Fort Smith became a city in 1842, although its roots can be traced back to when it was established as a military post on the banks of the Arkansas River in 1817. The region’s role as the gateway to the American West inspired the Western novel and film True Grit. Today, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that nearly 90,000 people live in the growing city. “There’s a very welcoming, very strong sense of community here,” says Josh Buchfink, public relations manager of the City of Fort Smith. Downtown Fort Smith is a snapshot of how the city blends its history with its changing environment. Bars, boutiques and restaurants along Garrison Avenue inhabit reb brick former factories from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The street is anchored by the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, which was built in 1899 and is one of the many houses of worship in the city.
Several private sectors, including ArcBest and Bachoco USA, have headquarters in the city. Other major employers include Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and Baptist Health, Fort Smith Public Schools and the City of Fort Smith. The city’s economic growth is bolstered by the decision to make the Ebbing Air National Guard the primary training location for F-35 pilots from the U.S. and allies through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. “The federal government estimates it can have up to a $1 billion impact,” says Bill Word, longtime resident and Fort Smith Historical Society president.
ArcBest is a major distributor in Fort Smith.
Downtown Fort Smith offers restaurants and bars along their major thoroughfare.
There are many places for worship for the residents of Fort Smith.
There are many events in and around Fort Smith.
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Exploring Fort Smith’s history and the outdoors
The remnants of the original military post still stand at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, which also features the gallows from the tenure of Judge Isaac Park, also known as the “Hanging Judge.” However, this nickname was a misnomer because of the judge’s actual stance against the death penalty. “Fort Smith just has a lot of history, which I love,” says Rebecca Morter, Realtor with The Griffin Company at Weichert Realtors. The city’s extensive history can be further explored at the Fort Smith Museum of History. The arts are also celebrated throughout the region, with the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum and the Little Theatre, which has over 70 performances a year.
Close to 30 parks are scattered throughout the city. The train at Creekmore Park goes past tennis courts, playgrounds and open fields. Parrot Island Waterpark is on the grounds of Ben Geren Park, which also features regular and disc golf and mountain bike trails. Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center spans 170 acres of the former Fort Chafee and provides a safe space for wildlife.
The Janet Huckabee Nature Center sign welcomes visitors from all over.
The Statue at the Janet Huckabee Nature Center welcomes visitors inside.
Walk the long paved path around Creekmore Park in Fort Smith.
Visit a slice of history in Fort Smith the many museums.
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Downtown district in old factory buildings
Downtown Fort Smith is at the heart of the city, full of boutiques, independent shops, and over 30 restaurants. “We have a big sense of supporting local businesses, local restaurants,” Morter says. Local staples include Taliano’s Italian Restaurant, a family-owned establishment inside a Victorian-era mansion from 1887. Belle Starr Antiques and Vintage Market is one of the most well-known businesses, named after the Fort Smith legend and infamous outlaw. “There are books written about all kinds of things that she did, but most of them she didn’t do,” Word says. “She did allow outlaws to come on her property and rest.” The Bakery District is a recent development in the city, with co-working offices, eateries and event space. “It’s a fun place for people of all ages,” Morter says. The Fort Smith Farmer’s Market is held every Wednesday and Saturday morning from late spring through fall and only on Saturdays throughout the rest of the year.
Local businesses are scattered throughout the rest of the city, often amid residential areas like DejaVu & New in Park Hill. More shops, including big box stores like Walmart, are along Rogers Avenue. Central Mall Fort Smith has over 50 shops and restaurants.
Its just a short drive from Downtown Fort Smith to many evening activities.
21 West End offers an intimate setting for residents of Downtown Fort Smith.
The Central Mall in Fort Smith is a destination for everyones shopping needs.
Belle Starr Antiques is a popular shopping place in Fort Smith.
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River Valley events throughout the year
Residents of Fort Smith have plenty of events to attend throughout the year. Some are recurring, such as the Levitt Amp Concert Series, while others only happen once a year. Highlights include the annual Fall Festival, which draws in artists from across the River Valley, and the Peacemaker Festival, a music festival held every October. Garrison Avenue shuts down every May for the Steel Horse Rally, a charitable motorcycle event that lets bikers have control of the city. “We had fun just looking at the different motorcycles and talking with people about their own experiences and where they’re going,” says Ashleigh Bachert, executive director of Discover Fort Smith. “A lot of kids are out there, doing temporary tattoos and games and stuff like that.” All the proceeds go back into the community, benefiting organizations like the Buddy Smith Home for Veterans. Old Fort Days Rodeo draws in people from across the county for competitions in saddle and bareback riding, steer wrestling and calf roping.
Experience diverse music and culture at Levitt AMP Fort Smith Music Series.
Levitt AMP Fort Smith Music Series is free for all who attend.
The Peacemaker festival in Fort Smith attracts hundreds of attenders.
Peacemaker festival celebrates a good time for all attendees in Fort Smith.
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Homes dating back over a century
Fort Smith has a median single-family housing price of $225,000, about 45% lower than the county-wide median set by the National Association of Realtors. The May-Lecta-Sweet Historic District is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, with Victorian-era homes and Queen Annes that date back to the 1890s. Tudor-inspired cottages and Craftsman houses from the 1920s are standard in some other, more established neighborhoods like Hillcrest. Ranch styles from the mid-20th century are common throughout the rest of the city. New developments are more common farther south and west, in areas like Fianna Hills and Chaffee Crossing.
Many of the homes in Downtown Fort Smith are under renovation.
Downtown Fort Smith is lined with historical homes.
Fort Smith has many Victorian and Queen Ann homes in the historical district.
The historic district has many homes that are recently remodeled.
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Highly rated schools and post-secondary education options
The city prioritizes education, with a library and free technology just over 2 miles from every residence. Fort Smith Public Schools receives an A-minus rating from Niche and offers school choice. University of Arkansas—Fort Smith offers career-based degrees and certificate programs, while Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) focuses on medicine and wellness programs.
The Arkansas Colleges teach many further education studies in Fort Smith.
Christ the King Catholic School is a private school in Fort Smith, AR.
Immaculate Conception Elementary School is a private Catholic school in Fort Smith, AR.
St. Boniface Catholic School is a private Catholic school in Fort Smith, AR.
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Humid climate and environmental impact of Fort Smith
Fort Smith is humid for most of the year, with summers exceeding 90 degrees and winters dropping below freezing. The Federal Emergency Management Agency says that Sebastian County has a very high risk of cold waves and winter weather and a relatively moderate risk of tornadoes. While the city is on the banks of the Arkansas River, most places with higher flooding risks are not residential. The Energy & Environment Innovation Plan is one of several published efforts to improve sustainability. Proposals include expanding electric buses and public transit routes, cutting carbon emissions and introducing more solar power. According to the Fort Smith Police Department, the number of violent crime incidents was down about 3% in 2023 from the year before, while property crime incidents were about 13% lower. Overall, crime in the city has dropped about 17% over the last five years. Fort Smith’s violent and property crime rates are higher than the national average.
Major roads and alternative ways to get around
Fort Smith is largely car-dependent. Major roads include State Route 22, or Rogers Avenue, Business Route 71 and Interstate 540. Downtown Fort Smith offers free parking from November to January, making it easy to park and walk around. The Active Transportation Plan is an effort to make the city more pedestrian-friendly by improving walkways, biking and skating. “It includes greenways and different ways that people can access not just amenities but necessities,” Buchfink says. “There are a couple of projects. One that will be underway before the rest is an alleyway rehabilitation project.” The goal is to create more multimodal paths to access frequent destinations like schools and grocery stores. Fort Smith Transit has reliable buses and a trolley that runs downtown. Fort Smith Regional Airport only offers flights to Dallas-Fort Worth International.
The bus system is Fort Smith allows many local travelers easy access to transportation.
Garrison Road is the main thoroughfare in Fort Smith.
Rogers Blvd runs along the middle of Massard in Fort Smith.
The public transportation runs through the main sections of Fort Smith.
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Written By
Zia Sampson
Photography Contributed By
Justin Prokop
Video By
Sara Warthen
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Fort Smith, AR sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Fort Smith, AR over the last 12 months is $225,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Perfectly positioned at the end of a cul-de-sac with sweeping farmland and mountain views, this Blackstone Ranch home is truly something special.Beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Blackstone Ranch subdivision on the south end. Enjoy breathtaking views from the windows and the generously sized covered patio and grilling area, where the property backs
Well-maintained home with a brand-new roof. Gutters have been cleaned, bushes trimmed, and the yard and pond have been cleaned up.This home features a rock and brick exterior, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an office, and a formal dining room. The kitchen is enhanced by granite countertops, which offer durability, helps with heat and stain resistance. Custom, matching cabinets are
Beautifully remodeled home offering modern upgrades throughout. This inviting property features an over-sized living room, perfect for relaxing or entertaining, along with a formal dining room complemented by a generously sized pantry or can easily be converted back to the 3rd bedroom and closet it was originally; seller can add wall before closing. Major updates include a new roof and water
Timeless sophistication awaits you on the Historic Free Ferry Road in Fort Smith, Arkansas!! Designed for effortless entertaining, the home features a spacious living room with a classic fireplace, an inviting dining room, a wet bar, and a charming sitting area—perfect for gatherings large or small.The expansive kitchen offers abundant workspace for the chef at heart, with plenty of room for
Adorably updated 4 bedroom home with 2 full bathrooms and a fenced backyard. Situated on a cul de sac just minutes from shopping, schools and restaurants and a split floor plan you'll love! Light and bright with fresh paint, some new lighting and a great kitchen with butcher block countertops, stainless appliances and backyard access. Wood look ceramic tile, durable vinyl and newer carpet in
Modern Elegance in One of Fort Smith’s Most Sought-After Locations Step into contemporary luxury with this beautifully designed 2022-built residence offering over 2,000 sq. ft. of thoughtfully curated living space. Situated in one of the most sought-after and popular neighborhoods in Fort Smith, this home delivers exceptional comfort, convenience, and modern appeal. The spacious open-concept
Move-in ready! This charming home 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, formal dining, eat-in kitchen, and huge living area with a built-in bookshelf and fireplace. This home is perfect for entertaining. Relax on the covered front and back porches. 2,166 sq ft of comfort! Don’t miss out—schedule your tour today!
Calling on investors, both seasoned and beginners. Discover the charm of classic architecture in this beautifully maintained duplex with gorgeous old-style appeal. This spacious unit features gleaming hardwood floors throughout (Unit 702), a bright and generous living room, and a formal dining room perfect for entertaining or creating a dedicated workspace. Unit 700 has newly installed LVP and
Looking for a lot in fort smith surrounded by beautiful trees for building your dream home? Then this is the property for you! Located just minutes from Martin Luther King Park, Howard elementary with many shops and restaurants nearby.
Back on market through no fault of the seller. Beautiful, well-maintained home on 4.16 flat, cleared acres just 5 minutes from UA Fort Smith! This spacious property features a HUGE upstairs bonus room spanning the length of the house, perfect for a game room, studio, or extra living space. Enjoy both formal and informal living areas, plus a large kitchen and main-level bedrooms. Washer, dryer,
Welcome to this delightful split-level home nestled in an established neighborhood just off of Country Club in Fort Smith filled with mature trees and well-kept homes. Enjoy the benefits of living close to desirable schools, parks, shopping, and easy access to Interstate 540. This home features updates throughout, including fresh paint, modern lighting, wood LVP, stylish hardware, granite and
Perfectly positioned at the end of a cul-de-sac with sweeping farmland and mountain views, this Blackstone Ranch home is truly something special.Beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Blackstone Ranch subdivision on the south end. Enjoy breathtaking views from the windows and the generously sized covered patio and grilling area, where the property backs
Welcome to this stately Southern Living–style home, complete with a grand front porch!Nestled among mature trees, this property offers a sense of peace and seclusion — a true private retreat and personal oasis. Home as a generator Inside, new herringbone wood floors grace the primary suite and the upstairs landing, adding timeless elegance. The primary suite is conveniently located on the
Prime South Hwy 71 frontage in Fort Smith, 0.64 acres with approx. 270’ of highway frontage and outstanding visibility for a wide range of commercial uses. Zoned C-5 Heavy Commercial, this site is well-suited for automotive-related, service, retail, and select light-industrial operations (buyer to verify permitted uses). Utilities are available at the street, with paved access and an existing
This stunning home on Cliff Drive in Fort Smith, AR, offers breathtaking views overlooking the lush landscape near Hardscrabble Country Club. Elevated for maximum scenery, the home is thoughtfully designed to take full advantage of its surroundings — stairs both in and out that come with the territory when you're perched directly across from one of the most scenic spots in town. Built with
4 bed and 4 bath with two sets of washer and dryers! Come tour these newer units and you will fall in love with the open floor concept and ample space!
Walking distance to UAFS. Ask about our Utility packagae that is avaiilable Upscale 4 bedroom, 4 bath units. Great for Corporate leasing or travel nurses. 2 Washer and Dryer sets in each unit.
Elegant 3-Bedroom Home in a Prime Yet Peaceful LocationWelcome to this beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering comfort, style, and convenience. Thoughtfully appointed with modern light fixtures and high ceilings, the open and airy layout creates an inviting atmosphere throughout.The kitchen features a spacious six-seater breakfast bar, perfect for casual dining and
Well-Maintained Duplex in a Convenient LocationThis well-cared-for duplex offers comfortable and functional living with 2 bedrooms plus a bonus room, ideal for a home office, nursery, or flex space. The home features 2 full bathrooms, including one with a tub and the other with a walk-in shower, providing convenience and privacy. Designed with an open floor plan, the property includes formal
Welcome to Maple Park at Riley Farm, a gated community in Fort Smith, AR, offering modern duplex living with top-notch amenities. Each unit features solid surface countertops, new plank flooring, and a walk-in shower for added luxury. Stay connected with smart home technology and enjoy the convenience of a washer/dryer hookup in every unit. Our pet-friendly community includes a pet play area for
Welcome to this Newly Updated spacious and charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the vibrant city of Fort Smith, AR. This property boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. The home features washer and dryer connections for your convenience. The spacious 2-car garage provides ample space for your vehicles or additional storage. The living room is accentuated
Welcome to Kinkead Corner, your new home in the heart of Fort Smith, AR. Our community in the near future will offer a variety of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. Future Amenities will include a fitness center, dog park, outdoor community space, Wi-Fi resident workspace, resident clubhouse, modern landscape. For our younger residents, we have a fun-filled playground that
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in the Fianna hills subdivision of Fort Smith, AR.. This property boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. The home features a formal dining room, perfect for hosting dinner parties or enjoying a family meal. The kitchen is equipped with a range/cooktop and a dishwasher, making meal prep and clean-up a
Experience the newly unveiled Phase Two at Lofts on Park! Our lofts and townhomes are sleek, modern retreats featuring white granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood-style flooring.
Nicely furnished, utilities paid! Excellent updates & fully furnished on a quiet cul-de-sac. Non-smoking, no pets. Will consider executive short-term lease. This rental is perfect for travel nurses, executive stays, etc.
Charlotte KingWeichert, REALTORS® - The Griffin Company
Welcome to University Park Place! Park Place is THE, pet-friendly premier student housing in Fort Smith for UAFS students.We offer fully furnished 4 bed 4 bath townhomes where you or your student gets:- Private bedroom-Private Bathroom-In-unit washer/dryers (2)-Unbeatable pricesOur property features FULLY FURNISHED 4 bedroom 4 bath layouts, equipped with un-matched
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