Historic Arkansas Museum

"Historic Arkansas Museum is a vibrant cultural hub located in the oldest part of Little Rock, showcasing Arkansas’ rich history through five historically-preserved buildings and interactive exhibits. "

Recommended For

History Enthusiasts: Explore Arkansas’ frontier life through interactive exhibits, historical buildings, and a wealth of artifacts.
Art and Craft Lovers: Discover Arkansas-made decorative arts, fine arts, and textiles through permanent and rotating exhibits.
Families and Children: Enjoy the Sturgis Children’s Gallery and the museum’s educational programs, including re-enactments and hands-on activities.
Cultural Aficionados: Attend events like 2nd Fridays featuring local Arkansas artists, bands, and brewers.

Highlights

Arkansas Made: The museum’s premier collection of Arkansas-made arts, showcasing everything from quilts and furniture to jewelry and pottery.
We Walk in Two Worlds: An exhibit dedicated to the Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw tribes, highlighting their history and culture through artifacts and tribal voices.
Knife Gallery: Featuring over 100 knives, including the famous Bowie knife, with a focus on blacksmithing and bladesmithing.
pARTy for Peg: A lively, large-scale sculpture that celebrates the contributions of Peg Newton Smith to Arkansas' art scene.
Woodruff Print Shop (1824): A meticulously reconstructed print shop where the Arkansas Gazette was printed, with a replica of the original press.

Visitor Tips

Take a tour of the museum’s historic homes, which are open on an alternating schedule to showcase Arkansas history in an interactive manner.
Don’t miss the 2nd Friday celebrations, where you can enjoy new exhibits, live Arkansas bands, and local brews.
Explore the Sturgis Children's Gallery for engaging, hands-on activities that make history fun for kids.
Check out the medicinal herb garden, dedicated to Mary Worthen, featuring plants used by Native Americans and settlers for healing.

Local Vibe

The Historic Arkansas Museum immerses visitors in the state’s rich history, from frontier life to the artistry and craftsmanship of Arkansas’ past. The museum’s blend of educational exhibits, preserved historical homes, and living history programs creates an engaging and dynamic experience for all ages. Whether you’re admiring Arkansas-made art, learning about Native American tribes, or enjoying cultural events, the museum offers a unique window into Arkansas’ heritage and creative spirit.

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