Fort Smith National Historic Site

Fort Smith National Historic Site embraces the remains of two frontier forts and the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Commemorating a significant phase of America's westward expansion, it stands today as a reminder of 80 turbulent years in the history of Federal Indian Policy.

The main entrance to the Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Barracks/Courthouse/Jail building. Exhibits in the visitor center focus on Fort Smith(e2)(80)(997320)military history from 1817 (e2)(80)(932031)871, Judge Isaac C. Parker and the Federal court(e2)(80)(997320)impact on Indian Territory, U.S. Deputy Marshals and outlaws, Federal Indian policy, and Indian Removal including the Trail of Tears. (e2)(80)(9c48616e)ging Judge(e2)(80)(9d205061)rker(e2)(80)(997320)courtroom has been restored with reproduction 1880s court furnishings. The original (e2)(80)(9c48656c)l on the Border(e2)(80)(9d206a61)il located beneath the courthouse and used from 1871-1889 has been restored. In the main exhibit area, a partial, full-sized replica of the 1890s jail interior has been built using the original historic blueprints.
Several audio/visual programs are featured in the visitor center. The park(e2)(80)(997320)15 - minute orientation film is shown in the first floor theatre. A 15 - minute film about the deputy marshals who served Judge Parker's court can be viewed in one of the recreated jail cells. Three video stations provide opportunities for visitors to hear Native American perspectives on the Trail of Tears, Indian Territory, and traditional culture.

P.O. Box 1406
Fort Smith, AR 72902
479-783-3961 - Visitor Information
479-494-0408 - Bookstore

By Plane
Fort Smith is serviced by the Fort Smith Regional Airport. Direct flights are available to Fort Smith from Memphis, and Dallas-Fort Worth. From the Regional Airport follow Interstate 540 to the Rogers exit, and follow Rogers Avenue to the Downtown area.

By Car
From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland, and drive six miles on highway 64.
From Interstate 40 Westbound:
From Interstate 540 & Fayetteville:
Access by Interstate Highway 40 to U.S 64 and Interstate Highway 540 to Highway 22.
In the downtown area:
On Garrison Ave turn south at Fourth street. Stay on fourth for three blocks and turn right onto Garland Ave. At the end of the next block is the entrance to the main parking lot. Parking is also available on Third street.

By Plane
A taxi service is available in the Fort Smith area.
The City of Fort Smith operates a Trolley bus that visits all museums and attrations in the downtown area. The trolley bus starts from the city's visitor information center.

Getting Around
Maintained trails lead visitors through this urban park. A trail also leads to the site of the first fort and along the Arkansas River. The main entrance to the Visitor Center is located on the south end of the Barracks/Courthouse/Jail building.

Summers are hot and humid. Winters are mild with periodic rain or snow. Wear comfortable clothing with walking shoes. Make sure to drink plenty of water on hot summer days.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Educational Programs
• Wildlife Viewing
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks

Recommended Activities
Sightseeing at the various historic areas within the park grounds, visiting the site of the first fort, walking the river trail to the Trail of Tears overlook, and viewing the exhibits in the visitor center.