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
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Video By
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On average, homes in Fort Smith, AR sell after 79 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 $230,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located in a highly desired area within the award-winning Greenwood School District, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers space and function in all the right ways! The spacious kitchen is anchored by a generous butler’s pantry, delivering exceptional storage and a layout that works beautifully for both daily life and entertaining.The primary suite is a true standout, featuring a spacious
Completely transformed and thoughtfully updated from top to bottom, this Eastgate home offers over 3,300 sq. ft. of upscale living with unmatched curb appeal in a prime location just minutes from I-40, Mercy Hospital, and Euper Lane Elementary School! Make a striking first impression with a modern front entry, updated garage door, new architectural shingle roof, gutters, and new vinyl tilt-in
Jennifer SchmidtWeichert, REALTORS® - The Griffin Company
Move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a 1-car carport and numerous updates. Features include luxury vinyl flooring throughout, granite countertops, new windows, new HVAC, and complete home rewiring. Home has extra office/living space. Enjoy the new deck overlooking the fenced backyard, plus a storage building and extra storage under carport.
Welcome to this beautifully updated home in the heart of Fort Smith, where modern style meets everyday comfort. Filled with abundant natural light, this exceptional residence offers a thoughtfully designed floor plan with three spacious bedrooms on the main level, each featuring its own private full bathroom, plus an additional half bath for guests. The expansive living and dining areas provide
Back on market, no fault of sellers. Tucked away in the beautiful Canterbury Cove subdivision, this beautifully updated 2,860 sq. ft. home is the perfect blend of privacy, convenience, and peace of mind. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a primary suite on the main level, this home has the space and layout that most buyers just dream about.The spacious second living area offers endless
Welcome to 6912 Duncan Circle, Fort SmithExperience luxury living in this custom-built, one-of-a-kind 5-bedroom, 4-bath home, perfectly situated near Carol Ann Cross Park, Mercy Hospital, and top shopping and dining spots. Every detail of this residence exudes quality and comfort, from the soaring ceilings to the exquisite custom cabinetry found throughout.Step into the grand living room,
Great location on Hwy 271 ready for development with utilities at street/onsite. Zoned for commercial and close to residential neighborhoods, this piece of land is flexible enough to be developed into multifamily or commercial storefront. Can be purchased with MLS #1090820
Fantastic cul-de-sac home boasting spacious rooms and a large privacy-fenced yard. This three bedroom, two and half bath home features a formal dining area, gas fireplace, large deck and storage building. You'll enjoy the shaded backyard and the brick sidewalk that takes you from gate to deck to gate. Additional amenities include tiled walk-in shower, built-in bookcases, washer and dryer, and
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4,438 sq ft home in the desirable Eastgate subdivision. This home features three spacious living areas, a formal dining room, 4 oversized bedrooms, and three additional bonus rooms ready to become a home office, fitness room, playroom, or storage area that every homeowner appreciates. This house has so much charm and style with butcher block countertops, newer
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
Welcome to Shire Glen at Chaffee Crossing! This new construction home is currently under construction and is planned to offer 2,224 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a spacious 2-car garage. The proposed open-concept floor plan is designed to provide a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating a functional layout
Don't miss this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in a convenient central location! Offering a flexible floor plan, the home features a comfortable living room, spacious family room, and a bonus room that can easily serve as a home office, playroom, media room, or hobby space.The updated kitchen and bathrooms, along with fresh paint throughout, give the home a fresh, move-in-ready feel,
Built in 1890 and conveniently located on two lots in the heart of Fort Smith's Belle Grove Historic District, this historic home is ready for its next chapter. Bursting with character, timeless architectural details, and undeniable charm, this property offers an incredible opportunity for someone with vision and a passion for restoration.This is not a move in ready home, it needs significant
Great home in town with three beds, two baths and lots of room for your family! Enjoy life in this great subdivision, near to schools, shopping, doctors and everything you need! This updated home has a new roof put on in 2025, a dine-in kitchen, a combo pantry and laundry room, a living room with new flooring and a wood burning insert to enjoy those cool nights. The large primary suite is updated
Move-in Ready! Gorgeous 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom all-electric home featuring a split floor plan and modern comfort throughout. Enjoy a bright, spacious layout in a strategic location close to shopping, dining, schools, and major conveniences. Offered at a bargain price of $1,400/month with $1,100 deposit. We are pet friendly (no vicious breeds permitted).Renter’s insurance required.
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
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!
Welcome to Prairie at Chaffee Crossing in Barling, AR! Our community offers a clubhouse for residents to gather and socialize, a fitness center to stay active, and a pavilion for outdoor relaxation. With EV plug-ins available, residents can easily charge their electric vehicles. Enjoy the warm weather at our swimming pool or take advantage of covered parking for added convenience. Our apartments
3BR • 2BA • 2 Car Garage • Cathedral Ceilings • Great LocationWelcome to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home built in 2010, offering an inviting layout with cathedral ceilings and a bright, open feel throughout. The welcoming foyer leads into a spacious living area that flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining spaces. Interior Features includes: Open living area
Kinkead Corner in Fort Smith, AR offers thoughtfully updated apartment options with upgraded units available and newly renovated units coming soon. Residents can manage account details through an online resident portal and rely on 24-hour emergency maintenance for urgent needs. The community includes an on-site office, a laundry facility, and an outdoor playground. Conveniently located in Fort
The Landing at 66th & Boston. 9 Brand New Units• 2 Levels• 2BR• 2.5BA• Modern Finishes •Unbeatable Location.Welcome to The Landing at 66th & Boston, Fort Smith’s newest, freshest, and walkable duplex community. With 9 brand new units to choose from, you can select the layout and location that fits your lifestyle perfectly.Each home is thoughtfully designed across two spacious levels, featuring 2
Lofts on Park in Fort Smith, AR offers newly updated apartments featuring new appliances, new flooring, and modern fixtures and faucets throughout. Each unit showcases updated, modern interiors designed for contemporary living, combining fresh finishes and thoughtful details for a clean, streamlined look. Located in Fort Smith, Lofts on Park provides a move-in-ready option with recent upgrades
Beautifully maintained home located in one of the most sought after and fastest growing areas of Fort Smith. This peaceful, well kept community offers modern homes, quiet streets, and unbeatable convenience. Step inside to a bright, airy interior with an open flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Natural light fills the home, highlighting clean lines, neutral tones, and a
Welcome to Brookstone Place in Fort Smith, AR! This charming apartment offers 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, perfect for those seeking a comfortable living space. The full kitchen is ideal for preparing meals and entertaining guests, while the back porch provides a relaxing outdoor space to unwind. Located in a great area, residents will have easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment
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