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Rich Historical Heritage
Van Buren is steeped in history and boasts a well-preserved historic district. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored Victorian homes, downtown buildings, and the historic Main Street, which offers a glimpse into the city's past. The Drennen-Scott Historic Site, located in Van Buren, is a significant historical landmark in the area.
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Natural Beauty
The city is nestled along the Arkansas River and is surrounded by scenic natural beauty. It offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The Ozark National Forest is not far away, providing excellent hiking and camping options, making Van Buren a great place for nature lovers.
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Events & Festivals
Van Buren hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the local culture and bringing the community together. The Old Timers Day Steampunk Festival, the Old Fort Days Rodeo (just across the river in Fort Smith), Fall Festival Tradin’ Days, and the Van Buren Pioneer Day Parade are just a few examples of the vibrant events that take place in Van Buren, providing entertainment and fun for residents and visitors alike.
Historic District
Van Buren’s Main Street is six blocks of beautifully restored buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and make up our Main Street National Historic District.
Lake Fort Smith
Nestled in a scenic valley of the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozark Mountains, this state park offers outdoor adventures including camping, fishing, kayaking, swimming, mountain biking, hiking, and nature study.
Devil's Den State Park
Just north of Van Buren, upstream on Lee Creek, is Devil’s Den State Park. This area was developed as a park in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps which used native materials to craft the park’s wood and stone structures.
Arkansas River
Pools formed by the locks and dams on the Arkansas River are stocked by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission with sport fish such as bass, crappie, catfish and bream, making the river a popular location for major fishing tournaments such as the Arkansas Big Bass Classic.
The Van Buren Visitor's Guide
We will be happy to send our Visitor’s Guide to you by U.S. Mail. Or, simply click the “Download Now” button below to instantly download our newest Visitor’s Guide.
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The Van Buren Walking Tour App
With the Van Buren Walking Tour App, you can uncover the rich tapestry of Van Buren’s past as you stroll through picturesque streets and iconic landmarks. Immerse yourself in captivating stories, fascinating anecdotes, and local legends.
Explore at your own pace, enjoy curated tours, and unlock a deeper connection to the city’s heritage.
Download the app today by searching “van buren tour” on the App Store or Google Play!
King Opera House
Gracing Main Street for well over a hundred years, the beautifully restored King Opera House sets the stage with its vibrant theatrical offerings and whispers the presence of a once earnest and intrepid actor, now haunting the backstage and still looking for work.
Events Happening This Week
Check out some of the exciting events happening this week in Van Buren!
7 events found.
Week of Events
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Old Town Smokeout
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Ride the Train Van Buren to Winslow
Ride the Train Van Buren to Winslow
This three-hour, 70 mile round trip excursion takes you through the ruggedly beautiful Boston Mountain range of the Ozarks, over one valley trestles and through the 1700-foot long Winslow tunnel […]
News
Read our latest news and always be up to date on what’s happening in Van Buren!