Arkansas's capital sits along the Arkansas River, with landmarks like the Clinton Presidential Library and historic Central High School. A calm city known for Southern food and riverside paths.
Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, stretches along the Arkansas River with the Ouachita Mountains rising behind it. Walk across the Big Dam Bridge - North America's longest pedestrian bridge, watch red pandas at the Little Rock Zoo, or taste local specialties at the River Market District's food halls. The city's landmarks include the modern Clinton Presidential Library and the historic Central High School, while Pinnacle Mountain's trails lead to panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley.
River Market District
Local restaurants and shops line the streets of downtown Little Rock's River Market District. Hop on the METRO Streetcar to travel through the district and across the river to North Little Rock. Try hands-on science experiments at the Museum of Discovery, where interactive exhibits demonstrate physics principles. Watch live animal demonstrations at the Central Arkansas Nature Center to learn about local wildlife through educational programs.
Outdoor Areas and Parks
Hike to Pinnacle Mountain's 1,011-foot summit for views across the Arkansas River Valley. Walk through the Arkansas Arboretum to see native pawpaw trees and prairie grasses representing the state's six geographical regions. The Arkansas River Trail connects 17 miles of riverside paths, including the Big Dam Bridge's 4,226-foot span. The Little Rock Zoo houses red pandas and penguins, plus the world's last remaining Over the Jumps Carousel.
Museums and Cultural Sites
The William J. Clinton Presidential Center displays presidential archives alongside exact replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, with exhibits highlighting 1990s American life. Browse drawings by American artists from the 1950s onward at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, along with contemporary craft works. The ESSE Purse Museum chronicles women's history through handbags from the early 1900s to present day.
Civil Rights History
Take ranger-led tours of Little Rock Central High School, where nine African American students made history by enrolling in 1957 despite segregationist protests. Visit the restored Mobil gas station that served as the press center during the integration crisis. The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center preserves artifacts from Arkansas's African American communities, including items from Black-owned businesses and organizations.
Sports and Events
Watch Arkansas Travelers baseball games at Dickey-Stephens Park from April through September, with views of the Arkansas River and downtown skyline. Join the Little Rock Marathon in March as it winds through downtown streets. Listen to live music at weekly Jazz in the Park concerts in the River Market. Throughout the year, food festivals celebrate local specialties, including the World Cheese Dip Championship - Arkansas claims to be the birthplace of cheese dip.
