Visiting Fort Smith with preteens or teenagers — especially during the holidays — can be tricky. Movies only go so far, and keeping everyone entertained for more than a day or two takes a little creativity.

We pulled together a list of locally recommended ideas that go beyond the usual suggestions, based on what Fort Smith residents often point families toward when kids need something fun (and memorable) to do.

Whether you’re visiting with grandparents, hosting out-of-town family, or just looking for something different, here are some solid options to consider.

If your preteens or teens need to burn off energy, these spots are local favorites:

Trampoline Park
Located near Rogers Avenue (behind Braum’s, in the Savers parking lot), trampoline parks are a popular go-to for kids who want to move, jump, and play.

Vertical Horizons Climbing Gym
A great option for adventurous kids. Vertical Horizons offers climbing experiences for different skill levels, and their all-day passes allow families to come and go throughout the day.

Spartan Adventure Park
Another high-energy indoor option that mixes physical challenges with fun attractions.

These spots are especially good when the weather doesn’t cooperate:

810 Billiards & Bowling
Bowling, arcade games, billiards, food, and more — all in one place. This is a strong option when you need something that works for mixed ages.

Midland Bowl
A classic Fort Smith bowling spot that’s still popular with families.

Contender Esports
If you’ve got gamers in the group, this is a great place for competitive and social gaming in a supervised setting.

For kids who like teamwork and problem-solving:

Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are a fun way for families or groups to work together and do something a little different than typical entertainment.

Master Blaster Nerf Arena
Located in the old Fayetteville Mall area, this is a hit for kids who enjoy fast-paced, active play.

Depending on the time of year, these are worth checking out:

Ice Skating
During the holiday season, ice skating near the Van Buren depot is a popular family activity and a fun change of pace.

U.S. Marshals Museum (Library Pass)
The Fort Smith Public Library offers free museum passes with a library card — a great low-cost option that also adds a little history to the trip.

One of the best ways to find kid-approved activities in Fort Smith is simply asking locals. Many of the ideas above come from parents and grandparents who’ve already tested what works — especially during school breaks and holiday visits.

If you’re planning ahead, it’s worth checking hours and availability before you go, as schedules can change seasonally.

Know a great spot we missed? We’re always collecting local ideas to help families make the most of their time in the River Valley.