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Image via River Valley Regional Food Bank Grab your loved ones and meet us at Parrot Island Waterpark this Thursday! The Drive Out Hunger fundraiser event, hosted by the River Valley Regional Food Bank, is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled day while making a difference in our community. Show off your surfing skills on the FlowRider® Double, take on the highest waves at the Caribbean Splash wave pool, or double-tube down the O'Hana Highway with a friend--all while combatting food insecurity happening right now in the Northwest Arkansas region. Ready to make a splash in your community this summer? 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. 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.

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

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

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

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. 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

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. 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.

As the winter season comes to an end and temperatures begin to rise, outdoor enthusiasts are excited to get out and enjoy nature. Thankfully, Fort Smith, Arkansas, is full of parks, trails, and forests which are perfect for exploring. Here are some of the best hiking trails around the area. Ozark Highlands Trail Just 40 minutes north of Fort Smith at the Lake Fort Smith State Park, you'll find the trailhead of the 165-mile Ozark Highlands Trail. This national recreation trail is great for hikers of any ability level. Three miles of the trail run through the state park along the lake, while the rest runs through the Ozark National Forest to end in Buffalo National River Park. Along the trail, hikers will enjoy scenic landscapes with waterfalls, bridges, and rock formations. For an adventurous experience of the Ozark Highlands Trail, consider hiking its full length. There are several recreation and camping areas along the way for rest and overnight stays. Hiking the entire trail would be good for highly experienced hikers and could take about a week to accomplish. Butterfield Hiking Trail At Devil's Den State Park, about 50 minutes north of Fort Smith, the Butterfield Hiking Trail offers avid hikers a fun challenge. The trail is a 15-mile loop, so it's an easy option for a day-long or overnight hike without having to arrange a pick-up. On the western edge of the Ozark National Forest, this area is full of scenic views, including Vista Point which overlooks Blackburn Valley. Hobbyist photographers will find plenty of beautiful subjects along the way. The full trail is expected to take around 12 hours of hiking time, depending on skill level. River Valley Nature Center Five different trails surround Wells Lake near the River Valley Nature Center. This area is just under 20 minutes south of Fort Smith. The Wells Lake Trail is a short loop around the lake. The Oak Savannah Trail, Beaver Creek Trail, Field and Forest Trail, and the North Boundary Trail are all connected to the land around the River Valley Nature Center. Here you'll find easy hiking for any skill level and plenty of spots for a relaxing picnic. All of these trails add up to about 3 miles of hiking, so they would be easy to tackle in an afternoon. White Rock Rim Trail Just over an hour from Fort Smith in the Ozark National Forest, the White Rock Mountain Recreation Area features a 2-mile loop trail called the White Rock Rim Trail. This is an easy hike that welcomes leashed dogs. You'll find plenty of opportunities to view the Ozark mountains along this trail and its several overlooks. Book a cabin on the mountain or a room in the cozy lodge and make a weekend of it. This is also an access point for the Ozark Highlands Trail. Whether you've been hiking since you learned to walk or you're a novice hiker, these trails in the Fort Smith area are worth a visit. Get outside and enjoy the beautiful nature around you. Image via Pixabay.com

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

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. 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

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. 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. 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