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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

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

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