Roland OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Roland, Oklahoma.
1. Cherokee Casino Roland
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
Cherokee Casino Roland offers visitors a variety of gaming options in a vibrant atmosphere. The casino features slot machines, table games, and regular entertainment events for guests to enjoy. It serves as one of the main attractions in Roland, drawing visitors from surrounding areas.
2. Roland City Park
RECREATION AND RELAXATION
Roland City Park provides a peaceful spot for play, relaxation, and education. The park features a monument honoring Veterans of Foreign Wars, a playground for children, and a scenic walking trail. It serves as a community gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
3. Roland City Lake Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Roland City Lake Park offers a serene setting for outdoor activities by the water. The park includes a handicap-accessible fishing dock, boat ramp, picnic pavilions, and BBQ grills for visitors to enjoy. It's an ideal location for fishing, boating, and family gatherings in nature.
4. Eastside Park
ACTIVE RECREATION AREA
Eastside Park is perfect for active outdoor recreation in Roland. The park features a fenced dog park, basketball court, outdoor exercise equipment, and a dedicated play area for kids. It offers multiple recreational options for visitors of all ages and their furry companions.
5. Fort Smith National Historic Site
FRONTIER JUSTICE HISTORY
Fort Smith National Historic Site preserves the history of justice and law enforcement on America's frontier. Visitors can explore the restored courthouse, jail, and gallows where Judge Isaac C. Parker, known as the 'Hanging Judge,' presided over the Federal Court for the Western District of Arkansas. The site offers educational exhibits about the U.S. Marshals, the Trail of Tears, and the military history of the fort.
6. Miss Laura's Brothel Museum
HISTORIC RED-LIGHT DESTINATION
Miss Laura's Brothel Museum is housed in a former bordello that operated during Fort Smith's wild frontier days. This Victorian mansion is the only former bordello on the National Register of Historic Places and now serves as Fort Smith's visitor center. The museum offers a glimpse into the city's colorful past with period furnishings and exhibits about life in the red-light district.
7. Fort Smith National Cemetery
HISTORIC MILITARY BURIAL GROUND
Fort Smith National Cemetery serves as the final resting place for veterans from the Civil War to present day. The cemetery contains the graves of numerous notable military figures including Confederate and Union soldiers, as well as Judge Isaac Parker. Visitors can explore the well-maintained grounds and pay respects to those who served their country.
8. Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
WILDLIFE AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION
The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center offers interactive exhibits about the region's wildlife and natural resources. The center features aquariums, wildlife displays, and educational programs that highlight the diverse ecosystems of the Arkansas River Valley. Visitors can explore indoor exhibits and outdoor trails that wind through the surrounding woodlands.
9. Belle Point Restaurant
LOCAL COMFORT FOOD
Belle Point Restaurant offers hearty, homestyle cooking in a casual, friendly environment. The restaurant serves American comfort food favorites including breakfast all day, burgers, and daily specials that draw both locals and travelers. Its convenient location makes it a popular dining option for visitors to Roland's attractions.
10. The Garrison Avenue Historic District
SHOPPING AND DINING HUB
The Garrison Avenue Historic District features beautifully preserved late 19th and early 20th century commercial buildings now housing shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can stroll along the avenue to explore boutiques, antique stores, and diverse dining options ranging from casual to upscale. The district regularly hosts community events and serves as the cultural heart of downtown Fort Smith.
11. Fort Smith Trolley Museum
VINTAGE TRANSPORTATION HISTORY
The Fort Smith Trolley Museum preserves and displays historic electric streetcars, railroad equipment, and transportation artifacts. Visitors can ride a restored vintage electric streetcar that operates on a portion of the original Fort Smith trolley line. The museum's collection includes trolleys, locomotives, and rail cars that tell the story of transportation development in the region.
12. Central Mall Fort Smith
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Central Mall Fort Smith offers a comprehensive shopping experience with numerous national retailers and specialty stores under one roof. The mall features department stores, fashion boutiques, electronics shops, and a food court with diverse dining options. It serves as the region's primary indoor shopping destination, attracting visitors from both Arkansas and Oklahoma.
13. Lee Creek Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Lee Creek Park provides outdoor recreation along the picturesque Arkansas River with boat launching facilities and fishing access. The park offers scenic views, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing in a natural setting. Visitors can enjoy water activities, relaxation, and the natural beauty of the river environment.
14. King Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
King Opera House is a beautifully restored 19th-century theater that hosts live performances and cultural events. The historic venue features Victorian architecture with ornate details and excellent acoustics for musical and theatrical productions. Visitors can experience the charm of this cultural landmark while enjoying contemporary entertainment in a historic setting.
15. Chapters on Main
BOOKSTORE AND COFFEE SHOP
Chapters on Main combines a charming independent bookstore with a cozy café in historic downtown Van Buren. The shop offers a curated selection of new and used books alongside fresh coffee, pastries, and light lunch options. Visitors can browse literary treasures, attend book signings and readings, or simply relax with a good book and beverage.