Introduction
Little Rock is more than just the capital of Arkansas: it’s also a city with many attractions worth checking out. Whether you’re looking for a museum, a riverfront walk, or some good food and drink, here are my picks for what not to miss when visiting Little Rock.
Arkansas Arts Center
The Arkansas Arts Center is a must-see attraction in Little Rock. The museum includes galleries and exhibits featuring contemporary art, historic works, and traveling exhibitions. The Arkansas Arts Center also hosts special events throughout the year to keep you entertained.
Address: 501 E 9th St N Little Rock, AR 72205
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 am – 5 pm Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm Closed Mondays (except for some holidays)
Cost: Free! With a suggested donation of $3 a person or $5 per family (including children under age 18) on weekends when school is out. No charge during regular business hours except for Fridays from 3 pm-5 pm when all guests are charged $3 per person or $5 per family (includes children under age 18). Free admission for veterans with ID on Veterans Day weekend; free admission for all active duty military personnel with ID February 1-4 & 8-11;
Free admission for college students March 11-12 & 25-26; free admission April 24 & 25 May 1st Memorial Day Weekend In recognition of our armed services we offer free admission during all months of operation except December through early January when they will pay the suggested donation rate If you would like us to waive your entrance fee please email us at arkansasartscenter@gmailcom/us/contact us You may also visit our website at arkansasartscenterorg
Big Dam Bridge
- The Big Dam Bridge is a beautiful bridge that crosses the White River.
- It’s a great place to take pictures, hike, fish, and go kayaking.
- This area has several trails for runners and cyclists to enjoy as well.
The Old Mill
The Old Mill is a restaurant located on the Arkansas River. It has a water wheel and the view of the river from there is quite nice. It’s also a good place to eat and take pictures.
Arkansas State Capitol
The Arkansas State Capitol is an art deco-style building that was built in 1933. It’s not only one of the tallest buildings in Little Rock, but it’s also one of the most beautiful. The capitol can be found on the corner of west 2nd street and south capitol avenue.
MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History
Located in MacArthur Park, this museum houses an extensive collection of military items from Arkansas and the Civil War. It’s free to visit and has a gift shop with military souvenirs, so be sure to bring some extra cash if you’re interested in purchasing something.
Visit Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Pinnacle Mountain State Park sits just north of downtown Little Rock, and it’s one of the best places to spend your time in the city. In addition to its hiking trails, this park offers biking and horseback riding trails that are open year-round. There’s also a nature center where you can learn more about the park’s wildlife, as well as picnic areas where you can have a bite to eat or just sit back and enjoy the views!
If you’re going camping while visiting Arkansas, this state park has spacious campsites available for rent year-round. You’ll have plenty of space to sleep under the stars or set up your tents in this beautiful natural setting.
The lodge on Pinnacle Mountain is an especially popular attraction at Pinnacle Mountain State Park—and one that’s perfect for families since it offers hotel-style rooms for up to four people each night (along with full kitchens). When staying here during your visit to Little Rock, be sure not to miss out on any opportunities within walking distance:
The restaurant inside offers delicious home-cooked meals made from locally sourced ingredients; there’s an arcade room full of games suitable for all ages; plus there are several fun activities such as live music performances scheduled regularly throughout each day!
William J Clinton Presidential Center and Park
The William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park is a great place to spend an afternoon. Located in the heart of downtown Little Rock, this museum is a great way to learn about the history of Little Rock. The museum has several permanent exhibits that are educational and interesting for adults and kids alike:
- The Arkansas Experience: Learn more about our state’s history through interactive videos, artifacts, photos, maps, and more!
- A Walk Through Time: Explore Arkansas through its people, places, and events as they unfold over time.
There are also fun indoor play areas for kids (including an exhibit on First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton), as well as outdoor activities both for adults and children such as hiking trails through the woods or kayaking down the Arkansas River with ease thanks to their rental boats available at reasonable prices ($10 per hour). There’s something here for everyone!
Rock Town Distillery
Rock Town Distillery is a craft distillery that makes vodka, gin, and whiskey. They have tours and tastings, as well as a gift shop on site. They’re located in the River Market District of Little Rock and are open for visitors Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with tours departing every 15 minutes until 5:00 PM.
Balsam House, Museum, and Historic Garden
Balsam House is an excellent example of Victorian architecture and has been restored to its original condition. The house contains period pieces from the late 19th century, including furniture, china, and glassware that belonged to Henry Balsam and his wife.
Balsam House is open for tours from March through November. It’s located in this city’s historic district, which also features shops, restaurants, and museums that are worth visiting.
River Market District
- The River Market District is a great place to walk around. There are lots of shops and restaurants, and it’s the oldest neighborhood in Little Rock.
- Some of the historic buildings include:
- The Clinton Presidential Library & Museum (Bill Clinton was president from 1993 to 2001)
- Old State House Museum (built in 1872)
- There are many festivals and events held in this area such as Riverfest, Arkansas Arts Center’s “Shakespeare on the Quad,” Arkansas Marathon Weekend (October), and Ozark Folk Center’s Thursday Nights on the Town! Concert Series, Fermented Foods Festival & Competition, Little Rock Film Festival (April), Food Truck Friday & Saturday Night Live Concerts at Skyline Park
The capital city can be a fun trip, too.
While the capital city can be a fun trip, too. Little Rock has many things to do and see, from museums to riverfront parks. The River Market district is home to many restaurants and shops that are worth checking out while you’re in town. And if you want an up-close look at what makes this city tick, take a tour of the Arkansas State Capitol building!
If you’re looking for something more outdoorsy than museums or shopping malls, go hiking on Mount Rainier (a 6-mile hike), visit the Arkansas Alligator Farm Zoological Park, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Arkansas River Trail System.
Conclusion
With so much to see and do in Little Rock, you’ll never have a dull moment. From the Arkansas Arts Center to River Market District, there’s something for everyone here!
