Attractions

Western Arkansas’ Mountain Frontier is home to unique attractions in cities and towns throughout the region. Below are your best bets for family fun. For museums and historical sites, browse the History section. Art galleries and theaters can be found under Arts.

Alma

Alma Aquatic Park

Open Memorial Day-Labor Day. Slides, diving boards, a large swimming area, covered wading pool, water play area and walking trail. Adjacent park has a picnic area and fire truck play station for young children. Also features 18-basket, professionally designed flying disc course.

Alma Lake

Located north of Alma Aquatic Park. Floating pier, walking trails and disc golf.

Alma Performing Arts Center

Brings live art to the Alma area by booking top name artists and performances. The center is available to organizations by reservation. (479) 632-2120; www.almapac.org.

Eagle Crest Golf Course

Eagle Crest is an 18-hole, daily fee course with an excellent driving range. It is a member of The Natural State Golf Trail, which highlights the finest 12 courses in Arkansas. 3926 Golf Course Dr.; (479) 632-8857.

Farmers Market

Locally grown fruits and vegetables, handmade crafts and more. Located in downtown Alma. Open Sat. 7 a.m.-1 p.m., May-October

Popeye Park

Features a new Popeye statue, water display, three gazebos and beautiful walkways among the flowers and shrubs. Located in downtown Alma.

Altus

Altus Heritage House Museum

Original German-American Bank, circa 1800s, features early coal mining equipment, plus local history.

Altus Veterans Memorial

26-foot wide, eight-sided memorial of black granite located in Altus City Park includes space for the names of more than 3,000 veterans of U.S. military service from Franklin County and outlying areas.

Chateau Aux Arc Vineyards and Winery

World’s largest planter of Cynthiana grapes and the largest Zinfandel planter in Arkansas. Open daily; offers wine tastings. Includes RV park and campgrounds. 8045 Ark. 186; (479) 468-4400.

Coal Miner's Statue & Memorial

Dedicated in October 1998, this site honors coal miners of District 21 in Franklin, Johnson and Logan Counties.

Dionysus Wine & Brew

A locally owned and operated boutique winery nestled in the breathtaking Ozark Mountains. Gift shop and tasting room on-site with home brew kits, brewing supplies and Dionysus’ own craft brews available soon. Primitive or self-sustained camping and one yurt rental on site. Hosting parties and special events. (479) 209-1234; DionysusWineBrew@gmail.com.

Mount Bethel Vineyards & Winery

Original 1880 homestead includes historic handdug wine cellar. Free tasting from a selection of classic dry varietals to sweet muscadines and fruit wines. Tasting room and gift shop open year-round; Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., Noon-5 p.m. 5014 Mount Bethel Dr.; (479) 468-2444.

Post Winery

Founded in 1880, free tastings and tours from one of Arkansas’ largest selection of wines, including classics such as Chardonnay, many regional

varietals and muscadine. Food and service available from the Trellis Room. Large gift shop. Open year-round Mon.- Thur. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.- 6 p.m., Sun. Noon-5 p.m. Winter hours vary. For events and menus, see our Facebook page: The Trellis Room at Post Winery. 1700 St. Mary’s Mountain Rd.; (479) 468-2741; www.postwinery.com

Scenic Highway 186

Off 1-40, this scenic highway travels through Arkansas Wine Country with a gorgeous overlook on St. Mary's Mountain before connecting with US 64 in Altus.

St. Mary's Catholic Church

Beautiful 1902 Roman Basilical style church known for its paintings and ornate goldleaf work. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Half-million-dollar renovation completed in 1999.

St. Mary's Mountain

Take Altus exit 41 off 1-40 to Hwy 186 for a drive past vineyards, wineries and St. Mary's historic church. Take in the views of Mount Magazine, the state's highest point.

Booneville

Blue Mountain Lake

A favorite spot for fishing and water sports. Five Corps of Engineers recreation and camping sites around the lake. 17 miles east of Booneville on Hwy 10.

Blue Mountain Wildlife Management Demonstration Area

Headquarters for Sporting Dog Championship Field Trials held each year March- December, including the National German Shorthaired Association in early March, the Irish Setter Club of America National Field Championship in late October, the Southland Pointer Field Trial Championship in early November and the American Brittany Club National Field Trials in late November.

Booneville City Library

(General John Paul McConnell Memorabilia Room). Displays of mementos of Booneville native John Paul McConnell, Air Force Chief of Staff from 1965 to 1969. Collection includes medals, photos and other souvenirs.

Knoppers Ford Recreation Area

Beautiful bluffs, picnic and camping sites, and Sugar Creek Equestrian Trail. About 12 miles south of Booneville in the Ouachita National Forest.

Petit Jean River

Located south of Booneville, the beautiful Petit Jean River is home to great fishing and canoeing.

Scenic Byway 10

This stretch begins in Ola, travels through Magazine and Booneville northwest to Oklahoma. West of Greenwood is known as the Sugar Loaf Mountain Scenic Byway.

Scenic Highway 23

A National Scenic Byway, known as The Pig Trail connecting from Scenic Byway 71 south of Booneville, north from Ozark, to AR 16.

Charleston

Charleston Lake

Located at the end of South School Street off Hwy 22, this lake offers fishing by boat or pier, as well as RV camping and a Pavillion.

National Commemorative Site

Located in front of Charleston Middle School on Main Street, the site honors the district’s role as the first public school in the South to integrate.

Scenic Highway 22

Passes Subiaco as it travels west from Dardanelle through Paris and Charleston into Fort Smith.

Fort Smith

906 Cocktail & Cigar Lounge

An upscale social lounge offering the finest spirits, wine and cigars in Northwest Arkansas. 

ArcBest Performing Arts Center

Since 1981, this gorgeous venue has hosted innumerable local, regional and national speakers, comedians, musicians, and touring stage acts. It is also home to the renowned Fort Smith Symphony.

Belle Grove Historic District

The district is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at N. Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth from N. “C” to N. “H” Streets.

Ben Geren Regional Park

The expansive park features the region’s most diversified sports complex and facilities, 27-hole Ben Geren Golf Course, two 18- hole disc golf courses with challenging obstacles, five miles of paved walking/running trails, 12 miles of rugged mountain biking and hiking trails, a fitness course, miniature golf, Go-Carts, playgrounds, covered pavilions, ample parking, horseshoe pits and the brand new Parrot Island Waterpark! Located at 7200 Zero St.; (479) 646-2444.

Casinos

Fort Smith is located on the border of Oklahoma and within a 5- to 10-minute drive to Cherokee Casino in Roland and Choctaw Casino in Pocola

Chaffee Crossing Historic District

A walkable showcase of history that echoes the vital role that Fort Chaffee played in American military history beginning in WWII. Visitors are able to walk the grounds and tour original buildings where thousands of soldiers have lived and trained for battles like WWII and Vietnam. The largest Veteran’s Day Parade in the region takes places here. 7313 Terry St.; (479) 452-4554.

Chaffee Crossing Museums:

• The Museum of Chaffee History

The Museum of Chaffee History houses the largest collection of Fort Chaffee artifacts in the United States. The museum contains extensive photographs, documents and displays that chronicle Fort Chaffee’s role in fi ve wars, multiple resettlement operations, major motion pictures and other aspects of U.S. Army history. The Camp Chaffee Historic Dis-trict was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. 

• Chaffee Barbershop Museum

Here Elvis received the haircut heard around the world after being drafted into the Army and was sent to Fort Chaffee Army Base in 1958.

• Janet Huckabee River Valley Nature Center

The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center sits on 170 acres of land in Fort Smith that were previously part of Fort Chaffee. The building overlooks Wells Lake, a popular local fishing and picnicking destination. While many visitors come to the center for the interesting exhibits inside, many others find the trails, native plants on the grounds and canoeing or fishing in the lake just as enjoyable.

• Vietnam Veterans Museum

  Local Vietnam Veterans have helped create this tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War. An Army personnel carrier and helicopter sit just outside the museum for the public to view up close.

Civil Axe Throwing

1121 Garrison Ave. 479-208-6208

Clayton House

Built in 1882, this mansion was the home of Judge William H.H. Clayton, the U.S. District Attorney in Judge Parker’s Court. Period furnishings and Clayton family belongings. 514 N. Sixth St.; (479) 783-3000; www.clayton house.org.

Creekmore Park

Ride the minitrain at the expansive Creekmore Park for 25 cents. Park includes playgrounds, a train, mini-golf, swimming, tennis, pavilions, exercise trail and community center. (479) 784-2368; www.fortsmithparks.com.

Elevate Trampoline Park

You’ll love Elevate Trampoline Park, one of the newest attractions in Fort Smith! Perfect for groups, families, and anyone looking for an exciting new way to get fit. 2920 S. Zero St.; (479) 222-6760; www.elevatetrampolineparkfs.com.

Fort Smith Convention Center

State-of-the-art center offers 140,000square feet of space, 40,000 square feet of exhibition and banquet space, 5,400 square feet of meeting room space (up to eight break-out rooms), 23,000 square feet of support areas and a performing arts center. (479) 788-8932; www.fortsmithconventioncenter.org.

Fort Smith Escape Room

An immersive interactive puzzle game in which teams of four people or more have 60 minutes to use their creative problem-solving skills to solve riddles, unlock mysteries and use gadgets to be set free. 430 Regions Park Dr. 479-259-2300

Fort Smith Farmers Market

Each market day is a feast for the senses. The Saturday market is alive with street performers, local musicians and a variety of locally grown produce/flowers and handmade goods. 7 a.m.-noon on Saturdays (all year) and Tuesdays (April-November). N. Second St. and Garrison Ave.; (479) 675-3339.

Fort Smith Museum of History

The museum houses permanent exhibits and collections including memorabilia and papers of WWII hero General William O. Darby. Working old-fashioned soda fountain and gift shop on-site. Open June-Aug.: Tue.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m.; Sept.-May: Tue.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission charged. 320 Rogers Ave.; (479) 783-7841; www.fortsmithmuseum.org.

Fort Smith Historic Sites:

This 200-year-old National Historic Site includes the remains of two frontier forts and the 19th-century Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). 301 Parker Ave.; (479) 783-3961; www.nps.gov/fosm. Sites include:

• Belle Point (Site of First Fort Smith)

  Visitors are able to walk the remains of the fi rst Fort Smith (1817- 1824).

• Trail of Tears Overlook

Exhibit panels line a paved path telling the story of the Five Civilized Tribes forcibly removed to Indian Territory. Visitors can then enjoy a scenic view of the converging Arkansas and Poteau Rivers and water route of the Trail of Tears.

• Visitor Center - Hisotric Barracks/Courthouse/Jail Buildings

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 covering the site’s history.

Fort Smith National Cemetery

Interments date from the War of 1812 and include Judge Parker, many of his deputy marshals and General William O. Darby. 522 Garland & S. Sixth St.

Fort Smith Park

Features large boat launch and trailer access to the Arkansas River, brand new fishing pavilion, public restrooms, basketball courts, soccer fields, playground equipment and more. 5301 Riverfront Drive.

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

The 16,000 sq ft features traveling exhibits, a permanent collection, artist-led workshops and classes, a gift shop and hosts receptions, galas, films, concerts, lectures, family days and other events. 1601 Rogers Ave. 479-784-2787

Fort Smith Trolley Museum

Two restored Birney streetcars that operated in Fort Smith until 1935, plus rail and transportation memorabilia. May 1-Nov. 1: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m.; Nov. 1-May 1: Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m. Admission charged. 100 S. Fourth St.; (479) 783-0205; www.fstm.org.

Greg Smith River Trail

A 5-mile paved walking/cycling trail along the Arkansas River.

Harry's Downtown

A live entertainment venue and sports bar in the heart of downtown Fort Smith that features local, regional and touring talent. 509 Garrison Ave. 479-308-3662

The Majestic

A gathering place for live music and entertainment in downtown Fort Smith. You will find concerts and a unique event space for private, corporate and charity events. 817 Garrison Ave. 479-551-2424

Miss Laura's Visitor Center

Miss Laura’s, the first former bordello listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is now the unique setting for the Fort Smith Visitor Center. Open Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sun. 1-4:30 p.m. 2 N. “B” St.; 1-800-637-1477, (479) 783-8888; www.fortsmith.org.

Olen & Co. Market

Offers small businesses just starting out space to sell goods. Everything from boutiques, gifts, handmade, re-purposed items, jewelry, vintage, and more can be found inside.

Painting With A Twist

Unleash your creative side and enjoy your favorite wine as a talented team of instructors guide you step by step through the night’s featured painting. 3875 Phoenix Ave.; (479) 650-1610; www.paintingwithatwist.com.

Parrot Island Waterpark

Come enjoy a fun-fi lled summer lounging in the 500-foot-long lazy river “Crocodile Creek” or have fun on one of the four fast and wild water slides. Park also includes a huge wave pool, children’s play area, activity pool and more. 7300 Zero St.; (479) 788-6550; www.parrotislandwaterpark.com.

The Park at West End

Ride a 1935 World’s Fair Ferris wheel or a vintage carousel hand-painted in Italy. Grab a bite in a historic Pullman Railcar diner or enjoy concessions served from a double-decker bus. And stay cool at the large Splash Pad just outside the western gate. Hours vary according to season. 15 N. Second St.; (479) 784-2368; www.fortsmithparks.com.

Temple Live

First opened in 1929 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992, the doors to the 53,000-square-foot Masonic Temple will reopen in 2017!

Unexpected Project

Mural festival that took place in September 2015, spanned eight days and featured seven artists from six countries. There will be more added each September. Garrison Avenue.

U.S. Marshalls Museum

The national fundraising effort for the construction of the U.S. Marshals Museum is in progress. Set to open its doors September 2019.

U.S. National Cemetery

Interments date from the War of 1812 and include Judge Parker, many of his deputy marshals and General William O. Darby. Located at 522 Garland & S. Sixth Streets; call (479) 783-5345 or visit the Web site at www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ftsmith.asp.

Winston’s Pipe & Cigar Emporium

Cigar lounge with a wide variety of cigar brands and accessories. Mon.-Thur. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5304 Rogers Ave.; (479) 4343-5627; winstonspipeandcigar.com.

Zachary Taylor’s Chimney

Visit the site where U.S. President – then an Army general – Zachary Taylor lived for three years while supervising the construction of Fort Smith before a fi re consumed the home. Artifacts found near the current St. Anne’s building at Immaculate Conception Church revealed remnants of the Zachary Taylor House, including the chimney. 13th St. and Garrison Ave.

Greenwood

Bell Park

Located just off of North Main St., Bell Park boasts a view that is second to none. Walking and biking trails wind throughout the park and city. We have a new rock promenade, and with disc golf, playgrounds, soccer field and basket ball courts, this is a true family park. Our Amphitheater and Ed Wilkinson Pavilion is centrally located in the park and designed for open-air or closed seating for 300. greenwoodarkansas.com 

Coal Miners Memorial

Recognizes those who worked in area coal mines. Mining was the lifeblood of South Sebastian County economy.

Veterans Memorial on Square

All year-round you can enjoy our patriotic tribute to all who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Memorial Park has become the recognized symbol of Greenwood. This historic site boasts our Bell Tower, built in 1976 in recognition of our Nation’s 200^th birthday and houses the clock and 1917 bell that were once used in the courthouse that was destroyed by the 1968 tornado. The clock and bell have been used in the bell tower to recognize and remember the 13 who died during the tornado. greenwoodarkansas.com

Old Jail Museum

Open May-October, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. Special tours may be arranged through the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce. Southside of the Square.

Vineyard Cabin

The circa 1848 cabin was built by a bachelor school teacher and used as a residence and school until his marriage in 1850. Near the Old Jail Museum.

Hartford

Alexander Park

Dedicated to the city's coal miners.

Veterans Park

Several stone monuments honor the memory of those that have served.

Mansfield

Chocoville Cabin

Located on Hwy. 96 1.5 miles west of Mansfield. Circa 1825. Restored by the city. French Traders and Choctaw Indians established a trading post in 1819, and the first post office was established in 1852. The logs in this building are a part of the original trading post and post office. The post office was relocated to present day Mansfield in 1887.

Coop Prairie Cemetery

Only cemetery in the United States with a federal highway running through it.

Dixie Theater

This original theater, now owned by the city, is currently undergoing restoration by volunteers. 101 W. Howard St.

Mena

Antiques To Go

Variety of antiques and collectibles is fascinating - everything from "elegant junk" to vintage treasures.

Esso Gas Station

Restored 1928 Esso gas station with rare muscle cars, classic cars, antique autos, street rods and motorcycles. Esso later became Exxon. Located at 423 Mena St.

Janssen Park

Ten-acre park features an 1851 log cabin, two spring-fed ponds, two mountain howitzer cannons and a bronze fountain. Seventh Street.

Mena Art Gallery

Mena street gallery features local and well-known artisans and offers classes for all ages. 607 Mena St.; (479) 394-3880.

Mena Depot

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Free tours available. 524 Sherwood.

Mena First Presbyterian Church

The Bavarian stained glass windows are perhaps the most beautiful and historic of any church in western Arkansas. 904 Church Ave.

Ouachita Little Theatre

Enjoy the talents of local actors and directors in productions throughout the year. Performed in the restored Lyric Theater at 610 Mena Street.

Southern Belle

Mini train offers panoramic views from atop Rich Mountain and Queen Wilhelmina Park. Open seasonally Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Mountainburg

Mountainburg Area/Scenic Byway 71

Shopping, antiques, crafts, lodging, restaurants and outdoor activities from Rudy to Winslow. Former stage route. Recreation areas and many scenic views in the area.

Mulberry

Bluff Hole Park

Located on the Mulberry River. Swimming, picnic tables and group pavilion. Small day use fee. (479) 997-1321.

TJ House Reservoir

Mulberry’s water supply and the site of the Mulberry Water Treatment Facility.

Vine Prairie Boat Launch and Park

Provides access to the Arkansas River at the place where the Little Mulberry River and Vine Prairie Creek meet. Pavilion and campsites. (479) 997-8122.

Ozark

Aux Arc Park

One of the most beautiful Corps of Engineers public parks in the state with more than 80 RV hook-ups plus primitive campsites along the tree-lined banks of the Arkansas River at Ozark Lake. (479) 667-2949.

City of Ozark

Visit the many antique stores and shops within downtown's "Historic Courthouse District," listed on the National Register of Historic Places along with six individual buildings. 800-951-2525 or (479) 667-2949.

Deer Mountain Ranch

Deer Mountain Ranch is a premier, privately owned and operated venue for property tours, corporate events, reunions, and guided fishing. With an idyllic location just 45 miles east of Fort Smith and 60 miles south of Fayetteville, Deer Mountain Ranch is a 3,300 acre paradise on a mountaintop overlooking Ozark, Arkansas and the Arkansas River. 

Mural

A historic sand-carved mural depicting the history of Ozark is located at the Bank of the Ozarks at 6th and Commerce Streets.

Music Festivals

The Ozark area is fast becoming the music festival capital of Arkansas hosting Highberry Music Festival, Byrdfest, and many other musical events throughout the year. (479) 667-2949.

Ozark Bridge

The lighted Ozark Bridge spanning the Arkansas River on scenic Highway 23 is one of the 16 most beautiful long-span bridges in the country. (479) 667-2949.

Ozark Depot Museum

Built in 1911. The Iron Mountain Railroad passenger train used this station. The first train reached Ozark in 1876, and by 1888, there were four passenger trains daily. Today, the museum houses hundreds of artifacts and unique exhibits. (479) 667-2949.

Reed Mountain Park, Overlook and Nature Trail

A 7/8-mile trail with magnificent views of the city, Ozark Lake and Arkansas River. (479) 667-2949.

Rivertowne BBQ

One of the treasures in the "Historic Courthouse District". It is ranked one of the top 10 BBQ restaurants in the state and is worth the trip to Ozark! 205 S. 3rd Street (479) 667-1808

Paris

Cowie Winery

A few miles west of Paris is Cowie Winery and the Arkansas Historic Wine Museum, which houses the largest bell collection and the largest bell in Arkansas. 101 N. Carbon City Rd., (479) 963-3990.

Eiffel Tower Park Square

A gift to the city in 2014, Eiffel Tower Park is a 25-foot statue and water feature, painted the same as the Eiffel Tower in France. Great photo-op located on the west side of town.

Logan County “Old Jail” Museum

The site of the last legal hanging in Arkansas. Schedule in advance to arrange a re-enactment hanging at the gallows complete with a prisoner, sheriff and many more dressed in period costume. 202 N. Vine St.; (479) 963-3936.

Mount Magazine State Park 

Located atop Mount Magazine, it offers breathtaking views of the valley and Blue Mountain Lake. Thirteen cabins, 60-room lodge with restaurant and conference center, and campsites. Mount Magazine is northeast of Booneville, soaring to 2,753 feet above sea level. 16878 AR 309; (479) 963-8502, 1-877-MMLODGE; www.mountmagazinestatepark.com.

Paris-Logan County Coal Miners Memorial

In the 1800’s, coal was discovered in Logan County, and the rest is history. Photos and artifacts pay tribute to local coal miners. Stop by the functioning blacksmith shop for a fun history lesson on how it all worked. 804 S. Elm St., for tours, call (479) 963-6463.

Paris Love Lock Fence

Located in Eiffel Tower Park. Purchase a lock in Paris, or bring one with you to add to the fence to seal your love in Paris, Arkansas, forever. (479) 963-2244.

Prestonrose Farm And Brewing Company

Small certifi ed organic farm with an on-farm pico brewery. Beer-to-go sales and tasting fl ights, as well as farm market. Open 4-8 p.m. 201 St. Louis Valley Rd.; (479) 938-0199.

Subiaco Abbey

Tours are welcome all year. A self-guided walking tour is available at the front desk of Coury House.; (479) 938-0199.

Van Buren

Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company

The famous “A and Eagle” trademark still caps the facade of this circa 1892 building. Located at 600 Main St.

Arkansas and Missouri Railroad

Embark on a three-hour journey through the Ozark Mountains. Vintage train runs Friday and Saturday, April-end of September. Runs Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. October-mid-November. Located at Old Frisco Depot, 813 Main St.; call 1-800-687-8600.

Center for Art and Education

Housed in the Old St. Michael’s Catholic Church, featuring Emil Frei windows. The center offers workshops and a variety of studio classes. Two galleries highlight original works of art from local and regional artists. Visitors are encouraged to drop by and enjoy the peaceful setting and purchase art from one of the many exhibitions. 104 N. 13th St.; (479) 474-7767.

Crawford County Bank Building

Marble mantles, lavatories, waterworks and electric lights were the marvel of Van Buren's first bank, circa 1889. Located at 633 Main St.

Crawford County Courthouse

The oldest working courthouse west of the Mississippi. In 1877, arsonists destroyed this 1842 building. Later, it was rebuilt and a front porch, side and rear wings, and the clock tower with it's grand Seth Thomas Clock were added. Located on Main St.

Field of Dreams Sports Complex

Located on Toothaker Drive. The sports complex houses 11 baseball fields and 3 softball fields on 68-acres south of Lee Creek and east of I-40. Convenient interstate access and high quality facilities for baseball and softball heighten the Field of Dreams’ significance as a regional destination. A boat ramp provides convenient access for boating and fishing on Lee Creek and the Arkansas River just downstream.

Freedom Park

Freedom Park serves as a public gathering spot with two pavilions for the farmers market or other activities, a stage for events, an interactive water feature designed for children to play and cool down during the hot and summer days, and beautiful green space. Located on 833 Main St. next to the Old Frisco Depot.

Historic Downtown Geocache Walking Tour

Find the hidden “historic treasures” on Main Street in Van Buren by solving the questions at each stop along this self-guided tour. Pick up a brochure at the Frisco Depot or at the Chamber of Commerce.

Historic Main Street Free Trolley

History tours. Phone:1-800-332-5889. 

Great Escape Mystery Rooms

Located on 505 Main Street. Great Escape Mystery Rooms offers escape rooms for groups of 2 to 8 people. You will use clues and solve puzzles in order to beat the clock! Phone: 479-689-9120.

King Opera House

Productions are still staged in this opulent structure built in the 1880's. It was remodeled into a theater at the turn of the century. Located at 427 Main St.; call (479) 474-2426.

Lee Creek Park on the Arkansas River

Located on 2876 Lee Creek Park Road. Located along the Arkansas River and Lee Creek with parking and boat ramp gives users a great location for boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. 

Louis Peer Memorial Park 

Located on 1764 City Park Road. Home to Cedars Golf Course and Country Club, the Boys & Girls Club of Van Buren, Lake Cap Bedell, fishing, walking trails, playground areas, Eagle’s Nest 18-hole disc golf course, and other amenities.

Main Street Van Buren

Art galleries, boutiques, home furnishings, re-purposed home decor, escape rooms, hunting gear, restaurants, live entertainment and historical attractions. 1-800-332-5889.

The Old Frisco Depot

Built in 1901, the depot has been restored and serves today as offices for the Van Buren Visitors Center and departure site for excursions on the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad. Located at 813 Main St. Open Monday through Saturday 9 am to 5 pm. Phone number is 1-800-332-5889.

River Valley Museum Of Van Buren

Offers a glimpse of Van Buren’s past through exhibits of photos and artifacts. Located at 813 Main St.

UAFS Drennen-Scott Historical Site

The house was built in 1836 and was the home of Revolutionary War descendent John Drennen and his family. It is linked to the Trail of Tears, the Underground Railroad and the Civil War. The single-story house and its contents are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Open March-Nov., Thurs. 1-5 p.m. and Fri. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free admission. Located at 221 N. Third St. Call 479-262-2750.

Van Buren Walking Tour

Pick up a brochure at the Van Buren Visitors Center in the Old Frisco Depot for this self-guided tour featuring 52 interesting stops.

Van Buren Farmers Market in Freedom Park

Every Wednesday and Saturday, April through December.

Waldron

Blythe’s Scott County Museum

A large collection of Indian artifacts found around Waldron is displayed. Also, early pioneer artifacts and Scott County pictures. Located at 1205 N. Main St.

Historic Downtown

Featuring restaurants, shops and the Scott Theater, the oldest theater in Arkansas still in operation. Parsley's Antiques housed in the original Parsley's five and dime store. Many downtown buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historical Forrester Park

"The Town That Moved Away." In 1940, this town had a population of 1,306 and was self-sustaining. Area has picnic facilities with covered pavilion, photos, information and maps of the town as it once was.

Truman Baker Park

This park features an eight-acre lake and pavilions, and was voted most photogenic park in the U.S. Located on Hwy. 71 South of Waldron.

Waldron Country Club Golf Course

Lovely nine-hole open course with paved cart trails. Visitors can play Tuesday-Sunday for a nominal fee. There are tournaments April-October. Located on City Lake Road.

Wiederkehr Village

Gateway to Arkansas Wine Country

Look for the large Swiss Chalet at exit 41 on I-40. It houses the I-40 Wine Country Tourist Center where information and brochures from all Arkansas wineries can be acquired, plus brochures of many other things to see and do in the area. Also look for the Arkansas Wine Trail signs off I-40.

Swiss Family Vineyards, Winery and Tasting Room

This winery and gift shop is located right at Exit 41 on I-40. Call 479-667-0149 or 479-667-WINE.

Wiederkehr Village Wines and Spirits

Only liquor store open on Sunday on I-40 in Arkansas features the Tasting Room where all Arkansas Wines, as well as wines from all over the world, can be tasted and purchased.

Wiederkehr Wine Cellars

The oldest winery in mid-America offers free tours and tastings of its award-winning vintages. Wiederkehr Weinkeller Restaurant, located in the oldest original 1880 underground wine cellars dug by Johann Andreas Wiederkehr, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Award-winning Swiss cuisine is offered. Imported gifts are available in the vintage 1880 gift shop. All are open seven days a week, year round. Located at 3324 Swiss Family Dr. Call 1-800-622-WINE or 479-468-WINE.