Fun Things To Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock is anything but little. The capital of Arkansas, and its most populous city, has plenty of room to fit numerous attractions.

The city that sits on the banks of the Arkansas River got its unusual name from a rock formation along the river, “La Petite Roche” (“Little Rock”). It was named by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Bénard de la Harpe in the early 18th century.

Big things to do in Little Rock

Whether you’re coming to Arkansas as a tourist or plan to grow roots, there’s nothing to worry about. First of all, moving anywhere in Arkansas is simple and stress-free with professional assistance.

Secondly, the capital of the Natural State is full of historical landmarks, amazing museums, scenic parks, and it also offers a rich nightlife, various entertainment spots, and world-class shopping experience even for the pickiest folks.

Read on to discover what awaits you in Little Rock.

A wealth of Art & Culture

1. Arkansas Arts Center

Once called the Fine Arts Club of Arkansas, the Center is home to work of Degas, Rembrandt, Picasso, and other well-known artists. Aside from museum school and art education classes, there is also a theater for children and a research library.

2. Arkansas Repertory Theatre

From classical plays to modern-day comedies, the popular “Rep” also offers educational programs such as the Student Matinee Program and the Young Artist Program.

3. Heifer Village

Heifer Village has a unique mission. Its galleries, interactive exhibits, and projects are focused on raising funds and awareness for the fight to end hunger and poverty across the world. Events are open to everybody throughout the year.

4. The Old Mill

It was built in 1933 and appears in 1939 classic Gone with the Wind. Interestingly, it was intentionally built to look like a 19th-century mill. Also, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Haeng Ung Lee International Gate and Garden

Dedicated to Eternal Grand Master Haeng Ung Lee, who was committed to teaching the values of life through martial arts in Arkansas, the impressive gate with a peaceful garden are monuments to the friendship between South Korea and the United States.

Museums dedicated to different topics

Museums of Little Rock will surely satisfy your hunger for learning as they cover a wide range of topics. The most eminent ones are:

• Historic Arkansas Museum: The museum encompasses beautifully restored houses including Hinderliter House, which is the oldest one, as well as galleries.
• Old State House Museum: Old State House is the oldest state capitol building, built in the early 19th century. It displays items related both to Arkansas culture, art, and history.
• Museum Of Discovery: The Museum is the oldest one in the city and it is a history and natural science facility at the same time. It features exhibits, camps, and educational programs and thus is a top attraction for families.
• ESSE Purse Museum: ESSE museum is dedicated to the history and evolution of handbags. This unique and unusual museum shows a century of development of this must-have accessory.
• MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History: This educational facility in the city downtown features documents, artifacts, and photographs that show Arkansas’ military heritage.

Additionally, the Arkansas State Capitol stands as a historical landmark and a house of government for the state of Arkansas. Aside from numerous memorials, visitors can observe the legislators at work from the public galleries.

Unique entertainment spots

1. River Rail Electric Streetcar

A ride in the vintage streetcar that connects popular tourist attractions is a unique Little Rock attraction. This 3.4-mile line operates daily from Little Rock to North Little Rock across the Arkansas River.

2. The Arkansas River Trail System

The 88-mile long trail connects 38 parks, six diverse museums and numerous points of interest along the way. It is perfect for hikers, cyclists, joggers and all others in love with spending time outdoors.

3. Rock Town Distillery

The experts of this craft artisan distillery in downtown Little Rock will teach you how to turn grain into bourbon or vodka and will treat you with their products. What is there not to like?

4. River Market District

Picturesque River Market District is a place for relaxed browsing of fresh local produce at the farmer’s market or clothes at local boutiques. Also, it is a spot showing off cuisine of the world, local crafts, and live music performances.

Little Rock’s nightlife and food scene are vibrant and top-class. Hence, it unsurprisingly offers many ways to relax, learn, and enjoy.

Outdoor activities for nature lovers

1. Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park stretches on 33 acres of land along the Arkansas River and is a perfect place for outdoor events. It doesn’t have just lovely trails; visitors will find sculptures and playgrounds, but also historical markers such as the Riverfront Park History Pavilion, La Petit Roche Plaza, and the Little Rock Civil War Marker.

2. The Bernice Garden

Even though it is privately own, this community garden is open for all. It features unusual sculptures by local Arkansas artists, concerts and markets and is popular among people who like to discuss contemporary art installations.

3. Little Rock Zoo

Popular among children and grownups alike, the Little Rock Zoo is the largest in the country. Its 200 species are divide into four zones name after the sides of the world and each offers different activities for the little ones.

3. Big Dam Bridge

The Big Dam Bridge is famous for being the longest pedestrian (and bicycle) bridge in the country that was built precisely for that purpose.

Not only does it connect 70,000 acres of the state, but also connects people through a variety of events. Most popular are, of course, races and among them the Big Dam Bridge 100 bicycle tour, Race the Base, and the Full Moon Walk.

If you ever wonder about things to do in Little Rock, AR, rest assure there is plenty of attractions to keep everybody satisfied.