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's military history from 1817 - 1871, Judge Isaac C. Parker and the federal court's impact on Indian Territory, U.S. Deputy Marshals and outlaws, Federal Indian policy, and Indian Removal including the Trail of Tears.

 Directions 

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.

Car - From Interstate 40 Eastbound: Exit at Roland, and drive six miles on highway 64 to downtown Fort Smith.

From Interstate 40 Westbound & from North I 540 & Fayetteville, take Interstate 40 westbound to I 540 south. Exit west on Rogers Ave. and continue to downtown.

In the downtown area: On Rogers or Garrison Ave turn south at 4th St. 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.


Public Transportation - 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.