Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Explore historic streetcars and enjoy a charming trolley ride, all while being greeted by friendly resident cats!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Fort Smith Trolley Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic streetcars and enjoy a charming trolley ride, all while being greeted by friendly resident cats!
"A really cool place with very friendly staff and sweet cats!"
🐾 Pet the resident cats!
The museum's rescue cats are super friendly and love attention. They're a highlight for many visitors!
Ask about the restoration shop
Even if the trolley is in the shop, staff are happy to show you the restoration process.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Trolley Ride
3/4-mile track through downtown Fort Smith
Experience a charming ride on a vintage streetcar, complete with bell dings and historical commentary.
Outdoor Streetcar Collection
Museum grounds
Explore a fascinating array of meticulously preserved historic streetcars and trolleys.
Trolley Restoration Shop
Garage/Workshop area
Get an exclusive peek at trolleys undergoing restoration, a treat for any transport enthusiast.
Friendly Feline Residents
Throughout the museum grounds
Enjoy the company of sweet, rescue cats who often greet visitors and solicit pets.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm (and the Cats!)
Trolley Ride & Restoration Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Pet the resident cats!
The museum's rescue cats are super friendly and love attention. They're a highlight for many visitors!
Ask about the restoration shop
Even if the trolley is in the shop, staff are happy to show you the restoration process.
Enjoy the trolley ride
The 3/4-mile ride is a unique way to see downtown Fort Smith and hear historical tidbits.
Be prepared for the scent
Some visitors note a faint smell of cat urine, but it's often considered a small price for the feline company.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Pet the resident cats!
The museum's rescue cats are super friendly and love attention. They're a highlight for many visitors!
Ask about the restoration shop
Even if the trolley is in the shop, staff are happy to show you the restoration process.
Enjoy the trolley ride
The 3/4-mile ride is a unique way to see downtown Fort Smith and hear historical tidbits.
Be prepared for the scent
Some visitors note a faint smell of cat urine, but it's often considered a small price for the feline company.
Support the museum
Pay your 'fare' for the trolley ride; it helps keep this historic gem running.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the friendly staff and the unique charm of the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, especially the operational trolley rides and the delightful resident cats. While some note a faint odor, the overall experience is highly positive, offering a nostalgic glimpse into local history.
"Really cool place with very friendly staff. There are lots of different old trains to look at outside. My son is obsessed with trains, so it was a great time for him. One of the staff members even let him look at the trolleys that were under maintenance in the garage. The trolley ride itself was also very nice.
Also, the cats are super sweet and friendly! This is a great place to check out especially if you have a little one who loves trains and/or trolleys!"
Hyacinth
"I was raining and trolley was being fixed. The man that was there showed us everything. We also petted the cats. It was good we have to go back so we can ride the trolley and pet more cats. Thank you very much 💗 😊 ☺️"
Ramona Flanagan
"I wasn't sure if this is open or not and what the deal is, but I arrived at a quiet time. One of the "conductors" gave me a nice tour of the museum and the repair shop which was pretty awesome to see one of the trolleys being restored. Yes, the place smells like cat pee but they have a lot of cats here and I think that's okay.
And then the trolley came back to the station where I boarded, paid my "fare" and had a nice little ride around some of downtown Fort Smith. It's pretty cool and the trolley driver pointed out a few of the sites as he dinged the bell and crossed a few streets in a completely safe manner. This was pretty awesome and as a "big kid", I loved it!
This was a fun time and I'm really pleased to have found this little spot."
Bruce InCharlotte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Fort Smith. Parking is generally available on the street nearby. Check local listings for the most current address and any specific parking instructions.
While the trolley itself is a form of public transport, the museum's accessibility via other public transit options would depend on Fort Smith's current bus routes. It's best to check with local transit authorities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, especially depending on the day of the week and whether the trolley is operational. It's highly recommended to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission to the museum grounds is often free, but there's a 'fare' for the trolley ride. This fare helps support the museum's operations and restoration efforts.
Advance booking is typically not required for general admission or the trolley ride. However, for special events or group tours, it's always a good idea to inquire.
Yes! Even if the trolley is undergoing maintenance, the staff are often very accommodating and may offer tours of the restoration shop, allowing you to see the trolleys up close.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a collection of historic streetcars and trolleys displayed outdoors, and if operational, enjoy a ride on a restored trolley. The museum also often has a restoration shop where you can see ongoing work.
Yes, the museum is known for its friendly resident cats! These rescue animals are often a highlight for visitors and are happy to receive pets.
The trolley ride is generally enjoyable for all ages. Children, especially those fascinated by trains and trolleys, tend to love the experience.
The trolley typically runs on a 3/4-mile track, offering a short but scenic journey through parts of downtown Fort Smith. The ride itself is usually around 15-20 minutes.
Absolutely! The historic trolleys and the unique atmosphere make for great photo opportunities. Be sure to capture the streetcars and, of course, the resident cats!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a cafe or restaurant. However, being located in downtown Fort Smith, there are numerous dining options nearby to explore before or after your visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring snacks or a picnic to enjoy in designated outdoor areas, especially if you're visiting with family. Check with staff if you have specific plans.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor collection of trolleys offers many angles. The trolley ride itself provides unique perspectives of downtown. Don't forget to photograph the charming resident cats!
Photography inside the restoration shop might be subject to staff discretion. It's always best to ask permission from the staff before taking pictures of ongoing restoration work.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Even if the trolley is in the shop for maintenance, the staff's willingness to showcase the restoration process can be incredibly engaging for curious young minds. It’s a hands-on learning experience disguised as a fun day out. Pack some snacks, and be prepared for lots of smiles and excited chatter about the 'choo-choo trains' and the 'kitty cats'!
🚂 Train & Trolley Enthusiasts
Furthermore, the restoration shop tours provide invaluable insight into the meticulous work of preserving these mechanical marvels. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff, who are often conductors or mechanics themselves, offers a chance to learn about the technical aspects and historical significance of each vehicle. It’s a deep dive into the world of trolley preservation.
❤️ Couples & Casual Visitors
It’s a low-key destination perfect for a casual outing. You can explore the outdoor exhibits, chat with the passionate staff, and perhaps even get a special look at ongoing restoration projects. It’s a chance to step back in time and enjoy a simple, pleasant experience together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Resident Cats
While the cats are a beloved feature, some visitors note a faint odor associated with them. However, most reviews indicate that this is a minor issue and doesn't detract significantly from the overall positive experience, especially given the charm the cats bring to the museum. It's a testament to the community's care that these animals are so well-integrated into the visitor experience.
Behind the Scenes: Trolley Restoration
Staff members are frequently praised for their willingness to share their knowledge and provide tours of the restoration shop, even when the main trolley ride might be temporarily unavailable. This behind-the-scenes access offers a deeper appreciation for the dedication and craftsmanship required to keep these pieces of history alive. It's a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in mechanical history or the preservation of public transit.
The Historic Trolley Ride Experience
While the ride is generally smooth, some reviews mention that the age of the trolleys can make it feel a bit rustic, adding to its authenticity. The simple act of hearing the bell ding and crossing streets in a historic vehicle is a highlight for both children and adults. It’s a charming and affordable way to experience a piece of local history firsthand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit