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Little Rock will probably be remembered by many as the capital of President Clinton's home state. Yet, before this "claim to fame", Little Rock attracted visitors to its wonderful setting on the banks of the Arkansas River, surrounded by the Quachita Mountains. The city boasts over 50 parks and is only a short drive from Hot Springs National Park, renowned for its hot mineral springs. With an abundance of lakes and the River, the Little Rock area is a water sports paradise. It's easy to see why Arkansas is called "The Natural State".
When at last you pull yourself away from all the natural beauty, you will find a wonderful variety of activities within Little Rock. As the state capital, Little Rock is a cultural center with a variety of theatres, museums, galleries and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
Children will discover a host of activities including the Children's Museum, Little Rock Zoo, Museum of Science and History, The Aerospace Education Center and an appealing historic area. This includes The Quapaw Quarter, The Arkkansas Territorial Restoration Center, Old Mill and Old State House. Just a short drive from downtown you will find the State Fairgrounds, where you can easily spend a full day of fun.
The River Market District is fast gaining a reputation as a target destination. A lively array of people gather for a variety of entertaining things to do, from the library to the Science and History museum to a multi-purpose arena.
Whether a single adventurer or couples, groups or the whole family, travelers are discovering that Little Rock is truly a place for a memorable vacation.
Quapaw Quarter
A wealth of information awaits the visitor to this historic area. From frontier days to the present, this nine-square mile area can tell stories from many different eras. This architectural delight is still very much alive as it moves into the 21st century. From the homes of the residential area to the business district, the buildings are put to good use. Although some may only be viewed from the outside, others allow the visitor a tour of the homes' interiors. The Pike-Fletcher-Terry House houses the Decorative Arts Museum. The beautiful Victorian Villa Marre, dating back to the late 1800s, is open throughout the week for tours. Trapnall Hall is another attractive home, viewed by appointment only. In May, during the Quapaw Quarter Spring Tours, Little Rock's preservation organization arranges tours of various privately owned historic houses. Visitors to Little Rock during the first weekend in December can enjoy the Christmas open house tours.
Attractions
The famous MacArthur Park is also located in the historic quarter along with the Arkansas Governor's Mansion.
Arkansas Territorial Restoration Center
3rd and Scott streets;
Little Rock, AR
(501) 324-9351
A notable restoration project in the early 1940's created the Territorial Restoration Center. The oldest of the state's neighborhoods, the Center is a living museum complete with actors who portray the original residents. The backdrop of authentic 19th Century homes captures the imagination with tales of bygone eras. From a print shop to a grog shop to constantly changing exhibits, visitors discover a unique experience. Be sure to stop by the museum store to purchase crafts produced by local artists.
Old Mill
History buffs should visit the Old Mill. Famous for its appearance in the opening scene of "Gone with the Wind", this 1800's grist mill re-creation is a "must see". Set in Old Mill Park and surrounded by a lake, it is a lovely area to visit. After a tour of the mill, visitors may tour the park and enjoy the many whimsical sculptures created by Dionico Rodriguez, an artist from Mexico.
Old State House
The first state capitol building of Arkansas and the seat of government until the early 1900s, the Old State House now serves as a museum of Arkansas history. There's 'Granny's Attic' where you can spend time actually trying on Victorian items plus an ever-changing and interesting variety of exhibits.
It was from the Old State House that President-Elect Bill Clinton gave his victory speech in 1992; a reproduction of the Oval Office is now in place there.
Arkansas State Fairgrounds
Five different building offer a variety of yearly activities. Each October, the Fair presents a rodeo, livestock show and an exciting fairground filled with rides and booths.
World Fest
MacArthur Park
Little Rock, AR
A real international flavor is created when World Fest comes to MacArthur Park each October, featuring a marketplace and music and dance from a variety of nations.
RiverFest
Memorial Day Weekend means RiverFest in Little Rock. This nationally recognized festival encourages visitors to eat to their hearts' content as the local merchants bring out their finest culinary delights. Enjoy three full days of arts, crafts and music culminating in a magnificent fireworks display.
SummerSet
Labor Day weekend and Burns Park is the place to be with a great way to say goodbye to summer. At Summerset, you can meander through the last of the lazy, hazy days of summer while browsing the antiques show and enjoying the arts and crafts of numerous vendors. You'll discover why SummerSet has become a popular Little Rock tradition.
Arkansas Repertory Theatre
601 Main Street
P.O. Box 110
Little Rock, AR 72203
(501)-378-0405
For theatre lovers, the Repertory Theatre is well worth the ticket. Each year the theatre presents eight main stage shows in addition to three shows on the second stage. The season runs September through June.
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
P.O. Box 7328
Little Rock, AR 72217
(501)-666-1761
From September to May, this is the place to enjoy numerous wonderful concerts. Besides the orchestra, many world-famous artists, both classical and pop, visit the stage. On July 4th, the venue changes to Riverfront Park for the 'Pops on the River Concert'.
Arkansas Museum of Science and History
MacArthur Park
9th & Commerce,
Little Rock, AR 72202
(501)-372-7050
1-800-880-6475
Originally the Little Rock Arsenal dating back to 1838, this distinguished building is the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur and is on the National Register of Historic Places. On weekends, visitors can enjoy live programs; special events geared to the whole family take place all through the year.
Arkansas Aerospace Education Center
3301 E. Roosevelt at Bond Street
Little Rock, AR 72206
(501)-371-0331
For the adventurer in each of us, a trip to the Aerospace Education Center is a must. Exhibits of American and Russian space exploration, and the six-story-high projection screen of the IMAX theatre will put you in a world of wonder and excitement.
Arkansas Arts Center
MacArthur Park
9th and Commerce
Little Rock, AR 72202
(501)-372-4000
With its constantly changing exhibitions, the Art Center is always an interesting place to visit. Whether it's painting, sculpture or photography you'll find it here. The 'Children's Little Theatre' is also another good reason to visit the center with its range of excellent theatrical productions. Visitors may dine onsite at the Vineyard Restaurant.
Little Rock Zoo
1 Jonesboro Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501)-663-4733
If you want a great day out for all the family, the Little Rock Zoo offers a first-class collection of animals. Young children will enjoy Kiddieland where a fun ride around the duck pond on a train provides an additional thrill.
Maumell Park
(501)-753-0086
This attractive park is located in close proximity to Little Rock itself. Set on the Arkansas River, Maumell Park combines access to the city with the fun of camping. Featured are over 80 campsites and all amenities for families including boat ramps.
