The 6 Best Museums in Fort Smith, Arkansas (AR)

Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM) Mission Statement: To foster art appreciation in the community through diverse exhibitions, educational programming, dynamic events, and cultural partnerships. RAM (Regional Art Museum) originated in 1948 under the Arkansas Association of University Women. In 1951 the Associated Artists of Fort Smith evolved and began exhibiting art and holding classes in various locations throughout Fort Smith. In 1960 an old Victorian home was purchased, and in 1968 the Fort Smith Art Center was incorporated. The Art Center offered a valuable service for local and regional artists by offering valuable space for its artists for five decades. The January 2013 opening of the museum located at 1601 Rogers Avenue in the heart of Fort Smith marks a major turning point for this organization. The new Fort Smith Regional Art Museum offers greatly expanded programming and exhibitions. Arvest Bank made the expansion possible by donating the 16,000 square foot building to RAM in January 2009, following a $211 million dollar buyout of Superior Federal Bank in 2003. The stunning transformation from bank to museum was completed by Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects who were tasked with the job of repurposing an abandoned mid-century building into a 16,000 square foot state-of-the-art museum. The existing terrazzo floor was maintained in the lobby and the monumental staircase was also left untouched. The beautiful two-story Carrara marble support column was also left completely intact and is visible from the lobby In addition to ongoing exhibitions the museum offers classes for children and adults, lectures, opening receptions, galas, and artist-led workshops. The museum offers facility rentals and a specialty gift shop featuring one-of-a-kind items created by local and regional artists. The new state-of-the-art Museum meets national standards and presents an exciting opportunity for cultural growth in the region. RAM is climate-controlled and fully equipped to facilitate nationally and internationally recognized traveling exhibitions.

On March 25, 1958, Elvis Presley walked into the Fort Chaffee Barbershop to receive his iconic G.I buzz cut that was dubbed "the haircut heard 'round the world." Since its creation in 2008, the Chaffee Barbershop Museum has welcomed visitors from all over the world. Guests will experience a 1950's era barbershop that looks exactly like it did that fateful day when "the King" strolled through the doors. Located in the heart of the Chaffee Crossing museum district, the barbershop has been restored to its condition in 1958 when thousands of U.S. Army enlistees received their signature army buzz cut. It also houses a historical museum with photos and artifacts documenting the 70-year history of Fort Chaffee. Items on display include memorabilia from the base that was used by the United States Army to house German prisoners of war, Cuban refugees and relocated Vietnamese citizens. Three Hollywood movies have been filmed here. Displays recall these and other important historical events.