Fort Smith Winter Meet – Pierce-Arrow Society

Join us February 20-23, for an unforgettable trip through Fort Smith, Arkansas, and the breathtaking landscapes of Northwest Arkansas! Here’s what awaits…

THURSDAY – Arrival & Welcome Party
Kick off the weekend in style with a warm welcome reception, setting the stage for an adventure-rich getaway.

FRIDAY – Dive into History
Explore the newly opened US Marshals Museum and step back in time at Ft. Smith National Historic Site with a visit to Judge Isaac Parker’s courthouse, the historic jail, and the famous outdoor gallows. Next, tour Miss Laura’s House, an iconic landmark, before visiting the Fort Smith City Museum and the charming Trolley Museum. Wrap up with a trolley ride (if in operation) and a self-guided dinner at Doe’s Eat Place, a Southern dining institution.

SATURDAY – Scenic Convoy through NW Arkansas
Embark on an automobile convoy through scenic countryside to Paris, Arkansas, and marvel at the views from Mount Magazine State Park, the highest point in the US interior highlands. Enjoy lunch at the Skyview Restaurant and take in Arkansas’s natural beauty. In the afternoon, continue to Petit Jean Mountain State Park and visit the renowned Museum of Automobiles, housing a collection built by Winthrop Rockefeller in the 1960s.

SUNDAY – Historic Highlights, Board Meeting & Farewell Banquet
Enjoy some local shopping, visit the historic Clayton House in the Belle Grove District, and gather for a farewell banquet—a perfect end to a weekend of exploration and camaraderie.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with friends, explore unique Arkansas history, and take in some of the state’s most scenic spots. Make your plans to join in the fun today!

Fort Smith National Historic Site

At Fort Smith National Historic Site you can walk where Mexican War & Civil War soldiers drilled, pause along the Trail of Tears, and stand where justice was served to some of the most vile outlaws of The Wild West. The park includes:

Belle Point (Site of First Fort Smith): Established in 1817 at an area overlooking the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers that had been named Belle Point, French for “beautiful place,” by 18th-century French fur trappers. Visitors will enjoy a scenic view of the two rivers and are able to walk the foundation remains of the first Fort Smith (1817-1824).

Trail of Tears Overlook: Walk along the mighty Arkansas River and enjoy exhibit panels that tell the story of the five civilized tribes that were forcibly removed to Indian Territory. The 3/4 mile paved walking trail begins from the parking lot and follows along the Arkansas River to Belle Point.

Commissary, Fort Smith Gallows & Second Fort Smith Grounds: The oldest building still standing in Fort Smith is the Commissary. During the federal court period, Judge Parker’s chambers were located upstairs. Today, you can visit it as it looked in the 1850s when it supplied military troops with food items. On the grounds of the park, you can also see a replica of the Fort Smith Gallows where a surprisingly large number of Wild West outlaws met their fate at the end of a rope.

Visitor Center – Historic Barracks/Courthouse/Jail Buildings: The Visitor Center is located in the historic barracks/courthouse/jail building. The barracks was built by the army in 1851 and converted into a courthouse and jail in 1872 by the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. In 1888 a new jail building was built adjacent to the barracks/courthouse. Visitors touring these buildings can see Judge Parker’s restored courtroom, the “Hell on the Border” jail, a partial reconstruction of the jail cells, as well as exhibits and videos on military history, Native Americans, the Trail of Tears, the operation of the federal court and its impact on Indian Territory, and U.S. Deputy Marshals and outlaws.

US Marshals Museum

Since 1789, Federal Marshals have served our country, in critical but often unseen ways. Marshals have played a critical, ever-evolving role in upholding the Rule of Law, driven by justice, integrity and service. These men and women have served bravely – often unrecognized, behind the scenes – for nearly 235 years. But at the U.S. Marshals Museum, you’ll see how much more there is to their story. Fugitive investigation and capture – the Most Wanted criminals – witness protection – extradition. You’ll discover the Marshals way of thinking and the principles that are at the core of all they do.

Miss Laura's House

Miss Laura’s Victorian mansion is a prominent symbol of this once boisterous border town’s very colorful past! “Miss Laura’s Social Club,” is located inside of Fort Smith’s historic downtown area and sits alongside the Arkansas River.

Out of seven “row houses” that lined Fort Smith’s Old West red light district, Miss Laura’s is the only house of ill-repute that stood the test of time. Now, it is the only former bordello on the National Register of Historic Places, and it has been fully restored to its original grandeur.

Street Car Museum

Welcome to the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, where history and fun come alive! We offer delightful trolley rides through historic Fort Smith, providing an engaging journey back in time. Our extensive rail museum showcases vintage locomotives and fascinating exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. Don’t miss meeting our friendly trolley cats, who add a charming and unique touch to your museum experience!

Mount Magazine State Park

Mount Magazine, is Arkansas’ highest point at 2,753 feet. People come for the sweeping views alone, but there is much to see and do from this unique spot. Mount Magazine State Park is a place of relaxation, exploration, nature study, and is within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests.

We’ll enjoy delicious Southern fare for lunch at their Skycrest Restaurant where you take in the breathtaking view of the Petit Jean River Valley and distant Blue Mountain Lake. Here in the Named for the first hotel that long ago graced the top of 2,753-foot Mount Magazine, tall timbers and an impressive two-story fireplace reflect the “parkitecture” style of the 1930s. Hickory furniture completes the rustic warmth of this mountain lodge’s dining room.

Fort Smith Museum of History

The Fort Smith Museum of History strives to preserve approximately 40,000 artifacts chronicling the city’s and surrounding region’s history. Exhibits include the first floor timeline that carries visitors through growth and development of the city that grew around the 1817 military fort. The William O. Darby Memorial Room tells the story of the founder of Darby’s Rangers in World War II, today’s Army Rangers. William Orlando Darby was born in Fort Smith in 1910, graduated from Fort Smith High School and attended West Point. The second floor offers “In the Shadow of the Gallows”, which includes furnishings from the 6th Street court of Judge Isaac C. Parker among other important exhibits about this historic area.

Delight in Downtown Fort Smith

Pet-friendly hotel in the heart of the entertainment district

You’ll be steps from the city’s best bars, music venues, and restaurants with a stay at Wyndham Fort Smith City Center, conveniently attached to the Fort Smith Convention Center and ArcBest Corporation Performing Arts Center. Easily visit landmarks like the Fort Smith National Historic Site and Chaffee Barbershop Museum, tour the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith® campus, or peruse the Fort Smith Farmer’s Market for local treats. This contemporary, non-smoking hotel will help you recharge with fantastic amenities like a heated indoor pool, sundeck, and fitness center. Grab a bite at our on-site restaurant, 1817 Grille, or a cocktail at our bar, Tap Rom, before retiring to one of their 255 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, featuring great views of the Arkansas River or city skyline. Stay connected with free WiFi and a business center, take advantage of free parking for vehicles of all sizes, and bring along your pet for an extra fee.