks in the kitchen. Sharpen your skills with a variety of cooking styles and experiment with fun, new recipes. The best part is you get to eat your creations after the lesson. Try these cooking classes around Fort Smith, Arkansas. Cuisine Karen With Karen Gros at the helm, this cooking school, travel hostess, and trip organizer in Eureka Springs offers cooking classes and so much more. Cuisine Karen's classes range from an exploration of the French classics to seasonal dishes made with only locally sourced ingredients. more Book a food-centric tour with Karen, and visit countries like France and Greece for a genuinely authentic foodie experience. If you can't travel to these destinations, read all about Karen's culinary adventures on her blog. Honeycomb Kitchen Shop Honeycomb Kitchen Shop is located in nearby Rogers and hosts cooking classes inspired by the season of the region. From learning the basics to a chic party menu, when you're interested in learning more in the kitchen, Honeycomb's has a course for you. You'll be entertained and inspired at the creative date night class, or join the group on Oct. 30 at 6:30 p.m. for the Field to Fork: All About Apples course. This festive fall class includes a taste test of several varieties of apples, and information on growing, storing, and using apples. Brightwater Center When you're serious about developing your culinary skills, consider attending college in Bentonville. Brightwater is on the campus of North West Arkansas Community College. It's a center focused around the study of food. Brightwater offers community classes where students can learn specialized cooking and beverage making skills. Their Culinary Arts program highlights various food systems, culinary nutrition, butchery, charcuterie, and events catering. You too can work towards your associate degree in Food Studies at Brightwater. Eggshells Kitchen Co. When you're in the market for cooking classes and all the tools it takes to get the meal on the table, head over to Eggshells Kitchen. Found in Little Rock, they offer seasonal courses from January through September. Held on-location, their classes feature the best and brightest local gourmets as they strut their stuff before students. A cooking class at Eggshells Kitchen is the ultimate culinary adventure. At one seminar, you might whip up a traditional Mardi Gras fare featuring shrimp and grits, Creole crab cakes, or chicken etouffee. Classes typically begin at 6 p.m., and the cost includes a companion glass of beer or wine for the grown-ups and the chef-prepared dish du jour. Do you find yourself watching late night cooking shows? Do you love every minute you spend behind the stove or chopping ingredients? If so, a culinary arts class may be right up your alley. Discover the world of cooking near Fort Smith, and indulge your passion for food. Photo by COD Newsroom | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

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

Byrd's Adventure Center is located 40 minutes away from Fort Smith, and the drive is worth it. Many of the activities are more appropriate for older kids, but there are still things that you can do with younger kids. Byrds' Adventure Center offers a wide range of activities such as kayaking, rafting, and canoeing. If you are looking for some real adventure, you may want to try rock climbing, repelling, or bouldering. They also offer classes so you and your children can learn the basics. There are also opportunities for ATV/UTV and 4x4 driving. more If you are looking for some activities that are a little more low key, there are fishing, hiking, camping, and biking available as well. There is also a restaurant you can visit called the Riverfront Restaurant, where you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes, including steaks, fish, sandwiches, burgers, salads, breakfast, and desserts. Ozark Mountain Ziplines If you are looking for a thill, you may want to take your kids to Ozark Mountain Ziplines. This tour is located around Ozark, and the tour lasts about two hours, giving guests a chance to ride 10 different zip lines. The zip lines extend from 120 to 1,800 feet in length. In addition to the zip lines, guests also cross suspended tree platforms, and one suspended sky bridge. There are also two short hikes. This adventure is open to all ages, but they ask that your children be at least three years of age. Pricing is $89 plus tax per person. From June 1 to July 31, the zip lines are open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Between August 1 to 13, the zip lines are open six days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are closed Wednesdays. From August 14 to October 31, they are open Friday to Monday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parrot Island Waterpark If you are looking for something to do a little closer to home, Parrot Island Water Park is located in Fort Smith at 7300 Zero St. The water park gives kids of all ages a great opportunity to run around and play in the water on those hot summer days. Attractions that you will enjoy at Parrot Island include a wave pool, children's area, activity pool, lazy river, and four different water slides. There is also a snack shop that sells salads, burgers, sandwiches, snacks, and ice cream if you get hungry. Prices for the park are $15 if you are over 48 inches and $10 for anyone under 48 inches. Children three and under are free, while adults who do not want to swim are $5. Seniors who are over 65 are $9. These are just three of the many fun activities your kids can do this summer in Fort Smith. Whether you are looking for something extreme or a lazy day at the pool, there is something fun for everyone. Photo by LocoRopes | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Fort Smith is full of cultural attractions, with several museums and galleries in the city limits. However, not all learning opportunities are indoors. This summer, take advantage of the amazing Arkansas weather while visiting some of the wildlife reserves, sanctuaries, and parks within a day's drive from Fort Smith. White River National Wildlife Refuge The White River National Wildlife Refuge is a huge outdoor space east of Fort Smith where you can get a close look at native wildlife. The refuge runs for miles north and south along White River, making it an ideal destination for kayaking and canoeing. It's also perfect for camping trips or simple day hikes. The area is home to hummingbirds, snakes, warblers, black bears, ducks, fish, and more. more Ozark National Forest For an outdoor destination a little closer to home, check out Ozark National Forest. It takes roughly four hours to reach White River National Wildlife Refuge, but Ozark National Forest is just up the road via Interstate 49 or 40 — about a 30-minute drive to the forest entrance. Ozark National Forest is a 1.2 million-acre area in the Ozark Mountains. It has trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as spots for camping and fishing. Trusten Holder Wildlife Management Area The Trusten Holder State Wildlife Management Area is a slice of land that borders the White River National Wildlife Refuge, separated by the White River and just above the Arkansas River. You'll find it south past Pine Bluff, so plan on a drive of roughly 4.25 hours. This destination is a fantastic place for kayaking or canoeing, as well as camping and hiking. This is another location where you might see some black bears. Fossil Flats Trailhead Part of Devil's Den State Park, the Fossil Flats Trailhead is close to Fort Smith — just an hour north of the city — and is a great place to go if you want to meet bats, beavers, armadillos, and other wildlife. The park is excellent for kayaking and canoeing, and you'll also find caves and bluffs that you can explore. A hike to Lake Devil is recommended for swimming or fishing. Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge Spanning over 64,000 acres, Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge is another huge protected area. It's also the home of the world's largest green tree reservoir, making it a fantastic place for seeing wildlife and Arkansas' natural foliage. Plan on a roughly 4.5-hour drive that will take you far south of Pine Bluff to get there. You can also take a five-hour scenic route that cuts through Ouachita National Forest. Mount Magazine Scenic Byway Speaking of scenic drives, one of the best ones you can take in the state is down the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway. Start your journey just south of Paris, Arkansas. Keep your eyes peeled for deer and other wildlife along the way, or plan a stop at Mount Magazine State Park for hiking and picnicking. Whether you just want to get outside, or you love all things nature, these destinations near Fort Smith are worth checking out. Head out to some of these amazing locations with your family this summer. Photo by cbrown1023 | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Fort Smith, Arkansas, is full of charming shops, including several local stores where you can browse for collectibles and antiques. Check out these five options and enjoy shopping for new and unique vintage pieces for your home or wardrobe. Belle Starr Antiques Belle Starr Antiques is one of the highest rated antique malls in Fort Smith. The large building is home to thousands of items, making it a great choice for people who want to spend several hours diving into displays of decades-old furniture, well-preserved boots and clothes, stunning period pieces, collectibles, and more. more The 9,000-square-foot inventory space is at 410 N. B St. Belle Starr Antiques is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Remember When Antique Mall With a name showing that the shop knows its business, Remember When Antique Mall is a location that will overwhelm you with nostalgia. This well-reviewed mall is known for housing lots of antiques in a smaller space, making it another excellent choice if you want to spend an entire afternoon browsing. You'll find furniture, decorative items and memorabilia, kitchenware, clothing, and much more. Find Remember When Antique Mall at 4407 Burrough Road. The shop is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Crossroads Antique Mall For a cozier shop where you can enjoy rolling up your sleeves and searching for a good find, try Crossroads Antique Mall. This location houses lots of smaller items, including books, collectibles, clothes, hats, and vintage signs, as well as larger pieces and furniture. Crossroads Antique Mall is at 3325 S. 74th St. It's closed Sunday but is otherwise open daily starting at 10 a.m. The mall closes at 6:30 p.m. every day except Friday when it closes at 5 p.m. Through the Years Antique Mall Another aptly named store in Fort Smith, Through the Years Antique Mall houses a large collection of books, furniture, jewelry, and those kitschy antiques that are fun to find and even better to take home. The shop is well-reviewed thanks to its competitive prices, a wide variety of items, and one-of-a-kind finds. Visit Through the Years Antique Mall at 2119 Rogers Ave. This popular location is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Sunday, when it's closed. Treasures at Century Plaza This charming antique business is popular among shoppers who want to explore shelves full of smaller collectibles and vintage pieces. You'll find several dolls and lots of memorabilia as well as interesting paintings, signs, and other decorations. Treasures At Century Plaza is off Interstate 540 at 3702 Century Drive. It's open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Sunday, the shop is open from 1 to 5 p.m. What do you think you'll find at these stores in Fort Smith? Whether you're after furniture, clothes, or jewelry or simply want to browse unique items that have withstood the test of time, these five shops in the city are worth checking out. Photo by TexasExplorer98 | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Museums continue to be one of the best sources of information on a range of different subjects. While history and science are common subjects for museums, you can find museums dedicated to just about anything. In the Fort Smith area, there are high-quality museums that are worth checking out. Here is a look at museums you won't want to miss in Fort Smith. The Clayton House One of the first places that you will want to visit is the Clayton House. It is located at 514 North 6th Street in the Belle Grove Historic District. The Clayton House was preserved and turned into a museum to capture what life and architecture were like in the Victorian period. The interior has been restored to its original look with the only changes being hidden safety improvements. You can tour the house and see what it was like to live in the late 1800s. more Aside from being a museum, the Clayton House is also an event space. It is perfect for weddings and other formal events. The grounds are still populated with well-manicured grass and tall shady trees. It makes for a good spot for your guest during any event. Fort Smith Museum of History Another place that you will want to check out is the Fort Smith Museum of History. The museum was established in 1910 to preserve as much of the history of the area as possible. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and continues to keep its interior designs from the time period. Inside the museum, you'll find a collection of artifacts from the late 1800's through the 1900's. You'll also find a replica soda fountain where you can try many foods from the time period. It follows the same design as a 1920s pharmacy and soda fountain. You can try ice creams, sundaes, floats, and sodas that were popular during that time. Fort Smith Trolley Museum The Fort Smith Trolley Museum is another stop that should be on your list if you are a history buff. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the trolley cars that used to run through the city. The museum managed to preserve several of the original streetcars and has them on display for you to ride in and experience for yourself. The ride tokens are moderately priced at $4 per adult and $2 per child. Taking a ride a great way to get out and experience a piece of history for yourself rather than just seeing it in a museum. Traveling to museums is a fun way to spend your time off, especially in the summer when the weather is great. You can make it a weekly weekend trip or a big summer vacation to visit as many museums as possible. Either way, you'll need a car that can get you there and back safely. Rath Auto Resources can help you find a car that is not only reliable but will also make your trip more comfortable. Photo by US Department of State | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

The school year is coming to a close, so you are going to have more time to spend with your kids. While the break is a great thing to look forward to, you're also going to need to do some planning and figure out how to pass the time. There are plenty of places that you can go with your kids that everyone will enjoy. If you need to plan some fun activities for your family, here are three fun places to take the kids. Grand Slam Fun Center One of the best places for you to go is the Grand Slam Fun Center. It is located at 5300 South Zero Street. Grand Slam Fun Center has a range of things that you can't find at other places in the area, including go-kart racing and batting cages. There is also a fully updated arcade with an assortment of games that will be fun for everyone. more If you are planning a party, Grand Slam Fun Center can help you with that. It offers party planning packages including a party room that you can rent. The Center is open every day except Tuesday and Wednesday, making it easy to plan a party around your schedule. Parrot Island Waterpark Another great place to take your kids is the Parrot Island Waterpark, especially since the weather is already heating up. The park is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. until 6 p.m and has an assortment of water rides and activities to keep you cool on the hottest of days. Imagine cooling off in the Caribbean Splash, a wave pool with more the 85,000 gallons of water. For smaller children, they can hang out at the Tiny Turtle Island kids' area. Parrot Island Waterpark is also a great place for a summer birthday party. There are group and party packages available with rooms to rent for private functions. If you want to take multiple trips throughout the summer, then you should think about getting a season pass. The water park will reopen in late May for the season. HogWild Family Fun Center For a daily activity place that has something to do for the entire family, check out HogWild Family Fun Center, located at 3000 South 70th Street. You can find activities like mini golf, laser tag, and an arcade. There are also bumper cars and mini bowling among other things. You could easily spend a few hours each day checking out the different attractions and looking for the ones that you like the best. The summer is great for trying new things with your family. There are still plenty more activities that you can try if you have a means of getting there. Whether you have a new car or an older one that needs service, the team at Rath Auto Resources can help you. They have new and used cars available, as well as a service team that can get you up and running again. Stop by to see what they can do to help you get your family to these fun places this summer. Photo by anjanettew | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

There's nothing quite like immersing yourself in history, and with over 200 years of fascinating stories to draw from, Fort Smith is the perfect place to soak up a little culture. Whether you're visiting one of the historical centers or watching a reenactment of soldiers, lawmen, outlaws, or Native Americans, it's easy and fun to learn about Fort Smith's fascinating history. From taking a tour of the visitor center at Miss Laura's, formerly a genuine Old West bordello, to acquainting yourself with the military history of the area at the museum, or retracing the footsteps of Fort Smith's notorious Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves as he hunts down outlaws and brings justice to Fort Smith, there's plenty to choose from. more Fort Smith is one of the best areas in Arkansas to not only learn about history but live it. Here are the top 7 must-see historical stops in the area. Miss Laura's Visitor Center At Miss Laura's Social Club you will find a glimpse of the history of Fort Smith's downtown area, right on the banks of the Arkansas River. Around the turn of the century, this area featured seven 'row houses' which functioned as the Fort Smith red light district. Of those seven brothels, only Miss Laura's remains. A former bordello with the distinction of being the only house of ill repute to make it onto the National Register of Historic Places, Laura's has been restored to all its original splendor, and it's well worth a visit. Fort Smith Air Museum With sixty-four displays showcasing and honoring the military aviators who pioneered air travel in Fort Smith and the surrounding areas of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas, the Fort Smith Air Museum is a great place to visit. Recently relocated to the new Regional Airport Terminal, it's an inspiring little piece of history. The Clayton House Step back in time to the year 1882 at Clayton House. It was the year William Henry Harrison Clayton and his family moved into a grand antebellum home, which he transformed into a masterpiece of Italianate style double the original size. The house is located in the Belle Grove Historic District. With period furnishing and coal burning fires, it's a cozy glimpse of life at the end of the 19th century. Temple Live Temple Live is a Masonic Temple of over 53,000 square feet, opened in 1929. A four-story building of Bedford Stone, it's an unusual, beautifully restored architectural feature of Fort Smith that's worth a look. Zachary Taylor Chimney The private home of President Zachary Taylor can be found on the grounds of what is now St. Anne's Academy and the Immaculate Conception Church. Taylor was the commander of Fort Smith's military garrison during the 1940s, and his former home is an interesting glimpse of the life of one of the Presidents of the United States. With so much history in the area Fort Smith is steeped in culture and there's plenty to learn and see. Photo by p_a_h | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Nothing is more fun than spending the afternoon at a park with family or friends. The fresh air and natural beauty have a way of reviving our spirit and helping us feel relaxed. Fort Smith has a wide array of great parks just waiting for you to explore. From large downtown parks to smaller community parks, there are many great places to discover. So pack a picnic lunch and some beverages, and explore these four Fort Smith parks this spring. Fort Smith Park Fort Smith Park had to top the list, not only because of its name but also because of its location on the waterfront in downtown Fort Smith. It's an ideal place to go canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just chill out. The park features a boat launch, a covered pavilion, restrooms, and plenty of parking. Plus, it's one of the few public parks where you can drink alcohol responsibly so if want to enjoy a beer while relaxing in the sun, go for it. more Anniversary Rose Garden If you love the smell and beauty of roses, then you simply must visit the Anniversary Rose Garden late this spring or early summer when all the roses are in bloom. From fragrant white roses to orange and yellow varieties, there is nothing quite like being surrounded by roses. The park is located on 12th street in downtown Fort Smith. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park is much more than just a park.  Nestled in a picturesque valley of the majestic Ozark Mountains, this 1,400-acre state park located on the west side of Fort Smith features a ton of wonderful trails. Whether you want to spend the day fishing, swimming, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, or just kickin' back, it's the perfect park for anyone. Backpackers often make it the starting point for a trekking expedition on the world-renowned Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail. The park has over 30 campsites as well as group camping facilities with a dining hall and two lodges that easily accommodate over 30 people.  Lake Fort Smith Park also has picnic tables, a covered pavilion, a huge swimming pool, a marina, a children's playground, and 10 cabins. Don't forget to check out the park's visitor center that includes about 8,000 square feet of intriguing exhibits and a cozy outdoor patio made of native stone that includes a fireplace and gorgeous view of the lake. Ross Pendergraft Park Last, but certainly not least is Ross Pendergraft Park. If you're looking for a nice place to relax in busy downtown Fort Smith, this park on Garrison Avenue is the place for you. With clean restrooms and plenty of parking, it's the perfect place to relax during your lunch hour. Please note that smoking and alcohol consumption are not allowed on park grounds. We are so fortunate to live in a city with such an amazing park system. We encourage you to get out there and enjoy it this spring or any other time of year. Photo by Warren Brown Photography | Licensed under cc by 2.0