Today was our first Free Fun Day of 2011. Free Fun Day is just that - the most fun we can find doing new and different things without it costing a dime. We got up bright and early, packed a picnic lunch and headed out for Lake Fort Smith. To get to Lake Fort Smith, you go on the Interstate, through the only tunnel in Arkansas and drive over bridges that are hundreds of feet above land. I've tried to take photos, but they never do it justice. If you ever have a chance to drive on Interstate 540 through NWA, you must do it. Even though the Interstate is new and beautiful, we prefer the old defunct Highway 71. Lots of old motels, cabins, overlooks and out of business gift shops. It is a lot like Route 66 - it was once the main road and a very popular tourist route. Now it is baren. But there are still fun things to find, see and do.
Once we got to our turnoff on the Interstate, we turned onto old Highway 71 and entered Mountainburg - a tiny town consisting of only a few businesses and homes with a population of less than 700. (I did notice TWO resale/thrift shops though.....) As we were driving along, something caught the corner of my eye by the road. Not your typical by the road in Arkansas thing.
A dinosaur! A huge dinosaur!
Nearly life sized dinosaurs.
Three in all.
This one had an interesting feature.
I think smaller kids could climb through it. But the boys looked funny sticking out of it.
While we were there I noticed the tracks were this.close to the park. Then I heard a train whistle.
It was very close and very loud and super fast. Something The Bean had never experienced, even though he was riden on a train four times. We always go on the slow touristy trains. 
This one was, pardon the expression...hauling ass.
We are big fans of grafitti - and yes, we know it is against the law and shouldn't be done on trains and such. It is still cool.
As we were leaving, I noticed that the driveway in the park runs right THROUGH the swingset.
Grab yourself a baby on the way out!
I am happy that we took the time to stop and see these things that we din't know existed on our way to our Free Fun Day. It's all about the journey!
LOL! I love the drive-thru swing set! I also love the concept of your adventure. I had big aspirations to visit somewhere new in KY once a week (not work related) and have failed miserably on the goal. Your fun (and free!) day has inspired me to try, try again.
ReplyDelete...and what a GREAT journey you are having with your 'boys'!! GOOD FOR YOU!
ReplyDeleteThat drive-thru swing set is SWEEEET! Hey if you want some gaffitti come on out here to Southern CA! We have in everywhere, in fact my uncle's truck was just "tagged" as we sometimes call it, while the truck was parked in the driveway! No kidding! We also get it on the firehydrant, brick wall outside and even the sidewalk! I think by the time you leave you will have a memory card full of favorites! Love ya! I think I might steal your day of free fun idea. As always, love reading your posts!
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