THE ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Discover the real America at the original gateway to the American West and future home of The United States Marshals Museum! Relive a history that inspired the iconic tale of True Grit and walk along the Trail of Tears. Explore the majesty of the Ozarks by train. Discover a growing gallery of world-renowned public art. Visit the barbershop where Elvis received his famous military buzz cut and more…Tour Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
Enjoy These Great Arkansas Attractions and More:
- Miss Laura’s Visitors Center
- Miss Laura’s Visitors Center
- Restaurant of The Cherokee
- A & M Railroad Excursion
- Driving Tour of Fayetteville
- Chaffee Crossing Historic District
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A & M Railroad Excursion
ARKANSAS DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: IN ARKANSAS
Miss Laura’s Visitors Center: Tour the first former bordello listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With arrangements, “Miss Laura” will greet your group and give a guided tour.Fort Smith National Historic Site: Relive a history that inspired the iconic tale of True Grit as you tour the court where Judge Isaac C. Parker and Deputy U.S. Marshals brought the most infamous outlaws of the American West to justice. Groups also learn about the Five Civilized Tribes and see the remains of the first Fort Smith as they walk along a paved portion of the Trail of Tears path.
Dinner with Miss Laura’s Players: Enjoy a catered dinner and comedic performance of, “The Medicine Show on Hanging Day.”
DAY 2: OF THINGS TO DO IN ARKANSAS
Arrive at Sequoyah’s Cabin: Tour the cabin that was home to Sequoyah—also called George Gist—who developed the Cherokee Alphabet in 1821.Lunch at Restaurant of The Cherokee: Head to Tahlequah and enjoy a unique lunch complete with fried bread, drink and dessert.
Murrell Home: Tour the 1845 mansion built by George Murrell, who married a niece of Cherokee Chief, John Ross.
Cherokee Heritage Center: Enjoy a guided tour through the ancient village, Cherokee National Museum and Adam’s Corner Rural.
Back to Fort Smith for Dinner.
DAY 3: HISTORIC ATTRACTION AND MORE IN ARKANSAS
Driving Tour – Historic District & Public Art: Discover a growing gallery of world-renowned urban and contemporary art along Garrison Avenue and the timeless architecture of Belle Grove Historic District.The Clayton House: Tour the antebellum home that William Clayton—prosecuting attorney for Judge Parker—doubled in size and shaped into an Italianate-style mansion in 1821. Tour can include lunch and/or high tea with prior arrangement.
A & M Railroad Excursion: Explore the majesty of the Ozarks aboard a vintage Pullman Railcar on this exciting excursion.
Dinner at Taliano’s: Housed in the James Sparks Home (1887), this Romanesque mansion features hand-carved fireplaces and original chandeliers.
DAY 4: IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Depart for Northwest Arkansas! Driving Tour of Fayetteville: A step-on guide will take you on a tour through hog country and home of the University of Arkansas; includes a drive to Mount Sequoyah.Terra Studios: See where the Bluebirds of Happiness are made, enjoy a glass blowing demonstration, view pieces by regional artists at the Muse Gallery, and explore a unique art park filled with sculptures, fountains, a labyrinth and more. Everyone leaves with a Bluebird of Happiness!
Tour and Lunch at Peel Mansion: Tour the 1875 mansion built for Colonel Samuel West Peel and visit the Heritage Garden. Followed by a catered lunch in the mansion.
Walton 5 & 10 Center: Visit Sam Walton’s original variety store, tracing the origins and growth of Wal-Mart. Bentonville’s downtown area also has several shops for souvenirs.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: The art collection offers a superb overview of American art, including American masterworks and lesser-known gems, contemporary artwork, and temporary exhibits.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Catfish Hole before heading back to Fort Smith.
DAY 5: OF ACTIVITIES IN ARKANSAS
River Valley Nature Center: Built on 170 secluded acres, the center offers an array of exhibits that focus on Arkansas plants & wildlife.Chaffee Crossing Historic District: Tour the WWII training facility and the barbershop where Elvis received the “buzz cut heard around the world” after being drafted.
Mount Magazine: Enjoy lunch at the lodge as you look out over the beautiful scenery. Tour the Visitors Center and visit the gift shop.
Arkansas Wine Country: Visit St. Mary’s Church, then experience the tradition of Swedish wine making and enjoy dinner at Wiederkehr Wine Cellar.
Return to Fort Smith! Arkansas is a great destination for travel groups and still has plenty more to offer, so be sure to Get more Itinerary Ideas for FREE
Arkansas still has plenty more for travel groups to experience, so be sure to Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel for FREE and get even more travel ideas and tips
