Blog

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.

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.

With plenty to see and do in the area, Fort Smith, AR, is a popular destination. Visitors to the area will not be disappointed by the hotels on offer. With options that suit all budgets readily available, visitors will have no difficulty finding a "home" while they explore the sights of the town and its surroundings. more 6 Best Hotels for Visitors to Fort Smith, AR 1. DoubleTree by Hilton Located 3.7 miles from the University of Arkansas and 5 miles from the airport, the DoubleTree is a popular choice among visitors. The onsite restaurant offers a full English breakfast each morning and a selection of dishes in the evenings. Facilities and services on offer include a fitness center, room service, a 24-hour front desk, parking, and a sun terrace. 2. Quality Inn Fort Smith I-540 Facilities on offer at the Quality Inn Fort Smith include a spa and wellness center, indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub. A wide selection of options are available at the buffet breakfast bar, making it an affordable option for families. All rooms are equipped with wi-fi, air conditioning, and a private bathroom. 3. Courtyard by Marriott Fort Smith Downtown Situated in the heart of Fort Smith, Courtyard by Marriott is a favorite among couples. It provides easy access to the sights and shopping in the downtown area. The hotel offers guests an indoor swimming pool complete with a whirlpool, a hot breakfast and evening Bristo, and several lounge areas with fireside seating. Each room is equipped with wi-fi, a coffee maker, flatscreen TV, and air conditioning. 4. Hampton Inn Fort Smith The Hampton Inn has 178 smoke-free rooms available for visitors with free parking as a bonus. The hotel is pet and family-friendly, with additional cribs available on request and a special children\s swimming pool. There is also an indoor swimming pool with a whirlpool. The onsite restaurant provides guests with different options for breakfasts and dinners. 5. Best Western Aspen The Best Western Aspen is the ideal no-frills hotel and is a popular choice among families especially given the adjourning room options. A range of different room options are available, with many including free breakfast for two. The Best Western Aspen offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a  business center. Free parking is available for guests. 6. River Valley Inn and Suites Another popular choice for families is the River Valley Inn and Suites, with pets also welcome. The hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, two meeting rooms, wedding services, free wifi, and free parking. There are 128 rooms with non-smoking and smoking options available. Coffee is available in the common area along with a computer station. There is plenty of quality accommodation in the Fort Smith area. They are located throughout the area, meaning it is easy for visitors to locate a hotel in the area that they intend to spend most of their time. A range of different pricing options and room configurations are readily accessible. Those looking to return home in style, call in and see the team at Rath Auto Fort Smith. Image via Pixabay

Fort Smith, AR is a great place to get all your holiday shopping done, whether you need to find everything in one place or just a few last-minute items. You'll find large department stores, small boutiques, and specialty shops in and around town for everyone on your gift-giving list. 1. Central Mall If you need a spot to get all your holiday errands done, this is an exceptional mall to go to! It's easy to access on Rogers Avenue with lots of parking available. You'll find everything you need from high-quality apparel, accessories, technology, housewares, and more. The mall's website provides an update on seasonal events and sales throughout the year so that you can plan your trip. Gift cards and curbside pickup are also available. more 2. Plato's Closet A unique spot to find the familiar shops you know and local businesses and shops to explore, Plato's Closet offers an excellent selection of quality goods and items for the season. There are buy, sell, and trade options available in the event you are looking for some decent bargains. The fashions are trendy and well-suited for the family and friends on your list who want to expand their wardrobe. Plato's Closet's website features online purchasing and a style blog. 3. Belle Starr Antiques and Vintage Market If you're looking for vintage goods and collectibles for your gift-giving this holiday, Belle Starr is a fantastic shop to check out for some unique gift and housewares ideas. Whether you collect specific items or have a family member who does, you'll find a lot worth exploring all under one roof! Located centrally on North B Street, this market is easy to drop by while you're visiting the city downtown. 4. The Shops at Brick City This spot is number one for all your artisan and one-of-a-kind gift-giving ideas! You'll find a great assortment of high-quality clothing, foods, spices, toys, and more. Getting your holiday purchases done here means you'll be supporting local and small businesses. You'll find everything from hand-crafted jewelry and children's apparel to gourmet foods. 5. Green Pointe Center Do you have last-minute errands and items to buy before the holidays? The Green Pointe Center is a practical way to get those final items, seasonal cards, and specialty goods; you'll find what you need in a hurry or in between getting errands done when you visit in town. The mall is nearby other shops and restaurants so that you can enjoy a tasty snack or meal during your trip. You'll find everything you need and more when you visit the city over the weekend or on your way home from work. Why not enjoy your next drive into town with a high-quality vehicle with all the features you need? Drop by our showroom at Rath Auto Resources to see our inventory and what we have to offer you on your next visit to the city! We provide a wide range of excellent quality vehicles and services at competitive rates!

We love living in Fort Smith, AR, and we know that you love it, too. With so much to do and friendly, helpful people, our community is one of the best. These are just a few of the reasons Fort Smith is an amazing place to live. History Fort Smith began as a military post, a location in town you can still visit today. It was built up as a Western town with a history of gunslingers and pioneers. Its many museums and historical sites tell an intriguing and entertaining story of a community that was built by imaginative, hardworking, progressive people. more While you are living in Fort Smith, you should make an effort to visit as many of these museums as you can. They are not just for tourists. In fact, they are even more interesting to locals who may recognize their own families or property in the historical accounts of the town. Be sure to see the old fort and courthouse as well as the trolley museum and historic downtown. Shopping Shopping is plentiful in Fort Smith, and residents can find just about anything they need or want here. Go to Central Mall to visit traditional mall stores and spend time looking at window displays and mall decor. The mall may seem small, but it is much larger inside and houses a variety of stores with plenty of items to purchase. For more local shopping, hit downtown for smaller shops and boutiques. The farmer's market is always a great adventure where you can find all kinds of local food to bring home for a meal as well as crafts made by area artisans. Food Fort Smith offers many different restaurants with a large variety of types of cuisine. From fast food to family dining, all of your favorite chains are here. You will also find small independent cafes and high-end dining options. Pizza parlors, grills, steakhouses, and Asian restaurants are all available. You can even find eclectic meals made by award-winning chefs. Recreation This is a town of parks and open spaces where you can always find a place to exercise or play outside. You can take a walk down on the riverfront, or you can start a game of soccer in one of the neighborhood parks. Large parks like Creekmore have swimming facilities and even a train. Visit nature centers to learn about local plants and native animals as well as go hiking in the woods. The lake is the place for aquatic activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Put a kayak or canoe into the water to explore the landscape from the water. Nightlife At night, the place to be in Fort Smith is downtown. You'll find live bands playing all styles of music from rock to bluegrass in cool venues that are fun to see. Fort Smith, AR is an amazing place to live for many different reasons. See us at Rath Auto Resources for the right car to take you and your family around town to see the sights and get the most out of this wonderful place.

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

Health and fitness in Fort Smith aren't lacking, and you can find plenty of gyms and fitness centers that can help you work up a sweat. Here are five spots with fun fitness classes in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Seva Yoga Studios Seva Yoga Studios in Fort Smith offers yoga classes for every level and preferred style. If you're looking for meditation, relaxation, and gentle stretching, Seva provides its Gentle Yoga and Unwind classes for beginners. For more challenging transitions and poses, try a Vinyasa yoga class. You can also stop in for a Seva yoga class, which is free to the public, focused on healing and rehabilitation, and features different teachers on certain days. more Pilates for You Studio Pilates for You Studio is a full course studio that offers classes in a range of fitness styles. You'll find classes for power pilates, BarreAmped fitness training, and even BBK Bounce fitness sessions. Pilates for You Studio's instructors are Romana-trained, so whether you're just learning the art of pilates or you're looking for a challenge, their fitness classes are sure to meet your needs. CrossFit 413 If you're looking for a more intense workout, try a CrossFit training session at CrossFit 413 in downtown Fort Smith. The instructors at this fitness center will put you to the test with the dynamics of the CrossFit fitness program. CrossFit 413 is an affiliate for the program, but the facility's unique approach to focusing on the health and wellness of the Fort Smith community makes this place an excellent choice for staying healthy. ATA Martial Arts of Fort Smith ATA Martial Arts of Fort Smith offers karate and taekwondo classes for the whole family. From young children to adults, ATA provides training, confidence-building, and mentoring for students of all ages. The facility's training programs and classes are led by highly qualified and experienced masters, so you'll be in good hands no matter which class you take. If you're not quite sure if karate is right for you, ATA offers free trial classes to give you an idea of what they have to offer. BDJ Fitness and Boxing If you're looking for a friendly atmosphere and support for personal fitness training, stop by BDJ Fitness and Boxing. They offer personalized fitness programs tailored to your unique fitness goals and needs. With a small team of trainers, BDJ offers an individualized and personal experience. You can set up a consultation to discuss your goals, decide what kind of training you want to do, and find out about their boxing training. BDJ Fitness and Boxing is located in downtown Fort Smith and serves the River Valley locale, so if you're looking for regular training sessions and a dedicated fitness program, BDJ has you covered. No matter what kind of workout you're in the mood for, the Fort Smith community has a variety of health and wellness centers to choose from. You can also find membership options, personalized programs, and free one-time classes, so check out these five gym and fitness centers to find one that's right for you. Image via Pixabay.com

When you're planning some one-on-one time with your special someone, you can find a number of places to go in the Fort Smith, Arkansas, area. Each spot offers a unique atmosphere that is appealing to couples. Ben Geren Park If the weather is pleasant, pack a picnic and head to Ben Geren Park on Zero Street. This park is an expansive outdoor space, offering activities for all skill levels and individuals. You can enjoy a quaint picnic on the grass or bring your tennis rackets for a game on one of the courts. Other activities within the park include two 18-hole disc golf courses, a 27-hole miniature golf course, and a traditional golf course that's open to the public. more Ben Geren Park also houses over 7 miles of paved trails, where you and your date can walk hand in hand, along with 14 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails for more rugged explorers. Within the park, you'll find Torraine Lake, a 15-acre lake that is open for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Several covered pavilions are also available for public use, although they can be rented out in advance. 21 West End If your perfect date includes a delicious meal, take your loved one to 21 West End, one of Fort Smith's highest-rated eateries. This fine-dining restaurant combines modern creativity with classic recipes. The chefs use high-quality ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the downtown area. You can start your meal with one of the appetizers, such as the signature lavosh topped with roasted garlic and shredded cheese, an order of cream cheese crab cakes, or spicy Cajun cheese fondue. Additional menu options include small plates, salads, soups, antipasto kabobs stacked with flavorful ingredients, seafood, poultry, pork, and beef, pasta, and surf and turf. At this location, you can also sip on cocktails, wine, or beer. Reservations are recommended, so plan ahead when taking a date to 21 West End. Bowling World Enjoy a fun and interactive date when you head to Bowling World. This family fun center is great for a casual date. It's located on 36th Street in Fort Smith, featuring 72 bowling lanes, an arcade, pool tables, and dining options. During an afternoon or evening at Bowling World, you can enjoy a meal, a drink, and some old-fashioned fun. This location offers specials on certain days of the week, so if you're dating on a budget, check out when you can score discounts. Monday Night Madness includes $2.25 bowling games, shoe rentals, and bottles of Miller High Life, while Thursdays offer half-price games between 12 and 4 p.m. On Sundays between 1 and 7 p.m., you can enjoy Pizza and Pins, which includes 1.5 hours of bowling, shoe rentals, and a large pizza. Plan the perfect date night in Fort Smith by taking your sweetheart to one of these locations. During your date, you can connect, communicate, and enjoy time together while dining on tasty food or participating in a unique experience. Image via Pixabay.com