Tourist Attractions- Places To Visit In Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock arkansas is a city that offers a variety of exciting attractions. From a world-class art museum to an incredible nature center, there is plenty to do in the city of Little Rock!
History is a big part of the city’s identity. It’s easy to learn about the history of Little Rock at sites like the Clinton Presidential Center, Old State House Museum and the MacArthur Museum. You can also learn about the civil rights movement of 1957 at the Central High School National Historic Site and Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.
If you’re looking to explore history in a more hands-on way, consider visiting the Historic Arkansas Museum, which is a restored farmstead and houses some of the oldest buildings in downtown Little Rock. There are many interesting exhibits to explore, and there’s also a living history component where actors play the roles of homeowners in the 19th century.
One of the best things to do in Little Rock is to take a walk or bike ride along the riverfront trails. There are more than 14 miles of trails, so you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!
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Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center #1
If you are looking for a place to learn about Arkansas’s wildlife and fish, the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center is the perfect choice. The 16,232-square-foot facility opened in December 2008. It is part of the River Market District, located just behind the Museum of Discovery and close to the Clinton Foundation Store and the Clinton Presidential Library.
One of the highlights of the attraction is its 9,000-gallon aquarium. It is filled with Arkansas native fish. A theater presentation shows how the state’s fish and wildlife conservation efforts have evolved over time. In addition to the aquarium, other exhibits deal with Arkansas’s natural history and the impact of human activity on its wildlife.
The center is also a great destination for educating students. Students can participate in educational programs or take guided hikes along the Arkansas River Trail, through a Butterfly Native Plant garden or on a wetlands boardwalk. They can also try outdoor skill building activities such as archery, fishing, birding, geocaching and more.
MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History #2
Located on the soil where General Douglas MacArthur was born, in the historic Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History interprets the state’s military heritage. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents and uniforms that vividly portray Arkansas’s military history at home and abroad.
The only remaining structure from a more than 30 buildings on this original frontier military post, the Tower Building is listed on the National Register and has been home to the MacArthur Museum since 2001. During the Civil War, Arkansas Confederate soldiers used this building to store weapons and repair small arms.
In an effort to educate young students about the impact of war, the museum offers a reading program for local children called The Reading Brigade. During each session, the program’s coordinator, Amanda Colclasure, reads a story to the class that connects with a military theme.
The MacArthur Museum also hosts a series of educational activities, including a Korean War exhibit and an interactive timeline that highlights domestic and foreign policy. For more information on upcoming events and exhibitions, visit the museum’s website.
Historic Arkansas Museum #3
Located in the heart of Little Rock, the Historic Arkansas Museum is a must-visit. It has a number of antebellum homes that have been restored, and visitors can learn about what life was like in Arkansas’ frontier days through its Living History program.
It also has a variety of exhibits displaying local artifacts and contemporary art. You can also visit the museum store to purchase Arkansas-made products and quilts.
The Historic Arkansas Museum was founded by pioneer preservationist Louise Loughborough in 1939. She wanted to preserve the houses and landscape on Block 32, the original site of Little Rock.
Today the museum features five pre-Civil War houses including the Hinderliter Grog Shop, McVicar House, Brownlee House and Plum Bayou Log House. It also has a museum store and a children’s gallery.
The museum also hosts a variety of public events and festivals throughout the year. The grounds are free to visit and tours of the buildings are available for a small fee. Check the website for special events and activities.
ESSE Purse Museum #4
One of the few dedicated purse museums in the world, Esse Purse Museum & Store grew out of owner Anita Davis’ personal collection. She first started the museum as a traveling exhibit and then moved it to the newly revitalized SoMa (South on Main) district in Little Rock.
The museum showcases a woman’s progression decade by decade through her handbag and its contents. This meditative display is enhanced by carefully selected items women carried during each era, providing a truly unique historical context for the woman’s handbag.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of temporary exhibits as well as the permanent exhibition. These special topics include a current display called “Votes for All Women: The Fight for Equal Rights,” which focuses on the suffrage movement.
The ESSE Purse Museum is an ideal place to explore women’s history in Little Rock. The curated collection is not only beautiful to look at but also tells a story about the lives of American women. The museum is a must-visit for all purse lovers! Its gift shop is stocked with a wide array of purses from around the world.
William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum #5
One of only 13 presidential libraries in the country, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum chronicles President Bill Clinton’s eight years in office. The 20,000-square-foot museum contains full-scale replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, video stations and interactive displays.
Located on a 30-acre city park in downtown Little Rock, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park is made up of the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, a Foundation building, a school of public service, an on-site restaurant called Cafe 42 and a historic railroad bridge. The architectural and site design maximizes public park acreage, responds to the riverfront location and connects downtown Little Rock with North Little Rock.
The presidential library’s permanent exhibit uses digitized material to explore subjects such as education reform, greening the government and protecting natural resources. Its temporary exhibitions are also worth a look.
For instance, a Women’s Voices, Women’s Votes and Women’s Rights exhibit explores the risks women took to win the vote and expand democracy. Free admission is offered to Daisy and Ambassador Girl Scouts in uniform during March in conjunction with the Suffrage Centennial.
Museum Of Discovery #6
Founded in 1927 and reimagined in 2012, the Museum Of Discovery is the place to visit if you’re in town for a day of learning. You’ll find over 90 hands-on exhibits covering everything from tornadoes to dinosaurs, and kids will love it all!
The museum is located right in the River Market District, making it easy to access on foot. It is also a great option for families who want to spend time together. In addition to the permanent exhibits, there are also several themed areas for children to enjoy. For example, the Amazing You area explains the human body and how it works.
There’s also the Discovery Hall, where you’ll learn about physics and math. There’s even a Tinkering Studio where you can build and play with all kinds of materials!
Another exhibit that you shouldn’t miss is the Tesla Theater. This is an exciting space that will let you see strong volts of electricity. Nikola Tesla was a scientist who made many interesting discoveries, and this exhibit honors him by showing you how his work was important in the world.
Riverfront Park #7
Riverfront Park is an incredible urban destination for visitors in downtown Little Rock. It stretches 11 blocks along the Arkansas River and features several landmarks.
Aside from preserving the natural beauty of the area, this park has also fulfilled the vision of Julius Breckling to create a space where a variety of different experiences can be enjoyed by visitors. From a history pavilion to a splash pad, the park offers plenty of attractions for residents and tourists alike.
The park is home to a number of iconic landmarks like La Petit Roche, First Security Amphitheater, Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden and William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands, among others. Another great feature of Riverfront Park is its system of trails. You can bike or walk around the park to explore different areas of the city.
The park is home to a number of bridges that span the Arkansas River. You can walk across the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge for a panoramic view of the river.
FAQs: Little Rock, Arkansas
What is Little Rock Arkansas Best Known For?
The city is a major hub for business and a great place to live. It’s also a popular spot for tourists.
The city’s historic landmarks include the Capitol Building and Old State House Museum. Visit these historical sites to learn about the rich history of Little Rock and the state of Arkansas.
What Are Two Arkansas Attractions?
Whether you’re an art lover, nature aficionado or simply a history buff, Arkansas has an attraction to suit every taste.
The state capital of Little Rock is a cosmopolitan metropolis packed with museums, shopping and fine dining. In the northwest, Fayetteville is a college town with a lively music scene and creative arts district.
