Once a bustling military base, Chaffee Crossing has transformed remarkably into one of Fort Smith's most dynamic neighborhoods with a live, work, play mindset woven together. This historic district combines a rich heritage with modern amenities, offering a unique blend of history, recreation and community living. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, Chaffee Crossing is a must-visit destination and can efficiently serve as a home base for your visit.

 

Highlights

An old military bus on display at Chaffee Historic District in Fort Smith.

Chaffee Crossing is home to several key historical and cultural landmarks. At the Chaffee Military and Barbershop Museum, you can step into the room where Elvis Presley famously received his first military haircut. You can also stay and wander through the new military history museum, which shares the significance of the training center, POW camps, refugee camps and ongoing military usage. Veterans of the Vietnam War will find honor and interest in the Veterans Memorial Museum, which is open by appointment only. 

 

The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center offers outdoor enthusiasts a hands-on experience with local wildlife and miles of scenic trails.

 

What else can you DO in and near Chaffee Crossing?

A beautiful sunset peeks through fall tress as a paved path weaves through colorful foliage in Chaffee Crossing. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the network of biking and walking trails that wind through Chaffee Crossing, offering stunning views of the surrounding Ozark landscape. Throughout the historic grounds, you can explore nearly 40 miles of trails. Mountain bikers come to the region for these paths that connect to the Ben Geren Park trails and Springhill Mountain Bike Park. 

 

Adventure awaits nearby at Parrot Island Waterpark, a family-friendly attraction featuring water slides, a lazy river and plenty of splash zones. For something more relaxed, visit Wells Lake for fishing, kayaking, or picnicking by the water at Janet Huckabee Nature Center.

 

Two WWII-era tennis courts were converted into pickleball courts, accommodating eight simultaneous games. The local parks and recreation team maintains the courts and provides ample opportunity to play seven days a week. Other recreation opportunities include trails, mountain bike trails, and the Deer Trails Golf Course at Chaffee Crossing. 

 

Don't miss an opportunity to bring your best friend to the best park; Chaffee Crossing Dog Park is a great place to let your dog run off steam after they've been your best companion exploring the historic area. 

 

Where can you STAY around Fort Chaffee?

The Porches provides a quaint rental just outside Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a more extended stay, Chaffee Crossing offers a handful of charming accommodations. The Porches is a boutique lodging option in the middle of a growing neighborhood community. Some properties are short-term vacation rentals that make the perfect girlfriend's getaway.  A few chain hotels nearby can accommodate families or business travelers. Otherwise, you may also check out the William O. Darby RV Park and Campground, located within the historic district of Fort Chaffee. 

 

Other options include staying in different regions of Fort Smith and driving to other districts to experience shopping, dining and playful activities. 

 

Where can you SHOP in Chaffee Crossing?

Rows of historical barracks are perfectly aligned in the Chaffee Crossing Historical District in Fort Smith.

The Chaffee Crossing area is a growing hub for local artisans and unique finds. As you explore, notice opportunities in the historic district, entertainment district, and the greater Chaffee area near the medical college and beyond. 

 

Near the core of Chaffee's historic district, the Barracks repurposed WWII-era army barracks and officer's quarters into commercial spaces for businesses and restaurants. Many of these comprise the Historic Entertainment District. 

 

 

Shopping at Chaffee Crossing

For an even broader shopping experience, explore The Village at The Heritage, Chaffee Crossing's premier shopping district. This charming open-air plaza features a variety of local boutiques and specialty stores. Discover unique home goods and pick stylish clothing and accessories for yourself or your kiddos. The Village also hosts seasonal markets and events, making it a lively destination for shoppers throughout the year.

 

  • Card + Cloth is a thoughtfully curated store offering a unique blend of trendy apparel, accessories and beautifully designed paper goods. The perfect spot for a unique gift for someone else or yourself!

  • The Polka-Dotted Zebra is a whimsical boutique that offers a colorful array of children's clothing, toys and accessories. These items are perfect for adding a playful touch to any little one's wardrobe or playtime.

  • Simply Couture Boutique offers a curated chic, on-trend women's fashion collection. Everything from elegant dresses to casual wear is designed to make every woman feel effortlessly stylish.

  • The General Store is a charming local shop in the downtown district that offers nostalgic goods, from home essentials to unique gifts. It captures the essence of small-town America with home décor, furniture, unique gifts and Arkansas-made food items. The General Store is a sister store to Creative Kitchen. 

 

Where can I EAT in the Chaffee District?

A group of 4 friends enjoy beverages together at Fort Smith Brewing Company.

Chaffee Crossing boasts an emerging food scene that caters to every craving. Olive Coffee Co, a cozy café perfect for starting your day, offers fresh-brewed coffee and pastries. For a potato bowl or breakfast taco, pop into Neeners Tacos and More.

 

For lunch, The Links at Chaffee serves smoky, flavorful barbecue, a local favorite. You can also stop by the Conex Bar area for food trucks and visit Neeners. Then, head to Vargas Fruiteria for dessert or an afternoon treat.

 

A medium-well steak sits on top of a plate garnished with butter and fresh herbs at StoneHouse, Fort Smith, Arkansas.

For dinner, head to The Barracks at Chaffee Crossing, a growing entertainment district that includes Fort Smith Brewing Co, where tradition and innovation combine to create an impressive selection of craft beers and bar food, from small bites to craft sandwiches. For a fine dining experience, set a reservation at the StoneHouse for a historic bite to eat. 

 

Enjoy a tasting room experience with wine and charcuterie at JKC Cellars. Or, head over to the Conex Bar for a taproom experience with a rooftop view. The new UnWINEd, in the Village at Heritage, offers white-cloth dinners with charcuterie or dessert plates and wine.

 

If you prefer a more casual meal, Piatto offers authentic Italian flavors with traditional dishes like carbonara, lasagna and Caesar salads. Or dine on Tex-Mex with comforting bites at Las Americas Too, where Taco Tuesday is every day. A side glass of housemade horchata or a margarita is waiting for you. 

 

Other restaurants in nearby Barling or the Industrial district offer easy access to other options. 

 

Chaffee Crossing blends its historic roots with modern living, offering visitors and residents a unique experience. With its growing roster of businesses, outdoor activities and vibrant community spirit, this revitalized district is a testament to Fort Smith's ability to honor the past while embracing the future.