Editor’s Note: May 17, 2026

Good morning, River Valley —

Summer break is almost here, and not every weekend outing has to mean a long drive to Branson or Tulsa. Sometimes the best places to explore are right here in our own backyard.

From frontier forts and Victorian homes to railroad history and stagecoach routes, the River Valley has more stories than many people realize. This week, we’re highlighting a few historic places worth adding to your summer list — whether you’re looking for a family outing, a quiet afternoon adventure, or simply an excuse to explore somewhere new.

If you only visit one historic location on this list, make it this one.

Located where the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers meet, Fort Smith played a major role in frontier life, military history, westward expansion, and law enforcement in the Old West. Walk the historic grounds, visit the famous gallows tied to Judge Isaac Parker, learn about Native American history and the Trail of Tears, and take in some of the best river views in town at Belle Point.

Even longtime locals are often surprised by how much history is packed into one stop.

Perched on a hill overlooking Van Buren, the Drennen-Scott House offers one of the best glimpses into early River Valley life.

Built in the 1830s by merchant and businessman John Drennen, the home survived the Civil War and remains one of the oldest preserved historic homes in the region. The property tells a bigger story than many realize — from frontier commerce and steamboat traffic to archaeology and everyday life during Van Buren’s early days.

Bonus: the overlook view of Van Buren makes this stop worth it even before you walk inside.

Want an easy Saturday outing without driving far?

Historic Downtown Van Buren may be one of the River Valley’s most underrated places to explore. Walk Main Street, browse locally owned shops, grab lunch or coffee, and keep an eye out for reminders of the city’s past — including the Butterfield route, railroad history, Civil War connections, and courthouse landmarks.

It’s the kind of place that rewards slowing down and wandering a bit.

Most locals know Fort Chaffee because of Elvis Presley’s famous Army haircut, but there’s much more history here than many realize.

Fort Chaffee played important roles in World War II, the Korean and Vietnam eras, refugee operations, and military training. It’s one of the region’s most unique historical stops because it connects local history to national and international events.

If you enjoy military history — or simply learning how the River Valley shaped larger moments in history — this one deserves a visit.

History doesn’t always have to be serious.

Originally built as a bordello in Fort Smith’s former red-light district, Miss Laura’s is now a visitor center packed with stories about the city’s rowdier frontier past. The restored building offers a fascinating glimpse into an era when Fort Smith was a rough-and-tumble gateway to the West.

Even many longtime locals have never stepped inside.

This one may not immediately come to mind, but it’s one of the area’s most overlooked historical places.

Oak Cemetery is home to notable River Valley figures, beautiful monuments, and stories tied to Fort Smith’s growth across multiple generations. If you enjoy photography, quiet walks, genealogy, or uncovering forgotten stories, it’s worth adding to your list.

Sometimes local history is hiding in plain sight.

Looking for a short drive outside the immediate River Valley?

Sequoyah’s Cabin offers a chance to learn about the Cherokee scholar who created the Cherokee syllabary — a written system that transformed communication and literacy for the Cherokee Nation.

The peaceful setting and deeper connection to Native American history make this a meaningful stop for a summer day trip.

Long before highways and interstates, the Butterfield Overland Mail route connected the country — and the River Valley sat right in the middle of it.

The first Butterfield stagecoach arrived in Fort Smith in September 1858, with the route passing directly through Van Buren before heading west toward Indian Territory and eventually California. Today, you can still spot reminders of that history if you know where to look.

A great starting point is Historic Downtown Van Buren, where a historical marker marks the Butterfield route near Main Street — the same general path travelers once followed through town before crossing the river. If you already enjoy walking downtown, it’s an easy way to add a little local history to the experience.

Did we miss a favorite historic place in the River Valley? Reply to this email or comment on Facebook — we may feature reader picks in a future issue.

Wednesday, May 20 | 4 PM
Fort Smith Farmers Market, 2nd & Garrison Ave – Fort Smith

The popular Night Market returns to downtown Fort Smith with 25–30 vendors offering fresh produce, flowers, baked treats, candles, soaps, eggs, handmade goods, stained glass, and more. Vendors will continue arriving through the evening, with most fully set up by 5:30 PM. A great excuse for a midweek stroll downtown.

Thursday, May 21 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Dewey’s Cafe at the Fort Smith Public Library – Fort Smith

Poets, musicians, comedians, and performers of all kinds are invited to share their talents at this casual community open mic. No registration required — just show up to perform or settle in and enjoy the local creativity.

Saturday, May 23 | 9 AM
199 N. 1st Street – Van Buren

The 12th Annual Run for a Vet returns to Van Buren, giving participants a chance to support local veterans while getting active. Whether you're running the 5K or opting for the one-mile option, it’s a great community event for a good cause.

Saturday, May 23 | 7 PM
The Front Porch Theater – Alma

Looking for live music this weekend? Allen Hurt and The Music Showmen take the stage at Alma’s Front Porch Theater for an evening of classic live entertainment.

Saturday, May 23 | 1–3 PM
Arts On Main – Van Buren

Learn to bake three delicious Italian-style loaf cakes with baker Chiara Bellante, including lemon, pistachio raspberry, and marble loaves. Designed for all skill levels, this hands-on class is open to adults ages 18+.

Looking for more to do?
We’ve been continuing to update and improve the new events experience at River Valley Local. From festivals and markets to live music and family activities, you can browse hundreds of upcoming events happening around the region at RiverValleyLocal.com/events.

As summer gets closer, we hope this week’s edition inspires you to explore a little more of what makes the River Valley unique. Sometimes the best weekend adventures are closer to home than we realize.

Have a great week, and we’ll see you around the River Valley.

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