Little Rock, the capital city of Arkansas, offers a variety of attractions that highlight its history, culture, and natural beauty. From museums and landmarks to outdoor activities along the Arkansas River, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re in town for a day or spending the weekend, consider checking out some of these top things to see and do in Little Rock.
1. Visit the Arkansas State Capitol
As the seat of Arkansas state government, the Arkansas State Capitol is a must-see attraction in Little Rock. Completed in 1915, the magnificent domed neoclassical building serves as the center of state politics and civic functions.
Free guided tours of the Capitol are available daily and provide an overview of Arkansas history along with insights into the legislative process. Don’t miss the colorful Tiffany dome and sweeping views of the city from the top floor observation deck. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring this magnificent piece of civic architecture.
2. Tour the Clinton Presidential Center
Dedicated to the 42nd U.S. president, Bill Clinton, the Clinton Presidential Center offers a comprehensive look at Clinton’s life and legacy. Exhibits showcase Clinton’s rise from Arkansas governor to two-term president through artifacts, photographs, and video presentations. The center also focuses on Clinton’s post-presidential philanthropic endeavors like the Clinton Foundation.
Visitors can see replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room along with exhibits on major policy initiatives from Clinton’s time in office. Plan to spend at least two hours at this informative presidential museum located in Little Rock’s River Market District.
3. Go to the Old State House Museum
As Arkansas’ oldest surviving public building, the Old State House Museum takes visitors back to the early statehood period from 1836-1851. Once the Arkansas territorial and state capitol building, the Old State House now commemorates Arkansas’ territorial and early statehood days through period pieces, historical displays, and exhibits.
Highlights include an inaugural hall used by the state’s first three governors and historically accurate rooms depicting life in antebellum Arkansas. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring Arkansas’ roots at this site located downtown near the Clinton Library.
4. Go to the Arkansas Arts Center
Home to an impressive collection of American art, the Arkansas Arts Center holds significance as the state’s premier art museum. Recent blockbuster exhibits have featured renowned artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Norman Rockwell.
In addition to traveling exhibits, the permanent collection showcases over 5,000 works spanning centuries from renowned American artists. Enjoy interactive family programs or grab a bite at the museum cafe. Be sure to allow at least two hours to properly explore this cultural gem located in Little Rock’s central MacArthur Park.
5. Visit the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
While similar to the Clinton Presidential Center, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum hosted on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock campus delves deeper into the details of Clinton’s historic presidency from 1993 to 2001.
In addition to chronologically-organized exhibits showcasing Clinton’s major domestic and foreign policy initiatives, visitors can view items from the White House collections like gifts from international leaders. Multimedia exhibits bring the Clinton era back to life. Plan to spend at least three hours immersed in the Clinton legacy at this comprehensive presidential library.
6. Go to the River Market District
As one of the most vibrant areas in Little Rock, the River Market District sits right along the Arkansas River and is one of the top places to visit. Stroll through shops and boutiques along the cobblestone streets, stop for lunch or coffee at one of the many eateries, and take in scenic views of the river from trails and overlooks.
Don’t miss the colorful Sweetish Hill Bakery and indoor farmer’s market at the River Market Pavilion. Schedule time before or after visiting nearby attractions like the Clinton Library to experience this lively downtown district.
7. Check out Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
As the site of the desegregation crisis of 1957, Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site serves as an important educational and historical landmark. Led by the personal bravery of the Little Rock Nine, the school played a pivotal role in the American Civil Rights Movement.
Free guided tours bring this crucial chapter in U.S. history to life through exhibits, videos, and artifacts. Visitors can also stroll the same hallways once walked by the Little Rock Nine. Plan to spend at least two hours learning from this tremendous exhibit of resilience and social progress.
8. Go to Big Dam Bridge
Spanning the Arkansas River, the Big Dam Bridge links North Little Rock to downtown Little Rock and is a destination in itself. Stroll or bike across the massive span with stunning skyline views or linger along picnic areas taking in the natural scenery of the river below.
Families will enjoy Big Dam Bridge Park on the North Little Rock side with playgrounds, pavilions, and trails. With its recreational and transportation role, Big Dam Bridge is a definitive symbol of Little Rock. Schedule at least an hour to take it all in.
9. Tour the Historic Arkansas Museum
Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, this unique outdoor history museum illustrates how people lived and worked in Arkansas from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Visit a reconstructed blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and more to learn about frontier life through displays, re-enactors, and special programming.
Kids especially enjoy hands-on exhibits and activities. Allow at least two hours to properly explore this preserved 20-acre slice of Arkansas heritage and culture situated right in downtown Little Rock.
10. Go to Murray Park & Trail
For a respite from museum going, Murray Park in Little Rock offers scenic trails, picnic spots, and recreational areas alongside the Arkansas River. Walk or bike along over 5 miles of trails shaded by hardwood forests and enjoy vibrant wildflowers in season.
Murry Park is also home to the adjacent Interurban Greenway Trail linking neighborhoods. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon soaking in the natural beauty of the Arkansas River valley without ever leaving the city. Plan for at least a couple hours to relax and recharge amid Murray Park’s greenery.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Little Rock offers an abundance of attractions and things to see and do for visitors of all ages and interests. Be sure to allow plenty of time to properly experience some of the museums, parks, and other top destinations that highlight Arkansas’ proud heritage as the natural state.