Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Alma, Arkansas

Located in the northwestern part of Arkansas near the junction of Interstates 40 and 49, Alma is situated in Crawford County and had a population of approximately 5,500 according to the most recent census.

Crawford County is positioned just east of Fort Smith and Van Buren, making it easily accessible for visitors from the neighboring state of Oklahoma.

The town is conveniently located near two of the state’s most prominent natural attractions – Ozark National Forest and Ouachita National Forest. Consequently, it serves as an excellent base for experiencing the diverse activities in the surrounding area.

Below are 15 activities to explore in and around Alma, Arkansas.

1. Alma Aquatic Park

The summer climate in Arkansas can be notably hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable during June and July.

Fortunately, for those visiting during this time, the Alma Aquatic Park on City Park Road offers numerous hours of enjoyable recreation, particularly for families with children.

The park features all the typical water-related amenities. Despite its size, it is ideally suited for families with pre-teen children.

The facility’s compact layout ensures that supervising young children is manageable, and it provides ample shaded seating areas for relaxation.

2. Lake Alma Hiking Trail

Lake Alma is among the town’s favored destinations for outdoor recreation, featuring the Lake Alma Trail, a straightforward one-mile round-trip path that leads to a picturesque waterfall nearby.

While the waterfall is not especially large, it is strikingly beautiful, particularly after rainfall when its water flow is heightened.

The trail is provided with stunning views of both the lake and the encircling forest, making it accessible for children and those who may not be in optimal physical condition.

However, portions of the trail can become slippery during or immediately after rainfall, so it is advisable to wear shoes with adequate grip.

3. Alma Performing Arts Center

The Alma Performing Arts Center serves as the premier venue for live performances in the region, showcasing productions primarily organized by local talent.

Visitors have frequently expressed that their experiences at the center have surpassed their expectations. The venue hosts a wide array of productions including theater, recitals, live music, and dance, ensuring there is something appealing for every patron.

The admission cost is modest, complemented by a snack bar offering affordable refreshments.

For an updated schedule of shows during your visit, it is advisable to visit their website.

4. Popeye Statue

For those seeking unique remnants of Americana, the Alma Popeye Statue is an interesting stop, offering an opportunity for photography.

The direct connection between the beloved cartoon character and Alma remains disputed; nevertheless, the site is both free and conveniently located, representing a truly distinctive attraction.

The statue is positioned within a modest municipal park featuring a fountain and several gazebos, which are excellent spots for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon.

5. Drennen-Scott Historic Site

Situated on North 3rd Street in Van Buren, the Drennen-Scott Historic Site and House is managed by the University of Arkansas Fort Smith and is open to the public at no charge year-round.

The university acquired the property over a decade ago, restoring it to its original condition, showcasing historically relevant furniture, artwork, and household items used by the original inhabitants.

Despite undergoing significant repairs, many original structural elements were preserved, making the site one of the best-maintained historic homes in the area.

6. Chapters on Main

Independent bookstores are becoming increasingly rare, and establishments like Chapters on Main, located in historic downtown Van Buren, are true treasures.

For book enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike, the onsite coffee bar serves some of the most sought-after beverages, including a variety of coffees and teas, available hot, iced, or blended into smoothies.

The bookstore features three levels, cozy seating, and a climate-controlled atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to spend a few hours during inclement weather.

7. Van Buren River Valley Museum

Historically, trains have significantly influenced the development of Arkansas. The Van Buren River Valley Museum is housed within an old train depot, which also serves as a visitor center.

In addition to its historical displays, the museum provides free maps, brochures, and travel literature containing insights into local dining, lodging, and recreational options. Notably, a trolley tour around town, complete with live narration, is also available.

This offers a unique opportunity to explore the historic city in an engaging way.

The train depot was completed in 1902 and is conveniently located along Main Street.

8. Fort Smith National Historic Site

Throughout its history, the region encompassing Alma, Fort Smith, and Van Buren was characterized by unsettled territories teeming with adversarial Native Americans, outlaws, and cattle rustlers. The fort, prison, and courthouse that previously existed on what is now the Fort Smith National Historic Site served as the pivotal fulcrum of law and order, where justice was frequently administered rapidly and brutally.

Located on Parker Avenue in Fort Smith, the site features numerous restored buildings housing intriguing documents, photographs, and artifacts primarily related to the lawmen, criminals, and Native Americans who shared this land for generations.

9. Parrot Island Waterpark

While northwest Arkansas is typically not associated with tropical climates, a visit to Parrot Island Waterpark on South Zero Street in Fort Smith may challenge that perception.

The park features nearly 400,000 gallons of water and a variety of family-friendly amenities, including a lazy river, wave pool, slides, and diving areas.

There are numerous shaded seating options near the water for parents who prefer to supervise from a distance. Additionally, a snack bar and rentable cabanas are available for comfort.

Visitors planning to go during weekends in the summer should anticipate sizable crowds.

10. Fort Smith Museum of History

Housed in a historic red brick building, the Fort Smith Museum of History offers a unique collage of items related to the region’s past.

Admission is affordable; visitors should allocate at least an hour to thoroughly explore the exhibits indoors and outdoors.

The displays are well-labeled, with explanatory signs and plaques detailing the historical significance of each item. The staff is available to address any questions visitors may have.

The museum includes extensive exhibits on the Civil War, World War II, and the evolution of automobiles.

11. The Clayton House

The Clayton House in Fort Smith offers both self-guided and professionally led tours, with admission priced at under ten dollars per person.

This historic residence was once occupied by a prominent prosecutor notoriously nicknamed the ‘Hanging Judge,’ known for his strict enforcement of the law against criminals.

Much of the interior maintains its original charm, reflective of the affluent standards of its time.

Visitors should anticipate spending over an hour to fully appreciate the site.

The Clayton House is located on North 6th Street in Fort Smith.

12. Fort Smith Farmer’s Market

The Fort Smith Farmer’s Market operates at the intersection of 2nd Street and Garrison Avenue, offering an array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade food items such as salsa, honey, and baked goods.

Due to its popularity, the market is undergoing expansion, and many vendors provide samples of their offerings for visitors to taste before purchasing.

Ample parking is available nearby, and as many vendors frequently sell out, particularly during peak hours, arriving early is advisable.

Crafts, jewelry, and local health and beauty products, including natural soaps and skincare items, are also available from various vendors.

13. Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

Having opened its doors in 2013, the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum has quickly established a reputation for its extensive collection of artistic works.

The pieces in the museum span a wide range of decades; in addition to permanent exhibits, the museum also offers various educational classes covering numerous artistic topics.

The museum is situated within a Victorian-era home that served as an artist’s studio for much of its history. It is conveniently located on Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith and offers an affordable and accessible visiting experience.

14. Chaffee Barbershop Museum

While it might seem that a barbershop museum could lack excitement, the Chaffee Barbershop Museum has a broader appeal, functioning as a military history museum as well.

If your timing aligns perfectly, you may receive an engaging tour from the museum’s knowledgeable curator.

Much of the displayed history pertains to the World War II era, during which the Fort Smith area was bustling with military activity.

This site is an excellent stop for enthusiasts of military history and its relevance to the local community.

15. Fort Smith National Cemetery

The Fort Smith National Cemetery presents breathtaking views with rows of white grave markers that underscore the profound toll of wars throughout history.

Located at the intersection of Garland Avenue and South 6th Street, the cemetery frequently hosts full military burial ceremonies for veterans, which are indeed moving tributes.

Every December, a wreath-laying ceremony takes place, a poignant occasion worth attending if you are in the vicinity, as the colorful wreaths contrast beautifully with the cemetery’s leafless trees.