Things to do in Little Rock
Little Rock is the capital of Arkansas. It’s known for its history, culture, and hospitality. It’s also known for its parks and green spaces. Here are some things to do while you are in Little Rock.
Riverfront Park Arguably, one of the best public parks in the country, Little Rock’s Riverfront Park offers an abundance of outdoor activity. Riverfront Park stretches eleven blocks on the south bank of the Arkansas River in downtown Little Rock. The Park provides 33 acres of urban parkland for outdoor events, leisure activities and a glimpse of the state’s history.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site This National Park Service site encompasses the campus, but Central High is still an active high school. Visitor entrance into the school is via free Ranger-led tours reserved in advance to guarantee participation. Interpreting the Civil Rights Movement with an emphasis on school integration, this National Historic Site focuses on the 1957 desegregation crisis that resulted when Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus ordered National Guard troops to prevent the first African American students, the “Little Rock Nine,” from entering formerly all white Little Rock Central High School, leading to federal intervention by order of President Dwight Eisenhower.
Little Rock Zoo The Little Rock Zoo inspires people to value and conserve our natural world. With more than 500 animals representing 200 different species, many of which are endangered, the Little Rock Zoo is the only zoo in the state of Arkansas accredited by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The Zoo features noted habitats such as the Laura P. Nichols Penguin Pointe exhibit with underwater viewing of African Penguins as well as the Arkansas Heritage Farm with heritage breed animals that can be fed and touched. The Zoo’s beautiful Cafe Africa looks like a stone style African lodge and features great food for any pallet.
Rock the Country, featuring Kid Rock, Nickelback, Hank Williams, Travis Tritt and more. Held at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds, June 20 and 21. For tickets, visit https://www.arkansasstatefair.com/new-event/rock-the-country/
William J. Clinton Presidential Library The William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, located on the banks of the Arkansas River in Little Rock, Arkansas, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world to its grounds each year. Opened in 2004, the Center is home to the Little Rock offices of the Clinton Foundation, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, and the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park Opened in 1977, the Pinnacle Mountain State Park serves as a center for education, recreation and preservation.
Arkansas Governor’s Mansion The stately home of the sitting Arkansas governor is not open to the public. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the mansion’s most illustrious former resident – there’s a bust of Bill Clinton inside the front gates.
Old State House Museum Built in 1836, this was the state’s first capital building. Free admission.
River Market District The River Market district is the lifeblood of Little Rock’s downtown scene. It is a place to do business, grab a marvelous meal, meet up with friends or catch some great Arkansas live music. No matter who you are, or what you’re after, the River Market district is sure to be a good time.
Museum Of Discovery Visit the Museum of Discovery and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and experiences. From lying on a bed of nails to generating electricity, get your hands on science!
For more information about things to do in Little Rock, visit the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce at https://www.littlerockchamber.com/ or search “things to do in Little Rock.”