Need a cultural city break with Southern charm? Head to Little Rock! The capital of Arkansas blends history, art, nature, and great food along the scenic Arkansas River. From presidential history and riverfront parks to mountain trails and craft breweries, Little Rock makes a fun, affordable getaway full of surprises.
Little Rock, AR Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike Pinnacle Mountain State Park – Climb rocky trails to panoramic views just 20 minutes from downtown.
- For History Buffs: Tour the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site – Learn about the Civil Rights Movement at this landmark of integration.
- For Shoppers: Explore the River Market District – Shop local art, grab gourmet eats, and stroll stalls in a lively downtown setting.
- For Couples: Walk the Big Dam Bridge at sunset – Enjoy romantic river views from one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the U.S.
- For Families: Visit the Little Rock Zoo – Home to more than 400 animals and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Best Time to Visit Little Rock, AR
The best time to visit Little Rock is during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) when the weather is mild and festivals are in full swing. Summers are hot but ideal for riverfront events and water activities.
How to Get to Little Rock, AR
- If you are traveling by car: Little Rock is centrally located with I-30, I-40, and I-430 converging near the city.
- By Plane: Fly into Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT), just minutes from downtown.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Texas Eagle line stops at Little Rock’s Union Station with service to Chicago, Dallas, and beyond.
Where to Stay in Little Rock, AR
- Capital Hotel – Elegant 19th-century hotel with classic Southern hospitality and refined dining downtown.
- Aloft Little Rock Downtown – Trendy, modern hotel with rooftop views, near shops and nightlife.
- The Empress of Little Rock – Romantic Victorian B&B offering charm, gardens, and history in the Governor’s Mansion District.
Best Things to Do in Little Rock, AR
1. Arkansas State Capitol
Located on Woodlane Street, the Arkansas State Capitol is a historic building and the house of government for the state of Arkansas. The building was constructed between 1899 and 1915 on the site of the state penitentiary, and prisoners helped with the construction. Made of limestone and marble, the building is capped with a 24-carat gold leaf cupola and is one of the top Little Rock attractions.
Inside the building, you can see quite a few memorials including a replica of the Liberty Bell, the Little Rock Nine Civil Rights Memorial, and the Confederate War Prisoners Memorial. From the public galleries, visitors are able to watch the legislators at work. Guided tours are available.
500 Woodlane Street, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-682-5080
2. Big Dam Bridge
The Big Dam Bridge is the longest bicycle and pedestrian bridge in the country that was especially built for that purpose. The Big Dam Bridge connects about 20 miles of beautiful, scenic riverside trails in Little Rock and North Little Rock. The Bridge connects 70,000 acres of city, county, state, and federal parks. The bridge also creates a sense of community by providing a venue for events, competitions, and recreation.
One of the most popular annual events held on the bridge is the Big Dam Bridge 100 bicycle tour, which last year had more than 3,000 riders. Other regular events held on the bridge are Full Moon Walk, the Ronde von Burns Criterium Series, and Race the Base.
1818 North Taylor Street, Suite B, PMB # 157, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-340-6800
3. Metro Streetcar
The Metro Streetcar is a vintage streetcar system in Little Rock and North Little Rock. Streetcars began operating in the city in 1876, but service ended in 1947. Established in 2004, the current system started with a 2.5-mile long line. Today, it is 3.4 miles long and connects Little Rock with North Little Rock on the other side of the Arkansas River. If you are wondering what to do in Little Rock with kids, this is a fun way to explore the city.
The streetcars are replica vintage electric trolleys that are similar in design to the Birney-type streetcars that remained in use until 1947. The streetcars stop at many popular tourist attractions like the River Market and the Clinton Library, and they operate every day.
4. The Arkansas River Trail System
Enjoy the The Arkansas River Trail System on a sunny day.
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
5. Museum Of Discovery
Located on President Clinton Avenue in downtown Little Rock, the Museum Of Discovery is a history and natural science facility and the oldest museum in the city. If you are looking for fun things to do in Little Rock AR with the whole family, this is a great place to explore. Bernie Babcock established the museum as the Arkansas Museum of Natural History and Antiquities in 1927. After moving to the River Market in 1998, it changed its name to the Museum of Discovery. Its collection contains 14,000 historical and cultural artifacts as well as many live insects and other animals.
The museum boasts several educational programs, summer camps, and interactive science exhibits. It is one of the top family attractions in Little Rock, Arkansas. It also hosts field trips and can be rented for events like birthday parties.
500 President Clinton Avenue #150, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-396-7050
6. Old State House Museum
The Old State House Museum is a historic building located on West Markham Street in Little Rock. Famous for being the site of President Bill Clinton’s election night celebration in 1992, the Old State House is the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi River. Built between 1833 and 1842, the building remained in use until a new capitol was constructed in 1912.
Designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark, today the building houses a museum that displays items related to Arkansas culture and history. The collection includes items such as Arkansas art pottery, African-American quilts, Civil War battle flags, and much more.
300 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-324-9685
7. Riverfront Park
Located on La Harpe Boulevard along the Arkansas River, Riverfront Park is a downtown park with historic markers, playgrounds, sculptures, and trails. Stretching for eleven blocks, the park contains 33 acres of land for activities, outdoor events, and opportunities to learn about the state’s history. Some of the parks most popular features include the Little Rock Civil War Marker, the Riverfront Park History Pavilion, La Petit Roche Plaza, and the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge.
Peabody Splash Park is a playground area for children and the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center educates visitors about the wildlife of the Arkansas wetlands. The park also features an amphitheater and the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden. If you are looking for things to do in Little Rock AR this weekend, check the schedule of events in this unique park.
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
8. Rock Town Distillery
If you want to learn how grain – corn, wheat, and rye – can turn into bourbon, vodka, or gin, join a tour of the Rock Town Distillery, a craft artisan distillery located in downtown Little Rock. This award-winning distillery uses grains grown not more than 125 miles from the distillery, and with a lot of passion, knowledge and experience, they make some truly outstanding spirits.
After touring the facility and watching the whole process – from grain to glass – you will get to try what they make, but only if you are older than 21. Be careful if you are driving. The tour takes about half an hour and ends in the gift shop where you can buy some of their award-winning products.
1201 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, Phone: 501-907-5244
9. William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
The Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is part of the Clinton Presidential Center and Park in Little Rock. The Center also includes Little Rock’s office of the Clinton Foundation and the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum house extensive archives used by many researchers and a popular replica of the Oval Office and the White House Cabinet Room.
Visitors are now allowed to enter the authentic-looking Oval Office, and they can even take photo souvenirs. The room replica features the same decorations and furnishings it did while President Clinton carried out his terms as president. The Library and Museum organize frequent special events, exhibits, and school programs.
1200 President Clinton Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-374-4242
10. ESSE Purse Museum
The ESSE Purse Museum located on South Main Street is a museum devoted to purses and the history of purses. It is the only museum in the United States that is exclusively dedicated to handbags. The museum’s permanent display is entitled A Century of Women and Handbags 1900-1999, and it explores the evolution of handbags, the women who carried them, and what they carried in their purses.
Temporary exhibits at the museum include Pinafores, Purses & Pigtails, Common Threads: A Special Exhibit Woven of Four Parts, Handbags for Hillary, and many more.
1510 South Main Street, Little Rock, Arkansas, Phone: 501-916-9022
Where to Eat in Little Rock, AR
- Doe’s Eat Place – Famous for steaks, tamales, and Delta comfort food in a no-frills setting.
- Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. – Fresh handmade Chinese noodles, dumplings, and bao buns downtown.
- Brave New Restaurant – Upscale dining on the riverfront with seasonal ingredients and fantastic views.
If you are interested in local events:
- Riverfest (May) – Live music, food trucks, and family fun on the Arkansas River.
- Little Rock Film Festival (Spring) – Celebrates independent filmmakers with screenings and panels downtown.
- World Cheese Dip Championship (Fall) – Sample cheesy creations and vote for your favorite in this tasty Arkansas tradition.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Little Rock, Arkansas:
- Burns Park (15–20 min) – One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S., with trails, playgrounds, disc golf, and a golf course.
- The Old Mill (North Little Rock) (15 min) – Visit the picturesque mill featured in *Gone with the Wind* surrounded by gardens.
- Big Rock Quarry Park (20 min) – A hidden gem for hiking, photography, and unique rock formations.
- Maumelle Park (25 min) – Ideal for camping, boating, and fishing on the Arkansas River.
- Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park (30 min) – Discover ancient Native American mounds and interpretive trails just outside the city.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Q: Why should I plan a weekend trip to Little Rock?
- A: Plan a weekend trip to Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, where you will find unique historic attractions, great museums, and scenic parks.
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Q: What are some must-visit attractions in Little Rock?
- A: Go for a stroll in Riverfront Park, visit beautifully restored houses at the Historic Arkansas Museum, and ride in the River Rail Electric Streetcar.
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Q: What are the best things to do in Little Rock with kids?
- A: The best things to do in Little Rock with kids include the Little Rock Zoo, the Bernice Garden, and the Museum of Discovery.
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