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One Visit and You’ll Be Big on Little Rock

Plan your trip.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation to attend one of Little Rock's many festivals and events, everything you need to know is right here!

World-class attractions, outdoor activities, and unique neighborhoods make Little Rock an outstanding destination. Plan your trip to Little Rock here, then refuel and recharge at our city's wide array of restaurants and hotels.

From food festivals and annual celebrations to concerts, performing arts, sports, and expos, Little Rock offers a wide variety of things to do that defines the city as a hub of activity and energy. Find things to do this weekend, next week, or even next year using our resources here. You're sure to find an event that gets you out on the town and into the mix!

Getting There

Little Rock is served by the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport , which is located just a few miles from downtown. There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Little Rock from major cities across the United States. If you prefer to drive, Little Rock is easily accessible via several major highways, including I-40 and I-30.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Little Rock, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. If you're looking to stay in the heart of downtown, there are several hotels to choose from, including the Capital Hotel, the Little Rock Marriott, and the DoubleTree by Hilton. If you prefer to stay further west, there are several wonderful options in the surrounding area.

Where to Stay

From world-class luxury to business and budget-friendly, Little Rock offers the absolute best when it comes to staying in the lap of southern comfort.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Little Rock is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and trees are adorned in colorful tones. Summer can be hot and humid, but there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy if you visit during this time. Winter can be chilly, but it's a great time to experience the city's holiday festivities. Regardless of when you choose to visit, our city will be ready to meet your needs year-round!

Festivals and Events

Get out and enjoy Little Rock – Arkansas’s epicenter for fun. With year-round events and awesome local festivals, there's always something new to experience. From music to epic marathons and food festivals, you'll find plenty of things to do no matter the season. See why we are Big on Little Rock!

Little Rock is doing everything to make the city accessible, but also truly comfortable and enjoyable for visitors of all abilities.

Weather & Average Temperatures

Located in the heart of Arkansas, Little Rock has hot summers and relatively mild winters.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Little Rock, AR

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper has spent time traveling throughout Arkansas exploring outdoor recreation and the state's top experiences.

Little Rock has hospitable Southern warmth ready for your arrival from the minute you step into town, whether you are planning a full vacation or just a weekend getaway . History and arts are immediately noticeable, from the sculptures that fill the Little Rock landscape, culminating with the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden stretching along the riverfront.

You can meander on foot, by car, or by scooter and see a wide range of significant American history in town. The Governor's Mansion Historic District covers a large portion of the downtown area, preserving some of the unique designed and historic homes and buildings. Many of Little Rock's main tourist attractions are just a few blocks from each other and there is a great walkable downtown.

Just across the river in North Little Rock, fans of Gone with the Wind will want to visit the Old Mill, where early scenes of the film were shot. Small, intimate eateries that range from casual to fine dining will make you feel like a local.

For more ideas on places to visit and how to spend your time here, see our list of attractions and things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas.

See also: Where to Stay in Little Rock

1. William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park

2. little rock central high school national historic site, 3. arkansas river trail & big dam bridge, 4. river market district, 5. state capitol, 6. go for a hike at pinnacle mountain state park, 7. esse purse museum, 8. old state house museum, 9. vogel schwartz sculpture garden, 10. museum of discovery, 11. mosaic templars cultural centre, 12. macarthur museum of arkansas military history, 13. see the animals at the little rock zoo, 14. arkansas museum of fine arts, 15. historic arkansas museum, 16. historic homes driving tour, 17. wildwood park for the arts, 18. arkansas inland maritime museum, 19. step back in time at the old mill, where to stay in little rock for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in little rock, ar, little rock, ar - climate chart.

One of the attractions that forever changed the landscape of Little Rock is the Clinton Presidential Center & Park, home to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum . The modern and rectangular building on the Arkansas River is designed to echo the former President's "Bridge to the 21st Century" mantra that he focused on during his presidency.

The multi-building facility has an archival research facility and a museum. There are interactive exhibits and more than one million photos, artifacts, presidential itineraries, and gifts that Clinton received as president on display throughout the three floors of the complex.

You should plan to spend two to three hours in the center with a must-see list that includes the Great Hall, which is the best place to see the architectural details of the building, and the full-scale replica White House rooms of the Cabinet Room and Oval office. Each features the exact details of those rooms in the White House during Bill Clinton's presidency down to the Resolute Desk in the Oval office.

The grounds outside the Clinton Presidential Center are worth walking to see the sculptures, fountains, and restored wetlands to support local wildlife.

Address: 1200 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: The grounds around the school have symbolic significance, including the Elizabeth Eckford Bus Bench and the commemorative garden.

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site was the center of school desegregation in 1957 after the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education. Nine African-American teenagers, historically referred to as the Little Rock Nine, became the focal point of the desegregation debate when they tried to enter Little Rock Central High School as it was legalized.

The nine students walking into school, escorted by the U.S. Army, became a pivotal moment in Civil Rights history. Little Rock Central High is still an active school, and the only way to tour this historic site is by reserving a ranger-led tour ahead of time. The importance of this site to American history makes it one of the best tourist attractions in Arkansas .

You can walk around the outside on your own to admire the towering architecture and appreciate the significant events that happened on the steps of the school that made an impact on every public school in the United States.

Address: 2120 W. Daisy L Gatson Bates Drive and Park Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: The Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian bridge in the world accessed by foot or bike.

A run, walk, or bike ride along the Arkansas River Trail, which runs through Little Rock, is a great thing to do to experience some of the best sites and attractions in the city and soak in some of the scenic outdoors that surround it. The Arkansas River Trail is a 15.6-mile loop that is popular with runners and bicyclists, and connects multiple pedestrian bridges and more than 23 attractions and parks. It also connects to more than 70 miles of additional trails.

When the weather is nice, you can use the trail as your map to visit Riverfront Park , the Clinton Presidential Center, Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, and the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, as well as other tourist attractions.

There are multiple pedestrian bridges along the Arkansas River Trail that cross the Arkansas River, and you should try to experience them while in Little Rock. The Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in the world and connects Little Rock to North Little Rock on the opposite banks of the River. One of the best times to visit is at sunset, when a rainbow of colors reflects off the river 90 feet below the bridge.

Another must-experience is the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge , the Rock Island Railroad Bridge that was built in 1899 and repurposed into a pedestrian walkway. It provides a great view of downtown, the Arkansas River, and the Clinton Presidential Center. It is especially pretty at night when it is illuminated in color.

Highlight: Local vendors selling unique products like regional food and art all in one space.

The heart of the River Market District is the year-round market space offering 10,000 square feet of shops, stalls, and tables that sell food and unique products. The market hall is an open-concept building with food stalls, coffee vendors, groceries, and take-out options.

The River Market District offers more than just shopping. There are art galleries nearby with changing exhibits; the River Market Entertainment District; and Riverfront Park, which has more than 30 acres of green space and art.

While you are in the walkable district, plan a ride on the Rock Region METRO Streetcar , a vintage electric streetcar that offers free rides downtown.

The River Market has easy access to the scenic Arkansas River Trail for walking or biking. Special events occur at the River Market District throughout the year, ranging from big-name concerts to Fourth of July fireworks over the river.

Address: 400 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: Several bronze statues around the capital including one honoring the Little Rock Nine

Based on the design of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, the Arkansas State Capitol is made of white marble and granite. The front entrance doors for the State Capitol are made of bronze, and the cupola is covered in 24-karat gold leaf. Visitors can explore the building on a scheduled tour.

Popular public areas of the capitol include the Governor's Reception Room , the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and a glistening rotunda. Permanent and rotating exhibits can be found throughout the building, and the landscaped grounds outside feature walking paths and commemorative statues.

One of the most powerful bronze sculptures to look for is one commemorating the Little Rock Nine, the brave students who played a significant role in the desegregation of city schools in 1857. The sculptures feature plaques with quotes from each of the nine.

Address: 500 Woodlane Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: Hiking trails lead to the summit with some of the best panoramic views in the region.

Just over 15 miles northwest of downtown Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain State Park is the best place to visit for a little outdoor fun. The mountain stands well over a thousand feet above the surrounding river valley.

Two hiking trails that lead to the summit provide unbeatable views, and miles of other multi-use trails wind through the nearly 2,500 acres of state park property.

Other popular activities and amenities at this day-use state park include interpretive programs, boat launches, and picnic sites. Camping is not available at Pinnacle Mountain, but more than 100 campsites can be found at Maumelle Park , less than five miles away, and it has one of the best lakes in Arkansas for water recreation.

Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: Pop culture purses with inspired designs from some of the most iconic brands throughout the decades

The ESSE Purse Museum in Little Rock is a unique and engaging museum that features women's history through handbags. The exhibits are categorized by decade and highlight the social and pop culture scene of each era, along with how women's handbags evolved to reflect the culture and needs of that time.

The collection belongs to owner Anita Davis, who honors women of all backgrounds and her love of art, history, and of course, handbags. There are no two alike, and each reflects a unique moment in time. From dainty designer beaded handbags to novelty bags of pop culture brands, each has a place in women's history.

The museum's name, "ESSE," means essence and conveys the importance of women's handbags as not just totes for personal items, but as a personal extension of themselves. You cannot leave the museum without spending time in the ESSE store, where you might just head home with a conversational piece on your arm.

Address: 1510 Main Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: A collection of inaugural gowns from some of Little Rock's First Ladies

As the original state capitol of Arkansas, the Old State House was designed by Gideon Shryock and is one of the best examples of Doric architecture in the southern states. The building commenced in 1833 and was completed in 1842 with some alterations done in 1885.

The Old State House Museum sits in the center of Little Rock and is an easy stop on your way through the River Market District. It is free to visit and is one way to learn about important historical events, like a fatal duel between legislators and the Arkansas vote to secede from the United States.

The museum exhibits include artifacts related to decorative arts, inaugural gowns of governors' wives, and historical displays relating to the politics of the state.

Address: 300 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Walking path throughout the public sculpture garden along the riverfront

The Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden is one of the most inspiring art displays that you can find in any city. Around 90 pieces of public art are throughout the downtown riverfront, and a majority of them are in the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden. Look closely along the walkways and in the greenery as each sculpture elegantly accents the gardens and pathways along the river.

The public space is inviting and allows you to enjoy the art at your own pace. The large sculptures by the river that seem to accent the bridges behind them are easy to find, but there are smaller, more delicate statues, too, that require a keen eye. From eclectically modern to elegantly inspiring and reflective, this collection of public art is a nice way to wrap up a day of sightseeing in the city.

Address: Riverfront Park, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Rotating seasonal events and interactive exhibits for kids, including a Tornado Alley Theater

The Museum of Discovery is an ideal family destination in Little Rock. Once you step inside, you'll be hard-pressed to hold back your kids as they rush from one interactive display to another. In addition to the displays, children and adults alike are encouraged to participate in experiments.

A couple of highlights are the Bed of Nails, Pet Clinic, Tesla Coil, Tinkering Studio, Amazing You, and Earth Journeys. One of the most interesting exhibits and important educational experiences that should not be missed is the Tornado Alley Theater. Step inside and experience the tornado that ripped through town back in January 1999.

Address: 500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 150, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Intricate mosaics decorate the outside of the building

Just looking at the exterior of the Mosaic Templars Cultural Centre is inspiring, with intricate designs that draw your curiosity. The museum's focus is on educating visitors about the African American life experience in Arkansas.

The name originated from a fraternal organization in Little Rock founded in 1883. The building once served a practical use for the organization, but now it is a public museum, with exhibits and information about African American history in the state.

Some of the permanent exhibits include the history of the building, a children's gallery, and a theater. The cultural center also supports collections and research for those looking to find historical information. There are also educational programs offered at the center throughout the year.

Address: 501 W. 9th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Unique overnight accommodations on the grounds of the museum

The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History is housed in the historic Tower Building, part of the Little Rock Arsenal. The museum explores the military history of the state through artifacts, photographs, documents, uniforms, weapons, and other military items.

The building is one of the oldest in the region and was the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur. Surrounding the museum, MacArthur Park also has many other attractions, including contemplation gardens and veteran memorials. For a unique lodging option, the HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum within the park is a fun place to spend the night.

Address: 503 East Ninth Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: A ride on the historic Arkansas Over-the-Jumps Carousel, operating since the 1800s

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Little Rock Zoo maintains a collection of animals, with approximately 200 different species from around the world. While this is not a huge zoo, it does maintain a good collection of large and exotic animals including, elephants, giraffes, big cats, rhinos, and bears.

Hands-on interactions with animals create lasting memories and make for fun photos and are a popular feature of the Arkansas Heritage Farm pavilion. Other animal interaction opportunities at the zoo include fish feeding and lorikeet landing stations.

Address: 1 Zoo Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: Outdoor dining at the museum's restaurant overlooking MacArthur Park

The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts underwent a 150-million-dollar renovation, renewing the city's commitment to visual and performing arts. The institution has been an evolving effort to exemplify arts in the state, with the first center opening in 1937.

Gallery exhibitions feature artwork from private collections, making this an important stop for anyone interested in rare art and art history. Performing arts are a key part of the center with music, dance, and theater performances.

Address: 2510 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Living history programs with performers that bring some of Little Rock's oldest buildings to life

The Historic Arkansas Museum is an 1850 farmstead, and houses some of the oldest buildings in Little Rock on a single city block in the downtown area. This is a nice place to visit for history buffs who want to experience life in Arkansas in the mid-19th century.

The restored buildings give insight into Little Rock's heritage in the frontier era. It is a living history museum, so you will want to plan your visit when there are performers on-site playing the parts of homeowners and period characters to bring this era to life.

Address: 200 E. Third Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: Several districts of historic homes are easy to navigate on your own.

Whether you choose to take a self-guided driving or walking tour through the Quapaw Quarter District or just casually cruise through, it is important to the history of Little Rock. See over 100 historic and renovated homes that each have a distinct design and architecture.

There are also several preserved buildings and churches in the district that give insight into how Little Rock bloomed from a small town into a booming city after the Civil War. The Quapaw Quarter is nine square miles and includes 15 historical districts, including the Governor's Mansion Historic District .

Most of the homes have placards in the yards with information about the original owners and the date of construction. The Quapaw Quarter is comprised primarily of residential neighborhoods, so the best way to experience it is to get out and walk the sidewalks.

Highlight: Outdoor performances, festivals, and public activities surrounded by gardens, gazebos, and wildlife

Wildwood Park is a park for music and the performing arts, designed for indoor and outdoor performances. With 104 acres, the park also has a number of gardens and smaller facilities. Within Wildwood, the Butler Arboretum contains daffodils and native flowering trees, and the neighboring Gertrude Butler Gazebo features a daylily garden and scenic views of Swan Lake.

Other gardens worth exploring include Bruce Garden, home to native perennials and decorative grasses, and the Asian Woodland Garden with a ceremonial tea house and wide array of Japanese plants.

The park is an ideal place to bring the kids and go for a hike along one of the many trails in the woods. Later on enjoy a picnic lunch under one of the lakeside gazebos; if you are lucky, the resident swans will make an appearance.

Address: 20919 Denny Road, Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlights: Restored WWII tugboat and submarine on display for a close-up view

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum can be found alongside the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. The main attractions at this naval museum include two floating vessels involved in World War II — a tugboat recognized as a Historic National Landmark, and a USS Razorback submarine that was present in Tokyo Bay when Japan formally surrendered the war.

Visitors can take a guided tour on and into the operational submarine, getting a good sense of the inner workings of the ship. On dry land, the museum and North Shore Riverwalk also display memorials and a peace garden.

Address: 120 Riverfront Park Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas

Highlight: The mill's iconic and preserved image, made famous in the movie Gone with the Wind .

Since North Little Rock is just a walk across the river, it is worth visiting The Old Mill , which was made famous from the opening scene of the 1939 classic, Gone with the Wind .

The Old Mill is a scenic recreation of an 1800s grist mill surrounded by three acres of landscaped settings. Admission is free to this North Little Rock city park, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is just by walking the grounds.

Apart from The Old Mill itself, the sculptures, created by renowned artist Senòr Dionicio Rodriguez, that adorn the park have landed this natural space on the National Register of Historic Places .

Address: 3800 Lakeshore Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas

Many of Little Rock's top attractions are in the downtown area, including Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, the River Market District, and the Clinton Presidential Center & Park. For sightseeing, shopping, or entertainment, the best option is to find accommodations in, or near, the city center. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• With a prime location in downtown, not far from the River Market District and The Discovery Museum, The Capital Hotel is a historic property with large rooms and suites and elegant, old-world charm.
• Nearby, and also within walking distance of some of the city's top sites, the Little Rock Marriott is a modern, upscale choice, featuring contemporary rooms, including some with good views over the city, and on-site restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The Courtyard by Marriott Little Rock Downtown is in the heart of downtown, so you can walk to many of the local attractions.
• In the trendy River Market District, not far from the Clinton Library, the Residence Inn by Marriott Little Rock Downtown offers rooms that range from studios to two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and features an indoor pool and free breakfast.
• Another good option in the same area and offering similar room choices and amenities is Homewood Suites by Hilton .
• If you are looking for something quaint or even romantic, the Empress of Little Rock is one of the best bed-and-breakfasts in the city, and the building dates from 1888.

Budget Hotels :

• In a good downtown location, La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Downtown Conference Center offers comfortable rooms, a seasonal pool, and complimentary breakfast.
• Other good-value hotels can be found a little farther out from downtown, including the Wingate by Wyndham , about 10 to 12 minutes west of the city center,
• The more modest but comfortable Econo Lodge Inn & Suites , 15 to 20 minutes southwest of downtown, is easily accessible off Interstate 30.

The best time to visit Little Rock, Arkansas is in the spring and the fall when temperatures are not as intense and there is lower humidity than the summer season. Comfortable temperatures are a must, especially for spending time outside walking to tourist sites. The best months to visit are March, April, May, September, and October. March and April experience daytime high temperatures between the low-60s and low-70s.

While you might experience some rain during the spring months, overall, these are more comfortable weather conditions than the summer months of June, July, and August when daytime temperatures hover in the high-80s and 90s with high humidity. The bonus of the spring months is that you will also find slightly reduced hotel rates from the summer vacation season.

The other best months to go to Arkansas are in September and October when temperatures cool slightly to the low-70s to mid-80s during the daytime. These are great months to visit tourist attractions and comfortably enjoy venues like evening outdoor amphitheater performances. These months also have less rain and can experience the fall colors changing in Arkansas' dense forest regions.

More on Arkansas

Little Rock   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Roberto Galan | Getty Images

Why Go To Little Rock

Little Rock is perhaps best known for the Little Rock Nine, a group of Black students who enrolled in the historically all-white Little Rock Central High School in 1957. The students' enrollment, which followed the Supreme Court decision that deemed segregation of schools unconstitutional, brought civil rights to the national spotlight. Little Rock honors its place in the civil rights movement with monuments and exhibits scattered throughout the city's parks and museums.

Today, you'll have much more than civil rights history to sink your teeth into. Sure, there are plenty of museums detailing the lives of frontier-era Arkansas residents and former President Bill Clinton , but there's much more to Little Rock than its educational attractions. There are plenty of outdoor activities, from scrambling up a mountain to taking an easy walk across Big Dam Bridge . Social butterflies will be happy here, too. Little Rock hosts annual events to suit any traveler and comes alive nightly at the River Market Entertainment District. So, pack your bags and head on down. There's something for everyone in Little Rock.

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Best of Little Rock

Best hotels in little rock.

• # 1 in The Capital Hotel
• # 2 in The Burgundy Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
• # 3 in Little Rock Marriott

Best Things to Do in Little Rock

• # 1 in Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
• # 2 in Pinnacle Mountain State Park
• # 3 in Clinton Presidential Center

Little Rock Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Little Rock is from March through May and from September to October, when daytime highs hover between the mid-60s and low 80s. You'll also score slightly lower hotel rates in spring and fall than you will during the busy summer season. Not only does summer welcome more tourists since the kids are out of school, but it also means sweltering temps that can reach the low 90s. Winter experiences cooler temperatures that barely reach 55 degrees for daytime highs. Little Rock sees a fair amount of precipitation year-round; so, no matter when you visit, bring an umbrella and a raincoat along.  

Weather in Little Rock

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

North Little Rock is different Across the Arkansas River sits North Little Rock, an entirely separate city from Little Rock. Here, you'll find the Old Mill, best known for its appearance in the classic film "Gone with the Wind," along with Argenta Plaza, a bustling arts district, among other cool sites. To check out all it has to offer, save at least one day of your itinerary to explore North Little Rock.

Former President Bill Clinton is from here Well, not specifically Little Rock, but he is from Arkansas. He served as the state's attorney general and its governor before becoming president in 1993. As such, several sites in Little Rock bear the Clinton name.

Hot Springs is nearby Hot Springs , an Arkansas city renowned for its thermal waters and outdoor adventures, sits 55 miles southwest of Little Rock. It's a great option for a daytrip.   

How to Save Money in Little Rock

Take advantage of free attractions From cultural landmarks like Little Rock Central High School to historic sites like the Arkansas State Capitol to museums like Heifer International , Little Rock has plenty of things to see and do that won't cost you a dime.

Tour on your own The Little Rock Visitors Bureau created four different audio and walking tours. These tours explore Little Rock's civil rights and political histories, as well as its murals and sculptures. The tours are free; maps and audio files are available on the visitor bureau's website .

Get a pass Little Rock's bus and streetcar systems can take users to several of Little Rock's attractions, such as the Clinton Presidential Center and the Museum of Discovery . You can buy a 10-ride pass for $11.50.

Little Rock Central High School was in the spotlight in 1957, when nine Black students enrolled at the school, which was historically white. Their enrollment and activism helped the civil rights movement gain momentum.

Explore More of Little Rock

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Fun things to do in Little Rock Arkansas | Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details.

Little Rock, the dynamic state capitol of Arkansas, combines the best of the south with a vibrant foodie scene, a buzzing downtown and a historic feel.

The city is packed with culture and history and embraces its troubled past whilst maintaining a modern vibe.

It’s one of the most surprising USA cities I’ve visited, where historic sites and museums blend with hip breweries and scenic bike trails

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas, this guide will direct you to foodie hotspots, outdoor activities, neighbourhoods, and culture.

fun things to do in Little Rock

Little Rock vacation planning

A vacation in Little Rock will require a little travel planning and scheduling. I would make a list of the Little Rock attractions you want to visit and the destinations you want to see in the city.

We discuss travel planning on my weekly travel podcast, Travel Goals . Subscribe now to catch up on all episodes.

Take the time to research the best things to do in Little Rock to make the most of your time in this uber-cool city.

Visit the Clinton Presidential Center

The Little Rock Presidential Center is an impressive structure on the banks of the Arkansas River.

The large complex includes the offices of the Clinton Foundation, the magnificent Clinton Presidential Library and the offices of the Clinton Foundation.

The Presidential Centre celebrates one of Little Rock’s most famous residents: the 42nd president of the United States, Bill Clinton.

Clinton Presidential Library

The uber-modern library has a range of exhibits that chronicle the presidency of Bill Clinton.

You could spend hours getting to know the man behind the Oval Office with a range of documents and exhibits that give an insight into the day-to-day running of the White House.

A sequential timeline documents the years of Clinton’s presidency, featuring key events and decisions. There’s also an exhaustive daily schedule of the Clinton Presidency.

Clinton Presidential Library tour

If you fancy seeing what dear old Bill had for breakfast on the 30th of January 1995, chances are you can find out here. I bet it was chocolate chip pancakes.

Interestingly, the exhibits also discuss the more controversial aspects of Clinton’s presidency.

There’s no point pretending that Clinton wasn’t a Wiley old cad, [I wouldn’t say no] and the Lewinsky scandal, amongst others, is addressed.

My favourite parts of the centre are the exact Oval Office and Cabinet Room replicas where you can step inside some of the most famous rooms in history.

Clinton Library exhibits

The Presidential Center also features a range of interesting temporary exhibits that keep things fresh. Some of the current exhibits include the White House Collection of American Crafts.

This innovative collection includes contemporary metal, glass, and woodwork that were previously displayed in the White House’s formal public rooms.

I have to say, nearly all the pieces are highly Instagrammable, which I am sure is exactly what the artists were striving for.

Go cycling in Little Rock

Why not explore the 15 miles of the Arkansas River Trail by bike? Whizz through downtown, through gorgeous parklands, over bridges, and enjoy scenic river views on two wheels. 

You can go on a bike tour or rent bicycles from  Rock Town River Outfitters and spend the day whizzing around scenic bike trails that lead you out of the urban area.

The Arkansas River Bicycle Trail is about 100 miles of pretty spectacular bike paths that run from River Market all the way to Pinnacle Mountain. 

Arkansas River Bicycle Trail

If you happen to rent a bike during a large biking event, be sure to use at least mild common sense. 

I almost caused a lady biker to faceplant onto the bike path after I manoeuvred into position for the perfect Instagram without looking where I was going. This is a Standard Instagram fail from yours truly. 

Explore Little Rock’s River Market District

Little Rock’s River Market District is the heart of Little Rock’s downtown area.

There are a selection of cool bars and shops, the Ottenheimer Market Hall, which regularly hosts events, and the beautiful riverfront park.

This ten block area has so much to offer residents and visitors and is worth a day’s exploring.

This formerly disused area, full of condemned buildings, has had millions of dollars worth of facelifts to become hipster central.

The enhancement of this area brings a renewed quality of life to the residents and marks Little Rock as a dynamic destination for tourists.

This area has an electric vibe, and you can’t help but feel that this is the place to be.

Several cocktails might have also contributed to this feel-good buzz. It’s hard to say really?

Little Rock River Market restaurants

Make sure to try out several of the foodie hot spots in this area, including Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Blue Canoe Brewing, Nexus Coffee, and Creative.

Many of River Market’s food and drink outlets are independent, so by eating there, you are also supporting thriving local businesses.

Wander around the Little Rock Riverfront Park area

After sampling delicious local dishes, check out the glorious Riverfront Park area. There are 33 acres of picturesque urban parkland to discover and enjoy.

Several park attractions include Peabody Splash Park, Junction Bridge, the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden and the William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands.

Walking around the park is one of the best free things in Little Rock.

Ride the Little Rock Metro Streetcar

You can also ride the heritage Metro Streetcar through the River Market district.

The Little Rock streetcar has three historic replica streetcars that operate in Little Rock and North Little Rock. They travel a 3.4-mile route.

The Little Rock Streetcar fayre is $1.35 one way for an adult. An absolute bargain way to see the city. Hop aboard and start exploring downtown in the old-fashioned way.

Learn history at Little Rock Central High School

Little Rock is perhaps best known for its role in America’s civil rights struggle. The city was the epicentre of the segregation crisis in the 1950s.

It also had the national spotlight shone on it during this dark episode of history.

The world looked on as nine brave African American young people [the Little Rock Nine] attempted to enrol in Central High School in 1957 and were prevented from entering.

Their attendance at Little Rock Central High School resulted from a landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling, Brown v. Board of Education.

This ruling declared that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional.

You can take a guided tour of this still operational school site. Walk the halls and learn more about how President Eisenhower was forced to intervene in the crisis.

Your guide will also explain what the students had to endure to get the education they were newly entitled to.

Little Rock Central High School tour

During the tour, you can walk the path the students had to walk as federal troops escorted them in.

This was due to Governor Orval Faubus calling in the Arkansas National Guard to block the black students’ entry into the school.

It’s heartbreakingly reflective to imagine what it must have been like to walk past angry locals jeering and shouting as you made the short yet emotionally long walk into the school.

The Little Rock High School Tour can be booked online, and advance booking is recommended as this is still a functioning high school during term time.

Make sure to also swing by the Monument to the Little Rock Nine , located on the grounds of the Arkansas State Capitol.

Discover Little Rock SoMa District

The Southside Main Street District (SoMa) is the very essence of an off-beat neighbourhood.

The area’s main focal point is the 63-year-old Community Bakery, the heart and bakery epicentre of this local community.

This once-thriving area of Little Rock was split ears ago by Interstate 630. It divided Main Street into “downtown,” which fell north of the freeway, and then “South Main,” which quickly became an area people rarely ventured to and, as a result, became desolate.

Eat at SoMa restaurants in Little Rock

This area has undergone extensive revitalisation and now features vibrant street art, a range of hip cafes, gardens, and boutique shops.

Make sure to visit some popular foodie places, including Loblolly Creamery, Root Café and the Green Corner Store, for good eats in achingly middle-class surroundings.

Exploring this quirky area is definitely one of the best things to do in Little Rock to get a flavour of the local community and residents.

Visit the Esse Purse Museum & Store

Two words that will send my husband running to the nearest bar are “purse” and “museum,” yet the Esse Purse Museum managed to surprise us both.

I’ll admit I’m not a fan of handbags [or purses as you inexplicably call them in the States]. I don’t understand women’s fascination with a vessel for holding your crap in.

The ESSE Purse Museum & Store effortlessly provides historical context to purses and their contents.

It is one of only three purse museums globally [and actually the only one in the U.S.]. This museum features the creativity and curation of owner Anita Davis’ fascination with the history of purses.

The museum is laid out into decades that feature not only purses of the time, but what their likely contents would have been.

Best things to do in SoMa

It’s an interesting prism from which to view history, and the various artefacts really bring the various decades to life. It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Little Rock.

Wander around to follow the historical timeline and evolution of the 20th century through handbags and their secret contents.

A beautiful boutique store is also attached to the museum that sells pretty purses, scarves, and jewellery.

Husbands, it is advisable to hide the credit card upon entering the store as it is likely to be on the receiving end of some severe retail punishment.

Take a tour of Rock Town Distillery

Since prohibition, Rock Town Distillery has been praised as Arkansas’s first ‘legal’ distillery.

These guys are making seriously good whisky, bourbon, vodka, and gin. They have also won numerous international awards for their spirits.

Rock Town’s artisan craft distillery is truly grain-to-glass perfection for booze fans.

You can visit the distillery for tours and tastings and learn more about the process of making spirits.

Rock Town Distillery awards

Rock Town Distillery uses local Arkansas wheat, corn, and rye to make its bourbons, gin, rum, and vodkas.

Things are really kept at a local level here, and running a tight ship means that the products are of a very high standard.

They have many bragging points, as Jim Murray, author of the Whisky Bible, named their single-barrel reserve whiskey the 2015 American Micro Whiskey of the Year.

Rock Town distillery tour

After an informal but informative tour, you arrive at the main attraction, the tasting portion of the day. This is where things can start to unravel rather quickly.

Previous experience has taught me that if my darling husband is given one too many samples of whisky, he can get rather animated.

He has been known to yell “I am the king” in the local boozer after one too many ‘Old Fashions’. [For reference, he is most definitely not the king, but I run this show.]

If your tour companion is equally as delightful when inebriated, it might be worth having a sly word with the bar staff about reining in the liberal pouring policy.

Little Rock Kayaking

Discover Little Rock from the water by kayaking on the Arkansas River. Kayak rental in Little Rock is available from Rock Town River Outfitters.

It’s quite something to see, with the city skyline on one side and lots of greenery and trees on the other.

Kayaking in Little Rock is a peaceful way of gazing at the city sights whilst you bob along on the water. It’s certainly one of the best things to do in Little Rock if you are an outdoor enthusiast.

Rock Town River Outfitters

Rock Town River Outfitters offers tours and kayak rentals. You can take a kayak tour of Little Rock from Rockwater Marina to North River Landing.

Or perhaps do a sunset paddle and see downtown Little Rock’s skyline as the sun goes down?

Kayak Rental Little Rock

You can also rent kayaks in Little Rock from Rock Town River Outfitters. You can rent stand-up paddleboards and sit-on-top kayaks by the hour from them.

The best part is that after your rental period is up, you can kick back at the marina with a cheeky wine or two.

Quapaw Quarter

If you love historic architecture and grand homes, stroll around The Quapaw Quarter of Little Rock. It’s a historic, residential neighbourhood of the city that was first named in 1961, honouring the Quapaw Indians who lived there centuries ago.

There is a range of historic homes, [historic for America anyway], from the Antebellum and Victorian eras.

The area also has examples of Craftsman-style architecture. Spring, Scott, and Center Streets are where many of these homes still stand today.

Visit the Little Rock Firehouse Hostel

The area is also home to The MacArthur Park Historic District, which features the Arkansas Arts Center and the   Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum.

You can stay in the hostel surrounded by paraphernalia from the fire station.

It’s a really reasonably priced stay if you are looking for budget accommodation in Little Rock. The staff are also friendly and helpful, which is always a bonus.

Go shopping at the Little Rock Hillcrest Neighborhood

The Hillcrest Historic District is west of Little Rock downtown along Markham Street.

This charming area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places collection and is one of the first residential areas of Little Rock.

It’s always nice to get out of the main downtown area of a city and explore some of the local Little Rock neighbourhoods.

Little Rock shopping

There are many trendy shops, independent cafes and historic homes here. Setting aside time to explore this cutesy part of town is worth it.

Head to Box Turtle for a unique shopping experience in a veritable treasure trove.

This eclectic shop is in a beautiful three-story house and offers an impressive range of clothes, jewellery, candles, and quirky gifts.

They also allow local designers and artist to showcase their impressive work.

Everything here is also splendidly displayed, making for an enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing shopping experience. For shopping fans, it’s one of the best things to do in Little Rock.

If you’re lucky the owners may invite you into the back room for a little tipple and a chat. Nothing like a shot of hard liquor at 10 am to start your day the right way.

Sip coffee at Mylo Coffee Co

Make sure to call Mylo Coffee Co. when in the neighbourhood for sweet and savoury pastries and some pretty kick-ass coffee.

It’s certainly one of the best places for coffee in Little Rock, judging by the quality of the cup I sipped.

Where to eat in Little Rock

Little Rock has a huge range of eateries and is somewhat of a foodie hotspot these days.

Depending on your budget and tastes, Little Rock has a range of places to eat.

I’ve tried to include some of the best places to eat in Little Rock, but I know there are many more in the city.

42 bar and Table

42 Bar and Table is a beautiful restaurant inside the Clinton Presidential Centre overlooking the Arkansas River and the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge.

The dishes here are fresh and contemporary, featuring local favourites and internationally inspired cuisine. It’s perfect for lunchtime dining after learning more about the 42nd president.

Lost Forty Brewing

Lost Forty Brewing brews up a storm with a selection of craft beers. Offerings include Azacca Imperial IPA, Rockhound Imperial IPA and Lost 40 Pale Ale.

They also have a range of comfort foods on the menu. I highly recommend the open-faced fried Italian Bologna and egg. Feast upon Mortadella luncheon meat, fried egg sunny side up, Rockhound IPA Mustard, and mayo.

It’s also lovingly served with Space Invaders-style potato chips. Utter filth.

One Eleven at the Capital.

Located inside the swanky hotel, One Eleven at the Capital is the place to dine in Little Rock. CBG’s culinary vision focuses on provincial comfort food, particularly emphasising the ‘bounty of Arkansas’.

There’s a range of popular signature dishes; however, the menus change frequently at this upscale eatery.

Typical dishes include Lamb shank with roasted potatoes, seared diver scallops and prime beef fillet. They take meat rather seriously in this joint.

If you are looking for lovely date ideas in Little Rock, why not sit in the hotel lobby after dinner and listen to the jazz quartet play while sipping a cocktail? You’ll practically ooze sophistication, darlings.

Community Bakery

Community Bakery has a wonderful retro vibe and serves the most delicious cakes and loaves of bread.

Its long history means that many of the recipes used 60 years ago are still used today.

Their cake cabinet is a sight to behold, and I had to fight the urge to buy “all the cakes”. I am currently trying out this new thing called ‘self-restraint’. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Make sure to order one of their legendary ‘sugar cookies’, a taste sensation.

There’s also a great selection of soups, sandwiches, bagels and baked goods if you are in a savoury mood.

Loblolly Creamery

This charming Little Rock-based creamery specialises in making small batches of delicious ice cream, sodas, and other sweets.

Loblolly Creamery certainly is a strong contender for the best ice cream in Little Rock.

A lot of love goes into the ice creams, creating every recipe from scratch. There are no shortcuts in artisan ice cream darlings.

Seasonal ingredients are sourced, and there are no nasty preservatives, premixes or artificial flavours here.

If you are struggling to decide on a flavour, why not treat yourself to a flight of ice cream? You deserve it.

The Root Cafe

The Root Cafe has all the bohemian buzzwords going for it: “Sustainable”, “Farm-to-table”, and “locally-owned”, to name a few.

Unlike other establishments of similar ilk, there’s no pretentiousness here. Root Cafe sources from as many small farms and producers in Arkansas as they can.

Because the Root Cafe has a relaxed, community feel, it’s a wildly popular place for locals. When we arrived, the line for brunch was out the door.

Definitely order the ‘Root Benny’ for brunch. It’s a moreish serving of two farm-fresh poached eggs over a bed of local, seasonal greens.

Heights taco & Tamale Co

  Heights Taco & Tamale Co is a trendy spot in Little Rock that serves up Mexican-Southern fusion fare.

Their dishes are rooted in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine and are created with local and seasonal Arkansas culinary influences.

Their famous and hugely popular Families Cheese Dip took home first place in the  World Cheese Dip Championship  Festival in 2016.

Little Rock hotels

From luxury resorts to mid-range apartments to budget hotels, there is a huge range of accommodation in Little Rock

Some of the best hotels in Little Rock include:

• Comfort Suites Little Rock
• . Crowne Plaza Little Rock
• Hampton Inn & Suites Little Rock-Downtown
• Little Rock Marriott

Little Rock Hotel Frederica

Why not spoil yourself with a Boutique hotel in Little Rock and book a stay at Hotel Frederica ? This former Sam Peck Hotel is full of history and charm.

Weirdly Rockefeller obsessed husband was delighted to learn that they were frequent guests.

It is certainly one of the best hotels in Little Rock in terms of design, value and character.

Historic hotel Little Rock

This landmark hotel is in a very convenient downtown location and also has all the amenities one might expect of a hotel of this standard.

Rooms include coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi, hairdryer, iron and ironing board.

Breakfast is also included and there is also a gym, for those who like a workout on their vaycay.

Hotel Frederica has kept many of its historic features including cherry wood furnishings, and classic marble making it a most photogenic hotel.

Get those #hotel Instagram snaps and be the envy of friends at home with your smug and exquisite hotel taste darlings. Duck faces at the ready!

Is Little Rock worth visiting?

Little Rock might not be the most obvious choice as your holiday destination.

You might be justified asking yourself is Little Rock worth visiting? I personally believe it’s a fantastic Arkansas vacation idea.

You can spend an entire vacation here as there is a huge variety of things to do in Little Rock. There are foodie finds, art and culture and outdoor adventures.

You just need to come and experience it for yourself and get a flavour for Southern culture at its finest. What do you think of my guide to the Best things to do in Little Rock?

Little Rock FAQ

When is the best time to visit Little Rock in Arkansas?

The best time to visit Little Rock in Arkansas is from April until October. This is when you’ll get the best weather in Little Rock as there is limited rainfall.

Does Amtrack go to Little Rock?

Amtrak operates one National Network train through Arkansas, the Texas Eagle (daily Chicago-St. Louis- San Antonio via Little Rock, with tri-weekly through car service on the Sunset Limited to Los Angeles.

How to get around Little Rock?

Travel to and from Little Rock is super convenient with excellent air, rail and bus connections in the city. There are also plenty of taxis and rental car agencies situated both at the airport and in the city centre.

Riding the Little Rock trolleys

River Rail Electric Streetcars uses restored 1940s trolley cars to travel between the two river cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock, via Main Street Bridge. There are 11 stops in total on this retro public transport service. You can find a timetable for the service online.

Recommended travel resources

Flights : To search for flight deals, check out sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare the costs of flights and to book. Accommodation:  I use Booking.com for most of my hotel bookings as they have fantastic flexibility and cancellation.

Airport Parking and Lounges : Save money on airport & travel extras, including; airport parking, airport hotels, and airport lounges with Holiday Extras . Travel Insurance:  I highly recommend you always get travel insurance – I use the Post Office Travel Insurance for single trip coverage and Safety Wing for comprehensive travel medical insurance. Car Hire: I use Discover Cars to hire cars abroad as they have free cancellation, free mileage and no card fees. Travel Money: I recommend Post Office Travel Money as you can get competitive rates and 0% commission for your holiday cash.

E-sim Cards: Use Airalo’s eSIM app to buy an eSIM for 200+ countries and stay connected when you travel abroad. For more travel tools, head to my bumper travel resources page now!

Love this post? Why not pin it and share it?

Portia has spent years traversing the globe and having many misadventures. She now works as a freelance travel journalist, editor of Pip and the City and hosts the Travel Goals Podcast. She specialises in adventure travel, destination guides and city breaks. Her work has appeared in The Times, National Geographic and Lonely Planet. She can normally be found hiking, swimming outdoors in icy waters, or drinking coffee in bougie cafes.

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The best time to visit Little Rock is from the more pleasant Spring (March - May) and Fall months (September - October). Summers here can be hot and humid and will make it difficult for one to explore the city. Coincidentally, it also the season which receives the heaviest footfall. This makes it an expensive time to visit since hotel and airfares are at its peak. Not to mention, the crowded attractions and sights. 

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31 Best & Fun Things To Do In Little Rock (Arkansas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: March 29, 2022  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

As the capital of Arkansas, Little Rock is a lively tourist destination filled with everything from award-winning restaurants to historic homes and landmarks with great significance to the South.

It’s a mix of the old and the new, the classic and the modern.

For every streetcar that toots its way across town, there’s also a glamorous art gallery, a glittering shopping mall, or a neon-lit nightclub.

Outside of the metropolis, you’ll also find stunning natural scenery in the form of woods, lakes, rivers, and mountains.

There’s a reason why Arkansas is called the Natural State, so if you’re a fan of the outdoors, there are plenty of ways to work up a sweat!

Another great thing about Little Rock is that it’s a place that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Kids can run wild at parks and playgrounds; teens can pose for selfies on cliff tops; mom and dad can kick back with a cold beer at the distilleries.

There are also many great destinations for couples, work teams, and solo travelers.

Are you ready to experience the splendor of one of Arkansas’s most iconic cities?

Here are just a few fabulous things to do in Little Rock!

Table of Contents

1. Big Dam Bridge

WHillphoto / Shutterstock

An architectural marvel, the Big Dam Bridge is one of the biggest points of interest in Little Rock.

It’s also a history maker: It’s the largest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in all of North America.

Walk, bike, hike, or jog along more than 14 miles of beautiful riverside trails.

You’ll get to experience breathtaking views as you move high above the Arkansas River, and depending on when you’re there, you might also have the opportunity to participate in seasonal community events like marathons, races, and “full moon runs.”

The bridge also serves as an access point to many other tourist attractions, including the River Market and the Clinton Presidential Center.

It’s an excellent place to start your vacation if you’re new to Little Rock and wondering what to do.

Long story short, you won’t want to miss the Big Dam Bridge.

It’s an iconic destination in the city and a place where you can make all kinds of fun, lasting memories.

They’re all the better for being so high in the air!

Address: 4000 Cook’s Landing Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72118, United States

2. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Marti Bug Catcher / Shutterstock

In 1957, the “Little Rock Nine” were among the first African-American teenagers to attend a desegregated high school.

It caused such turmoil in the community that the president had to order the National Guard to safely escort them to and from their classes.

All of this happened at Little Rock Central High School.

Today, the school is no longer a school; it’s been converted into a museum to preserve the legacy of the Little Rock Nine and everything that they accomplished.

However, you can still retrace their steps by taking a tour, reading their testimony about the time, looking at exhibits at the visitor’s center, and watching an educational film.

There’s also a commemorative garden as well as kid-friendly activities designed to promote tolerance and diversity.

Another nice thing about the site is that there’s no admission fee.

Little Rock has deemed it important for kids and adults of all ages to remember their past, so it’s one of the free things to do in the area.

History isn’t always pretty, but at the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site , it isn’t forgotten.

Sign up for a sobering but highly enlightening tour.

Address: 2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

3. Metro Streetcar

RI-Bill (talk) (Uploads). , Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

With its yellow-and-red color scheme, the Metro Streetcar is one of the most visible of Little Rock’s attractions, and it’s also one of the most fun.

It started as an authentic railway system back in the 1800s before being shut down, revamped, and reopened as a heritage streetcar system in 2004.

Riders can hop on at any number of points in downtown Little Rock, many of which are situated near tourist attractions.

You could easily use the trolley to go on a sightseeing tour of the city’s best.

Rides are offered every day of the week, and they’re fare-free, so your budget won’t take a hit.

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Little Rock, consider the Metro Streetcar.

Not only will it make for cute and charming selfies, but it will also give you a cool story to tell when you get home!

Address: Little Rock, AR, United States

4. Pinnacle Mountain State Park

David7 / Shutterstock

Nicknamed “The Natural State” for its abundant parks, rivers, mountains, and hot springs, Arkansas is filled with beautiful and natural scenery, and Pinnacle Mountain State Park is one of the best places to see it.

Covering more than 2,000 acres, this park is spread across Pinnacle Mountain and its surrounding Big Maumelle and Little Maumelle rivers.

There are dozens of trails, including walking and biking trails, and the views from the cliff tops are simply breathtaking.

If you aren’t an experienced outdoorsman, that’s okay, too.

There are summits for people of all skill levels, so whether you’re looking for a leisurely dog walk or a clambering trek across boulders and streams, you can find a suitable trail.

One thing to note about the park is that it’s located a few minutes outside of Little Rock, but it’s worth the drive.

You’ll be able to escape the bright lights of the city in favor of glittering blankets of stars rising over mountaintops.

Just plan accordingly.

Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Roland, AR 72135, United States

5. River Market

STEPHEN B. THORNTON / Shutterstock

With food, drink, music, theater, and more shopping opportunities than your poor wallet can handle, the River Market is one of the best things to do in Little Rock.

Despite the name, it isn’t just a market.

It’s actually an entire district filled with everything from historic riverside homes to bars, boutiques, and bistros.

You can dine at restaurants, explore nature trails, and take public artwork tours all within a few blocks.

The River Market is also home to a number of special events throughout the year.

Some are recurring, including the local farmer’s market, while others are more time- and location-specific like spring jazz festivals and holiday caroling events.

Whether you’re headed to Little Rock this weekend, this summer, or next year, you’ll definitely want to check out the River Market District.

The good news is that it isn’t going anywhere.

It’s been a staple of the city since the 1990s, and even today, it stands as a shining beacon of ingenuity and city planning in the South.

Check it out!

Address: E. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Planning to visit other parts of Arkansas? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Eureka Springs ?

6. Little Rock Zoo

Little Rock Zoo

As the largest zoo in Arkansas, it’s hard to believe that the Little Rock Zoo started with just two animals: an abandoned wolf and a former circus bear.

Over the years, however, it’s grown to a large, clean, and colorful place where animal lovers of all ages can enjoy a diverse range of wildlife.

Some “animal encounters” will even let you get up close and personal with nature’s coolest critters!

The animal roster includes everything from tiny lizards to gigantic tigers and bears, so every habitat will have something new.

Activities range from feedings and other demonstrations to educational tours and meet-and-greets with the zookeepers.

If you get tired of walking around, you can hop on the train, grab a bite to eat at the cafe, or let the kids take a ride on the old-fashioned carousel.

There’s also a gift shop to buy plenty of souvenirs.

All in all, the Little Rock Zoo is one of the top places to see in Little Rock.

It’ll educate, impress, and inspire all at once, and since it’s a conservation site just as much as an entertainment venue, your ticket price will go towards a good cause as well.

Address: 1 Zoo Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205, United States

7. Clinton Presidential Center

amadeustx / Shutterstock

Formally known as the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, the Clinton Presidential Center is a standing tribute to Bill Clinton, the 42nd president of the United States.

It’s also an impressive landmark in its own right!

Even if you aren’t interested in politics, it’ll be hard not to gawk at its size, scale, and unique architectural features.

The building, for example, is constructed primarily of steel and laminated glass that gleams in the sunlight.

It’s also raised off the ground, allowing visitors a stunning bird’s eye view of the river and greenery below.

Inside, there are all of the galleries and archives that you’d expect from a presidential museum, but there’s also a theater, cafe, great hall, and restaurant.

You can explore all kinds of novelties, including full-sized replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room from the Clinton era.

If you’re at all interested in history, politics, or just cool architecture, you’ll want to make time for the Clinton Presidential Center.

Not only is it a fun attraction, but it’s one that you can only find in Little Rock, so it’ll be a unique vacation experience as well.

Address: 1200 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

8. Whole Hog Cafe

Whole Hog Cafe

You can’t visit the South without trying some traditional Southern cuisine, and Whole Hog Cafe is one of the best places to get it.

They’re world champions of barbecue, and they don’t skimp on the servings, so you’ll have to roll yourself out of your seat after stuffing yourself silly.

Menu items include all kinds of Southern staples, including pulled pork, baked beans, potato salad, green beans, and rolls.

You can order ribs by the slab or as part of various dinner plates.

If you’re really hungry, you might consider the “Hog Platter” that offers a little bit of everything for a truly gargantuan feast.

You’ll also enjoy the atmosphere of the cafe.

There are no white tablecloths here!

It’s relaxed, comfortable, and utterly unpretentious.

Everyone loosens their belt after the first plate or two.

When you’re feeling hungry in Little Rock, find the nearest Whole Hog Cafe.

They have multiple locations in the city, so you’ll never be far from one.

Let your ears lead you to the sizzling of some fantastic, award-winning barbecue.

Address: 2516 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

9. Arkansas Repertory Theatre

Arkansas Repertory Theatre / flickr

Once you’ve cleared a platter of ribs and wiped all of the barbecue sauce from your fingers, you might be wondering about the other side of Little Rock.

Where can you go to get a little class and culture?

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre is one of the finest venues in Little Rock.

Dedicated to the arts in all forms, it’s a place where you can enjoy everything from classical music to contemporary plays and stand-up comedy.

You can watch Macbeth and Les Miserables; you can watch Monty Python’s Spamalot.

There’s always something different on the schedule.

The cozy and intimate nature of the theatre also makes for a great date night.

Seeing a show together can be one of the most romantic things to do for couples in Little Rock, and that includes locals and tourists alike.

Take a break from sightseeing and go and see something up close.

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre is an elegant, old-school establishment even when it’s headlining Monty Python, so it’ll be a nice way to feel fancy in Little Rock.

Address: 601 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

10. Funland Amusement Park

Funland Amusement Park

Located in North Little Rock, Funland is a small, family-oriented amusement park where everyone can have a good time.

It’s known for its quaint and charming attractions as well as its cheap tickets: They only cost $2 a pop.

As the owners say on their website, “Spend a day, not a fortune!”

Rides at Funland include a train, carousel, space shuttle, and Ferris wheel.

Other games and activities range from carnival-style contests to special seasonal events like meeting Santa, hunting for Easter eggs, or riding the Holiday Express.

All-day passes are available if you want to try everything, and you can also buy a cheap seasonal pass for your entire family if you’ll be staying in town for awhile.

Funland isn’t the biggest or flashiest of Little Rock attractions, but it’s a place where the kids can burn off some of their energy while you indulgently stroll behind them with an old-fashioned ice cream cone.

If you’re looking for family fun that won’t break the bank, this is the place to get it.

Address: 25 Funland Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72114, United States

Exploring other areas of Arkansas? Why not check out some of the things to do in Hot Springs, AR ?

11. Arkansas State Capitol

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

With its bright white dome, the Arkansas State Capitol is one of the most iconic places to visit in the state.

It also has a fun and fascinating history: Originally built in the late 1800s, it was constructed on the site of a state penitentiary, and prisoners helped to raise it.

Today, you’re more likely to see folks in business suits rather than orange jumpsuits, but it’s still a bustling location filled with motion, activity, and purpose.

Politicians use the offices.

Tourists check out exhibitions like the Civil Rights Memorial and the Confederate War Prisoners Memorial.

People interested in government work can even watch legislators from a public gallery!

If you’re headed to Little Rock, it’s worth checking out the Arkansas State Capitol.

Not only is it an impressive architectural feat, but it’s a place where you can learn a little history and celebrate the legacy of the Natural State.

Address: 500 Woodlane St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

12. The Arkansas River Trail

Barbara Kalbfleisch / Shutterstock

What covers 88 miles and costs less than 88 cents?

The answer: a trip across the Arkansas River Trail .

Spanning the entire breadth of Little Rock as well as surrounding areas like Maumelle and Conway, the Arkansas River Trail is a gigantic pedestrian pathway that’s used by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and more.

It connects dozens of landmarks and attractions, including almost 40 different parks and recreation areas, so you can spend all day in nature while also appreciating the convenience of a clean, tidy path with lots of signage.

Additionally, the trail doesn’t cost anything to use!

It’s one of the many free things to do within Little Rock, so you can have fun without spending a dime.

The Arkansas River Trail will offer multi-day, multipurpose excitement for visitors from all walks of life.

Whether you’re taking an easy stroll by the river or undergoing an epic quest to conquer the entire 88 miles, it should offer a great vacation experience for you.

13. Historic Arkansas Museum

Malachi Jacobs / Shutterstock

Some of the oldest buildings in Little Rock can be found at the Historic Arkansas Museum .

The name is a bit of a misnomer: Rather than being a single museum, it’s an entire city block dedicated to old, authentic, and carefully-preserved homes and homesteads.

Different buildings hold different artifacts.

At some, for example, you can see paintings, pottery, and additional works of art.

At others, you can examine collections of vintage guns and hunting horns.

Some have antique jewelry and fashion.

Some have sepia-toned photographs and old furniture so fragile that you can’t touch it.

Outside tends to be just as beautiful as inside, too.

You can wander the grounds with their gardens and sculptures and take in the beautiful, old-fashioned architecture of another era.

One of the top things to do in Arkansas is to check out the many museums that the city has to offer, and the Historic Arkansas Museum is among the best.

If you’re looking for something that’s simultaneously educational and entertaining, this is the place to go!

Address: 200 E 3rd St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

14. The Old Mill

RozenskiP / Shutterstock

You might recognize the Old Mill even if you’ve never been there before.

Featured in the opening scene of Gone With the Wind, a Southern classic, it has all of the beauty, charm, and grace of a truly historic destination.

Though not an original structure, the Old Mill has been painstakingly replicated to look like an authentic, water-powered grist mill from the 1880s.

Its gentle wheels turn in time with the blooming of its flowers and the mini-waterfalls streaming over its rocks.

It even boasts a wooden footbridge that serves as a passageway for pedestrians to enjoy all of the sights and sounds of nature.

The Old Mill is one of the coolest things to do in Little Rock if you enjoy historic places.

It’s also a treat if you have an eye for rustic or country-style architecture in general.

It’s quite literally cinematic, so whenever you feel ready to channel Rhett or Scarlett, grab your camera and go!

Address: 3800 Lakeshore Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72116, United States

15. Electric Cowboy

With a name like “ Electric Cowboy ,” you might expect this venue to be amazing, and you’d be right.

It’s one of the most happening nightlife spots in Little Rock, and thanks to its unique combination of country charm and contemporary chic, it can make for an unforgettable evening.

The drinks are cheap but potent.

The music includes everything from classic country to the latest in rap and hip-hop.

Special events include dance lessons, pool and cornhole tournaments, and themed gatherings with costumes and half-off liquor.

Are you looking for some fun in Little Rock tonight? Swing by the Electric Cowboy.

The doors are always open to those who know how to have a good time.

Address: 9515 I-30, Little Rock, AR 72209, United States

16. The Bernice Garden

The Bernice Garden

Tourist attractions like The Bernice Garden are why Arkansas is one of the most underrated places in the US .

It’s small, and it isn’t always featured in travel magazines, but it’s an absolutely gorgeous destination for nature lovers.

The garden is the main attraction, of course, and it features everything from roses to zinnias under a canopy of moths, butterflies, and dragonflies.

But the flora isn’t the only reason to give it a visit.

Art is also front and center at Bernice, and from sculptures to mosaics to rock formations, your eyes will be just as delighted by the sights as your nose is delighted by the scents.

Other activities include a weekly farmer’s market as well as regular live music events under the high wooden arches of the pavilion.

If you time your trip right, you might even be able to catch the Arkansas Cornbread Festival!

A trip to The Bernice Garden can be one of the most fun experiences that you have in Little Rock.

It might be something of a hidden gem within the city, but that just adds to its charm as a secret and beautiful garden.

Address: 1401 S Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

17. Park Plaza Mall

Park Plaza Mall

Shop ’til you drop at Park Plaza Mall .

Covering more than 125,000 square feet, it’s the largest shopping venue for miles, and it boasts everything that you could want in a retail therapy experience.

There are high-end boutiques if you’d like to splurge; there are cheap kiosks and souvenir stands if you just want to pick up some kitschy vacation knickknacks for your friends back home.

You might also want to simply window shop.

There are hundreds of stores to whittle away the time, and you can get in your daily steps just by walking around.

You might even find yourself appreciating the architecture.

With multiple levels covered by a gigantic, V-shaped glass ceiling, it’s a beautiful building that can show off sunlight and storm clouds alike.

You don’t have to spend big bucks at the Park Plaza Mall.

You’re welcome to, of course, but you can also enjoy the ambiance without being laden down by shopping bags.

Address: 6000 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205, United States

18. Burns Park

Burns Park is a large and lively park in North Little Rock.

Not only does it offer the usual amenities like nature trails, picnic tables, and athletic courts, but it’s also dotted with attractions as diverse as a World War II tank and a full-scale archery range.

First things first: What kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy?

The park offers it all, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and water skiing.

Everyone in the family can find fun stuff to do that will let them enjoy the summer sun or the fall foliage.

Other attractions include amusement parks, golf courses, RV campgrounds, and a number of historic homes and landmarks.

You could spend your entire vacation here and not see everything.

Fun things to do in Little Rock can be found around every corner, especially when those corners are located within Burns Park.

From catching your own dinner to sinking a hole-in-one, you’ll never run out of entertainment at a place like this!

Address: North Little Rock, AR 72118, United States

19. The Library Kitchen + Lounge

The Library Kitchen + Lounge

Despite its name, there’s nothing quiet about The Library Kitchen + Lounge .

It’s a venue for adults that offers everything from live music stages to a dozen flat-screen TVs surrounding a bar where the libations never stop flowing.

In other words, it isn’t a place to curl up with Anne of Green Gables.

It’s a place to get your Great Gatsby on!

The menu ranges from simple finger foods like “chicken onna stick” to elaborate, elbow-deep dishes like pulled pork barbecue nachos.

Drinks include beer, wine, and all kinds of cocktails.

You can sit at a table, restaurant-style, or you can chat up folks at the bar or get your groove on when the live music starts.

Another great thing about the venue is that it’s open late, so the party doesn’t have to stop until the wee hours of the morning.

All things considered, The Library Kitchen + Lounge is one of the premiere nightlife destinations in Little Rock.

Whether you’re looking for company or just craving some Southern-style fried green tomatoes, this is the place to experience it all.

Address: 313 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

20. ESSE Purse Museum

ESSE Purse Museum

Though it’s best known for its grand and regal destinations, Little Rock is also full of quirky, charming, and off-beat tourist attractions.

One such example is the ESSE Purse Museum .

Like its name suggests, the ESSE Purse Museum is all about purses.

It is, in fact, the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to handbags.

Exhibitions usually cover both the fashion and the craftsmanship of their purses as well as the history and legacy of the women who carried them.

Its central exhibit, for example, is called “A Century of Women and Handbags 1900 – 1999,” and it follows the changing trends of the industry in the broader context of women’s rights, struggles, and contemporary attitudes.

If you’re looking for unusual destinations in and near Little Rock, consider a tour of the ESSE Purse Museum.

It’s fun enough to be compelling but also serious enough to be genuinely engaging, so you can consider it one of the most fun places to visit in the city.

Address: 1510 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

Going on a road trip around Arkansas? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Bentonville, AR ?

21. Riverfront Park

NikonFDSLR / flickr

The Arkansas River is one of the major points of interest in the state, and there’s no better place to see it than Riverfront Park .

It’s located right off downtown Little Rock, and it offers 33 acres of flowers, trees, bridges, pavilions, sculpture gardens, and more.

Best of all, everything has a gorgeous view of the water!

Its main attractions are things like its amphitheater where fairs and festivals are held. However, there are many other things to see that aren’t as well-known, including its war memorials, junction bridges, splash parks, and nature centers.

Did we mention that there’s no admission fee to Riverfront Park?

While some special events might cost you, including its fairs, there’s no charge for the overall park.

Maybe you’re a fan of trails and parks.

Maybe you’re just looking for free things to do within the city.

Whatever your reasons for seeking out Riverfront Park, it’s definitely a top 10 destination in Little Rock!

Address: 400 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

22. Allsopp Park

Allsopp Park

If you’re packing your itinerary with the best places to vacation , you might find yourself in need of a little R&R after awhile.

Nonstop adventure can take its toll!

Fortunately, Allsopp Park is here to offer you a respite.

It’s both beautiful and peaceful, so it’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries when you need a little rest.

You can walk among the trees, picnic among the flowers, or go for a stroll among the creeks and streams.

You can even look upwards and spot some of Arkansas’s rarer bird species!

Another noteworthy thing about the park is that it’s centrally located in the heart of downtown Little Rock, so it’s easily accessible even when you’re in the middle of eating, drinking, dancing, and touring.

It’ll be a green oasis in the midst of a metropolis.

Not all Little Rock attractions are big and bold.

Some are quieter and humbler, and they’re exactly what you need during a stressful vacation.

Sit on a bench in Allsopp Park to soothe your spirit before charging off on your next adventure.

Address: 3700 Cedar Hill Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

23. Mystery Mansion Escape Room

Jerome.Romme / Shutterstock

The first of its kind in Little Rock, the Mystery Mansion Escape Room offers you the chance to test your bravery and your sleuthing skills with a variety of escape-based challenges.

Maybe you’re an amnesiac waking up in a locked room.

Maybe you’re a treasure hunter looking for gold coins hidden in a mansion.

Maybe you’re a spy, a high school student, or a potion master’s apprentice.

These are just a few of the scenarios that you might face as you look for clues and solve riddles and puzzles to complete your objectives.

All rooms are family-friendly, so feel free to bring your little ones along.

Escape challenges are also great for dates, parties, and corporate team-building events.

If you think that you have what it takes to master the mystery and earn your freedom, check out one of the coolest things to do in Little Rock by heading over to the Mystery Mansion Escape Room!

Address: 2122 Broadway St, Little Rock, AR 72206, United States

24. Rock Town Distillery

Rock Town Distillery

Famous for its “grain to glass” approach, Rock Town Distillery will allow you to see every single step of the alcohol-making process.

If you’ve ever been curious about how corn, wheat, rye, and other types of grain are turned into gin, bourbon, and vodka, this is the place to learn.

Tours will take you among the aged wooden barrels of the back rooms; tastings will let you sample the spirits after they’ve been transformed.

You can also sign up for everything from cocktail-making classes to “the history of whiskey” workshops.

As you sip, you can take comfort in the knowledge that your money is supporting local businesses: Rock Town Distillery never buys from farmers or vendors more than 120 miles away from Little Rock.

One thing to note is that you’ll need to make tour reservations in advance, so this might not be an ideal destination for last-minute plans this weekend.

If you have the time, however, you should pencil in a trip to Rock Town Distillery.

A “grain to glass” experience is one for the books!

Address: 1201 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

25. Museum Of Discovery

K I Photography / Shutterstock

Going on a family vacation?

Looking for something that can entertain the tots and the teens?

Consider a trip to the Museum Of Discovery .

With almost 100 different interactive exhibits, the Museum Of Discovery is a place where kids can take science into their own hands.

Whether it’s petting live animals, controlling switches and circuits, digging for fossils, or walking through a “tornado alley” filled with rumbles and shakes, they’ll find lots of exciting things to see and do.

Thanks to its wide variety of exhibits, the museum is also a place where the whole family can find something to interest them.

From babies to grandparents, science is made fun, accessible, and memorable.

If you’re wondering what to do with kids as you make your way through Little Rock, consider the Museum Of Discovery.

It’ll provide all-ages entertainment for all kinds of hearts and minds.

Address: 500 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

26. Lake Ouachita State Park

Kat Byrd I / Shutterstock

Located a few miles west of Little Rock, Lake Ouachita State Park is a stunningly beautiful destination that dates back centuries.

It used to be known for its hot springs that were said to have near-mythical restorative properties.

Today, it’s just a fun state park, but it’s a lot of fun.

Available activities include camping, swimming, hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, and more.

There’s inline skiing in the winter and jet skiing in the summer; there’s fishing in the daytime and stargazing at night.

No matter how you like to experience the great outdoors, this park is a must do for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are a number of accommodation options, too, depending on your fancy.

From open campgrounds where you pitch a tent to fully-stocked cabins with electricity, you’ll be able to travel at your own level of comfort.

If you don’t want to haul a lot of equipment with you on vacation, just rent what you need from the marina or the local shops.

Lake Ouachita State Park is one of the shining gems of Arkansas, and it isn’t that far from Little Rock.

To appreciate some of the best sights south of the Mason-Dixon line, this is the place to go.

Address: 5451 Mountain Pine Rd, Mountain Pine, AR 71956, United States

27. South On Main

South on Main

Another great place for Southern cuisine, South On Main goes the extra mile by offering more than just collared greens and black-eyed peas.

It’s also a place to experience live music!

Every weekend, local musicians come to the restaurant and perform for the dining crowds.

There might be a band; there might be folk dancing; there might just be a single girl in a sundress with a guitar.

Regardless, you’ll have entertainment while you eat.

As for the eating itself, you’ll have your choice of both traditional Southern cuisine and gourmet options like duck, catfish, or chicken liver.

The menu makes sure to cater to all types.

Are you looking for something fun to do this weekend?

Or maybe you’re just wondering what to do on a hot day in Little Rock.

Either way, South On Main is here for you.

As they say on their website, pull up a chair and stay awhile!

Address: 1304 S Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

28. Two Rivers Park

Two Rivers Park

Located at the intersection of the Arkansas River and the Little Maumelle River, Two Rivers Park is a dazzling destination where you can walk, bike, hike, kayak, and otherwise enjoy the great outdoors.

On land, you can explore a number of gardens, pathways, and nature trails.

One of them even crosses the bridge leading to the Arkansas River Trail, so you can keep on adventuring even after you’ve seen all of the park.

If you prefer to make a splash, consider renting a kayak and paddling around the waters of one or both rivers.

The park is the joint property of its neighboring counties, so visitors are allowed to move around at their leisure.

If you’re wondering what to do in Little Rock that doesn’t require a reservation, Two Rivers Park is always open, and it’s considered one of the top destinations in the city.

Address: 6900 Two Rivers Park Road, Little Rock, AR 72223, United States

29. Old State House Museum

Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock

You’ve seen the Arkansas State Capitol with its brilliant white marble.

But have you ever considered where government business was conducted before the late 1800s?

The answer is the Old State House .

Formerly known as the Arkansas State House, it was the center of Arkansas politics in the early 1800s, and it saw many landmark decisions and debates as the original state capitol building.

For example, politicians met here when talking about matters of succession during the Civil War, and it was here that they decided to abolish slavery and establish state-wide education.

There are also many colorful stories in its legacy: On December 4, 1837, a speaker killed a representative in a knife fight during a general assembly!

Today, visitors can tour the old building, see the many exhibits on display, and learn more about both Little Rock and Arkansas’s history.

Artifacts on display include everything from battle flags to the inaugural gowns of various First Ladies.

All in all, the Old State House is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Little Rock.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate it.

After all, how many times can you stand in the place of a genuine knife fight?

Address: 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

30. Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts / Studio Gang and SCAPE

As the capital of the state, Little Rock is considered a hot spot for arts and culture, and many Little Rock attractions are focused on the arts.

This is why places like the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts have chosen to call it home.

Filled with well-known names like Picasso, Degas, and Rembrandt, the museum is a gallery to the greats.

It features both permanent collections and temporary exhibits designed to showcase everything from up-and-coming talent to explorations into classic and antique art.

As a visitor, you can tour the museum, visit the research library, or sign up for any number of art classes and workshops.

If you plan on using Little Rock for a big occasion like a wedding, you can even rent out the atrium for the ceremony.

Ultimately, the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is a must see while you’re in the Natural State.

Not all of the area’s natural wonders are outdoors: Some have been captured on canvas for everyone to enjoy!

Address: 2510 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

31. La Petite Roche Plaza

La Petite Roche Plaza

Located by the riverfront, La Petite Roche Plaza is where the entire capital started, so it’s also a great way to say goodbye.

In 1722, a French explorer named Jean-Baptiste Benard de la Harpe was crossing the Arkansas River when he noticed an outcropping of rocks along the banks.

One was particularly memorable, and he named it La Petite Roche or “Little Rock.”

For years, La Petite Roche served as a landmark for travelers, so much so that even after an entire city grew around it, people ignored its government-issued name Arkopolis and continued to call it Little Rock.

La Petite Roche is still standing today, and you can see it from a beautiful, flower-filled plaza that also bears it name.

When your Little Rock vacation is coming to an end, why not say farewell by visiting the place where it all began?

Visit La Petite Roche Plaza, snap a few pictures for your scrapbook, and hold the memories close forever.

Address: Rock Street Riverfront Park, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Little Rock

These are just a few things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Whether you’re interested in climbing a mountain, catching a Broadway show, or digging into a platter of ribs, this is a city that has a little something for everyone.

You just have to plan accordingly.

Happy travels!

The 15 Best Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Set right in the heart of Arkansas , Little Rock offers endless things to do. First off, it’s located right on the banks of the Arkansas River. So, in addition to having beautiful river views from (almost) every angle, the city offers scenic kayaking and paddleboarding activities and dozens of riverside hiking and biking trails.

You can easily spend days shopping in the bustling Riverside Market District, hunting down street art in the trendy SoMa neighborhood, perusing hundreds of purses at the eclectic ESSE Purse Museum, and hiking to the top of nearby Pinnacle Mountain. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in Little Rock!

At the end of a long day, treat yourself to award-winning spirits at Rock Town Distillery or local craft brews at Lost Forty Brewing before dining at one of Little Rock’s many downhome Southern restaurants, innovative farm-to-table bistros, and diverse international eateries. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it in Arkansas’ capital city.

With so many cool things to see, do, and eat, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Little Rock for you. Stick to these fun and unique Little Rock bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this incredible Southern city!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

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15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Little Rock, AR

1. shop, wine & dine in river market district.

If there’s one thing that needs to be on your Little Rock bucket list, it’s a visit to the vibrant River Market District. This is the beating heart of Little Rock, where you’ll find some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as a range of museums, green spaces, and pop-up events. 

You can easily while away an afternoon strolling around Riverfront Park, checking out art in Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, and dining in the Ottenheimer Market Hall. This is also a great jumping-off point for the Arkansas River Trail if you want to go hiking or biking. 

From film screenings, food festivals, and world-class concerts, there are always fun events going on in this part of town, too. If you happen to be in Little Rock in September, be sure to enjoy live music at the Jazz in the Park concert series. Or, drop by on a Saturday, and you can shop for local goods at the riverside farmers’ market.

2. Kayak Along the Arkansas River 

Little Rock is an excellent destination for anyone who loves to get outside, and if you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Little Rock, there’s nothing quite like paddling down the Arkansas River in a kayak!

You can rent kayaks from Rock Town River Outfitters and paddle around nearby Two Rivers Park and River Mountain Park on your own. But for an extra-special experience, book a Sunset Kayak Tour along the Arkansas River. 

You’ll set off from Rockwater Marina about one hour before sunset. During the 2-hour excursion, your adventure guide will pepper you with all sorts of interesting facts about the Arkansas River and enlighten you with historical tidbits about Arkansas’ capital city. But the best part about this tour is watching the sun sink over West Little Rock from this unique and beautiful vantage point.

3. Admire Art at the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden

Located in Riverfront Park, Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden is easily one of the most unique Little Rock attractions. Take some time to explore the area, and you’ll find all sorts of eccentric sculptures tucked away in Riverfront Park’s beautiful gardens.

The project started with four works of art in 2004 and has now expanded to a whopping 90 incredible sculptures! Many of these sculptures arrived in Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden thanks to Little Rock’s annual Sculpture in the River Market event. 

During this event, some of the best sculptors in the US show off their skills and compete for a coveted spot in Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden. A committee then hand selects the best of the best to add to the sculpture garden. Thanks to this handy map , it’s totally possible to explore Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden on your own while learning all about the meaning of each work! 

4. Eat Your Way Through Ottenheimer Market Hall

With so many incredible food options, you’ll never go hungry in Little Rock. But if you’re struggling to agree on where to eat, the Ottenheimer Market Hall has something for everyone in your crew!

Located right in the heart of the River Market District, this fun food hall hosts a refreshingly diverse selection of cuisines and food concepts. If you’re interested in trying something with an Asian flair, you can sample spicy green curries at Bangkok Thai Cuisine, sushi and gyoza dumplings at Big on Tokyo, or Indian dishes at Indian Feast. 

For American-style fare, you can also grab slices of specialty pizza at Jay’s Pizza or indulge with some seriously good brisket and pulled pork at Platnum BBQ. Or, if you’re on the go, stop by the on-site Garden Square Café & Grocery for grab-n-go drinks, snacks, smoothies, and vegetarian foods!

To avoid disappointment, do note that the Ottenheimer Market Hall is open from 10 am to 2 pm Monday through Saturday and is closed on Sundays.

5. Peruse the ESSE Purse Museum

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Little Rock, then you’ll love exploring the ESSE Purse Museum (one of only two purse museums in the world!). While ESSE is curated around founder Anita Davis’ vast collection of purses, this museum also offers a sophisticated commentary on the history and progression of American women in the 20th century.

Davis believed that a purse is more than just utilitarian – it actually embodies the “essence” of its owner. In that regard, the museum displays Davis’ diverse selection of purses and their contents to show the evolution of fashion, femininity, and women in the workplace. 

Don’t miss out on the permanent exhibit, “What’s Inside: A Century of Women and Handbags 1900-1999.” You can also expect to find a range of interesting temporary exhibits during your visit. Be sure to stop off at the cool museum store, where you can purchase handbags from around the world, as well as other interesting odds and ends.

6. Go Biking along the Arkansas River Trail

Taking an epic bike ride along the Arkansas River Trail is one of the best things to do in Little Rock when the weather is nice. The original loop trail extends for 16 miles and takes you to some of Little Rock’s top attractions.

One of the coolest things about the Arkansas River Trail is that you’ll see some of the city’s iconic bridges along the way, including the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, Rock Island Railroad Bridge, Big Dam Bridge, and even the Two Rivers Park Bridge if you bike long enough.

The trail will also lead you to top sights like Riverfront Park, the Clinton Presidential Center, the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, and the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, as well as Murray Park, Cooks Landing Park, and Burns Park. If you want to extend your journey, you can pedal all the way to Two Rivers Park and go hiking around Pinnacle Mountain!

7. Check Out all of the Street Art Murals

Little Rock has a surprisingly cool art scene, so don’t be surprised if you spot all sorts of incredible murals gracing the city’s buildings, walls, doors, and drains. If you’re looking for free things to do in Little Rock, taking a self-guided street art tour by foot or bike is always a fun idea!

You’ll find a bunch of works in the hip South Main Street (aka SoMa) area, including the famous SoMa mural on the side of Rock Town Distillery and Woman with Dog , which is just across from the ESSE Purse Museum .

Head across the highway to downtown Little Rock, and you’ll find tons of cool art adorning Baker’s Alley, as well as the 900-square-foot Migration mural, Mr. Rogers 143 , the quirky Robot , and so, so much more! Head over to 7th Street, and you’ll find a bunch of political murals, too!   

8. Visit the William Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

When it comes to must-do things in Little Rock, a visit to the William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park should be high on your list. The site is located right on the Arkansas River – so it’s super convenient to reach.

Here you’ll find the William Clinton Presidential Library and Museum , which houses an incredibly detailed replica of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room, complete with artifacts from Clinton’s time in office. Peruse the museum, and you’ll also find countless documents, photographs, personal belongings, and more detailing the life, legacy, and presidency of the 42nd president of the United States.

You should also take some time to explore outside of the museum, where you’ll find sculptures, fountains, and the beautiful Clinton Presidential Park Bridge. If you’re feeling peckish, stop by 42 Bar and Table for a leisurely lunch with beautiful views of the Arkansas River and the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge.   

9. Enjoy a Tipple at Rock Town Distillery

If you’re looking for boozy things to do in Little Rock, you really can’t go wrong with Rock Town Distillery . A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this cool distillery has churned out quite a few award-winning whiskeys and gins and serves some seriously good drinks.

The bartenders mix up all sorts of classic and creative cocktails that are almost too beautiful to drink. Depending on what you’re in the mood for, you can choose from the citrusy Fast Times at Ridgemont Hi-Biscus, the lavender-infused Purple Rain topped with purple rock candy, or the rye-based Dead Poet’s Society. 

For something truly unique (and Insta-worthy), go for The Breakfast Club, which is mixed with vodka, Trix infused bourbon cream, and coffee liqueur, all topped with infused Trix cereal! 

If you’ve got the time, it’s well worth signing up for one of the 30-minute guided distillery tours or improving your skills with a cocktail class.

10. Hike to the Top of Pinnacle Mountain

If you want to stretch your legs and get outside, going hiking in Pinnacle Mountain State Park is one of the coolest things to do in Little Rock. This beautiful part of Arkansas is located an easy 20-minute drive from downtown Little Rock, but you’ll feel like you’re in an entirely different world.

Explore this 2,356-acre park, and you’ll find 22 miles of scenic hiking trails and 14 miles of mountain bike trails. If you want to reach the top of Pinnacle Mountain, head over to the West Summit Trail. This 1.5-mile trail is strenuous and takes about 90 minutes round-trip, but you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Maumelle, the Arkansas River Valley, the Ouachita Mountains, and Little Rock.

There are a range of other trails to choose from if you’re looking for something more leisurely. If you’re traveling to Little Rock in the fall, try to time your visit so you can take in the beautiful fall foliage views from the top of Pinnacle Mountain!

11. Photograph Picture-Perfect Old Mill

If you’re on a quest for a picturesque picnic spot, it doesn’t really get any better than the Old Mill. This idyllic Little Rock attraction was made famous by the film Gone with the Wind . This dreamy location was featured in the opening scenes of the movie – so don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve seen this place before! 

Officially known as Pugh’s Mill, you’ll find the Old Mill in T. R. Pugh Memorial Park, just 15 miles from the heart of town. The fairytale-like building was built in 1933 but was designed to look like it was an 1880s water-powered grist mill. It’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you know it’s something special.

Don’t forget to bring your camera because you’ll definitely want to try your best to capture this beautiful scene. If you plan ahead, this is also a prime spot to enjoy a picture-perfect picnic lunch!

12. Explore the Vibrant Argenta Arts District

If you find yourself across the river in North Little Rock, pay a visit to the Argenta Arts District. This hip part of town is brimming with excellent art galleries, restaurants, and museums. Plus, there are always fun pop-up events happening in this artsy part of Little Rock.

During the warmer months, don’t miss out on the 3rd Friday Night Art Walks. Or, if you happen to be in town on the second weekend of the month, there’s the Dogtown Throwdown event, which sees closed streets, outdoor dining, and plenty of live entertainment. And then there’s the Argenta Farmers Market, the Argenta Vibe Music Festival, and the minor league baseball games at Dickey-Stephens Park!

You can also catch comedy shows at The Joint , get tickets to a world-class concert at Simmons Bank Arena , sip wine at Crush Wine Bar , or sample local craft beers at Flyway Brewing . Plus, once you work up an appetite, you’ll find some of Little Rock’s best restaurants in this happening part of town.

13. See Historic Homes in the Quapaw Quarter District

History buffs will want to add Quapaw Quarter District to their list of must-see Little Rock attractions. The 9-square-mile area is comprised of 15 different National Historic Register districts and is home to 200 homes and buildings, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places!

Go to the Governor’s Mansion District, and you’ll find the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion, which was featured in the show Designing Women as the home of Suzanne Sugarbaker. After that, head over to the South Main Residential Historic District, where you’ll find tons of Queen Anne, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival-style homes and buildings. 

No matter which of the 15 National Historic Register districts you choose to explore, you’ll find informative placards outside the structures highlighting their historical significance.

14. Cheer on the Arkansas Travelers Minor League Baseball Team

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Little Rock and you’re a fan of sports, go see the Arkansas Travelers minor league baseball team play! The Travelers play at Dickey-Stephens Park, which is set right on the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, the unique setting of this stadium and its 20th-century train depot design is sure to win you over. 

You can catch games in the summer months – from June to September. When you’re not cheering on the Travs, you’ll find endless entertainment with the themed nights, giveaways, and promotions. There’s also an on-site beer garden and baseball museum. 

Dickey-Stephens Park is brimming with awesome food vendors, too. From hamburgers to popcorn, expect all of your baseball favorites, but Dickey-Stephens Park has some seriously creative food stands to choose from. Think Bacon Hot Dogs at the Travelers Bacon Station or Deep-Fried Oreos at the Slush Puppies Stand.

15. Cruise around Town on an Old-Timey Streetcar

Riding the city’s adorable Metro Streetcar is easily one of the most unique things to do in Little Rock – and one of the most fun! This heritage streetcar runs 3.4 miles through the heart of downtown Little Rock, across the Arkansas River, and up to North Little Rock. So not only is this a fun attraction, but it’s a super convenient way of getting around town.

Horsecars and later steam-powered and electric streetcars were a popular mode of transportation in Little Rock in the late 1800s. To pay tribute to Little Rock’s historic streetcars, what is now known as the Metro Streetcar debuted in 2004. This adorable streetcar was even modeled off of the original!

Today, this is a popular way for visitors to tour the city and stop off at all of the top attractions in Little Rock. With stops at places like River Market, the Clinton Library, and Argenta Arts District, this is the perfect way to tick off everything on your Little Rock bucket list!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas. What’s your favorite thing to do in Little Rock?

Planning a trip to Arkansas? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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1 thought on “the 15 best things to do in little rock, arkansas”.

The Old Mill and Argenta District (Dog Town) are actually not in Little Rock, they are in the city of North Little Rock. But both are definitely worth a visit. Visitors shouldn’t miss a trip to the Central High museum and the historic State House museum. The “Big Dam Bridge “ over the River Trail is the longest purpose built pedestrian/bicycling bridge yet built and provides a direct route across the River. When in North Little Rock, Burns Park is a must. It has a continuation of the River Trail, almost endless hiking trails and a premiere golf course. It is the second largest city owned park in the US. Nice write-up, your selections are spot on.

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The Best Things To Do In Little Rock, Arkansas: Where To Stay, Eat, And Play

Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• Little Rock
• United States

In the center of Arkansas, Little Rock is most famous for two things. First: It’s the Arkansas state capital. Second: President Bill Clinton was governor here. Little Rock should be much better known. Little Rock is a surprising destination with lots to see and do, a vibrant food scene, and great places to stay.

Things To Do In Little Rock

Little Rock is rich in experiences. Learn about political, military, civil rights, and women’s history. Plus, the city features two science museums. Ride your bike or walk on Little Rock’s extensive trail system. The Arkansas River Trail extends 18 miles to Pinnacle Mountain State Park , where you can enjoy some great hikes . Many of Little Rock’s attractions are on or near the trail. Download a trail map (PDF).

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

Turn Back Time At President Clinton’s Library

As a presidential site collector, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum was my first priority in Little Rock. The museum returns visitors to the 20th century’s final years. It highlights Clinton’s successful presidential campaigns and the work of the president, Vice President Al Gore, and First Lady Hillary Clinton.

Year-by-year timeline exhibits capture developments in technology, pop culture, and events. How did we ever function on those computers? Other exhibits include gifts that people showered upon the president, including a sculpture of Clinton playing his saxophone.

After touring the museum, stop at 42 Bar and Table on the bottom level. If the weather permits, sit on the patio to enjoy views of the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge.

Pro Tip : A photographer will take your picture at the president’s desk in the Oval Office replica. Sit at the table in the Cabinet Room. Imagine your name engraved at a cabinet member’s place.

Step Into Farmers’ Boots At Heifer Urban Farm

East of the Clinton Museum, Heifer International’s mission is to shift global agriculture from subsistence to sustainability. At Heifer Village and Urban Farm , learn about their mission and watch it in action.

Pro Tip : The Cafe at Heifer offers food made with local vendors’ ingredients.

Experience Delta Country And Learn How To Make Rain

Explore the environment at two attractions west of the Clinton museum. At the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center , follow the water through a series of habitats, from the Ozark Plateau to the Delta Country/Big Woods. Check the calendar for special events.

The Museum of Discovery is aimed at kids, but it’s fun for adults, too. Just try to resist playing with tools in the Tinkering Studio exhibit. Make rain in the Earth Journeys exhibit.

Experience World War II Naval Life And Honor An Eternal Grand Master And A Five-Star General

Continuing west, look for Little Rock’s namesake stone east of the Junction Bridge . Formerly a railroad bridge, it’s now a pedestrian/bicycle bridge. Cross the bridge to the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum . The tugboat USS Hoga was at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked the Hawaiian base on December 7, 1941. The submarine USS Razorback was in Tokyo Bay when the Japanese surrendered on September 2, 1945. Board the sub via a 14-foot ladder to experience a taste of the submarine service. Topside, explore a missile cruiser and a battleship, both named the USS Arkansas , and walk in the Peace Garden.

Pro Tip : The University of Arkansas’s teams are nicknamed the Razorbacks, wild Arkansas hogs. The USS Razorback is not named for a hog. It’s named for a type of whale .

After the maritime museum, cross the Main Street Bridge . The H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden is on the Statehouse Convention Center’s grounds. Eternal Grand Master Lee’s organization became the American Taekwondo Association (ATA). In his memory, ATA developed the beautiful South Korean-style gate and garden.

For more Arkansas military history, visit the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History . Future General of the Army Douglas MacArthur was born in the museum’s tower, and some of his possessions are displayed. The Korean War Memorial is especially touching. In the memorial, American soldiers are depicted interacting with a Korean woman and child.

Pro Tip : The tower is said to be haunted, and the museum annually hosts a paranormal event.

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

Visit A Place Where Politics, Race, And Gender Intersect

The Old State House Museum, Arkansas State Capitol, ESSE Purse Museum, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, and Mosaic Templars Cultural Center may seem not to belong together. But discussions of race and gender often present political issues.

Old State House And State Capitol, The Seats Of Formal State Power

This Greek Revival-style statehouse was finished in 1842. The statehouse held the secession debates and became the capital of the Arkansas Confederate state government.

The government moved into the new capitol building in 1911 and the old statehouse became a museum of history in 1947. During the interval between capitol and museum, the Arkansas School of Medical Sciences used the building to house research on hookworm infestation and malaria prevention and cures.

Pro Tip : The balcony offers lovely views of the Old State House Museum’s fountain and grounds.

At the current Arkansas State Capitol , follow the state’s timeline and learn about Arkansas’s official symbols. “Meet” the state’s 20th-century governors, including Clinton and Mike Huckabee. Clinton, a Democrat, and Huckabee, a Republican, face each other across the rotunda. Both ran for president.

Find Testament: The Little Rock Nine Monument on the capitol grounds. It faces the governor’s office window, a reminder that the governor represents all Arkansans. It’s the first civil rights monument installed in the South. Learn more about the Little Rock Nine at Central High.

Pro Tip: Ride a shuttle (PDF) from the capitol parking lots to the capitol. The building offers both guided and self-guided tours . For a bite to eat, visit the 500 Grill .

Robin Keefe / Shutterstock

Civil Rights Takes Center Stage At Central High

In 1957, Little Rock Central High School became a symbol of segregationists’ fierce resistance to civil rights. The 1957 events are hard to stomach. After a three-week standoff, President Dwight Eisenhower had enough of Governor Orval Faubus’s segregation-preserving actions. He federalized the Arkansas National Guard and sent part of the 101st Airborne Division to escort nine black students into Central.

Pro Tip : Central is the only operating high school designated a National Historic Site. Because of this, guided tours are only available on select weekdays. Reserve your tour a month in advance and confirm your reservation 48 hours ahead. When reserving, inform the visitor center about accessibility needs.

Black Heritage Is Preserved At Mosaic Templars Center

The Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation is housed at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center . The Mosaic Templars was a black fraternal organization. At the center, learn about West Ninth Street, Little Rock’s “City Within a City,” a place where black-owned businesses thrived, and other examples of black entrepreneurial spirit.

Pro Tip : Park for free in the lot west of the building or on Arch Street.

Track Women’s Herstory Via ESSE Purse Museum’s Unique Collection

More than 3,000 handbags form ESSE Purse Museum’s collection, one of only three purse museums worldwide. The museum examines women’s history through the contents of her purses and explores how purses and their contents tell much about a woman’s larger world.

Pro Tip : ESSE’s museum store is, not surprisingly, full of purses. And such purses! Buy your statement purse, jewelry, and/or scarf here.

Barbara Kalbfleisch / Shutterstock

Cheer Baseball’s Future Stars

The Seattle Mariners AA affiliate Arkansas Travelers play in North Little Rock. Watch baseball’s up-and-coming players at Dickey-Stephens Park . Founded in 1887, the Travelers are one of baseball’s oldest teams.

Pro Tip : Visit the Arkansas Travelers Baseball Museum on the main concourse.

Best Restaurants In Little Rock

Downtown Little Rock features several distinct neighborhoods with distinctive clubs and restaurants.

In River Market, buy produce, cottage food, and handmade arts and crafts at Little Rock Farmers Market . Flying Saucer Draught Emporium features nearly 200 beers, 75 of which are on tap. After you eat, dance salsa and the tango at Club 27 .

On the Main Street Creative Corridor , satisfy your sweet tooth at Cocoa Belle Chocolates . Try the Pecan Pie Bark and one of the classic boxes. For the ultimate in Southern cuisine, try the Soul Fish Cafe . Order the hickory-smoked chicken or the catfish.

On South Main (SoMa) , explore two ultimate farm-to-fork culinary destinations. Rock Town Distillery ’s Orange Creamsicle cocktail will take you back to childhood — with a kick. Building community through local food is The Root Cafe ’s mission. Try the Old World-style brats and the jerk chicken dinner.

Where To Shop In Little Rock

Start your shopping spree at The Galleries at Library Square . Find Arkansas artists’ works and gently used books in their gallery and bookstore.

Experiment with art creation at The Painted Pig . Take a class and create your own artwork. Argenta Bead Company teaches jewelry making and sells supplies. You’ll love wearing your creation.

Midtown Vintage Market says they offer everything “from Shabby Chic to Classic Antique.” With more than 22,000 feet of booths, you’ll find something to bring home. South Main Creative combines art, crafts, and antiques, plus classes that will inspire you to give your home that personalized vibe.

Best Places To Stay In Little Rock

The Empress of Little Rock bed and breakfast defines opulent living. Four of the suites feature spas.

Enjoy pet-friendly, self-contained private cottages with no shared spaces at Rosemont Bed and Breakfast Cottages .

RVers, stay at the Downtown Riverside RV Park . Much of what Little Rock offers will be within walking distance.

Pro Tip : Parking is no worry when you ride Little Rock’s Metro Streetcars . The Blue Line runs from the Clinton Presidential Center to North Little Rock. The Green Line serves Little Rock.

Roxie Yonkey is an author and travel writer who specializes in road tripping. She wrote the Kansas ultimate bucket list book, 100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die , and is a contributing author to the book Midwest Road Trip Adventures .

Before becoming a travel writer, Yonkey was an award-winning newspaper reporter and editor, and a public relations manager for destination marketing organizations. She has won numerous awards, including Midwest Travel Network's Rising Star Award in 2020.

Yonkey loves to follow the open road wherever it takes her. Follow more of her adventures at RoxieontheRoad .

Exploring The Capital City: The Ultimate Guide To Little Rock & Things To Do

For travelers planning the perfect trip to Arkansas’ capital, this guide is the ultimate to Little Rock with all a visitor needs to know.

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What to know when visiting little rock, best time to visit little rock, arkansas, getting around little rock, arkansas, where to eat in little rock, arkansas, things to do in little rock, where to stay in little rock: neighborhoods & accommodation, spending the perfect day in little rock.

Little Rock boasts two titles in Arkansas; the largest city in the state and the state’s capital. Granted, by national standards, Little Rock is still a small city, with slightly more than 200,000 residents. Still, for those visiting Arkansas, this destination is likely their first stop , a place with all the elements of a big city and the vibe of a small town.

The Arkansas River flows on the city's eastern fringes, creating focal points like the vibrant River Market District. This is where some of the best entertainment spots, eateries, and shopping outlets are found, alongside spectacular river views.

Little Rock is also home to several museums that showcase the area’s history, which goes as far back as the 1700s. Those who love nature aren’t left behind, with attractions like Riverfront Park as prime outdoor spots to visit.

For travelers wondering how to plan the perfect trip to Arkansas ’ capital, this article is the ultimate guide to Little Rock with all a visitor needs to know.

For those who are curious about America's 42nd president, Bill Clinton, Little Rock is a great destination to find out more about this leader. The city is home to the William J. Clinton Library and Museum, which showcases a lot of exhibits on President Clinton's time in office and even his life before the presidency.

Visitors will notice streets named after the president as well as the city's airport, the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport.

Related: 10 Facts You Should Know Before Visiting Arkansas

Spring (March to May)

The best time to visit Little Rock is in spring (March to May) when the cold weather of winter has passed and temperatures aren’t as high as they get in summer.

On average, spring experiences highs of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius) and lows of 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius).

Summer (June to August)

Little Rock gets quite hot in summer, with temperatures rising to the late 80s and early 90s Fahrenheit (above 26 Celsius). This is a good time for outdoor activities, especially activities around the river.

However, because of the high number of tourists in summer, hotel rates are higher during this period. Those who intend to visit should book early to get better rates.

Autumn (September to November)

The heat of summer abates in autumn with temperature highs averaging 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). The milder fall weather makes Little Rock pleasant, especially in September and October. Plus, since the summer vacationers have left, prices drop, allowing those who want to travel on a budget to enjoy discounted rates.

Therefore, autumn is also a good time to visit Little Rock.

Winter (December to February)

This destination enjoys mild winters, with lows averaging about 35 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius) and highs in the early 50s (10 degrees Celsius). Prices are at their lowest at this time, so those looking for extreme savings may visit Little Rock in winter.

However, there isn’t much to do outdoors in winter, except for attending the holiday parade in December.

Little Rock is served by the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport , which receives flights from most major cities in the country. This is the largest airport in the state, with about 50 flights flying in and out daily.

Visitors can also access the city by road via Interstates 40 and 30, which cut right through the city. Those driving in from Dallas, St. Louis, Nashville, and Atlanta can get to Little Rock within 5 to 8 hours.

Amtrak’s Texas Eagle train service has a route from Chicago to San Antonio, with a stop at Little Rock among other stations in a number of major cities along the route.

Related: These 10 Arkansas Cities Should Be On Your Must-Visit List

Once at Little Rock, visitors can explore the city using the following means;

Rock Region Metro operates the public buses in Little Rock, which run on about 15 routes in the city. Most routes have buses from around 5:30 am on weekdays, and 8:30 am on weekends while the last buses are around 8:30 pm and 4:30 pm respectively.

Fares start at $1.35 for a single ride and $3.75 for a day pass. Visitors can also choose to buy multi-ride passes or a 31-day pass

METRO Streetcar

The METRO Streetcar runs in the city’s downtown area, connecting Little Rock to North Little Rock across the Arkansas River. This service is free, and it operates on two routes: the Blue Line and the Red Line. The former has more stops, passing places of interest like the Historic Arkansas Museum, Statehouse Convention Center, and the Museum of Discovery.

The street car is available from around 11 am to 7 pm from Mondays to Thursdays and from 8 am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors can also catch the street car on Sundays from about 12 pm to 7 pm.

Arkansas is known for foods like catfish and fried okra , among many more, and Little Rock is a good place to experience the state's culinary treats. Here are some popular restaurants in the city.

Breakfast: @ The Corner

@ The Corner has earned rave reviews from past customers as one of the best (if not the best) breakfast spots in Little Rock. Their menu is made up of options like the restaurant’s Dutchman Burrito, Chicken-N-Waffle, and Chicken Biscuit. Diners can also get classics like pancakes and omelets as well as avocado toast.

There’s also what the restaurant calls a Cowboy Breakfast, which includes buttermilk biscuits, sausage gravy, fried chicken, and an egg.

This is also a great brunch and lunch spot, with burgers and sandwiches washed down with mimosas as the main draw.

• Address : 201 E Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States
• Hours : Mon - Fri: 7:30 am - 2 pm; Sat & Sun: 9 am - 2 pm

Lunch: Big Orange

Big Orange is the place to be for sumptuous burgers in Little Rock. The eatery has two locations in the city: West Little Rock and Midtown Little Rock. The food quality is the same across both locations, with their prime attraction being their burgers and salads.

Some of the options include Arkansas Bacon & Cheddar, Smashed Avocado Turkey Burger, Farmer’s Burger, and a classic cheeseburger. These are served with sides like potato chips, fries, or beef chili.

• Address : 207 N University Ave #100, Little Rock, AR 72205, United States

OR 17809 Chenal Pkwy, STE.G-101, Little Rock, Arkansas 72223

• Hours : Sun - Thu: 11 am - 9 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 10 pm

Dinner: The Pantry Eatery

This restaurant has a classy vibe with a European-inspired menu made up of German and Czech dishes. The Pantry Eatery has two locations: Parham Road and Palm Street. The Palm Street branch is open for dinner alone, with mains like seared salmon, Wiener Schnitzel, House-Made Bratwurst, and Lasagna Al Forno.

Vegetarians are also taken care of, with options like Manchego Flatbread, Artichoke & Feta Flatbread, and Vegetarian Stock Pot.

There are also burgers, salads, and various sides.

• Address : 722 N. Palm Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
• Hours : Tue - Thu: 4 pm - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 4 pm - 11 pm (closed on Sun)

Drinks: Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

This quaint spot on President Clinton Ave boasts a laid-back vibe for a delightful evening with friends. The setting is made up of lounging spots as well as standard restaurant seating. Plus, there are pool tables.

Flying Saucer serves pub food like pretzels, hot wings, cheese fries, and hummus. However, it’s the drinks that bring patrons to this spot; Flying Saucer is known for its variety of draught beer options. There are bottled and canned beers as well.

• Address : 323 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States
• Hours : Sun - Thu: 11 am - 11 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am - 12 am

Tour the William J. Clinton Library and Museum

America’s 42nd president, Bill Clinton, was born in Arkansas and his presidential library was opened in Little Rock. The William K. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is in itself a beautiful piece of architecture, but what’s inside is what attracts visitors.

The museum is home to an uncanny replica of the Oval Office and President Clinton’s actual Presidential Limousine.

There are also exhibits on the 42nd US President’s life pre-White House as well as his life in the White House.

• Address : 1200 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock, AR 72201
• Hours : Mon - Sat: 9 am - 5 pm; Sun: 1 pm - 5 pm
• Admission : Adults (18 to 61): $12, Seniors (62+): $10, Youth (6 to 17): $7, Children (0 to 5): Free

Visit the Animals at Little Rock Zoo

Animal lovers are fascinated by Little Rock Zoo, which is home to over 500 animals from different parts of the world. Divided into several sections, this zoo has a section with African animals that include the black rhino, serval cats, the Colobus monkey, zebras, and ostriches.

There’s also a dedicated section for the big cats — tiger, jaguar, lion — as well as Great Apes like a gorilla, orangutans, and chimpanzees.

To cover the entire 33 acres of the zoo should take visitors about 3 hours.

• Address : 1 Zoo Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205, United States
• Hours : 9 am - 4 pm (daily)
• Admission : Adults (ages 13 and over): $12.95, Children (ages 3 to 12): $9.95, Seniors (65+): $10.95, Children (under age 3): Free

Learn About Science and Technology at the Museum of Discovery

Since 1927, the Museum of Discovery has undergone multiple relocations to its present-day multi-million location in the River Market area.

This museum is home to exhibits on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, with the intention of sparking an interest in these subjects among young ones.

There are a lot of educational programs for children, making this an ideal place to bring the kids when visiting Little Rock.

• Address : 500 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States
• Hours : Tue - Sat: 9 am - 5 pm; Sun: 1 pm - 5 pm (closed on Mon)
• Admission : Adults: $12, Children 12 and younger: $10, Seniors 60 and older: $10, Children under 1 yr: Free

Explore Julius Breckling Riverfront Park

Found in the downtown area alongside the Arkansas River, this 39-acre park is a nature haven in the middle of the city. There are walking trails that make up the Arkansas River Trail, all of which loop around the park.

Some of these trails lead to attractions like the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, the Riverfront Park History Pavilion, and Junction Bridge.

Visitors also get access to the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden as well as awesome river views.

• Address : 400 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States
• Hours : Sun - Thu: 7 am - 10 pm; Fri & Sat: 7 am - 12 am

Shop at Little Rock River Market

Also known as the River Market District, this part of Little Rock is a prime shopping and entertainment hub in the city. There’s a farmers’ market that operates on Saturdays from late spring to early autumn.

The River Market is also home to unique stores and dozens of eateries. Plus, a lot of events are held in this part of the city, at spots like the River Market pavilions and the First Security Amphitheater.

• Hours : Mon - Sat: 10 am - 2 pm (closed on Sun)

This is where all the action in Little Rock happens, from some of the best eating spots in the city to spectacular shopping stores and proximity to the top attractions. Downtown Little Rock is a beehive of activity with a lively aura. This area is also close to the Arkansas River.

Where to stay:

Colorful Newly Renovated Studio in Downtown Little Rock

• Address : Little Rock, AR 72201
• Amenities : Full kitchen, 40-inch TV, laundry facilities, on-site parking, keyless entry
• Price : From $140

Little Rock Marriott

• Address : 3 Statehouse Plaza, Little Rock, AR 72201
• Amenities : Bar, restaurant, free shuttle service, business center, fitness center, laundry facilities, lockers
• Price : From $153

Related: 12 Most Romantic Hot Springs Getaways In Arkansas

This neighborhood is found about 4 miles west of Downtown Little Rock and about a 15-minute drive from the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport. Little Rock Zoo is one of the main attractions around this area, but there are also parks within the neighborhood.

Apartment in Historic Hillcrest

• Address : Little Rock, AR 72205, United States
• Amenities : Full kitchen, smart TV, one bedroom, king bed, in-building paid laundry units, travel crib, free parking, self-check-in
• Price : From $128

4BR Home in Heart of Hillcrest

• Amenities : 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 55-inch smart TV, dining area, laundry facilities, full kitchen
• Price : $353

North Little Rock

Found in the northern side of Little Rock, North Little Rock is found along the river , about 2 miles from the downtown area. Visitors staying here enjoy staying close to attractions like the Arkansas Inland Museum, as well as the places of interest in Downtown Little Rock.

Bungalow in North Little Rock

• Address : North Little Rock, AR 72114, United States
• Amenities : 2 bedrooms, 43-inch TV, washer/dryer, full kitchen, bathtub, fast WiFi, front porch, private backyard
• Price : From $157

Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock

• Address : 2 Riverfront Place, North Little Rock, AR 72114
• Amenities : Kitchenettes, free airport shuttle, patio, picnic area, bar, business center, laundry facilities, outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center

Start the day with some breakfast at a local restaurant like @The Corner. Then, head to Julius Breckling Riverfront Park for a morning stroll on the trails. Afterward, visit the William J. Clinton Library and Museum.

At lunch, head to the River Market District and enjoy a treat at one of the restaurants before exploring the district’s shopping outlets.

Spend the afternoon exploring Little Rock Zoo and checking out the animals. Then, return to Downtown Little Rock for some dinner and wind down the day with drinks at a local bar.

Q: Is Little Rock urban or rural?

Little Rock is an urban area, and it's the largest city in Arkansas and the capital of the state.

Q: Is Little Rock Family Friendly?

Yes, Little Rock is a family-friendly and affordable city with attractions like the Little Rock Zoo and the Museum of Discovery, which are ideal for families.

Q: What kind of food is Little Rock known for?

Little Rock is known for foods like cheese dip and fried catfish.

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

33 Thrilling Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas: Activities to Make Little Rock Come Alive!

Last Updated on: 20th November 2021, 07:59 pm

Arkansas’s capital city of Little Rock is positioned in the heart of the state and at the confluence of culture, city life, and nature.

And you’ll never run out of things to do in Little Rock! The city has so much to offer visitors, no matter what you’re looking for!

From lush, gorgeous hikes to the best bars and shopping in the state – Little Rock is a small but mighty city with no shortage of things to occupy your time.

Bursting with history, natural beauty, classic Southern hospitality, and truly unique character, Little Rock is a wonderful place to visit.

Whether you’re looking to spend a weekend in Little Rock or you’re still looking for ideas for an Arkansas weekend getaway , Little Rock has it all!

If you find yourself in the Natural State’s capital, here are the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas , plus tips to help you do them!

Read next: 3 Days in Little Rock: Itinerary for a Perfect Long Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas

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Good to Know: This guide on the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas comes to us from Kendall Davis, who is originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas, and graduated from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas.

She currently lives in New York City with her husband and their dog, Scout.

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Where to Stay in Little Rock, Arkansas

Looking for a great place to stay during your time in Little Rock? Here are the best places to stay with options for different budget categories so there’s something here for everyone!

Budget Hotel (Under $100 per night)

With great reviews and a great price, you really can’t beat the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Little Rock.

The rooms are modern, and each is a suite with a kitchenette and a seating area. We stayed in a similar SpringHill Suites in Jackson, Mississippi and we just loved it!

They have a heated indoor pool, so it’s a great place to stay year-round!

Check availability or book your stay at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Little Rock

Midrange Hotel ($100-200 per night)

If you want something with a great location close to downtown, check into the Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown.

Located within walking distance of the Historic Arkansas Museum and steps from some of the best sites in Little Rock, you’ll love the location as much as the updated rooms and beautiful decor.

Amenities include valet parking and an indoor heated pool.

Check ava ilability or book your stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown

Luxury Hotel ($200 or more per night)

The Capital Hotel is a beautiful historic hotel that’s on this list as a can’t-miss thing to do in Little Rock, so even if you don’t end up staying here you should still set aside time to stop by for dinner or drinks!

Beyond its status as one of the best hotels in Little Rock, it has a great location near many of the most important Little Rock sites.

The decor is historic but amenities like wifi are up-to-date!

Check availability or book your stay at the Capital Hotel

The Best Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Here we go!

Big Dam Bridge

The Big Dam Bridge is a favorite of Little Rock tourists and locals alike. It’s the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America at 4,226 feet long and provides walkers and bikers with gorgeous views of the Arkansas River.

Perfect for a stroll with friends or family on a nice day, or getting your heart rate up after indulging in some of Little Rock’s amazing eateries!

Big Dam Bridge is a must-do for nature lovers and pontists alike.

River Market

The River Market in Downtown Little Rock is one of the most beloved spots in the city.

With a market hall lined with food vendors from all over the globe, the River Market is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat.

You can also peruse the fresh pickings at the farmer’s market which overlooks the Arkansas River, visit local art galleries and shops in the River Market District, visit the sculpture garden, and catch some live music!

Heifer Village and Urban Farm

The Heifer Village and Urban Farm is an exciting and educational destination in Downtown Little Rock!

Here you can go through Heifer’s interactive exhibits to learn about the organization’s mission and how you can affect change in the global hunger and poverty crisis.

Step outside onto the 3-acre urban farm and meet some furry friends, tour the greenhouse, and see the first commercial renewable energy-operated aquaponics farm in the world!

Read next: The Best Lakes in Arkansas

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Still operating as a public high school today , Little Rock Central High School was the site of the historic Little Rock Nine.

The gorgeous Gothic Revival building was erected in 1927, and in 1957 was in the national spotlight as nine brave Black students defied violent anti-integration groups to attend the school.

Today, the school is a National Historic Landmark and one of the National Park Sites in Arkansas.

It can be visited by making an appointment . There is also a visitor center located across from the school, which is open year-round and does not require reservations.

Read next: A Guide to the 8 National Parks in Arkansas

Little Rock Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo is a wild escapade perfect for the whole family.

Home to a wide array of animals ranging from big cats and great apes to penguins and lemurs, the Little Rock Zoo offers something for everyone.

Besides the animal exhibits which are open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, the zoo also hosts exciting special events, hands-on experiences, and even a train and carousel for the little ones!

Read next: The Best Things to Do with Kids in Little Rock, Arkansas

William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

Arkansas native, President Bill Clinton’s Presidential Library sits on the Arkansas River in downtown Little Rock.

The museum is home to permanent exhibits, interactive installations, and various media from the Clinton Administration, as well as replicas of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room.

Also on site is the National Archives and Records Administration, where important historical documents are archived.

Museum of Discovery

The Museum of Discovery in downtown Little Rock is an immersive hands-on science museum that is educational fun for visitors of all ages.

With amazing exhibits and special events, kids will discover a love for science and adults will find themselves engrossed in the experiments and installations with childlike wonder!

Pinnacle Mountain

One of the most popular Little Rock attractions, Pinnacle Mountain is part of the Ouachita Mountain foothills and offers sweeping views of the Little Rock Metro Area.

There is a trail leading up both the east and west sides of the mountain, with the west side being a simpler and more accessible hike, and the east side including more strenuous climbing – so there is an option for any skill level!

Regardless of which path you travel, the views from the summit are a can’t-miss when visiting Little Rock!

Read next: The Best Things to Do in Arkansas with Kids

Emerald Park

Though technically in North Little Rock, Emerald Park is absolutely worth the trip across the river.

This park sits perched on a bluff overlooking the Arkansas River and Big Rock Quarry Park.

While Pinnacle Mountain is packed with out-of-towners each weekend, Emerald Park offers respite from the crowds without sacrificing the views.

Read next: The Best Scenic Drives in Arkansas

Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park consists of eleven blocks and 33 acres of beautiful views and outdoor fun right on the Arkansas River!

Impressive bridges, historical markers, a nature center, sculpture garden, amphitheater, and a splash park for the kiddos make Riverfront Park an excellent destination in the city.

Immerse yourself in the history and ecology of Little Rock at Riverfront Park.

Read next: The Best Arkansas Hidden Gems

Rock Town Distillery

For some more grown-up fun, visit Rock Town Distillery! You can book a tour of the distillery, which is the first legal distillery in Arkansas since prohibition, or sip some of their spirits in the tasting room.

All of Rock Town’s spirits are made with ingredients sourced within a 125-mile radius of the distillery!

Arkansas State Capitol

The Arkansas State Capitol is a captivating example of Neo-classical architecture and was designed as a replica of the United States Capitol in Washington, DC.

The exterior is constructed of limestone from Batesville, Arkansas, making the Capitol a true monument to the beauty and history of Arkansas.

You can visit the Capitol, as well as the Civil Rights Memorial and Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial which are both located on the Capitol grounds.

Read next: The Best Things to Do in Arkansas in Winter

Junction Bridge

An iconic landmark for over 100 years, Junction Bridge now functions as a pedestrian walkway over the Arkansas River.

This handicap-accessible bridge offers remarkable views of the river, Little Rock, and North Little Rock during the day, and is brilliantly lit at night.

Read next: The Best Beaches in Arkansas

Two Rivers Park

Two Rivers Park is the perfect outdoor excursion in the Natural State’s capital city!

Where the Arkans as and Little Maumelle Rivers meet , Two Rivers Park is 1,000 acres of walking trails, bike trails, and gardens.

The perfect interlude while exploring Little Rock, or the main event for the day, Two Rivers Park is a great place to connect with the natural beauty of Little Rock.

Simmons Bank Arena

Right across the river from Downtown Little Rock is the 18,000-seat Simmons Bank Arena!

A Central Arkansas entertainment powerhouse, this arena is the destination for sporting events, concerts, conventions, and exhibitions.

Catch an amazing show or game at the Simmons Bank Arena during your trip to Little Rock!

Capital Hotel

For a swanky stay or for popping in for a few cocktails with loved ones, the Capital Hotel in the heart of Downtown Little Rock is the place to be!

The gorgeous facade of the hotel isn’t where the luxury stops – with t wo fabulous restaurants for a nice meal or a perfect martini and gorgeous rooms with views of the city, the Capital Hotel is a hotspot for tourists and locals alike.

Book a stay at the Capital Hotel.

Arkansas Repertory Theatre

To get your fill of art and culture while in Little Rock, check out the Arkansas Repertory Theatre!

Located in Downtown Little Rock , the Rep puts up spectacular shows throughout the year and is the longest-running nonprofit resident theatre in the state.

The Arkansas Repertory Theatre is known for producing moving shows with exceptional casts and crews!

The Bernice Garden

Nestled among the historic architecture of the Quapaw Quarter is the Bernice Garden.

This botanical garden hosts a farmers’ market on Sundays between April and November and is open year-round for strolling through the lush garden.

Besides the flourishing flora, there are also unique sculptures crafted by Arkansas artists , and intricate mosaics and rock formations throughout the garden!

The Promenade at Chenal

The Promenade at Chenal is part of burgeoning west Little Rock.

The Promenade is a well-manicured center filled with great shops, a movie theater, and local and national eateries.

The open-air shopping and entertainment complex is home to some of the city’s favorite restaurants, such as The Big Orange for delicious burgers and shakes and The Local Lime for amazing tacos and margaritas!

Arkansas State Fair

If you happen to be visiting Little Rock in the fall, you can head to the fairgrounds and relish in the delights of the Arkansas State Fair!

You can ride the rides, catch a live performance, indulge in fried treats, and see the impressive livestock shows.

The Arkansas State Farm is a beloved tradition in the state!

Quapaw Quarter

When the weather is nice and you’re with good company, there’s nothing better than strolling through the gorgeous Quapaw Quarter!

This neighborhood is the most historic part of the city, with over 200 individual residences on the National Register of Historic Places , including the Governor’s Mansion!

Many of the homes date all the way back to the Antebellum and Victorian era.

Read next: the Best Castles in Arkansas

Metro Streetcar

The vintage Metro Streetcar in Little Rock is more than just a means of transportation.

You can hop on the charming trolley and travel around the River Market District and beyond!

The streetcars are wheelchair accessible, and make stops at many of Little Rock’s most popular attractions – making them the perfect way to get around the city for a day of exploring!

Read next: The Best Small Towns in Arkansas

Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum is the oldest capitol building that is still standing west of the Mississippi.

The building was the site of important historical conventions and political decisions and now operates as a museum of Arkansas state history.

Stop in and see the fascinating exhibits as well as the refurbished legislative chambers!

Flyway Brewing

Right across the Arkansas River in North Little Rock is Flyway Brewing .

This microbrewery is committed to sourcing local ingredients for its brews, and the result is a delicious selection of beers!

Head over to Flyway for a free brewery tour, or stop into the tasting room to try some of their beers along with a delicious selection of snacks!

Lost Forty Brewing

A local favorite, Lost Forty Brewing is a craft microbrewery located in Downtown Little Rock.

They serve up snacks to go with their amazing selection of brews.

Even better, they offer flights for the indecisive and refillable growlers for when you’ve found your perfect beer!

Historic Arkansas Museum

The Historic Arkansas Museum is a full city block of local history.

Featuring the oldest building in Little Rock, a 19th-century farmstead , and a number of galleries featuring Arkansas art and history!

Experience the history of Little Rock at the Historic Arkansas Museum!

The Root Cafe

The Root Cafe is a small, unassuming restaurant that packs a major punch.

With all local and ethically sourced ingredients, you can indulge in incredible eats while supporting local farmers and the overall Arkansas economy.

Stop in for some delicious slow Arkansas Southern food complete with mimosas!

Read next: What to Eat in Arkansas

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Although Arkansas’s reputation is for being the Natural State, there is still plenty of art and culture to admire.

The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts houses incredible exhibitions and performing arts events, and has been an artistic center in the city since 1937!

The Old Mill

Just a couple miles north in North Little Rock, you’ll find The Old Mill.

This picturesque water-powered grist mill is a replica of the mill portrayed in the opening scenes of the cinematic classic Gone With the Wind .

The Old Mill is a perfect stop for movie buffs, those looking to snap the perfect photo, or anyone just looking for a serene spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Read next: The Best Waterfalls in Arkansas

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a southern staple, and no one does it better than Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken in Downtown Little Rock!

Founded just a couple of hours east in Tennessee, and now with locations across the country, Gus’s still fries up their chicken according to the original founder’s family recipe – with everything fried up in peanut oil.

The Flying Fish

The Flying Fish in Downtown Little Rock is a local institution! The no-frills restaurant fries up the best cajun food in the city – from classic favorites like catfish and shrimp to gator po’ boys.

The delicious Southern-fried food isn’t where the fun stops at The Flying Fish – while you sit and savor you’re surrounded by “adopted” Big Mouth Billy Bass singing fish!

The Rail Yard

Located in Little Rock’s East Village is the Rail Yard!

Here you can grab a bite to eat from a selection of food trucks and drink stations.

You get the feeling that you’re at a friend’s backyard party as you lounge in a lawn chair, sip a cold cocktail, much on some amazing barbecue, and wait for your turn in a game of cornhole!

South on Main

More than just a bar and restaurant, South on Main is a fabulous place for getting authentic Southern fare, a perfectly mixed cocktail, and enjoying a live performance!

This mainstay in Downtown Little Rock is a great place for brunch or a night out in the city!

When is the Best Time to Visit Little Rock, Arkansas?

Let me start by stating that we planned our road trip around the South in May for a reason – to avoid the high summer heat. 

We ended up in Little Rock at the very beginning of May. And it was hot! But not as hot as it would have been if we’d waited until July or August for our trip.

I’ve also been during spring break in March, and I loved the weather this time of year (though it was too early to hit up Arkansas lakes and beaches ).

The best months to visit Arkansas are April, May, September, and October. You will still get warm weather (and perhaps rain), but you’ll get the best weather for sightseeing.

How to Get to Little Rock, Arkansas

We drove through Little Rock as part of our Big Sout hern USA Road Trip! I’ve also visited growing up as a child, and we have always driven from OKC to Little Rock.

Driving is the easiest way to get to Little Rock since you will really want to have a car here during your trip.

While you can get around without a car, we found having our own wheels makes travel in the South much easier.

If you want to drive to Little Rock but don’t have your own wheels, I use  Discover Cars  when I rent cars on my travels.

If you don’t want to drive to Little Rock, you have other options.

You can fly into the Little Rock Airport, known officially as the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT).

Flights here are relatively inexpensive, and the airport is serviced by American Airlines, among others.

Another option is to take the train! Little Rock is serviced by Amtrak at the Little Rock Union Station, which is also called the Mopac Station.

Little Rock is on the “Texas Eagle” line , which goes from Chicago to Los Angeles via San Antonio . You can be in Little Rock in under eight hours if you are coming from St. Louis.

One thing that makes traveling to Little Rock by train difficult is that it arrives and departs the city at about 3 AM.

However, if you like traveling by overnight train, this can be a great way to visit Little Rock!

Alternatively, you can reach Little Rock by bus. Keep in mind that Greyhound Bus trips can be excruciatingly long compared to the time it takes to travel by car, plane, or even train.

Further, it may not be less expensive than driving (provided you have a car) or taking a train).

Get a rental car quote for your trip

How to Get Around Little Rock, Arkansas

As I said above, I have always gotten around Little Rock by car, but there are other options if you aren’t driving your own or renting a car once you’re here.

First, there are local taxis that service Little Rock. There are also rideshare services. Both Uber and Lyft operate in Little Rock.

Depending on where you’re staying, you may be able to enjoy some of downtown Little Rock on foot.

Traveling by foot is one of the most popular modes of transportation for sightseeing in downtown Little Rock’s River Market District  and North Little Rock’s Historic Argenta Arts District.

There are also famous parks and pedestrian bridges listed in this article that you can enjoy by walking.

Finally, you can take advantage of the city’s famous vintage yellow streetcars to get from place to place within their operating zone.

The River Rail Trolley goes to several places you’ll want to make sure to see while in Little Rock, and it is a fun way to see the city!

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Arkansas

Whether you’re going on an Arkansas honeymoon or a family vacation, there are a few things that everyone will want to bring with them.

A  local guidebook.   It’s very difficult to find guidebooks once you are already on the ground. Pick up a copy of  Arkansas Off the Beaten Path to help you plan ahead of time and keep with you once you’re here.

A  camera .  While it’s great to have a cell phone with you for quick pics, if you want to do more serious photography or take more videos, I find it nice to travel with a separate dedicated camera as well.

If I will be wrestling with my toddler on the trip, I’ll grab my  Sony ZV-1 , which is a powerful compact camera with great video capabilities as well. If it’s just me, I’ll take my  Nikon   (though if you’re buying a new camera I have my eye on this  Sony ).

A  Backup Charging Bank .  This is for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie. The mountains can drain your battery since it will take more power to continually check for a signal where it gets spotty.

A  Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). 

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe ,  which is especially great for tourist destinations because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets plus RFID technology to keep your credit card digits safe. 

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.

A Pair of Comfortable Closed-Toed Walking Shoes .  I use  boots like these  or  like these .  Pack hiking shoes if you’re planning on hiking.

Otherwise, any closed-toed shoes will work. This itinerary is packed and you’ll be on your feet a lot. Make sure to take care of them!

Arkansas Travel Resources

Looking to make the most of your Arkansas adventures? Check out these Arkansas travel resources!

Statewide Arkansas Guides

The Best Beaches in Arkansas

The Best Castles in Arkansas

The Best Hidden Gems in Arkansas

The Best Jokes about Arkansas & Arkansas Puns

The Best Lakes in Arkansas

The Best National Parks in Arkansas

The Best Quotes about Arkansas

The Best Scenic Drives in Arkansas

The Best Small Towns in Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Arkansas in Winter

The Best Things to Do in Arkansas with Kids

The Best Waterfalls in Arkansas

The Best Weekend Getaways in Arkansas

What to Eat in Arkansas

Little Rock Guides

How to Spend a Weekend in Little Rock: A 3 Day Itinerary

The Best Things to Do in Little Rock with Kids

The Best Quotes about Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas City & Town Guides

The Best Things to Do in Conway, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Hardy, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Jonesboro, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Mountain View, Arkansas

Included in these Southern USA Round-Ups

The Best Places to Visit in the South

Included in These USA Round-Ups

The Best Waterfalls in the US

The Prettiest Scenic Drives in the USA

Guidebooks I Used to Plan My Trip Around the South

These are the travel guidebooks that I used to plan my entire 5-week Southern USA road trip. I highly recommend each of them!

This is My South  – written by my friend Caroline Eubanks of the  eponymous blog , this book is a must-read if you plan on visiting a few places on your trip.

Lonely Planet Florida & the South’s Best Trips  – this book was essential for me when I was trying to plan our road trip and understanding what was near each other and what absolutely not to miss.

Moon U.S. Civil Rights Trail: A Traveler’s Guide to the People, Places, and Events that Made the Movement  – we did a lot of Civil Rights and Civil War historic sites on our trip, and if you’ll be doing any of this kind of travel, make sure to get this. 

It was invaluable for finding off-the-beaten-path sites and can’t miss Black-owned historic businesses.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance

Before you leave for Arkansas make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I like to use  World Nomads   when I travel, and I happily recommend them.

It’s especially important to get travel insurance whenever you are more than one hundred miles from home.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin this Guide to What to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas for Your Arkansas Adventures!

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Somewhere In Arkansas

Bucket List of Things to do in Little Rock Arkansas

As a resident of Little Rock I can assure you that this is a great city for a get-away. The capital of Arkansas has plenty of interesting, historical, and delicious things to do. Here is a bucket list of things to do in Little Rock!

Some of the Little Rock attractions include outdoorsy activities like hiking, biking, climbing, and kayaking. In addition you can experience museums and historical places, enjoy some great food and breweries, and do some fun shopping.

There are so many fun things to do in Little Rock and North Little Rock.

After your visit be sure and let us know which were your favorite Little Rock attractions!

Table of Contents

Bucket List of Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Parks and outdoor activities in little rock, arkansas.

One of the best things about Little Rock is the abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventure. I have an entire post with more detail about the parks and outdoor activities in Little Rock that you can check out.

Here are some of our favorite outdoor and active things to in Little Rock.

Walk or Ride Bikes at Two Rivers Park

Two Rivers Park is one of the best parks in Little Rock! It is a beautiful place with nice flat areas for walking or biking. You will find some gorgeous views of Pinnacle Mountain from the Park. Be sure and cross Two Rivers Bridge for the prettiest views.

Two Rivers Park is also part of the Arkansas River Trail which is a biking trail through Little Rock and North Little Rock.

William Kirsch Preserve

William Kirsch Preserve is one of the best places to get away from it all without getting too far away. The preserve is 230 acres located just off of busy Highway 10 in the shadow of Pinnacle Mountain in the northwest corner of the city.

This is a wonderful place to walk, picnic, kayak or canoe. There are lovely views of Pinnacle Mountain from the cypress studded waters of the Little Maumelle River.

Kayak or paddle board near the Arkansas River

Rock Town River Outfitters is located on the Little Maumelle River. They have kayak, paddle board, and bike rentals.

You and your friends can rent single or tandem kayaks by the hour and explore on your own or you can choose to do a guided tour. There is even a sunset river tour! You can also rent bikes for 2, 4, or 6 hours to explore the Arkansas River Trail System.

Climb Pinnacle Mountain at Pinnacle Mountain State Park

There is a wonderful state park just on the western edge of Little Rock. At Pinnacle Mountain State Park you can hike, kayak, stroll, and climb.

The climb up Pinnacle Mountain isn’t easy, but you will find gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside from the top. From river bottom land to the top of Pinnacle mountain, this state park has something for everyone.

Ride a Bike or Take a Walk on the Arkansas River Trail System

The Arkansas River Trail is a multi-use loop. It runs along the Arkansas River in both Little Rock and North Little Rock. From Two Rivers Park in the west you can ride all the way to the Clinton Library Downtown.

The trail crosses the river at several of the Arkansas River Bridges. Besides the gorgeous Two Rivers Park Bridge three other bridges are part of the trail system, Most notable is the Big Dam Bridge which is the longest pedestrian bridge in north American built expressly for that purpose.

Explore Rattlesnake Ridge

Rattlesnake Ridge is one of the newer recreational areas in Little Rock.  The purpose of Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area is to conserve the habitats of rare plant and animal species. Keeping this area natural also protects Lake Maumelle which provides drinking water for the area.

There are a variety of trails on Rattlesnake Ridge for both hikers and bikers. They are rated intermediate to expert mostly because of steep grades and rocky conditions. There are some wonderful views from the top of the ridge.

Walk the Pedestrian and Biking Bridges in Little Rock

The Big Dam Bridge happens to be the longest pedestrian bridge in north America built and designed expressly for that purpose. Its massive 4,226 foot span was built atop Murray Lock and Dam and crosses 90 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is part of the Arkansas River Trail system, but is also a fun place to go take a stroll.

There are three other pedestrian and biking bridges in Little Rock that you will want to check out! There are the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, Two Rivers Bridge, and the Junction Pedestrian Bridge.

Take a Tour of Moss Mountain Farm

Many people come into Little Rock from other states just for this activity. We attended a lunch tour at Moss Mountain Farm recently and people were there from all over the US!

Moss Mountain is the country home of well known horticulturist and life style guru P. Allen Smith. Tours are not held daily and they do fill up so be sure and plan ahead if you want to attend.

Museums and Historical Sites in Little Rock, Arkansas

There are a plethora of interesting museums and historical sites in Little Rock. You can learn about anything from the history of Arkansas to the Civil Rights Movement to President Bill Clinton and more.

Historic Curran Hall Visitors Center

Curran Hall on the national register of historic places and serves as the visitor center for the city of Little Rock. You can stop by to see the home and speak with the knowledgeable staff about the city.

The home was built in 1842 and was constructed in the Greek Revival style. It is a symmetrical, one-story house and has a central hall with a large room opening to each side. Few houses of this era remain in Little Rock in such good condition. 

William J. Clinton Presidential Library

There were mixed feelings in Little Rock about the architecture of the Clinton Presidential Library when it was first built. Some loved the streamlined, modern aesthetic and others compared it to a giant mobile home.

The library sits on 17 acres right on the Arkansas River and is meant to represent a bridge, echoing Clinton’s campaign theme of “building a bridge to the 21st century.”

If you are interested in politics or history this is a great place to visit. In addition to the archives and Clinton memorabilia the library has a replica of the oval office.

The Esse Purse Museum

The Esse Purse Museum is a small but fascinating museum in the SOMA (south Main) area of Little Rock. It shows the evolution of the purses that women have carried through the decades as well as the contents of the purses.

It is a fun museum that provides insight into the lives of women throughout history. The purses are showcased by decade.

The Museum of Discovery

The Museum of Discovery is a children’s science museum in the River Market District of Little Rock.

It has been voted one of the top 6 children’s museums in the US! There are more than 90 hands on exhibits to help children (and adults) learn about various aspects of science and technology. Their goal is to get people excited about learning.

This is one of the best things to do with children in Little Rock .

Old State House Museum

The Old State House is the original Arkansas state capitol and the oldest standing state capitol building west of the Mississippi. It is a stately, columned structure with lovely grounds in downtown Little Rock.

The permanent exhibits tell about both the political and cultural history of Arkansas. The collection of dresses from the First Ladies of Arkansas is one of my favorites. There are also traveling exhibits that change from time to time. Admission is free.

Historic Arkansas Museum

The Historic Arkansas Museum is a city block in downtown Little Rock with buildings that represent Arkansas through the years.

On its grounds are 4 historical buildings 3 of which are on their original sites. One is a farmstead that was brought in from the nearby farming community of Scott, Arkansas.

These are some of the oldest buildings in the city. They are all carefully restored and furnished to showcase the heritage of Arkansas.

Little Rock Central High School

Little Rock Central High School is both an operating school and a historical site. The school itself has been named by the American Institute of Architects as the “Most Beautiful High School in America.”

The history of the school is less pretty, but extremely important.

You can learn about the Little Rock 9 and integration in Little Rock by taking a guided tour of the school through the National Park Service . You will need to make reservations for the tour.

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is on the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. Here you can experience what life would have been like aboard the historic submarine USS  Razorback  (SS-394). 

In addition to the submarine there are also exhibits dedicated to America’s naval history as well as information on the following Naval vessels: the tugboat USS  Hoga  (YT-146), the battleship USS  Arkansas  (BB-33), and the missile cruiser USS  Arkansas  (CGN-41).

MacArther Museum of Arkansas Military History

The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History interprets the state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present. The museum features artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents, uniforms and other military items that vividly portray Arkansas’s military history at home and abroad.

The museum is named after General Douglas MacArthur who was born in Little Rock.

Admission is free.

Arkansas Civil Rights History Tour

In order to learn more about the history of Civil Rights in Arkansas you can download a free mobile app and/or a free audio tour. These will show you some of the most important civil rights sites in the city.

Some of the sites included are the First Missionary Baptist Church, the old Dreamland Ballroom at what is now the Flag and Banner Building, the Little Rock Nine Memorial on the State Capitol Grounds, and the Daisy Bates House.

Arkansas State Capitol

The Arkansas State Capitol is a beautiful Neo-Classical style building. You can explore the building on your own with a self-guided tour book that you can pick up at the first floor tour desk or you can call to schedule a guided tour.

You will definitely want to take time to look at the statues on the capitol grounds as well.

If you are in Little Rock during the Christmas season the state capitol is a must stop to enjoy the lights on the building as well as the Christmas Tree inside the rotunda.

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center was created as a museum of Arkansas Heritage to honor both the story of the Mosaic Templars of America and the African American history and experience in Arkansas.

There are both permanent and traveling exhibits and admission is free.

Mount Holly Cemetery

Behind Mount Holly’s native stone walls and wrought iron gates are buried some of the most notable citizens of Arkansas. Thousands of people  visit Mount Holly  every year and several tours of the city stop at Mount Holly.

The grounds are well-maintained and park-like and many of the monuments are works of art.

Do note that Mount Holly is an actual cemetery so if you visit please be respectful of funerals or those who are visiting the graves of their loved ones.

Arts, Nature, and Sport in Little Rock

Little Rock has always been a place that focused on nature. It has nearby state parks and a fine zoo. However, with the remodel of the Robinson Center and the newly reopened Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Little Rock has become more of an art destination than ever before!

Repertory Theater aka The Rep

The Rep is a popular place for live theater. The theater is small but excellent. Attending the Christmas production at the Rep is a tradition for many Little Rock residents.

Robinson Center

Check out the events at the Robinson Center to see if you are interested in any of their offerings during your visit to Little Rock.

You might find anything from a bluegrass concert, to a comedy act, to classical orchestra, to ballet, or even a Broadway Play.

Wildwood Park for the Arts

Wildwood Park for the Arts hosts events and classes, but even if you aren’t in town for an event the grounds are beautiful and worth seeing. This is a lovely place for a stroll.

There are a variety of gardens to view including the Asian Woodland Garden designed by P. Allen Smith of the above mentioned Moss Mountain Farm . Be sure and check the schedule on their website to find out when the gates open.

The Old Mill

The Old Mill is an iconic and gorgeous site in North Little Rock. Visitors often believe that it is an original mill, but it is actually a recreation of an 1880’s water powered grist mill that was built in the 1930’s.

It was constructed in honor of Arkansas’ pioneers and is very much a work of art. It features sculptures by artist Senor Dionicio Rodriguez and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Old Mill was featured in the opening credits of the film, Gone with the Wind. It is lovely year round, but in my opinion it is particularly gorgeous in the spring.

Arkansas Arts Center – Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

The Arkansas Arts Center has recently been reimagined, reinvented, and renamed as the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts .

It is now housed in a fabulous new, modern, bright and airy building. They have a permanent art collection as well as traveling exhibits. There is also performing arts and art classes for all ages.

Street Art in Little Rock

Little Rock has become a great place for street art . Much of it is in the downtown area and you can easily drive from place to place to see a wide variety of artwork.

Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden

Riverfront park and the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden are the best places to experience sculpture in Little Rock.

Just walk the paths in Riverfront Park to the sculpture garden to experience a variety of artwork. The garden is set up in various outdoor “rooms” and you will find more than  90 works of art sculptors in Arkansas and across the country.

H. U. Lee International Gate and Garden

The gate and garden are located in the RIver Market District near the end of the Main Street Bridge. The American Taekwondo Association (ATA) has been headquartered in Little Rock since 1977.

The lovely gate and garden stand as a symbol of friendship between South Korea and America as well as a tribute to the martial arts, particularly to Grandmaster H. U. Lee, who was the founder of ATA International.

Witt Stephens Central Arkansas Nature Center

The Witt Stephens Nature Center is a small museum in the RIver Market District which highlightsthe role of fish and wildlife management. You will also learn about many of the projects conducted by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

There are aquariums and animals as well as exhibits about the wildlife in Arkansas. This is a fun place to pop in with children.

Little Rock Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo features more than 500 animals on over 33 acres of beautifully landscaped property. This is not a huge zoo so you will be able to walk the paths in only a couple of hours.

The penguin exhibit is one of the highlights. The zoo is stroller and wheel chair accessible and there are some places to grab a drink and a snack.

Arkansas Travelers at Dickey Stephens Park

If you are in town during baseball season you might want to see if the Arkansas Travelers are playing at Dickey Stevens Park .

The Arkansas Travelers are a minor league baseball club that play at this nice facility just across the river from downtown Little Rock. A visit to Dickey Stevens to watch a Travelers game is both fun and relaxing. And, of course, there is ball park food!

Food and Drink

Little Rock is a wonderful food town! You will be amazed at the quality and variety of great food.

Try Some Cheese Dip

Little Rock is known for cheese dip. In fact, cheese dip was invented here. Many restaurants serve this gooey deliciousness.

So, who has the best cheese dip in town? Here is a list of our favorites! After you try a few let us know what you think!

Rock Town Distillery

Rock Town is an award winning distillery in the South Main district of Little Rock. You can stop in to have a drink at the bar but I highly suggest that you schedule a tour and tasting.

They even offer a cocktail making class that you might want to take!

Eat the best burger in town

There are several excellent burger joints in Little Rock. It is hard to pick a favorite! If you are all about excellent and wholesome ingredients then, in our opinion, the best burger is found at the Root Cafe . Everything at the Root is good, but y’all…that burger!

If you prefer an old fashioned, greasy, griddled burger, check out Black Angus . For a fancier burger with a variety of topping choices I would suggest Big Orange.

Go to a local Brewery

The great breweries in town also serve delicious food. Lost Forty may be our favorite. They have excellent beer and delicious food. Relax with a beer sampler flight and a cheese dip. We also think they have the best chicken sandwich in town!

Another favorite brewery is Flyway which is located just across the river in North Little Rock. If you go here you will definitely want to have a pretzel and Flyway is also famous for their gumbo cheese fries.

Here is a list of all of our favorite breweries and brewpubs in Little Rock!

Have a drink at the Capitol Hotel

The Capitol Hotel is the most beautiful and historic hotel in Little Rock. Just inside the front door is the Capitol Bar and Grill . This is an upscale, but friendly bar with excellent drinks. Capitol Bar and Grill is a perfect place for a meeting or a date.

Loblolly Creamery

Looking for the best ice cream in Little Rock? You will find it at Loblolly. This is small-batch, hand crafted ice cream made with local and organic ingredients. You can taste the care that goes into the ice cream.

It’s all good but I suggest that you try the Rock Town Distillery Bourbon Pecan.

Best Mexican Food in Little Rock

We’ve mentioned the fact that Arkansans love cheese dip but the truth is that this town is addicted to Mexican food. There are SO many great Mexican restaurants in town.

Heights Taco and Tamale is a delicious local favorite. It is noisy and happily instagram-able and the food is delicious.

If you want to try more traditional and less expensive Mexican food our favorite is Taqueria El Palenque. It is on one end of a nondescript strip mall and might not look like much from the outside but don’t hesitate to try it. The tacos are amazing!

Dine Al Fresco

If the weather is nice I can guarantee that the Little Rock locals will be dining in the open air. You will find some excellent outdoor dining in Little Rock.

Hill Station is a wonderful place to eat under the trees in the Hillcrest area. The Rail Yard is another fun urban beer garden perfect for outdoor drinks and dining. It is located in the up and coming East Village area of Little Rock. They have a permanent barbecue restaurant and a rotating cast of various food trucks.

The balcony at Brave New Restaurant overlooking the Arkansas River is perfection and we also love the expansive patio at Yaya’s Euro Bistro .

One Stop Shopping

If you are looking for one stop shopping the two best places to go are the Promenade at Chenal or Pleasant Ridge Town Center. Both are in West Little Rock.

The Promenade

The Promenade located on Chenal Blvd has several local restaurants such as Local Lime and Big Orange. There are plenty of chain stores like Athleta, DSW, Kendra Scott, and Sephora. A couple of our favorite local boutiques are located in the Promenade as well.

Our favorites there are Belle and Blush for upscale make up and bath products and Indigo for classic women’s clothing.

Pleasant Ridge Town Center

Pleasant Ridge Town Center is on Cantrell Blvd in West Little Rock. Pleasant Ridge is anchored by Belk and also has a variety of other stores and businesses.

You can shop for shoes at Warren’s and children’s clothing at The Toggery . You will find hip women’s clothing at Scarlett Clothing or classics at Forsythes .

Local Boutiques

There are so many more local stores and boutiques than those mentioned above! Here are just a few more of our favorites. Explore the many shops in the various Little Rock neighborhoods and let us know which you like the best.

Bella Vita Jewelry

Bella Vita is located downtown and it is one of our favorites! It is fun and quirky and has a great selection of artwork, jewelry, beads, and gift items.

Box Turtle is in an old house in the Hillcrest Neighborhood and is a great place for women’s clothing and jewelry. They carry interesting brands that you won’t see in other stores in town as well as work from local designers.

E. Leigh’s in Hillcrest is one of the best places to go for fun and contemporary women’s fashion. The prices are reasonable, they have a great selection, and are always bringing in new items. It is a great place to shop!

Green Corner Store

Looking for eco-lifestyle products? Green Corner Store is the place to go. They offer items to help you go “greener” without sacrificing convenience.

South Main Creative

South Main Creative is a new take on an antique mall. It feels artsy and fresh with its mix of funky and traditional items.

Little Rock Districts

River market district.

The River Market is basically the heart of downtown. From restaurants and bars to concerts and movies in the park this is the place to be. Ottenheimer market hall is an easy place to grab some lunch. You can walk a couple of the Little Rock River Bridges or stroll in River Front Park to the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden.

There is a Saturday morning Farmer’s Market and weekend evenings become a celebration. This is when the River Market turns into an entertainment district where alcoholic beverages can be carried around in certain areas. Check out the rules before you go!

Transportation: The street cars are a fun way to get around downtown Little Rock and over the bridge to Argenta in North Little Rock.

South Main or SOMA is one of the most fun and funky areas of Little Rock. This is the home of Rock Town Distillery as well as a large number of amazing local restaurants.

The Root Cafe one of our favorite restaurants in town. We also love Raduno and Mockingbird Bar and Tacos.

Loblolly, which was mentioned above, is in SOMA. You can also visit the Esse Purse Museum here. Shopping for home decor is great in this area as well!

Argenta Arts District

Argenta is just across the river in North Little Rock. The ball-field, Dickey-Stephens Park, is on this side of the river as well as great restaurants and bars. This is the home of Flyway Brewing and Diamond Bear Brewing.

There is some interesting night life in Argenta. The Four Quarter bar has live music on occasion or you might be able to catch a show at the Argenta Community Theater.

The Heights and Hillcrest

The Heights and Hillcrest are two distinct but near to one another neighborhoods in Little Rock.

The Heights area is a bit classy and upscale while Hillcrest is a tad funkier. Both are wonderful areas with amazing restaurants and shopping. You will definitely want to spend some time in both areas.

East Village

East Village is the newest up and coming neighborhood in Little Rock. It was established in the late 1800’s as the first industrial area of Little Rock.

It is still a bit gritty in parts but those old warehouses are being refurbished into gorgeous mixed used spaces. It is home to: Lost Forty Brewing , Fidel & Co Coffee. , and The Rail Yard .

I hope that this bucket list of things to do in Little Rock, AR will be helpful when planning your visit. Enjoy your time in this wonderful southern city.

If you are thinking about visiting the northwest corner of the state you will want to check out our post about all the great activities in the city of Bentonville, Arkansas .

Here is everything that you need to know if you are flying into either of the major airports in the state including the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport .

Hey y'all! Thanks for stopping by.

We are Karen and Emily, a mother and daughter duo who write this blog together. We are based in Central Arkansas but love to travel all around our beautiful home state and share our discoveries with you!

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22 Incredible Things To Do in Little Rock

My love of Little Rock started with cheese dip. As an introduction to this wonderful city, I was fortunate to be invited to participate in a “ Savor Arkansas ” where I ate my way through the city and attended the World Cheese Dip Championship held annually in the fall.

It was the perfect opportunity to learn more about the Natural State. I love to travel and there’s nothing I enjoy more than finding places that make me want to return again and again. Especially when it’s a southern place.

Little Rock is one of those places now. After that first visit, I’ve been back a few times and I tell everyone that will listen about Little Rock. It genuinely is one of my favorite places in the U.S.

If you haven’t been to Little Rock yet – add it to your travel list. Centrally located, affordable, friendly – with way more to do than what’s on this things to do in Little Rock list. One visit and you’ll understand why I’m big on Little Rock and why you should be too!

This article includes affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you book or buy something from a link I share This keeps Southerner Says online and on the road. Thank you for you support.

Things to do in Little Rock

Little Rock is conveniently located in central Arkansas. Situated perfectly to some other big cities, it’s the ideal stop, or a good base, for an Arkansas road trip. Since there are so many things to do in Little Rock, it’s easy to spend three or four days exploring.

With a variety of fun and educational things to do, Little Rock makes a great vacation destination for families, couples, groups and even solo travelers. Here’s where to start your visit.

1. Educate Yourself at Central High National Historic Site

One of the most important historic sites in the country and one of the top things to do in Little Rock is Central High School National Historic Site .

This key site, on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, was the epicenter of Little Rock’s 1957 school desegregation crisis and is a must see when visiting Little Rock.

There are a couple of ways to tour Central High School. Since it’s still an operating school, visitors can reserve a ranger led tour to go inside.

Or if you prefer to do a self-guided tour, start at the park’s visitor center for a helpful map of the area, important interpretive information and to see a few photographs from that time.

After the visitor center, move on to the nearby gas station where reporters gathered and called in their story during the crisis.

Lastly, visit the school, the reflection pond out front and the touching memorials nearby. They serve as a reminder that we’ve come a long way since then but there’s still work to be done.

If not us, then who? If not now, then when? Rep. John Lewis

2. Peruse the ESSE Purse Museum

There are only three purse museums in the world and the ESSE Purse Museum in Little Rock is one of them.

What’s so impressive about ESSE is that everything in the museum, is from a private collection! That’s right. One woman loved purses so much, she collected enough to create a museum.

Travel through the decades while looking at all sorts of purses and bags and their contents. It’s interesting to see how the objects we carry around with us have evolved over time.

The museum’s founder, Anita Davis’s belief is that a woman’s purse is not just a bag but an extension of her and her things – her essence. Therefore ESSE!

The ESSE museum offers special exhibits that rotate quarterly. And don’t miss the museum store with purses, bags and other items from around the world for purchase.

3. Browse the Clinton Presidential Library

One of the perks of having a president elected from your state is that when he (or she) leaves office, a presidential library that holds memorabilia from the presidential term will be built somewhere in the state.

The 42nd president of the United States and Arkansas native, William Jefferson Clinton’s library is in Little Rock. Besides learning about Clinton’s time in the White House, you’ll have a chance to see a replica of the oval office and items that were used to decorate the White House during those presidential years.

See personal belongings like family photos, keepsakes and the famous sunglasses and saxophone President Clinton’s played while campaigning.

Additionally, the Clinton library houses hundreds of wooden bookcases that contain in total, some 4,536 blue boxes that hold all the papers, notes and important documents from during the Clinton administration. And that’s just a small portion.

After your tour, stop by the Clinton Museum Store for souvenirs and grab a drink or a bite to eat at 42 , the restaurant located on the ground floor of the library. It has a beautiful view of the Arkansas River and the Clinton Presidential Park.

4. Search For Street Art in Little Rock

In the last few years, Little Rock has exploded with murals and street art around town. The good news is even if you can’t actually make it to Little Rock in person, Visit Little Rock has created a virtual tour you can do online.

In addition to murals on walls and buildings, Little Rock is one of the only places I’ve seen drain art. Yes, drain art. As in storm drains that drain water from roads when it rains.

Drain Smart is an Arkansas based environmental organization is educating the public about the importance of water quality. By putting art on storm drains – that might ordinarily be overlooked- Drain Smart raises awareness about litter and where it goes when not disposed of properly.

Any trash or little in the streets can enter the drains and eventually make it’s way into a river or stream in the watershed. Most people probably never thought about that before and that’s the point. The more you know…

You’ll find drain art all around Little Rock. So be on the lookout.

5. Eat Delicious Arkansas Grown Food

Good food is so celebrated in Arkansas, there’s even an Arkansas Restaurant Hall of Fame . Some of the inductees can be found right in Little Rock. Restaurants like Lassis Inn, Franke’s Cafeteria and Burge’s Hickory Smoked Turkeys have all won awards.

Just so you don’t miss any of these famous places when visiting Little Rock, the Arkansas Restaurant Hall of Fame has created an app you can download to keep up with award winners.

In addition to these restaurants, Little Rock has just about any kind of food you could want – from fine dining to soul food and everything in between. And I absolutely love the farm to table movement going on.

Since Arkansas is an agriculture state, emphasis has been put on keeping those Arkansas grown products at home for superior quality foods and beverages that you can taste. Find out my favorite restaurants in The Lowdown on Where to Eat in Little Rock article.

6. Have Fun at Riverfront Park

Little Rock has made perfect use of it’s location on the Arkansas River. Pedestrian walking bridges that cross the river and green spaces along side the river offer visitors everything from wetlands to sculptures.

All this can be found in the eleven block Riverfront Park on the Arkansas river downtown. Within the park, there are playgrounds, a splash park and other fascinating historical markers and information about the history of Little Rock.

River Market – also located in the park – is the “unofficial cultural center of Little Rock” according to their website . This lively entertainment district has plenty of delicious restaurants, local shopping, and live music. It’s the place to be on a southern summer night.

7. Touch the Real Little Rock

Yes, there really is a little rock in Little Rock! Le Petit Roche or little rock, is the rock – along with the big rock on the north side of the river – that Bernard de la Harpe described when he wrote about his 1722 voyage up the Arkansas River. Visitors to Little Rock can visit the Le Petit Roche plaza in Riverfront Park and touch the little rock for themselves.

8. Put a Sticker in Your Locally Labeled Passport

Long before everyone else offered beercations, Little Rock came up with the Locally Labeled Passport to central Arkansas’s ales, wine and spirits. The participants on this boozy trail include five breweries, two wineries and one distillery.

To participate, all you have to do is pick up a passport and get a sticker when you visit a venue on the list. Once you’ve filled your passport, you’ll get a t-shirt to show off your accomplishment. Even if you don’t like t-shirts – the quest of trying them all, is just part of the fun.

9. Admire the Designing Women House

Anyone old enough to remember the hit television show Designing Women, might remember the beautiful home in the opening credits that represented the office of the Sugarbaker sisters.

Even though the sitcom was set in Atlanta, Georgia, the real house is actually in Little Rock. Villa Marre, as it’s known, was picked for the show because of the show’s producer and his Arkansas roots. The home is just a short ride from downtown and a fun thing to do in Little Rock.

10. See a Replica of the U.S. Capitol Building

Bet you didn’t know that the Arkansas State Capitol Building is a complete replica of the Unites States Capitol building. The Arkansas State Capitol building was designed to look exactly like the real thing in Washington D.C. So much so, it’s even been used in movies.

Visitors can take a guided or self-guided tour. Both options are free.

11. View the Little Rock Nine Monument

After visiting the capitol, head around the corner to see Testament: The Little Rock 9 Monument that commemorates the bravery of the young men and women who took part the 1957 desegregation crisis in Little Rock.

Those courageous young people will forever memorialized on this spot facing the capitol and the governor’s office window.

Located on the north side of capitol grounds, this civil rights memorial is the first civil rights monument located on any state capitol grounds in the south.

It’s also included on the larger U.S. civil rights trail. Visitors can view the statues as well as plaques with quotations from each of the nine students.

12. Take a Ride on a Streetcar

I love a city that utilizes its downtown area. To help visitors get around better, Little Rock offers a free streetcar service. The METRO streetcar service operates two routes seven days a week.

The blue line even takes you across the Arkansas River into North Little Rock. Check their website for schedules and even a downloadable app.

The streetcar is the best way to get to Little Rock’s crowded downtown events so you don’t have to worry about finding parking.

13. Walk a Bridge or Two

One of the best ways to see a city is by getting out and walking around. Little Rock has not one, but four pedestrian bridges that make getting around easy. These bridges connect fourteen miles of scenic trails in a loop around the city on both sides of the Arkansas River.

Connecting downtown Little Rock to North Little Rock, is Junction Bridge . This bridge was originally a railroad bridge and has been renovated for pedestrians and cyclists and is totally accessible. It’s part of the “River Lights in the Rock” that light up Little Rock every night.

Clinton Presidential Park Bridge is another pedestrian bridge located in the Presidential Park near the Clinton Library and is also part of the “River Lights in the Rock” light show.

Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and cycling bridge in North America built for that purpose. Part of the Arkansas River Trail, the bridge connects downtown with North Little Rock via Campbell Lake Park.

Two Rivers Park Bridge connects visitors to Two Rivers Park as part of the Arkansas River Trail.

14. Relax on the Front Porch of the Capital Hotel

Only in the south would you find a hotel with a front porch. The gorgeous Capital Hotel is already a Little Rock favorite but to be able to enjoy sitting and sipping on a front porch makes a guest feel right at home in Little Rock.

The Capital Hotel is conveniently located in downtown, close to the River and all the attractions. Guests could stay all weekend and never once need a car. Stay in, go out. It’s up to you. Just don’t forget some front porch time.

15. Stroll Through a Sculpture Garden

The Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden near Riverfront Park is one of the more unique things to do in Little Rock. This path-lined sculpture garden features over ninety works of art from renowned artists around the world.

The sculptures are crafted from a variety of materials, including bronze, steel, and stone, and are set against a backdrop of beautiful gardens and the Arkansas River. It’s a popular destination for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and is so much fun to wander around and discover new sculptures at every turn.

16. Indulge on Cheese Dip

When I said cheese dip is what brought me to Little Rock, you may have wondered why cheese dip? Well, that’s because Little Rock is the birthplace of cheese dip.

The story goes that cheese dip, with a side tortilla chips of course, was first served in 1935 by Blackie Donnelly in his North Little Rock restaurant.

Whether you choose to believe the cheese dip legend is up to you but there has to be something to it. Ask just about anybody in Little Rock and they all have a cheese dip story.

To celebrate the birth of cheese dip, Little Rock holds the World Championship of Cheese Dip every fall. Chefs, both professional and amateur, compete for the honor of best cheese dip.

It’s kind of a big deal. The 2019 competition had 23 different kinds of dip and volunteers packed 15k bags of chips for attendees.

The event was on hiatus during the pandemic but was back in person in 2022. Look for announcements about this year’s tasting on their website .

As far as restaurants go, cheese dip can be found in more than just Mexican restaurants. It seems everyone has some connection to cheese dip and their own spin on it. A couple of my favorite are the cheese dip from Heights Taco & Tamale Co. and Red Door .

17. Tour a Real Submarine

A submarine is not what you expect to find in a land locked, southern state but that’s exactly what you’ll find when you visit Little Rock (technically North Little Rock ).

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is the only place in the world where you can tour a tugboat that participated in Pearl Harbor – the beginning of World War II – and a submarine that was actually in Japan during the formal surrender that ended the war.

On the tour, visitors get an up close look at the USS Razorback. After all, Arkansas is the home of the Razorbacks. The submarine is a 90% operational submarine that’s been kept almost as it was in wartime.

18. Sleep in a Hostel That Was a Firehouse

The HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum is one of the most unique hostels I’ve ever stayed in. The building, a beautiful Craftsman style constructed in 1917, was a real working firehouse.

When it was too small for bigger, more modern fire engines, the city used it for offices and storage. But ironically, after a fire damaged the building, the firehouse was rebuilt to be used as a hostel.

The first floor of the hostel is a common area with a kitchen and a museum with all the firehouse memorabilia. The second floor is where you’ll find the sleeping quarters. You don’t have to be a guest of the hostel just to go by and get a peek.

The hostel is conveniently located near MacArthur Park – Little Rock’s first city park – so these two activities could be combined for a fun day.

19. Paddle a Kayak on the Arkansas River

If just walking across or along side the Arkansas River isn’t enough for you, how about renting a kayak or taking a tour on the river? Rocktown River Outfitters  rents paddle boards, kayaks and bikes for the day and offers guided tours and a sunset tour. Now that’s the way to see the river.

20. Eat Sweets at a Historic Bakery

My great grandmother was a baker so I get my love of cakes and sweets from her. For sure, no one has ever had to force me into a bakery and Community Bakery is exactly the kind of bakery I love.

Old school with a touch of modern – sunny and airy just in case I want to work while I’m there. Fair warning, your head might explode trying to pick something out here’s so many choices.

Community Bakery has been in business since 1947. Their specialty is European desserts and pastries but they also make of classics and southern goodies. After looking at everything, I picked out a chocolate glazed donut and a couple of petit fours plus one of their famous sausage rolls.

A roll is what I had after eating all that! Just kidding. I didn’t eat it all at once. And If I did, I’m not telling. Put this bakery on your things to do in Little Rock list.

21. Sip Award Winning Spirits

Rock Town Distillery offers visitors to Little Rock a chance to sip award winning whiskey and gin. Owner Phil Brandon’s story of sheer determination to make great whiskey is almost as good as the alcohol itself.

As part of Little Rock’s “Locally Labeled” passport, Rock Town offers tours, a tasting room and a store where you can pick up your favorite whiskey, gin or flavored vodka.

22. Go Camping

One of the things I love most about visiting Little Rock is that there are so many natural spaces right around the city. With the Arkansas River running through town and parks galore – there is plenty of opportunity to get outside.

I love to camp so imagine my surprise when I discovered I could pitch my tent near Little Rock and still be close enough to pick up tacos from Local Lime . Now that’s a win win.

Located right on Lake Maumelle and the Arkansas River, Maumelle Recreation Area & Campground is less than fifteen miles from downtown. This park is a real gem. It has both reservation and walk-in campsites with electricity and water. There’s even nice heated bathhouses.

From the park, it’s easy to explore downtown Little Rock or some of the other neighborhoods and it’s convenient to Pinnacle Mountain State Park – the highest peak near an otherwise fairly flat Little Rock.

How to Get to Little Rock, Arkansas

Flying to Little Rock is easy and you will arrive at the Bill & Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT), conveniently located just east of the city. Visitors can fly into Little Rock via most major airlines.

Little Rock is also located near several major US interstates – I-40 and I-30 pass through the area so it’s a convenient stop or base for more Arkansas for road trips.

You could fly into Little Rock and get by without a car if you stay downtown and walk or use public transportation. There’s also Uber and taxi services. However, to thoroughly enjoy the city and some of its fun neighborhoods, it’s best to have your own vehicle.

Where to Stay in Little Rock

Little Rock has a variety of hotels for all budgets. I recommend first time visitors and visitors without a vehicle to stay downtown and use public transportation to do many of the things mentioned in this article.

Downtown, the Capital Hotel – more expensive and Hilton Garden Inn – mid-range are two of my favorites properties. There also a newish AC Hotel by Marriott in the downtown area as well. I haven’t stayed there but I love the AC Hotel concept. Check out other hotels in other area on Booking.com .

Things to do in Little Rock FAQ

When’s the best time to visit little rock.

With mostly moderate weather, there’s not really a bad time to visit Little Rock. However, summers are hot and humid and winters are on the cool side. Ideally spring and fall are the best.

Is Little Rock expensive?

No. Many of the things to do in Little Rock are free. Visitors can buy passes for the METRO public transportation, use an America the Beautiful pass for Central High School Historic site and tour the Clinton Library for a minimal fee.

Little Rock is a great place for families since accommodations are very affordable and you can find a place to stay that fits within your budget.

Is Little Rock safe?

Yes, it’s safe. Of course, you’ll want to be situationally aware at all times and take precautions just like you would in any big city.

Keep an eye on your purse or wallet, never leave a suitcase of other things visible in your car and don’t invite trouble by drinking too much or drinking and driving. Read my 20 Travel Safety Tips Everyone Can Use advice.

Final Thoughts on Things To Do in Little Rock

Some of my experiences in Little Rock were provided by the Little Rock Convention & Visitor Bureau. However, I’ve been back on my own several times since that first visit. All opinions are completely mine and my opinion is: I love this city!

There’s much more to do in Little Rock, Arkansas than what’s on this list, including a zoo , several museums and many more natural areas just waiting to be explored by visitors and me. So what’s your favorite thing to do in Little Rock, Arkansas? Let me know in the comments so I can check it out.

See you on the road!

Author: Lori Blalock

A girl raised in the south, Lori is the founder of Southerner Says and has over 100k miles of solo road trip experience. A lover of public lands, sunsets and good barbeque, Lori spends her time in Georgia and Nevada when she isn’t on the road.

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Wow! Arkansas is now on the list! Thanks for all your recommendations 🙂

You are welcome! It genuinely is a great place to visit and should be on everyone’s list! 🙂

Thank you so much!

I will be out there this weekend! I am so excited 🙂

Yay! Hope you have a good time! Enjoy!

You are my kind of girl!! I am a travel enthusiast and passionate photographer, although a licensed administrator/educator by profession. I visit Little Rock, Arkansas often, and have experienced several of the places you mentioned. I read that you’ve “driven thousands of miles looking for the best places, the prettiest sunsets, and the most delicious food.” So have I! Let’s hook up the next time I’m traveling to Little Rock and you can show me some “off the beaten path” places and have lunch (my treat). I meet the most interesting and welcoming people just from traveling and at times, them noticing me taking LOTS of photos -:)! As a matter of fact, I was just there on July 27, 2021, to see the “Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet” exhibit on the grounds of The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.” Have you seen it? If not, it’s worth seeing – and photographing, particularly since I also love public art. I am enjoying your blog; keep up the good work!

A fellow traveler,

Shawn 8/4/2021

Hi Shawn! Thanks for the kind words. I have not seen the “Cool Globes” exhibit. In fact I drove through LR just a couple of weeks ago (this is the reason for my late reply. I am traveling right now) on my way to Nevada. Unfortunately I didn’t have time to stop on this road trip but I was wondering what the special exhibit is right now. Have you visited Crystal Bridges in Bentonville yet? It’s another Arkansas must see. I have been totally surprised by Little Rock and Arkansas in general. So many fun things to see. Do you have a social media account where you post your photography? I would love to see. Also if you have a Twitter account, join me – and many others who love travel and road trip – some Monday night. I host a chat about road trips at 9pm ET. Travel people are the best and I have made some of the best friends through traveling. Maybe we can have a beer at one of those Little Rock breweries I’ve yet to visit. Thanks! 🙂

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Fun Things in Little Rock, Arkansas, You'll Love to See and Do

W elcome to Little Rock, the heart of Arkansas and a treasure trove of cultural vibrancy and urban charm! If you’re planning a road trip or seeking fresh escapades, you’ve struck gold. Little Rock is steeped in delightful surprises, and I’m anxious to guide you through my personal trove of fun things in Little Rock you won’t want to miss.

Capitol Adventures and Historical Memorials

Exploring state capitals can yield fascinating insights, and Little Rock’s Capitol Hill is no exception. The stately Neoclassical Arkansas State Capitol captivates with its stony façade and 24-karat gold-plated cupola—a sight that paints a rich history spanning from 1899 to 1911.

Beyond its marble floors and Tiffany chandeliers, the Capitol houses a poignant outdoor exhibit, “Testament: The Little Rock Nine Monument,” which honors the bravery of nine African-American students who pioneered school integration in 1957 – a momentous event in Civil Rights history.

River Market District: The Pulse of Little Rock

Picture this: a bustling epicenter where the buzzing sounds of life reverberate against the backdrop of the beautiful Arkansas River. This is the River Market District, a melting pot of sumptuous eateries, cozy bars, inspiring art galleries, and museums worth losing yourself in.

You can lazily wander the riverbanks, where ginkgo Biloba trees flaunt their golden hues, or soak up the vibrant ambiance.

While exploring, hop on the METRO streetcar for a novel view of the city’s landmarks, narrated by streetcar operators who know this town inside out. As dusk settles, the hourly bridge glow show transforms the Arkansas River into an enchanting light display.

Seasonal Serenades and Culinary Delights

When summer unfurls its warmth over Little Rock, the riverbanks become stages for live music that melts into the night air. Spoil your taste buds at local hotspots like Prost and Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro, and make sure to watch the River Market’s night come alive as the RMED (River Market Entertainment District) invites those 21+ to savor a stroll with a drink in hand until the clock strikes midnight.

Festive Flavors at Camp Taco

For a tantalizing taste of local cuisine with a twist, look no further than Camp Taco . This lively spot is the brainchild of the Lost Forty Brewing team. Kicking off with chips and a quartet of salsa options, including the fiery hotter than Hades ‘sunsetter,’ we couldn’t pass up the White Poblano Cheese Dip.

Camp Taco’s menu delights with tacos, salads, bowls, and Mexican ramen. If you’ve never tried paletas – Mexico’s refreshing fruit-based icy treats – get ready for a delightful discovery! Available in both virgin and boozy variants, they’re the perfect sweet treat to round out your meal. I had the orange-cream version.

Pro Tip : If you love pickled vegetables, as I do, try the Camp Pickles side dish of rainbow carrots.

Presidential History Up Close

Take a stroll through the past at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum , where the legacy of the 42nd US president unfolds. Set in the Clinton Presidential Center & Park, the museum welcomes visitors with a medley of exhibits, from an Oval Office replica to an extensive timeline of President Clinton’s career.

I found the library and museum exhibits interesting, and the state-of-the-art facility is definitely worth visiting. It should only take an hour or two to tour the facility unless you want to dig deep into the offerings. Even my five-year-old granddaughter enjoyed it, though a temporary dinosaur exhibit helped with that.

Military personnel enjoy complimentary entry – a generous nod to their service – and there are discounts for students and seniors. Free admission days commemorate Presidents’ Day and the weekend preceding Bill Clinton’s birthday each August.

A Glimpse into Hollywood History

Surprisingly, Little Rock holds a fragment of Hollywood history. The Old Mill, featured in the opening of ‘Gone With The Wind,’ stands proudly in T. R. Pugh Memorial Park. Though built in 1933, it convincingly played the part of an 1880s grist mill to moviegoers in 1939.

The Old Mill is a picturesque site that transcends its cinematic claim to fame. In the fall, the kaleidoscope of autumn leaves enhances the already stunning scene, inviting visitors to traverse the park’s bridges and pathways, camera in hand.

Waffles and Museums for a Perfect Morning

Are you craving a breakfast adventure?  Press Waffle Co.  won’t just serve you a waffle—it delivers a culinary sonnet of flavors with its delectable and diverse menu. Indulge yourself by biting into a Liege waffle, a thick delight unlike any other, with clusters of caramelized sugar serenading your taste buds. 

And for the more daring, the Elvis Waffle, with its ensemble of bananas, honey, bacon, and peanut butter, is a concert of tastes that will surely satisfy.

And for a dash of the unique, the  Esse Purse Museum  awaits with a century’s worth of handbag history and fashionable exhibits. The walkthrough of What’s in a Purse spans several decades and is thought-provoking and intriguing. The museum really is riveting, and it’s a place you didn’t know you needed to visit until you did. 

At $10 a ticket, it’s a steal for an enriching experience that offers the chance to shop for bespoke handbags in a quaint museum store. The museum is closed on Mondays, but does have a free parking lot beside it.

Retail Therapy at the Outlets of Little Rock

Shopaholics rejoice! The Outlets of Little Rock offer a blissful escape into retail paradise with over 50 stores. Fashion staples like Levi’s stand alongside quirky finds like Rocket Fizz — a haven for craft soda and retro sweets enthusiasts.

For those preferring a traditional mall setting, also a great rainy day activity, consider Promenade at Chenal or the Pleasant Ridge Town Center in West Little Rock.

Big Taste at Big Orange

If tantalizing your palate is what you’re here for, make a beeline for  Big Orange . From burgers that redefine succulence to salads that weave exotic flavors into every forkful, dining here is a culinary crusade. Start with the cheese dip, which is made Arkansas-style with Rotel tomatoes. 

The star? The Delta Blue Cheeseburger is a harmonious marriage of robust beef and fresh garden picks, accompanied by the twang of red pepper jelly and garlic mayo.

Beyond the Eats: Discoveries for Everyone

And Little Rock’s wonders extend beyond the table. For families, the Museum of Discovery is a playground of knowledge that thrills and educates with interactive exhibits—Tornado Alley is a must! I’d guess that most families can easily spend two to three hours here without getting bored.

For a whimsical twist, the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden is an outdoor gallery nestled along the riverbanks. Although a feast for the eyes, stay vigilant as some areas are better explored during the day for safety’s sake.

If you’re keen on eye-catching panoramas, the Big Dam Bridge offers photographic splendor alongside pedestrian paths above the Arkansas River, claiming fame as North America’s longest bridge of its kind.

Civil Rights Pilgrimage

Beyond entertainment, Little Rock bears witness to significant moments in American history. The Civil Rights Museum at Little Rock Central High School invites visitors to step into the narrative of the Little Rock Nine , whose struggle against racial segregation in 1957 marked a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

The National Park Service manages the site.

The Little Rock Crisis followed, where the Governor of Arkansas prevented the students from attending school. I won’t spoil the story for you, but the Little Rock Central High School site is worth visiting and learning about.

Artistic Expression

Wander amidst Little Rock’s vibrant murals on a captivating tour downtown, where local artists capture everything from dancing produce to butterflies and Instagram-worthy creations.

My favorites were Playtime (a Radio Flyer wagon holding all the downtown Little Rock treasures), Everyone’s Neighborhood (the downtown Little Rock skyline), and Chanel.

Where to Rest Your Head

RV enthusiasts look no further than the  Little Rock North/Jct. I-40 KOA Journey  for its poolside recreation and convenient location. They even have a fitness center with a sauna.

If boutique hotel comforts beckon,  Tru By Hilton North Little Rock  presents a modern oasis with all the perks, including a pet-friendly policy, albeit with a small deposit. The complimentary breakfast got a big thumbs up as the variety of hot foods and food taste were stellar. We also put the huge indoor pool to good use. 

Add This City To Your Road Trip Adventures

Little Rock is a city that dances to its own rhythm, and it beckons explorers with an appetite for culinary and cultural adventures. Surprises abound in this unhurried slice of urban delight.

I hope to have piqued your curiosity enough to make Little Rock your next travel chapter.

Read more of our road trip adventures at:

The Best Things to do in Cincinnati, OH

Cool Things to do in Ogden, UT

The Best Things to Do in Huntington, WV

Best Time to Visit Arkansas

Weather in little rock, honored things to do in hot springs, arkansas, unsurpassed things to do in fayetteville, arkansas, ultimate things to do in little rock, arkansas, funny things to do in rogers, arkansas, informative things to do in fort smith, arkansas, things to do in eureka springs, arkansas, related posts.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a place to party, you’ll find everything you need in Arkansas . This state is known for its breathtaking scenery, as well as its rich history. You’ll be sure to find something new to see in each season.

During the fall season, Arkansas is a great place to visit . The temperature is more relaxed, and the humidity is lower. Many activities can be enjoyed during this season. While many activities exist, the fall color is the main attraction. Arkansas is one of the top places for fall foliage.

The best time to see the fall colors is mid-October and early November. The state sees a large number of visitors during this time. The first signs of change appear in the northwest and northeast regions. In the northwest, the leaves begin to turn in late October.

The Ouachita Mountains are home to beautiful fall foliage. Biking is a great way to see the fall colors. The Ozark National Forest offers several trails to explore. Try the Pinnacle Mountain West Summit Trail if you want the best views. It takes about an hour to hike.

Visiting Arkansas in the spring is one of the best times of the year. The weather is perfect for exploring caves, canoeing, and rock climbing.

Spring is also a great time to visit Hot Springs. During this time, the river flows high enough for kayaking. There are plenty of fun festivals and outdoor activities to keep you busy.

During the spring, the earliest sunrise is at 5:59 AM on June 12. The earliest sunset is at 5:01 PM on December 4. On March 13th, Daylight saving time begins.

Spring is also the most active season of the year. Tons of festivals happen in Arkansas during this time. It’s also the best time of year for hunting brown trout.

Fall is another great time to visit Arkansas. The land changes colors with the cooler nights. In October, the Ouachita Mountains start to change leaves. There are plenty of festivals to choose from, including the Cave City Watermelon Festival.

During the summer, Arkansas is a hot spot for outdoor activities. Those interested in road cycling and boating lakes will enjoy the warm weather. However, it is also an ideal time to visit the state’s many indoor attractions.

In early October, the leaves begin to change in the Ozark Mountains. Arkansas is a beautiful state to visit, no matter the season.

For visitors interested in exploring caves, there are many to choose from. In addition, there are some fun festivals to attend. There are also many great restaurants. The Diamond Lakes region in central Arkansas offers plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and camping.

The state is home to several museums. The WPA constructed several buildings in the early 1940s.

Regardless of whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a vacation to the Grand Ole State, Arkansas has plenty to offer. If you are looking for a winter getaway, you may wonder when it is best to visit Arkansas.

The weather in Arkansas can be pretty variable. The winter months can bring freezing rain, sleet, or snow. This is not the case for summer, where Arkansas’s weather can be hot and humid.

However, winter can also be an excellent time to visit Arkansas because of the numerous outdoor activities available. This includes world-class trout fishing, hiking on impressive trails, and horseback riding.

Arkansas has no specific dry season. It receives more than 40 inches of rain each year. Rain can be heavy, as well.

Located in Arkansas, Little Rock has a humid subtropical climate. Its weather is generally sunny and warm. Little Rock is subject to alternating incursions of warm moist air from the Gulf of Mexico and Canada. The humid subtropical climate of Little Rock means that the city has hot summers and muggy winters.

The average high temperature in Little Rock, Arkansas , is around 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature rarely falls below 68 degrees.

The average precipitation for Little Rock is around 50 inches per year. The winter season can bring sleet, snow, and freezing rain. The spring season can bring damaging thunderstorm winds and tornadoes. The summer season is generally sunny and hot. The hottest months are July and August. The most incredible months are January and February.

Places to visit in Hot Springs, AR. If you’re looking for a city that’s friendly, fashionable, and exciting, Hot Springs is worth visiting! So the next time you travel to Arkansas, stop by this lovely city. The springs have been attracting people from far and wide for more than a century, and their attraction is…

Places to visit in Fayetteville, AR. With so many things to do in Fayetteville, it can be hard to know where to start. To help simplify matters, this list provides an at-a-glance guide to the best of what Fayetteville has to offer. If you love the outdoors, there’s plenty of nature to explore. The Ozark…

Places to visit in Little Rock, AR. There are plenty of things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas. The city offers various museums, restaurants, live music, and entertainment venues. So whether you’re spending the afternoon shopping on Riverfront Drive or enjoying the peaceful scenery of Ouachita National Forest, a visit to Little Rock will have…

Places to visit in Rogers, AR. Are you planning a trip to Rogers, or are you already here and would like to know more things to do during your stay in Rogers? This is a great place to start for those interested in visiting a less-touristy area of the Ozarks. We highly recommend stopping by…

Places to visit in Fort Smith, AR. Fort Smith, Arkansas, has a rich history and a great location to spend some time exploring. With a storied past, including French trappers, the Civil War, and the French Louisiana Purchase, there is much to do here. So whether you want to visit a museum, see a historic…

Places to visit in Eureka Springs, AR. Things to do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, are not limited to the tourist spots. The city’s historic district is filled with preserved Victorian buildings. If you’re a history buff, this is a place you won’t want to miss. Eureka Springs is a unique location in the Ozark Mountains…

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No. 1 Arkansas remains atop polls as Little Rock visits Tuesday for 3 p.m. contest

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

By DUDLEY E. DAWSON

FAYETTEVILLE – The Arkansas baseball program learned Monday that it remains the nation’s consensus No. 1 college baseball team and that it will its in-state foe a little earlier than scheduled on Tuesday

The Razorbacks (19-3 overall, 5-1 in SEC action) will host Little Rock (13-11, 2-1 in Ohio Valley Conference play) Tuesday at 3 p.m, three hours earlier than previously scheduled because of expected cold temperatures at Baum-Walker Stadium.

Arkansas, which took the first two games at Auburn this past weekend before having its 15-game winning streak snapped on Sunday, stayed atop the DI Baseball, Baseball America, Perfect Game, USA Today/ESPN and NCBWA polls.

“I feel like we’ve learned a lot about our team,” Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn said Sunday after the Tigers won 8-6. “As far as wins and losses, if you play good, it usually takes care of itself. Definitely feel good about having five wins out of six in this league.

“I think that I shouldn’t be coaching if I wasn’t disappointed that we got beat today. I am, but I’m still not disappointed with the team or the effort. I think they’ve been playing hard.”

Van Horn, who saw ace Hagen Smith named SEC Co-Pitcher of the Week on Monday, stressed to his team there remains room for improvement after sweeping visiting Missouri and then wining two of three on the road.

“We’ve still got a long way to go,” Van Horn said. “We are going to grow and get better and we’re going to do it in league play. Because the competition in the SEC is unforgiving.”

“Like I told them today, ‘you want to win in this league, you’ve got to do all of the little things right. You’ve got to take advantage of some things.” We didn’t do that today. But I feel great about being 5-1. 6-0 would have been better, but we’re on our way.”

The Razorbacks are focused on Little Rock, but also have an eye toward some roster decisions for their three-game series beginning Thursday with visiting LSU (19-6, 2-4), ranked 8th to 12th in the aforementioned polls.

“How we’re going to work it is we’re going to try to win the game, obviously,” Van Horn said. “I do need to fill in a few guys who need to get some at bats and we’ve got some good pitchers that need to pitch.

“We need to see if we need to add them to our roster on the weekend. We’ve got some guys that have  good stuff that in a couple of cases they’re coming off rehab or they’re coming off sickness and maybe we’re going to put them on the roster against LSU.

“It would be good to see them pitch well on Tuesday.”

Little Rock, coming off taking two of three from visiting Moorehead State, is led by head coach Chris Curry, a former Van Horn and Arkansas assistant.

The Trojans downed the Razorbacks 11-4 last season in Fayetteville last season and are 2-4 all-time against Arkansas. Little Rock’s win in 2023 snapped a four-game losing streak in the match ups.

“They have been some good games,” Van Horn said. “They’ve beat us a couple or three times, we’ve beat them a few times. They’re a really good t am this year. I think they’re picked to win their league and they were playing Morehead State this weekend.

“… If you’re picked to win you’re league, you’ve got a veteran team. That’s what he has. He got the experience, older kids. They’re going to give us everything we can handle on Tuesday.”

Photo by John D. James

• • •

SEC Baseball Standings

Arkansas 5-1 Texas A&M 3-3 Mississippi State 3-3 Ole Miss 3-3 LSU 2-4 Auburn 1-5

Kentucky 5-1 South Carolina 4-2 Florida 4-2 Georgia 3-3 Vanderbilt 3-3 Missouri 1-5

This weekend’s SEC series:

Thursday-Saturday

LSU at Arkansas Missouri at Vanderbilt Auburn at Texas A&M

Friday-Sunday

South Carolina at Alabama Mississippi State at Florida Georgia at Tennessee Kentucky at Ole Miss

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.

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7 Awesome Little Rock Suburbs to Live in 2024

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Often called “the Rock,” Little Rock, AR , is an iconic Southern city. There are countless things to do in the city whether you visit historic places like Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site and Clinton Presidential Library, check out Riverfront Park and Pinnacle Mountain State Park, and tour the Arkansas Arts Center. No wonder 202,000 people are living in Little Rock. If you’re moving to or living in Little Rock, know that the median home sale price is $215,000 and the average rent in Little Rock is about $1,048. 

If you’re unsure about living in the heart of Little Rock, don’t worry, we’ve got towns for you to check out. At Redfin, we’ve collected 7 of the best Little Rock suburbs to consider moving to. And the best part is that they’re all less than 26 miles away from the city center. Let’s jump in.

#1: Jacksonville

Median home price: $130,798  Average sale price per square foot: $106  Distance from Little Rock: 16 miles Jacksonville, AR homes for sale   Jacksonville, AR apartments for rent 

With a median home sale price of $130,798, Jacksonville is the first Little Rock suburb on our list. Just about a 16 mile drive away from Little Rock, you won’t miss out on what the city has to offer. If you’re considering moving to this area make sure to check out Reed’s Bridge Battlefield Heritage Park, camp at one of the campgrounds, and see the exhibits at the Jacksonville Museum of Military History.

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Median home price: $149,950  Average sale price per square foot: $118  Distance from Little Rock: 18 miles East End, AR homes for sale   East End, AR apartments for rent 

Taking the second spot on our list is East End. About an 18 mile drive away from downtown Little Rock, you can tour the Arkansas Arts Center in just a quick drive. Some popular things to do in East End include exploring the Lorance Creek Natural Area, a nature preserve just outside of town. When living in this suburb of 7,100 people, you can also spend the day checking out the charming downtown.

#3: North Little Rock

Median home price: $169,950  Average sale price per square foot: $107  Average rent for an apartment : $1,022  Distance from Little Rock: 2 miles North Little Rock, AR homes for sale   North Little Rock, AR apartments for rent 

With a median home sale price of $169,950 and only a 2 mile drive away, North Little Rock is the third Little Rock suburb on our list. There’s plenty of picturesque and outdoorsy activities to take part in when living in North Little Rock. If you find yourself moving to this suburb, explore the Argenta Historic District, known for its historic architecture, art galleries, and local shops, see a show at Simmons Bank Arena, and take a stroll along the North Shore Riverwalk, a scenic trail along the Arkansas River with views of downtown Little Rock. 

#4: Sherwood

Median home price: $195,000  Average sale price per square foot: $125  Average rent for an apartment : $1,261  Distance from Little Rock: 11 miles Sherwood, AR homes for sale  Sherwood, AR apartments for rent 

Only slightly more expensive than North Little Rock is the suburb of Sherwood. With roughly 32,700 residents in this Little Rock suburb, make sure to golf at one of the courses, and check out green spaces like Don Hughes Park.

Median home price: $211,000  Average sale price per square foot: $141  Average rent for an apartment : $1,433  Distance from Little Rock: 26 miles Benton, AR homes for sale Benton, AR apartments for rent

Drive 26 miles outside of Little Rock and you’ll find the suburb of Benton, another great area to add to your list. With 35,000 residents, moving to this suburb can keep you close enough to Little Rock, without paying the premium for a home there. Living in Benton, you can check out the downtown Benton area, spend time outside at Tyndall Park, and golf at Longhills Golf Course.

#6: Maumelle

Median home price: $265,000  Average sale price per square foot: $153  Average rent for an apartment : $1,442  Distance from Little Rock: 17 miles Maumelle, AR homes for sale  Maumelle, AR apartments for rent 

Sixth on the list is another well-known Little Rock suburb, Maumelle, where the median home sale price is $265,000. Home to roughly 19,300 people, Maumelle is a great suburb to consider moving to. Whether you enjoy the views of Willastein Lake at Lake Willastein Park or grab a coffee at a local café, there are many activities to do and see in this suburb. 

Median home price: $298,000  Average sale price per square foot: $138  Average rent for an apartment : $1,567  Distance from Little Rock: 19 miles Bryant, AR homes for sale Bryant, AR apartments for rent  

Rounding out our list of Little Rock suburbs is none other than Bryant. With a population of about 20,700, living in Bryant is a great alternative to Little Rock’s hustle and bustle. If you’re going to call this suburb home, plan to spend time at Mills Park and check out the local shops and restaurants.

Methodology: Whether a suburb is a 26-mile drive from downtown Little Rock. Median home sale price data and average rent price from the Redfin Data Center during December 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau .

Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Little Rock area, Marquita Fowler is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Little Rock area, Marquita Fowler possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.

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