I love my home city of Little Rock and think it is very underrated. Arkansas’s capital has important historic sites, excellent museums, beautiful parks, great restaurants, and more outdoor adventure than you might expect to find.
Some of the places on this list are major attractions that every first-time visitor should see. Others are simply local favorites.
For this list, I am including both Little Rock and North Little Rock. They are actually two different cities, and there is a fun little rivalry between the two. People from Little Rock used to call North Little Rock “Dogtown,” but these days North Little Rockers have embraced the name.
Here are some of the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas and North Little Rock, Arkansas.
10 Things Not to Miss in Little Rock, Arkansas
Here are the things that we think are essential when you are visiting Little Rock. You might not have time to do them all, but at least a few should be on your Little Rock itinerary.
- Visit Central High School: Learn about the Little Rock Nine and the desegregation crisis of 1957 at the National Park Service visitor center and on a ranger-led program. You will need to make reservations for the ranger-led program.
- William J. Clinton Presidential Library: Explore exhibits about Bill Clinton’s life and presidency, including replicas of the Oval Office and the White House Cabinet Room, in this striking building overlooking the Arkansas River.
- Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Pinnacle Mountain is a wonderful state park on the western edge of Little Rock where you can hike, bike, paddle, and enjoy some gorgeous views.
- Eat at some of Little Rock’s local restaurants: Little Rock is such a foodie town. In our opinion, a visit is not complete without trying a few of its delicious local restaurants.
- Explore one of Little Rock’s interesting neighborhoods: Some of the best parts of Little Rock are found in its neighborhoods. Pick one that sounds like fun and spend a little time eating, shopping, and seeing what you discover.
- Walk or bike across the Big Dam Bridge: The Big Dam Bridge is part of the Arkansas River Trail system which is a large loop along both sides of the river. But many of us also like to walk the bridge for exercise and the views.
- Riverfront Park and the River Market District: Riverfront Park and the River Market District are home to public art, gardens, playgrounds, restaurants, and the actual “little rock” for which the city was named.
- Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts: Even if you aren’t a huge art lover, the beautiful building, changing exhibits, and surrounding grounds make this museum well worth a visit.
- Arkansas State Capitol: The Arkansas State Capitol is a stunning building that visitors can explore on their own or by taking a free guided tour.
- Rock Town Distillery: Take a tour and enjoy a tasting at Arkansas’s first legal distillery of any kind since Prohibition.
More Great Things for Hikers, Bikers, and Nature Lovers in Little Rock, Arkansas
We think that one of the best things about Little Rock is the abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventure. In fact, we have an entire post with more detail about the parks and outdoor activities in Little Rock that you can check out.
Here are some of our favorite ways to get outside in Little Rock.
Hike at Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Pinnacle Mountain State Park is a wonderful state park on the western edge of Little Rock. You can hike, bike, kayak, picnic, play, or simply enjoy the scenery. Many Little Rock residents treat this park like another backyard.
When you arrive, we suggest stopping first by the beautiful visitor center to pick up a map and learn more about the trails.
The climb to the top of Pinnacle Mountain is not easy, but the views of the surrounding countryside are gorgeous. If you aren’t up for the climb, there are plenty of other trails in the park, including a couple of easy paved paths.
Walk or Bike the Arkansas River Trail
The Arkansas River Trail is a 15.6-mile loop that follows both sides of the river through Little Rock and North Little Rock. You can walk, run, or bike the entire loop…or simply choose a short stretch along the water.
The main loop is anchored by the Big Dam Bridge on the western end and the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge downtown. Along the way, it passes parks, neighborhoods, and attractions in both cities.
The Big Dam Bridge is the most famous part of the trail. Its 4,226-foot span was built over Murray Lock and Dam, high above the Arkansas River. Many locals walk the bridge for exercise, but the river views are reason enough to visit.
Other pedestrian bridges connected to the trail system include the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, Junction Bridge, and Two Rivers Bridge. Two Rivers Bridge leads into Two Rivers Park and crosses the Little Maumelle River near the point where it meets the Arkansas River.
Bike rentals are available through Rock Town River Outfitters, but check the current location and hours before you go.
Walk or Ride Bikes at Two Rivers Park
Two Rivers Park is part of the Arkansas River Trail system, but it is also, in our opinion, one of the best parks in Little Rock.
The park is beautiful, very flat, and perfect for walking or biking. It also has gorgeous views of Pinnacle Mountain in the distance. Be sure to cross Two Rivers Bridge for some of the prettiest views.
There is also an accessible playground and plenty of shady paths, making this a good choice for families.
Explore William Kirsch Preserve
William Kirsch Preserve at Ranch North Woods is one of the best places to get away from it all without going very far. The 234-acre preserve is located just off busy Highway 10 in the shadow of Pinnacle Mountain.
It is tucked behind a neighborhood and protects more than a mile of land along the Little Maumelle River.
This is a lovely place to walk, picnic, kayak, or canoe. The cypress-studded waters of the Little Maumelle River offer beautiful views of Pinnacle Mountain.
I will mention that the walking paths can be muddy after we have had a lot of rain, so wear appropriate shoes.
Kayak the Little Maumelle River
Kayaking is a popular activity on the Little Maumelle River and on certain parts of the Arkansas River. The Little Maumelle is calm and scenic, with cypress trees, wildlife, and views of Pinnacle Mountain.
If you don’t have your own kayak, Rock Town River Outfitters offers rentals and guided outings. Depending on current offerings, you may be able to rent a single or tandem kayak, explore on your own, or take a guided tour. They sometimes offer sunset paddles and urban paddles.
Take on the Trails at Rattlesnake Ridge
Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area is a rugged and less crowded place for hiking and mountain biking just west of Pinnacle Mountain State Park. The natural area protects rare plant and animal habitats while also helping safeguard Lake Maumelle, which supplies drinking water to the area.
The trails vary in length and difficulty, but the terrain is generally rockier and more challenging than many of the other places on this list. The climbs can be tough, but there are some wonderful views from the ridge.
The natural area may close during wet weather to protect the trails, so check conditions before making the drive.
Witt Stephens Central Arkansas Nature Center
The Witt Stephens Nature Center is a small, free museum in the RIver Market District. Inside are aquariums, wildlife exhibits, a theater, and information about Arkansas’s different natural regions and the work of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
This is a small place, but it is a favorite for my grandchildren. They love to just pop in and see the various animal exhibits. This is also easily combined with Riverfront Park, the Museum of Discovery, or the Clinton Library.
Little Rock Zoo
The Little Rock Zoo is home to more than 400 animals representing over 200 species.
This is not an enormous zoo, so you can usually walk through it in a couple of hours. There is a little train and a playground and we find that the penguins are always a favorite. There are places to stop for a drink or snack along the way.
Museums, History, and Culture in Little Rock, Arkansas
There are a plethora of interesting museums and historical sites in Little Rock. You can learn about anything from the history of Arkansas to the Civil Rights Movement to President Bill Clinton and more.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
Little Rock Central High School is both an operating school and one of the most important Civil Rights Sites in the country. It is also stunning and has been named by the American Institute of Architects as the “Most Beautiful High School in America.”
The history of the school is less pretty, but extremely important.
You can learn about the Little Rock 9 and integration in Little Rock by taking a guided tour of the school through the National Park Service. You will need to make reservations for the tour.
If you are interested in learning more about the history of Civil Rights in Arkansas you can download a free mobile app and/or a free audio tour. These will show you some of the most important civil rights sites in the city.
William J. Clinton Presidential Library
When the William J. Clinton Presidential Library first opened the people of Little Rock had plenty of feelings, big feelings, about the building. Some loved the streamlined, modern aesthetic and others compared it to a giant mobile home.
These days we’ve all gotten used to it! The building overlooks the Arkansas River and was designed to resemble a bridge, echoing Clinton’s campaign theme of “building a bridge to the 21st century.”
Inside, you can explore exhibits about Bill Clinton’s life and presidency, walk through replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, and see changing exhibitions.
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, formerly known as the Arkansas Arts Center, is located in MacArthur Park near downtown Little Rock. The museum underwent a complete transformation and reopened in 2023 in a gorgeous modern building.
Honestly, the building itself is worth seeing.
Inside, you will find pieces from the museum’s permanent collection as well as changing exhibitions. There is also a performing arts theater, the Windgate Art School, a museum shop, and a restaurant. Be sure to leave time to walk around the beautiful grounds, too.
Admission to the museum is free, although some performances, classes, and special events may have a charge.
Arkansas State Capitol
The Arkansas State Capitol is a beautiful Neoclassical building that visitors can explore on their own or by scheduling a guided tour. Self-guided tour books are available at the visitor desk and online.
Be sure to take a look at the monuments and memorials on the Capitol grounds as well.
If you are in Little Rock during the Christmas season, the Capitol is a must-see. The building is covered in lights, and there is usually a huge Christmas tree inside the rotunda.
Historic Arkansas Museum
Historic Arkansas Museum occupies an entire city block in downtown Little Rock and includes some of the oldest buildings in the city. You can tour restored historic structures, learn about Arkansas’s frontier days, and explore galleries filled with Arkansas art and artifacts.
The grounds include several buildings on their original sites as well as a log house and farmstead moved from the Scott area. It is a good museum for both children and adults.
Old State House Museum
The Old State House was Arkansas’s original state capitol and is the oldest standing state capitol building west of the Mississippi River. It is a stately columned building with lovely grounds in downtown Little Rock.
Today the Old State House Museum has exhibits that tell stories from Arkansas’s political and cultural history. The collection of dresses worn by Arkansas first ladies has always been one of my favorites.
Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is dedicated to the history, culture, and achievements of African Americans in Arkansas. The museum also tells the story of the Mosaic Templars of America and Little Rock’s historic West Ninth Street District.
There are permanent and changing exhibitions covering subjects such as art, music, business, sports, education, and Civil Rights. Admission is free.
The Museum of Discovery
If you are visiting Little Rock with children then The Museum of Discovery is a must. It is a children’s science museum in the River Market District of Little Rock and has been voted one of the top 6 children’s museums in the US!
There are more than 90 hands-on exhibits to help children (and adults) learn about various aspects of science and technology. The goal at this museum is to get people excited about learning.
This is one of the best things to do with children in Little Rock.
The Esse Purse Museum
The Esse Purse Museum is a small but fascinating museum in SoMa. Its permanent exhibit uses purses and their contents to show how women’s lives changed throughout the 20th century.
The purses are arranged by decade, and it is fun to see not only the styles but what women carried in them. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits and has a great little shop
Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is on the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. The highlight is a tour of the historic submarine USS Razorback, where you can see what life was like for sailors serving aboard a submarine.
The museum also has exhibits about submarine operations, naval history, and vessels connected to Arkansas.
MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History
The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History interprets the state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present with artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and other military items. The museum is free to visit and was named after General Douglas MacArthur who was born in Little Rock.
Arts, Entertainment, and Sports in Little Rock
Robinson Center
Robinson Center is Little Rock’s largest performing arts venue and one of the city’s most recognizable buildings. Depending on when you visit, you might find a touring Broadway show, concert, symphony performance, ballet, or comedy act on the schedule
Repertory Theater aka The Rep
The Arkansas Repertory Theatre, locally called The Rep, is a professional theater located on Main Street in downtown Little Rock. It has been part of the city’s arts scene since 1976 and produces plays and musicals using both local and guest artists.
The theater is fairly small, which makes performances feel more intimate. Check the schedule before your visit to see if something is playing.
The Old Mill
The Old Mill is an iconic and gorgeous site in North Little Rock. Visitors often believe that it is an original mill, but it is actually a recreation of an 1880’s water powered grist mill that was built in the 1930’s.
It was constructed in honor of Arkansas’ pioneers and is very much a work of art. It features sculptures by artist Senor Dionicio Rodriguez and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Old Mill was featured in the opening credits of the film, Gone with the Wind. It is lovely year round, but in my opinion it is particularly gorgeous in the spring.
Moss Mountain Farm
Many people come into Little Rock from other states just to tour Moss Mountain Farm. We have attended their lunch tour on a couple of occasions and met people from all over.
Moss Mountain is the country home of well known horticulturist and life style guru P. Allen Smith. Tours are not held daily and they do fill up so be sure and plan ahead if you want to attend.
Arkansas Travelers at Dickey Stephens Park
If you are in town during baseball season you might want to see if the Arkansas Travelers are playing at Dickey-Stevens Park.
The Travelers are the Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, but you don’t have to be a serious baseball fan to enjoy a game. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is fun, and the stadium has great views of downtown Little Rock across the river.
Food and Drink
Little Rock is a wonderful food town. We have everything from fine dining to tiny hole-in-the-wall places serving some of the best food. In our opinion, one of the best things you can do while you are here is skip the chains and try a few local restaurants.
One of the must try dishes in Little Rock is cheese dip. Central Arkansas takes its cheese dip seriously, and you will find plenty of versions around town. So, who has the best cheese dip in Little Rock? Here is a list of our favorites! After you try a few let us know what you think!
Rock Town Distillery is another fun stop. Located in SoMa, the distillery has a full cocktail bar, tours, tastings, and cocktail classes. We highly recommend making a reservation for one of the tours so that you can see how the spirits are made from grain to glass.
Little Rock also has a good local brewery scene. Lost Forty is one of our favorites, but there are plenty of others to try, including Moody Brews in Pettaway, Southern Tail in East Village, and Flyway across the river in North Little Rock.
For more local restaurant recommendations just ask a local! People around here love to talk about their favorite places to eat.
Interesting Neighborhoods in Little Rock and North Little Rock
Some of the best parts of Little Rock are found in its neighborhoods. Pick one that sounds like fun and spend a little time eating, shopping, and seeing what you discover.
River Market District and Riverfront Park
The River Market is the heart of downtown. There are restaurants, bars, shopping, the Ottenheimer market hall, and several of the cities most popular attractions all in a relatively small area.
This is where you will find the Museum of Discovery for kids, the Clinton Library, the Witt Stevens Nature Center, and much more.
Riverfront Park stretches along the Arkansas River and is home to playgrounds, gardens, public art, and the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden. Be sure to look for the actual “little rock” for which the city was named.
The street cars are a free and fun way to get around downtown Little Rock and over the bridge to Argenta in North Little Rock.
SoMa
South Main or SoMa is one of the most fun and funky areas of Little Rock. You can stroll along Main Street and find local restaurants, shops, Rock Town Distillery, the ESSE Purse Museum, and Loblolly Creamery.
Some of our favorite places to eat in this area include The Root, Bread Cheese Wine, and Community Bakery. There are also shops selling home goods, gifts, antiques, and vintage finds. This is an excellent area to find unique decor.
Argenta Arts District
Argenta is just across the river in North Little Rock. This area has restaurants, bars, breweries, and entertainment venues, including Dickey-Stephens Park and Simmons Bank Arena which is where all the large concerts and events are held.
We like Flyway Brewing and Brood and Barley Restaurant, but there are also some other great choices.
This is a good area to visit before a baseball game, concert, or show.
The Heights and Hillcrest
The Heights and Hillcrest are two separate neighborhoods located close to one another. Both have beautiful homes, excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of local shopping.
The Heights feels a little more polished and upscale, while Hillcrest is older, quirkier, and a bit more relaxed. I would suggest trying Heights Taco and Tamale restaurant for Mexican food or Kemuri for sushi.
We also really love the local shopping in either of these areas.
East Village
East Village was established in the late 1800’s as the first industrial area of Little Rock. These days it is in the midst of a bit of a revival. Some of those old warehouses are being refurbished into gorgeous mixed-used spaces.
East Village is one of Little Rock’s oldest areas, although the neighborhood name is relatively new. Old industrial buildings and warehouses have been turned into breweries, restaurants, offices, and gathering spaces.
You will find Lost Forty Brewing, Southern Tail Brewing, Fidel & Co Coffee, The Rail Yard, and Sterling Market in this part of town. It still has a slightly industrial feel, which is part of its appeal.
Pettaway Square
Pettaway Square is small, but it is one of Little Rock’s cutest newer gathering places. The square sits within the historic Pettaway neighborhood and has green space surrounded by a handful of local businesses.
Stop for a beer at Moody Brews, browse the thoughtfully selected books at Paper Hearts Bookstore, or simply sit outside for a while and enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere.
More Little Rock Visitor Information
The Little Rock visitor center located in Historic Curran Hall near downtown is a place to get even more Little Rock information.
Final Thoughts about A Visit to Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is easy to underestimate, but there is much more to see and do here than many people realize. Whether you are interested in history, museums, hiking, food, art, or simply exploring a new neighborhood, I hope this list helps you find something that you will love.
Enjoy your time in our home city!
If you are thinking about visiting the northwest corner of the state you will want to check out our post about all the great activities in the city of Bentonville, Arkansas.
