Chaffee Barbershop Museum
Preserving the iconic barbershop where Elvis Presley got his military haircut, alongside Fort Chaffee's history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Chaffee Barbershop Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Preserving the iconic barbershop where Elvis Presley got his military haircut, alongside Fort Chaffee's history.
"A fantastic stop for Elvis fans and military history buffs, with passionate volunteers sharing great stories."
Call Ahead for Access
Museum may be undergoing renovations. Call ahead to arrange your visit and ensure access. :telephone:
Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without an entry fee. Donations are appreciated. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elvis's Military Haircut Site
The original barbershop
See the exact spot where Elvis Presley received his famous G.I. buzz cut in 1958. A pivotal moment in pop culture history!
Fort Chaffee Military History
Dedicated exhibit room
Explore artifacts and memorabilia detailing the history of Fort Chaffee and its role in military operations.
Local Chaffee History
Adjacent exhibit area
Discover the broader history of the Chaffee area through various exhibits and local artifacts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Chaffee Barbershop Museum
Elvis and Military History Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Call Ahead for Access
Museum may be undergoing renovations. Call ahead to arrange your visit and ensure access. :telephone:
Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without an entry fee. Donations are appreciated. :moneybag:
Combine with Chaffee History
Visit the adjacent Museum of Chaffee History for a fuller local experience. :world_map:
Ask the Volunteers
Friendly volunteers are eager to share fascinating stories and details. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
Call Ahead for Access
Museum may be undergoing renovations. Call ahead to arrange your visit and ensure access. :telephone:
Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without an entry fee. Donations are appreciated. :moneybag:
Combine with Chaffee History
Visit the adjacent Museum of Chaffee History for a fuller local experience. :world_map:
Ask the Volunteers
Friendly volunteers are eager to share fascinating stories and details. :speech_balloon:
Elvis Fan Must-See
A pilgrimage site for Elvis fans wanting to see where his iconic haircut happened. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chaffee Barbershop Museum as a top-notch, artistic presentation of history, particularly for Elvis fans and military history enthusiasts. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteers significantly enhance the experience, making it a fantastic and worthwhile stop. While small, its impact is considerable.
"What a top notch museum. Artistic presentation with interesting history and artifacts. Ann gave us fabulous tour. A fantastic stop, thank you."
cynthia willis
"What a great piece of Elvis history during his short stay at Fort Chaffer. Any Elvis fan would appreciate visiting here. Cassie was very accommodating and really has a passion for preserving and sharing history. The museum is undergoing an extensive renovation and is temporarily closed but if you call ahead they will make arrangements to accommodate you."
David Bowers
"Great, quick stop for a history or military buff and/or Elvis fan. Lots of memorabilia about Elvis when he had his military haircut and stay at Camp Chaffee when he joined the Army. Friendly volunteer was there to share lots of info. Another room full of Chaffee and area history. Free admission . Walk across the parking lot to check out the Museum of Chaffee History too."
Nicole Hood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 7313 Terry St. Bldg # 803, Fort Smith, AR 72916, within the grounds of the former Fort Chaffee. It's accessible by car. Some visitors mention it's a quick stop, implying it's relatively easy to find once you're in the area.
While specific parking details aren't extensively mentioned, visitors typically drive to the museum, suggesting ample parking is available in the vicinity, especially given its location on former military grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is undergoing renovations, so it's best to call ahead to arrange your visit and confirm availability. This ensures you can access the exhibits.
No, admission to the Chaffee Barbershop Museum is free! Visitors are encouraged to make donations to support the preservation of this historical site.
Due to ongoing renovations, it is highly recommended to call ahead to make arrangements for your visit. This will help ensure you can be accommodated.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is most famous for being the barbershop where Elvis Presley received his military buzz cut in 1958. You can see the exact station where this iconic event took place. +1
You'll find excellent memorabilia related to Elvis's time at Fort Chaffee, as well as exhibits on the military history of the base and local Chaffee area history. +1
Yes, school groups like second and third graders have visited for field trips, suggesting it can be engaging for younger visitors interested in history.
Visits are generally described as 'quick stops,' making it an ideal addition to a day of exploring Fort Smith or the surrounding areas.
While not explicitly stated as formal tours, friendly volunteers are often present and happy to share extensive information and stories about the exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most historical museums. It's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a volunteer if you're unsure.
The barbershop itself, especially the station where Elvis got his haircut, is a prime photo spot. The military memorabilia and local history displays also offer great visual interest. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎸 Elvis Enthusiasts
🎖️ Military History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Elvis Presley Connection
Social media content often highlights this specific aspect, with creators sharing the story of Elvis's haircut and its cultural impact. The visual of the barbershop itself, frozen in time, is a powerful draw for visitors. It’s a reminder that even global superstars undergo transformations, and this humble barbershop played a role in that narrative.
+1Beyond the haircut, the museum also touches upon Elvis's brief but memorable time in Arkansas. While his stay at Fort Chaffee was short, it marked his entry into military service, a period that fascinated fans and the public alike. The museum provides context for this significant life event, making it more than just a haircut, but a symbol of duty and change.
Fort Chaffee and Local History
Beyond the military focus, there's a dedicated room showcasing local Chaffee history. This section offers a glimpse into the development and heritage of the region, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the area's past. It’s a chance to connect with the community's roots and appreciate the stories that shaped it.
Many visitors appreciate the dual nature of the museum, finding value in both the Elvis connection and the historical context of Fort Chaffee and its environs. The presence of knowledgeable volunteers further enhances the experience, as they are often eager to share detailed accounts and answer questions, bringing the exhibits to life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit