Alma, AR, has been the second-largest town in Crawford County since its establishment in 1872. The town's economy initially relied on cotton, strawberries, hay, and livestock but transitioned to other crops like spinach and beans.  In 1961, H. L. Hunt bought Alma Canning Company, and it soon became the city's top business and canned over 50% of the US's spinach. In 1987 that number reached 65%, about 60 million pounds, and the town started calling itself the "Spinach Capital of the World" and erected a statue of Popeye the Sailor and painted the water tower to look like a can of spinach.

Before growing into the spinach capital, an unfortunate incident put Alma on the map. Bonnie and Clyde committed crimes in Arkansas, including robbery and kidnapping. Their most severe offense occurred in Alma in 1933, where they killed Marshal Henry D. Humphrey after robbing a grocery store in Fayetteville. A plaque commemorating the fallen marshal can be found in the City Complex Building.

Today the city is known for some great things to do. The Alma Aquatic Center is among the largest outdoor water parks in Western Arkansas. Its attractions include six slides, a diving board, a climbing wall, and a large swimming pool. The center also features a covered wading pool and a water play area for children and adults. The pavilion next to the center can be reserved for parties, and birthday packages are available.

For over 20 years, The Alma Performing Arts Center has been a focal point with professional touring shows, community events, and nationally recognized Fine Arts programming. The center features a 1500-seat hall, black box theatre space, a visual art gallery, and more. They prioritize combining arts and education with a series of educational shows for preK-12 students and scholarships for graduating seniors. The center hosts an annual banquet to recognize senior students who have achieved excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts.

Step into the area's history at The Drennen-Scott House, once the home of John Drennen and his family. Drennen's family participated in the Revolutionary War. The house was built in 1838 and is now a working laboratory for University of Arkansas - Fort Smith students. The site is connected to the Trail of Tears, the Underground Railroad, and the Civil War. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can view antebellum furniture, including a Steinway piano, a 1740s grandfather clock, and other historical artifacts.

Spend a relaxing day at The Lake Alma Wildlife Observation Trail and Park. It has a fishing pier, 18 hole disc golf course, a picnic area, and access to the Lake Alma hiking trail system. The trailhead is adjacent to the park, and the 3.8-mile trail loop offers a moderately challenging hike. The area is popular for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking.

The trail is a wonderful spot to see some local wildlife, but what happens when animals end up in your home or business? That can be scary and cause a dangerous situation. Fortunately, Natural State Wildlife Solutions is Alma's #1 nuisance wildlife removal service. We also specialize in habitat modification, exclusion, and repairs. Contact us today for an estimate.