Top 13 Attractions and Activities in Greenwood, Arkansas

Situated in the west-central region of Arkansas, adjacent to the Oklahoma border, Greenwood serves as the county seat of Sebastian County, Arkansas. Its proximity to Fort Smith allows locals to perceive it as a suburb, while it maintains its own municipal identity, with a population nearing 9,000 as recorded in the last census.

This strategic location makes it convenient for visitors to access some of the state’s most picturesque natural landscapes, along with numerous cultural, historical, and artistic attractions found in nearby urban centers.

The following are 13 notable activities and sites to experience in and around Greenwood, Arkansas.

1. Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center

Named in honor of the spouse of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center located on Wells Lake Road in Fort Smith, features engaging displays and interactive exhibitions that delve into the realms of nature and wildlife.

This destination appeals to visitors of all ages, particularly families, with its array of local reptiles, amphibians, fish, and snakes on display. Admission is complimentary, and fishing is permitted in the on-site lake. The facility also offers multiple trails that provide access to scenic forest vistas.

2. Chaffee Barbershop Museum

While a barbershop museum may not initially seem to warrant a prime spot on your itinerary, it is important to recognize that the Chaffee Barbershop Museum also encompasses aspects of local and military history.

Depending on your visit timing, you might receive a guided tour from the museum’s owner and curator, who presents a fascinating selection of historical artifacts.

The museum is conveniently situated on Terry Street in Fort Smith, and admission fees are minimal, making it a worthwhile stop.

3. Parrot Island Water Park

While rural Arkansas may not be characterized by tropical birds or islands, the Parrot Island Water Park attracts many visitors from the Greenwood and Fort Smith areas, particularly during the hot summer months when high temperatures become quite uncomfortable.

Located on South Zero Street in Fort Smith, the water park boasts nearly 400,000 gallons of water-oriented attractions, including wave pools, splash pads, and twisting slides.

The facility features rentable cabanas, food concessions, shaded picnic areas, and changing rooms. Expect a considerable attendance during peak times.

4. The Shops at BrickCity

The Shops at BrickCity in Fort Smith is a distinctive combination of a thrift store, antique shop, and flea market; nonetheless, it is undeniably worth dedicating an hour or two to explore its offerings.

This venue comprises numerous individual vendors showcasing a diverse array of products, including ready-to-eat foods, health and beauty items, home décor, children’s products, and household goods.

The shops are particularly celebrated for their unique selection of flavored sodas, including blackberry, butter-beer, and Japanese-style varieties that are hard to find elsewhere. Be sure to sample a bottle or two.

The Shops are situated on South 74th Street in Fort Smith.

5. Lake Ouachita State Park

Lake Ouachita State Park encompasses the largest lake in Arkansas, covering nearly 40,000 acres, making it significant by any measure.

The drive to the park takes approximately 2 hours and it is adjacent to the Ouachita National Forest, which ranks among the largest in the state. The area provides a myriad of recreational opportunities throughout the year.

Popular activities include swimming, boating, and scuba diving, as well as fishing. The lake supports thriving populations of game fish such as largemouth bass, catfish, and striped bass, which, despite not being native to Arkansas, thrive excellently.

For detailed information, consider visiting the park’s official website.

6. The Gangster Museum of America

For visitors planning to explore Greenwood with their own transportation, a journey to the city of Hot Springs presents an exceptional opportunity for a day trip or an extended excursion.

Aside from its therapeutic springs, Hot Springs offers unique attractions, including the Gangster Museum of America, which features collections spanning various decades and regions.

During its prime, Hot Springs was an upscale resort destination, drawing notorious figures from major cities such as New York and Chicago.

7. Ozark Bathhouse Cultural Center

Designed by a prestigious architectural firm in Little Rock, the Ozark Bathhouse was once celebrated as a premier bathing facility in Hot Springs.

Constructed in the Spanish revival style, it showcases intriguing details influenced by the Art Deco movement. It was originally built for less than $100,000, a figure that would be equivalent to over a million today.

Currently, it functions as a cultural center devoted to preserving the historical heritage of the town while educating both residents and visitors. The venue also allows for special events and hosts a range of community educational programs.

8. Fort Smith Museum of History

Fort Smith is a city rich in historical significance, boasting several museums in the downtown area that highlight intriguing aspects of local heritage.

Housed in a large red brick building constructed decades ago, the Fort Smith Museum of History offers an economical outing. Recent visitors have expressed admiration for the exhibits presented.

The museum encompasses a range of historical periods, with a primary emphasis on the pioneer, settlement, and Civil War eras.

Strategically located on Rogers Avenue near downtown, it invites a leisurely exploration after your visit.

9. St. Scholastica Monastery

Visitors may be surprised to discover the impressive St. Scholastica School Monastery in Fort Smith, which has a long-standing history and notable architecture that merits a visit.

As it continues to operate as a school, public access may be limited, so it is advisable to contact or check online for visiting hours before planning your trip.

If interested in viewing from a distance, you are welcome to stop by and appreciate the exterior at any time. The well-kept grounds attract various local wildlife, such as rabbits, birds, and squirrels, making it an engaging spot for children.

10. The Clayton House

Visitors to Fort Smith can explore the Clayton House through self-guided or professionally guided tours. Regardless of the method chosen, access to all sections of this historic residence built in the late 1800s is provided.

Originally inhabited by a local prosecutor known for his stringent stance on law enforcement, the home provides insight into a bygone era. The cost for a tour is modest, and a thorough exploration can be completed in about an hour.

The residence features both original and reproduction furnishings, artwork, and household items that exemplify the opulence of the time.

11. Chapters on Main

Independent bookstores are increasingly becoming a rarity in today’s world.

However, Chapters on Main in Van Buren has successfully maintained its presence over the years. In addition to its extensive selection of books, the store features an on-site coffee shop renowned for its exceptional coffee, smoothies, and tea.

If you appreciate literature and enjoy coffee, this establishment could easily become a place of leisure for hours. It offers a wide variety of fiction, non-fiction, children’s titles, local history books, and works by regional authors.

12. Vache Grasse Golf Course

Vache Grasse Golf Course is an 18-hole public golf facility cherished by locals for its challenging layout and picturesque scenery.

It welcomes golfers of all skill levels, and those planning to stay for an extended period may inquire about lessons available in the pro shop.

The course includes a storefront for necessary golfing equipment, and a swimming pool operating from Memorial Day to Labor Day is also available for use.

As is the case with most golf venues, tee times can be quickly reserved on weekends in favorable weather, so securing yours in advance or opting for weekdays may be prudent to evade crowds.

13. Arkansas and Missouri Railroad

Operating from a depot located in Van Buren, the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad conducts round-trip excursions from the town between January and November.

Trips are scheduled on specific days of the week, depending on seasonal factors; therefore, it is advisable to contact the railroad for details prior to your visit.

For first-time train travelers, this experience offers a unique perspective of the surrounding scenery. Additionally, the train includes a dining car for those interested in refreshments during their journey.

The excursions typically last around three hours, making them a popular option for families and train enthusiasts alike.