Cultural & Historical Destinations in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
1. William J. Clinton Presidential Library
Houses the presidential records and artifacts of Bill Clinton, offering insight into his time in office. Interactive exhibits and a museum store make for an engaging visit.
- Presidential Artifacts: Displays a vast collection of presidential gifts, artwork, and documents
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive displays that immerse visitors in key moments of Clinton's presidency
- Archives and Research: Provides access to presidential records for researchers and scholars
2. Museum of Discovery
Offers a variety of exhibits focused on science, history, and innovation. Popular attractions include the Inventor's Workshop and the Little Rock Police and Fire Museum.
- Hands-on Exhibits: Allows visitors to engage with interactive science exhibits
- Local History Focus: Highlights the history and innovation of Little Rock and Arkansas
- Special Events and Programs: Hosts educational programs, camps, and special events for all ages
3. Old State House Museum
Preserves the history of Arkansas, showcasing exhibits about the state's political, military, and cultural heritage. The museum is also the site where the Arkansas Constitution was signed.
- Arkansas History: Offers a comprehensive look at Arkansas's past through exhibits, artifacts, and documents
- Historic Building: Located in the oldest surviving state capitol building west of the Mississippi River
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and resources for students, teachers, and lifelong learners
4. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
An important symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, this high school was at the center of the desegregation crisis in 1957. Tours offer insight into the historic event.
- Civil Rights History: Preserves and interprets a significant moment in Civil Rights history
- Visitor Center and Guided Tours: Includes a visitor center, museum, and guided tours of the school
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, resources, and discussions about civil rights and desegregation
5. MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History
Dedicated to the history of Arkansas's military heritage, this museum features exhibits about General Douglas MacArthur and other notable military figures.
- Military History Focus: Provides an in-depth look at Arkansas's military history and notable figures
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits, such as a flight simulator
- Archives and Research: Provides access to military artifacts and archival resources for researchers and scholars
6. Arkansas Arts Center
A cultural center featuring visual arts exhibitions, performing arts events, and art classes. The center is also home to the Museum School of Little Rock.
- Visual Arts Exhibits: Features a variety of rotating visual arts exhibitions
- Performing Arts Events: Hosts theater productions, dance performances, and concerts
- Art Education: Offers art classes for all ages and skill levels
7. Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
Dedicated to the history of African Americans in Arkansas, this museum features exhibits about the Mosaic Templars of America and the state's Black community.
- African-American History Focus: Provides an in-depth look at Arkansas's African-American history
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits, such as a digital timeline of African-American history
- Community Engagement: Offers programs and events that engage the local community
8. Riverfront Park
A riverside park offering beautiful views of the Arkansas River, as well as various attractions like the Big Dam Bridge and the Arkansas Arts Center.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Arkansas River and downtown Little Rock
- Attractions: Features popular attractions like the Big Dam Bridge and the Arkansas Arts Center
- Picnic Areas and Walking Trails: Includes picnic areas, walking trails, and a skate park
9. Historic Arkansas Museum
Preserves the history of Arkansas through exhibits about daily life, architecture, and craftsmanship in early Arkansas. The museum also features a research library.
- Early Arkansas History: Offers an in-depth look at the history of early Arkansas
- Historic Buildings: Features several historic buildings, including a circa-1846 log cabin and a 1920s Arkansas School for the Deaf dormitory
- Research Library: Provides access to research materials about Arkansas's history and culture
10. Little Rock Zoo
A popular family destination featuring over 700 animals from around the world, including a penguin exhibit and a Children's Zoo.
- Animal Exhibits: Features exhibits for over 700 different animal species
- Family-friendly Activities: Includes a Children's Zoo and interactive activities for kids
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts through educational programs and partnerships
11. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law
A historic law school featuring architectural details like stained glass and Gothic arches. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Historic Architecture: Features stunning architectural details, such as stained glass and Gothic arches
- Legal Education: Provides a rich learning environment for law students
- National Register of Historic Places: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a significant architectural landmark in Little Rock
12. The Old Mill at Bernice Garden
A historic water-powered mill dating back to the 1880s. The mill is set in a beautiful park and often serves as a popular wedding venue.
- Historic Water Mill: Features a working water-powered gristmill from the 1880s
- Beautiful Park Setting: Located in a picturesque park with walking trails and gardens
- Popular Wedding Venue: Serves as a popular location for weddings, events, and photo shoots
13. Murals of Little Rock
A collection of outdoor murals that showcase the city's history, culture, and spirit. The murals are located throughout downtown Little Rock.
- Outdoor Murals: Features a variety of large-scale outdoor murals
- Cultural and Historical Themes: Themes include depictions of local history, culture, and notable figures
- City Beautification: Contributes to the aesthetic appeal and vibrancy of downtown Little Rock
14. The Quapaw Quarter
Little Rock's historic district, home to many beautifully restored Victorian-era homes. The area is also known for its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.
- Historic Homes: Features numerous beautifully restored Victorian-era homes
- Eclectic Shops and Restaurants: Offers a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes
- Historic Preservation: Dedicated to the preservation and revitalization of historic buildings
15. The River Rail Trail
A multi-use trail that follows the Arkansas River, offering scenic views, recreational opportunities, and access to various attractions.
- Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of the Arkansas River and surrounding landscape
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers opportunities for cycling, walking, running, and rollerblading
- Attractions Access: Connects visitors to popular attractions like the Big Dam Bridge and Riverfront Park