Kay Rodgers Park — Attraction in Fort Smith

Apparently Kay Rodgers Park Expo Center Director of Events doesn’t like to do weddings here.

I recently had an experience with Kay Rodgers Park while planning our wedding at their expo center, and I feel it’s very important to share my feedback.

We initially contacted the director of events months prior to our visit, and during that phone conversation, there was a great amount of enthusiasm about us renting the event center for our wedding. The event coordinator or director went in detail with pricing rentals ect and was helpful, again over the phone. However, when we arrived for our in-person meeting/tour, the tone was noticeably different. The director was not very welcoming and informed us that they no longer accommodate weddings, but continued to show us around the venue. It was odd.

This abrupt change in attitude was unexpected, especially considering our prior discussions. The director went on to mention past incidents at the venue and stated that the board of directors no longer permits weddings, as they reportedly do not need the additional revenue. However, I found this reasoning perplexing, as their website still advertises wedding services.

Throughout our interaction, I sensed a lack of openness, and it left us questioning whether our identity as an Asian couple played a role in their decision. This feeling was reinforced by comments regarding their current focus on country events and past events when Hispanics had a party here it was robbed? For one, what does that have to do with us? Nothing.

Ultimately, we decided to move on from Kay Rodgers Park and continue our search elsewhere. While I appreciate the venue's offerings, I believe that potential clients deserve a consistent and welcoming experience, regardless of their background and/or event type.

I hope this feedback encourages Kay Rodgers Park’s Board of Directors to reflect on their approach to customer interactions and inclusivity...

Easy to get to from the interstate. Found some shaded parking. Bathrooms are clean with many stalls. Brightly lit so you can see what your buying. They have a awesome snack bar with chili dogs, biscuits with gravy & breakfast burritos. Directions from google maps are good. Just type in Old Fort Rodeo Fort Smith and it will come up on Midland Blvd.

I like the gun show cause it’s pet friendly, everyone is so nice. Big selection & a lot of custom made stuff for guys.

For the ladies, you need to come by my booth “Beads & Beds”. Just look for the black back drop.

I specialize in sterling silver, gold filled, faceted CZ’s birthstone & grandmothers jewelry, practically everything made by me. Bring you daughter or granddaughter for lots of fun, a one on one, special time picking out bracelets & charms from our colorful selection. Mention you saw this review for...

Had a blast. There were thousands of people there for the old fort days rodeo, but to my surprise we didn't have to wait in line very long for our tickets. We even got really good seats. Ticket pricing was on par. It was my little ones first rodeo so naturally we had to get some merchandise and her a new cowgirl hat, and concessions of course. All in all we had a wonderful time. There were a lot venders and a lot of events, and we participated in everything. All the staff that we came in contact with were really friendly and helpful. We had the best time. I highly recommend going to one of the rodeo events if you're in town looking for something fun to do. Sorry about the pictures. I tried to get better ones but was too busy...