Statue at U.S. Marshals Museum
Statue at U.S. Marshals Museum

Gallery: History, Art, Culture in Fort Smith

A Celebration of Past & Present: Explore Fort Smith’s rich history, art, and culture.

Discover Fort Smith

Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or someone who loves to immerse themselves in local culture, Fort Smith has it all and then some.

In the frontier days, Fort Smith was a rugged outpost on the edge of the Wild West. Today, visitors can explore these origins at places like the Fort Smith National Historic Site and other interactive, family-friendly museums — all capturing the city’s unique role in American history.

Beyond its storied past, Fort Smith has emerged as a vibrant cultural destination. The city’s thriving arts scene is showcased in The Unexpected murals project, where large-scale street art transforms buildings into breathtaking works of creativity. The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum highlights both local and international artists, offering a diverse, rotating collection of exhibitions.

Live music, theater performances and cultural festivals bring Fort Smith’s creative energy to life. The city hosts events year-round that celebrate its heritage and diversity, including the Old Fort Days Rodeo and the Peacemaker Music Festival. 

Whether you’re exploring history, admiring world-class street art or rocking out to live music, Fort Smith offers an enriching and inspiring experience to all ages!

U.S. Marshals Museum
Statue at U.S. Marshals Museum
Exhibit inside U.S. Marshals Museum
U.S. Marshals badge
Sunshine behind the horse statue
tombstone
Exterior of Clayton House
Inside an historic home

People in Museum

Outside Miss Laura's

statue
tombstone

Statue of Bass Reeves

Statue

Statue of a man reading a book
trolley and statue
Trolley driver waving
Inside an historic home with people in the room
Historic wagon and home
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Museum exhibit
Inside a room at historic home
Exhibit at a museum
Statue of a woman
Mural of cowboys
Colorful abstract mural

Regional art museum

Massive Arrow sculpture

Statue with fireworks in background
Riverfront park

Mural and Ferris Wheel

Mural on silos