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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? 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!

The question of how often used cars should get an oil change depends on a number of factors: type and age of the vehicle, what kind of motor it has, and driving style and usage all come into play. The good news is that not only is oil service a ​quick, affordable, and simple ​service, but it's also one of the best ways to keep the heart of your car running smoothly and performing its best for years to come. more Mileage, Months, and Usage Your car should have a sticker from its previous oil service with two indicators: one for a mileage at which to change the oil, one for the date at which the next oil service should be scheduled. It's important to change the oil whichever comes first and not to wait for both. Oil degrades both with use and with time. Additionally, your vehicle's owner's manual will have guidance on oil type, change frequency, and more. The Importance of Clean, Fresh Oil and Filters Motor oil performs several crucial functions in your car's engine. First, it helps cool the engine, preventing overheating. More importantly, it lubricates the moving parts, ensuring smooth operation. It also helps remove any particulate buildup, including tiny metal shavings, contaminants, and more, which then is filtered out by the oil filter. When oil is left in a motor for too long, it can cause sludge buildup and damage, and if it runs out, the engine can seize, necessitating expensive repairs. Conventional, or Synthetic? Both conventional and synthetic oil have their advantages. Conventional oil is more affordable, though the longevity of synthetic oil tends to offset this. Synthetic oil may be a better choice if you drive hard or drive off-road, experience extreme heat or cold, spend a lot of time in traffic, or if you tend to take short trips (since synthetic performs better in cold engines). Your maintenance team can help you make a great decision either way. Your Car Shouldn't Burn Oil No matter how old your car is, an engine burning through an excessive amount of oil isn't normal. If you find yourself putting in quart after quart between changes, there may be something else wrong. Be sure to tell your technicians if your engine burns through oil so they can correctly diagnose the problem, whether it's a slow leak, a valve stem issue, or something more serious. When it's time to change the oil, it's time to have the job done right. Bring your car in for service at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR, and let our team of professionals get the job done quickly, affordably, and correctly.

When you're in the market for a vehicle, we know it's sometimes hard to decide whether to go the new car route or not. If you're ever in this position, and you're weighing pros and cons, be sure to remember that used cars can be just as reliable as new cars if you take good care of them. By showing your investment some love in the form of preventative maintenance, you'll ensure your car will return the favor. more Keeps You Safer Ward off any potential issues by having a trained professional look at your car's parts and systems that are most likely to give you issues and hazards on the roads. This includes the brake system, tires, the battery, fluids, and filters. If you or a mechanic aren't taking a look, chances are you won't know there's an issue until your car has failed you until you're in an accident or stranded on the side of the road. They'll Last Longer With Upkeep All of the care you put into the individual components of your car will add up, helping you keep it on the road for longer. If the systems are kept happy with proper fluids and upkeep, they will work more efficiently, which will lead to fewer issues over time. Saves You Money In the long run, it's going to cost you less money to perform maintenance than it would have otherwise cost you to replace an entire system due to an easily preventable issue. Also, the more efficient your vehicle is, the better its fuel economy will be, which will save you even more at the pump. Overall, the more use you get out of your car, the longer it will be before you are in a position where you must replace it. More Money in the Form of Trade-In Value So, when the time eventually does come for you to part ways with your properly cared for vehicle, it will be in relatively better shape than had you neglected its health. Your car's overall condition will positively affect how much you can get for it when trading it in. This goes for both its appearance and what's under the hood. With this list of benefits, and the fact that there are some more not even listed, we think the time and effort that go into preventative care for a previously owned car is more than worth it. This is why purchasing used is a great option. Stop by Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR to check out our current inventory. Also, be sure to find out how our service department can help you achieve the benefits listed above.

Image via Honda At Rath Auto Resources in Forth Smith, AR, we pride ourselves in helping new drivers like you choose among a wide variety of used cars. To help narrow down your choices, we encourage you to think about your own preferences regarding factors such as fuel economy, safety, size, adaptability, and comfort. To further focus and fine-tune those choices, we have outlined five of our very favorite picks for you below! more 1. Toyota Prius The Toyota Prius is a great starter vehicle for shoppers concerned about fuel economy! You and your family will also appreciate various safety features, including all wheel drive, auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, steering assist, and blind-spot monitoring. 2. Honda Civic The Honda Civic is a perfect match for safety-conscious drivers, as it is often rated highly in safety by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Safety features include driver aids such as auto emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. 3. Kia Seltos The Kia Seltos is an ideal pick for you if you are looking to purchase a vehicle with lots of extra room for friends, family, and travel. The Seltos is also highly rated, safety-wise, by the IIHS, and includes features such as driver attention warning, lane-departure warning, and high-beam assist. 4. Subaru Crosstrek If you are seeking adventure, you cannot go wrong with the Subaru Crosstrek. The Crosstrek is well-known for being safe and adaptable to all your potential needs, whether you plan to keep to city streets or expect to take on more cumbersome terrain. The Crosstrek also includes Subaru's standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, making it that much safer and easier to use. 5. Nissan Sentra The Nissan Sentra makes for an all-around great pick for drivers in the market to purchase a used vehicle. The Sentra is very comfortable to drive due to its seat design, has great fuel economy with up to 40 mpg on the highway, and includes various safety features including 10 airbags and various driver aids such as auto emergency braking. We have clearly got you covered, whether you are drawn to a vehicle's fuel economy, safety, size, adaptability, or comfort! But the Prius, Civic, Seltos, Crosstrek, and Sentra are only a taste of the many choices available to you. And as the premiere used car dealership in the area, we are well-equipped and ready to help you make the best choice for you and your family's specific needs. Reach out to us at Rath Auto Resources in Forth Smith, AR today and let us help you choose the best used car for you!

Image via GMC Reliable, powerful, and loaded with amenities, GMC vehicles make great used cars. Buying a used GMC is also a great way to get a high-quality vehicle without paying full price. If you're on the hunt for a used vehicle, you can't go wrong with a used truck or SUV from GMC. There are numerous models worth considering. more 1. GMC Sierra 1500 A full-size truck with powerful engine options, the Sierra 1500 works well as a work truck, a family vehicle, an off-road workhorse, or for other uses where you want plenty of space and capability. Certain models of the Sierra 1500 can tow up to 13,300 pounds, meaning almost no job is too large. In addition to its impressive capabilities, the Sierra 1500 is popular because of its upscale cabin and stylish features. In recent years, available features like a six-function tailgate and GMC's Super Cruise hands-free driver-assistance technology have made the Sierra 1500 a crowd-pleaser. 2. GMC Canyon The Canyon is a mid-size truck that offers serious performance while fitting seamlessly into everyday life. The Canyon has been available over the years with several engine options, and it's a capable tower and hauler. Like other GMC trucks, the Canyon offers the advantage of a comfortable and well-appointed interior. Power outlets, front USB ports, adjustable passenger seats, and sport-style steering wheels have all been standard features on some Canyon models in recent years. Some used Canyons may be equipped with the available trailering package. 3. GMC Yukon If you're looking for a used vehicle with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, the Yukon is an excellent choice. This SUV offers three rows of seating and ample onboard storage. Recent Yukon models have also been equipped with standard infotainment systems and modern vehicle safety systems like OnStar and Lane-Keep Assist. 4. GMC Acadia The Acadia is a mid-size SUV that is large enough for families but still versatile enough for everyday errands and drives. Daily commutes, soccer practice drop-offs, and weekend road trips are no problem when you're driving an Acadia. This SUV offers three rows of seating, and recent models carry the tech and infotainment features modern families crave. A Bose premium audio system, front-row USB ports, and wireless charging are all standard on the 2024 version of the Acadia. So are advanced driver-assistance features like Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and Lane Keep Assist. If you're in the market for a used set of wheels, consider a GMC vehicle. With so many great GMC vehicles on the road, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. When you're ready to purchase your next vehicle, come see us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

Image via Buick Known for their comfortable interiors, smooth rides, and timeless designs, Buicks make an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality used car. Here are some of the best Buick models to consider when looking into buying a used Buick. more Buick Enclave A top choice for families, the Buick Enclave is a mid-size SUV that offers spacious seating for up to eight passengers. With its quiet cabin and smooth handling, the Enclave is perfect for long road trips. Used models often come with advanced features like a rearview camera, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. Buick LaCrosse The LaCrosse is a full-size sedan that stands out for its elegant styling and comfortable ride. It's an ideal car for those who prioritize comfort and sophistication. Most used LaCrosse models feature a robust V6 engine, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a suite of safety features, making them a smart buy. Buick Regal The Buick Regal is a sporty option for those who love a more dynamic driving experience. This mid-size sedan (or hatchback in newer models) offers a balanced blend of performance and luxury. Look for used Regals equipped with a turbocharged engine for an extra thrill on the road. Buick Verano A compact sedan, the Buick Verano is perfect for city driving and easy parking. Despite its smaller size, the Verano doesn't skimp on luxury, offering a quiet and comfortable cabin. Used Veranos often come with features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a touch-screen infotainment system. Buick Encore For those who want the luxury of a Buick in a smaller package, the Encore is an excellent choice. This compact SUV provides a higher seating position, great visibility, and a versatile interior. It's ideal for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike. Used Encores are known for their reliability and often include features like smartphone integration and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Buick Cascada A unique option in the used car market, the Buick Cascada was a convertible for those drawn to the joy of open-top driving. It's perfect for those sunny days and offers a comfortable ride with a touch of elegance. The Cascada is a rare find since it was only made for a few years, but it's well worth the search if you're a convertible enthusiast. If you are thinking about purchasing a Buick, contact us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith to see our selection of used vehicles. Our teams at our many locations in the Fort Smith, AR, area are committed to helping you find the perfect vehicle that meets your needs and budget.

Image via Shutterstock Is your car AC not working? When your air conditioning fails, it may be more than just uncomfortable. It can indicate underlying issues that can lead to bigger car maintenance problems if you don't take care of them promptly. more Signs of AC Failure Inadequate Cooling The most obvious sign of AC trouble is a lack of cold air. If the air coming from your vents feels warm or just slightly cool, your system might be low on refrigerant. There could also be a blockage in the system. Strange Noises If you hear rattling, banging, or other unusual sounds when the AC is on, it could mean you have a problem with the compressor. The compressor is the heart of your air conditioning system. Don't ignore these sounds, as they can warn of serious issues. Foul Odors A musty or moldy smell coming from the air conditioning vents suggests mold or mildew growing somewhere in the system, possibly the evaporator core. Apart from being unpleasant, this can pose health risks, especially for anyone with allergies or respiratory issues. Why Is Your Car AC Not Working? Refrigerant Leak The most common cause of a malfunctioning AC is a refrigerant leak. Without the proper amount of refrigerant, your system cannot cool air effectively. Faulty Compressor The compressor is the core of your air conditioning system. If it fails, the entire system shuts down. Compressor issues can often stem from leaks or a lack of refrigerant. Clogged Filters or Lines Over time, filters can become clogged with debris, or lines can get blocked. This prevents proper airflow and stops your system from working correctly. Electrical Issues Modern air conditioning systems are complex and rely on electrical control units. Any electrical fault in these parts can cause the system to fail. Don't Ignore AC Problems Ignoring problems with your air conditioning can lead to more severe, expensive repairs down the line. For instance, a refrigerant leak can damage the compressor, and a faulty compressor can strain your car's engine, reducing your fuel efficiency and your vehicle's performance. That's not even taking into account the fact that driving without air conditioning in the heat can be dangerous. Employ Proper Car Maintenance Regular maintenance can prevent many issues with your car's air conditioning system. This includes regularly checking refrigerant levels, inspecting and replacing the cabin air filter to ensure optimal airflow, and having a professional inspect your AC system annually. It's best to have this done just before the weather turns hot, so your AC is prepared to keep you cool all summer. If your car's AC is not working, don't sweat it out: instead, visit your mechanic today. Call Rath Auto Services in Fort Smith, AR, for help fixing your air conditioning.

Image via Hyundai Used Hyundai ​ cars have become popular in recent years. Drivers are catching on to the fact that purchasing used can land you great features and excellent performance for a fraction of the cost. If you are in the market for a Hyundai, check out the reasons why drivers love used ones and why you should too. more 1. Less Depreciation to Worry About With a pre-owned Hyundai, the original buyer already suffered the initial depreciation hit. By avoiding this depreciation hit, you can spend over 30% less than if you bought a new vehicle. Since Hyundais retain their value well, you will have a strong trade-in or resale value down the road. 2. Excellent Performance and Longevity On average, most models last around 100,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This means that if you buy a low-mileage vehicle that's only a few years old, it can serve you for over a decade without major mechanical problems. Just get a full maintenance history of the car to make sure it's in great condition. 3. Multiple Options to Explore You can explore numerous models, including ones that are over five years old. The marketplace presents everything from subcompact Accents to luxurious Genesis sedans to Tucson and Santa Fe SUVs. You can also get various trim options, from base models to luxury trims. The wide range of options allows you to choose features that meet your needs without worrying about a hefty price tag. You can even splurge on high-end trims or set aside some money for custom accessories and upgrades. 4. Get Your Money's Worth Like most automakers, Hyundai keeps model generations in production for a few years before carrying out full redesigns. A pre-owned Hyundai that's two or three years old may have most of the same features as a new one. When you buy a newer used model, you get to enjoy these features for a fraction of the cost. Newer pre-owned Hyundais boast features like leather upholstery, heated seats, touchscreen displays with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and more. You also get safety and driver assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. 5. You Can Get Financing Buying a used vehicle doesn't mean you have to pay full cash upfront. Financing is available for pre-owned Hyundais as well. You can take advantage of financing options to make the purchase more affordable and broaden your vehicle options. Since used cars are cheaper, your monthly payments will be more manageable. Pre-owned Hyundai vehicles provide similar function and enjoyment as new models at a friendlier price point. Instead of breaking the bank on a new car, buy used and enjoy these and more benefits. Swing by Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith to check out our inventory of used vehicles.

Image via Shutterstock Did you know that your vehicle's catalytic converter plays a crucial role in converting unburned fuel and nitrogen oxide into less harmful substances? It then releases safer emissions through the exhaust. When the converter malfunctions, it can significantly affect your vehicle's gas mileage and performance. Below are ways to tell when you need car maintenance and a new converter installed to ensure your vehicle performs optimally. more Illuminated Check Engine Light If your car's converter malfunctions, the oxygen sensors in your vehicle will detect that the exhaust gases are not adequately catalyzed. This will cause the check engine light on your dashboard to go on. Call us as soon as possible when you see the check engine light is on to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Sulfurous Odor During the combustion process, the sulfur present in the fuel transforms into hydrogen sulfide. The converter then converts the hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide, an odorless gas. When the converter fails to do its job correctly, it won't convert all the gas, resulting in the emission of an unpleasant sulfurous odor from the exhaust similar to the smell of rotten eggs. Poor Acceleration A converter is a metal container between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. The converter contains a honeycomb mesh. Over time, the mesh can get clogged with carbon buildup. It can also get damaged when the heat from unburned fuel melts it. When there is a blockage, it will restrict the exhaust flow, making your car feel slow and sluggish when you step on the gas pedal. Increased Fuel Consumption When the converter is not working correctly, you may notice that your car is consuming more gas than usual. The problem could be an obstruction due to blockage preventing exhaust flow, causing you to stop at the gas station to fill up more often. Rattling Noises Over time, the mesh inside the converter's container begins to deteriorate due to excessive heat or damage. When the mesh breaks down, it will start to make noises. You will hear rattling when driving, especially when your car idles. Stalls and Hard Starts If you hear rattling noises from under your car, and the converter causes it, replacing it as soon as possible is best. When the mesh inside the converter breaks up, it can make its way into the muffler and cause severe damage. Once the material enters the muffler, you may struggle with stalling and difficulty starting your car. Typically, a converter's lifespan is around 100,000 miles or a decade. A malfunctioning converter can cause frustrating car problems. However, if you notice symptoms of a faulty converter, there's no need to worry. Call Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith now to schedule an expert replacement and make all your vehicle problems a thing of the past.

Image via Shutterstock Are you in the market for a used car in Fort Smith, AR? If so, consider getting an auto loan instead of paying all cash. Used car financing opens up many possibilities that can benefit you in the long run and enhance your car ownership experience. more 1. Better Car Options With an all-cash car purchase, you are limited by your budget and financial capabilities. This means you may end up buying a car that doesn't have all the features you'd like. Car financing allows you to afford a better vehicle that meets all your needs. With financing, there are a lot of options to choose from because you don't have to worry about incurring huge upfront costs. You can choose a higher trim level with more features, splurge on advanced tech packages, or even afford a newer model year of your preferred vehicle. Instead of settling for basic features, you have more options thanks to used vehicle financing. 2. No Worries About Financial Constraints Paying the full amount in cash for a used vehicle usually means using up all or most of your savings. While this may seem like a good idea, it leaves you vulnerable if other expenses come up. With financing, you can put some money down while taking out a loan for the remainder. This allows you to keep more savings available for other needs. You don't have to worry about draining your accounts to afford a car. 3. Flexible Payment Plans The beauty of financing is that you can negotiate the terms based on your credit and budget. You can choose your preferred loan term, especially if you are buying a newer used car. You also get to tailor the loan amount, down payment, and monthly payments to suit your situation. If you have good credit, you will qualify for lower interest rates and a smaller down payment on the purchase. 4. Easy Installments Since used cars cost less than new ones, the monthly payments are more manageable as well. Financing a used car allows you to afford monthly payments comfortably without breaking the bank. This gives you peace of mind to cover your other basic needs and luxuries without worrying about your monthly car payments. 5. Chance to Build or Repair Credit Financing a used car allows you to build your credit or repair bad credit. When you make consistent, on-time payments, it shows lenders that you are reliable and lowers your risk profile. This can lead to better interest rates on future auto loans and other financing needs. On the other hand, paying for a used car in cash denies you the opportunity to build your credit score. Car financing on used vehicles has numerous benefits over cash purchases. If you are in the market for a used car, stop by Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith to explore our extensive used car inventory and discuss your financing options with our finance team.

Image via Pixabay At Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AR, we can tell you that car maintenance is the key to a smooth and safe driving experience. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, life has other plans, and we find ourselves dealing with an unexpected flat tire. more 1. Safety First Before anything else, ensure you're in a safe location. If you're on a busy road, pull off to the side or into a parking lot. Switch on your hazard lights and make sure your parking brake is engaged. 2. Gather Necessary Tools Before you can change your tire, you'll need a few essential tools. These include a car jack, a lug wrench, and of course, a spare tire. Most cars come equipped with these tools in the trunk, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with their location in advance. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before you lift the car, use your lug wrench to slightly loosen each lug nut on the flat. Turn the lug wrench counterclockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts entirely yet. 4. Position and Raise the Car Jack Place the jack under the car's frame close to the tire. Ensure the jack is on a firm and stable surface. Raise the car slowly until the tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is steady before proceeding. 5. Remove the Tire Now, remove the lug nuts completely and set them aside in a place where they won't roll away. Once done, grip the tire by its treads and pull it towards you until it's free from the hub. 6. Mount the Spare Tire Align the holes of the spare tire with the lug bolt posts on the hub. Push the spare onto the hub until you can see the lug bolts through the rim's holes. 7. Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts Start by screwing the lug nuts back on by hand. Ensure they're as tight as possible without using the wrench. This will ensure the tire is properly seated. 8. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Using the car jack, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once the car is securely on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut in a crisscross pattern. Make sure they're as tight as possible to ensure safe driving. Get Regular Car Maintenance in Fort Smith, AR to Avoid a Flat Well, it's impossible to guarantee that you'll never experience a flat, you have a much better chance of avoiding one if you get regular maintenance at the dealership. This maintenance will include inspections of the tire and tire rotations to help you have a better chance of avoiding a flat. Remember that regular tire maintenance and inspections are your best defense against unexpected flats or blowouts. Whether you need some maintenance or have just had a flat, bring your car to us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith for expert care.

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.