Exploring Little Rock (AR): A Guide to the Capital City’s Top 10 Attractions and Hidden Gems (2024)

The Beautiful Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas. Contrary to its name, Little Rock is a Big City and perhaps bigger in ‘Tourism’ as well. Sitting on the Banks of the Arkansas River, this capital city is beautifully anchored and graced with both natural and human-made beauty. The Southern warmth and hospitality can be sensed in every moment you spend in the city. Little Rock boasts history and natural beauty with a confluence of culture and city life. You will find yourself landlocked in modernization yet close to the depth of nature at the same time.

Little Rock in Arkansas has so much to explore that you can literally spend days here. The capital city is probably the most popular holidaying destination in Arkansas, and State locals take it quite seriously. Whether you are here alone, with a partner, friends, or family, you will get to uncover a different side of Little Rock every single time. Little Rock is an ideal or perhaps the best blend of Modern and Classic. Here’s the Ultimate Tourism Guide to Little Rock.

Exploring Little Rock (AK): A Guide to the Capital City’s Top 10 Attractions and Hidden Gems 

The guide features all the Popular Tourist Attractions and Secret Spots in the City. Have a look.

1. Arkansas State Capitol

Arkansas State Capitol is a replica of the U.S. State Capitol. This government building houses the seat of the Arkansas state government and Arkansas General Assembly.

Architecturally admired, the State Capitol building sits atop Capitol Hill on Capitol Mall’s eastern end in Little Rock. The building is made using white marble and granite and features huge bronze entrance doors. Its cupola, a highlight on its own, is covered with 24-karat gold leaf. Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock was completed in 1915 and has proudly completed a century by now.

Locals and tourists in Little Rock often choose to explore the State Capitol building. Visitors via Scheduled tours are allowed to check out the Old Supreme Court Chamber, a glistening rotunda, and the Governor’s Reception Room. However, what hits the emotion and interest of visitors the most are the nine bronze statues of those brave students who attended Central High School during the 1957 crisis. In addition, visitors can also check out the Vietnam veteran’s memorial, landscaped gardens, and several permanent and rotating exhibits throughout the building.

2. William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park

Bill Clinton, the 42nd U.S. President, has a long association with Arkansas. An example of the same could be seen at William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park, a popular tourist attraction in Little Rock. It is basically U.S.’s 13th Presidential library, a fascinating museum, and an archival research facility. This modern and rectangular building is a living example of Clinton’s ‘Bridge to the 21st Century’ motto. A visit inside the building will introduce you to over one million photos, presidential itineraries, gifts, and artifacts.

These interactive exhibits are displayed over three floors and are there, providing insights into Bill Clinton’s personal and political life. A lot of artifacts that are not there on display are preserved for the coming generations.

William J. Clinton Presidential Center displays exact furnishings and decor from when Clinton was in power. Being here feels like standing right in one of the rooms of the White House. The park outside, featuring sculptures, fountains, and restored wetlands too, is worth spending time at. Visitors who want to explore this extravagance can enroll for a guided tour of the Presidential Library. You can also choose to attend different events and programs organized here throughout the year. If you have an interest in American Politics and Bill Clinton’s life, do not miss checking out this place.

3. Old State House Museum

The oldest standing state capitol building west of the Mississippi River and Arkansas’s original state capitol building, the Old State House, is a popular draw in Little Rock. Now turned into a museum, this example of Doric architecture is perhaps the best of its kind in the Southern States. Since the Capitol building was replaced and no longer in use, it turned into a public museum for good. Old State House sits on the way through the River Market District in the heart of Little Rock.

Old State House Museum, a popular historic landmark in Little Rock, has a lot of interesting features. It has seen several events in history, including Arkansas’s vote to secede from the United States, a fatal duel between legislators, and much more. The building today houses a large exhibit featuring five permanent and multiple temporary displays. On a free visit here, visitors can see decorative arts, inaugural gowns of governors’ wives, and other artifacts relating to the politics and history of Arkansas.

4. River Market District

River Market District is the heart of Little Rock and is loved by both locals and tourists. This year-round shopping and dining destination are spread over 10,000 square feet housing a range of stall, shops, restaurants, food tables, coffee vendors, groceries, and much more. It is where you can find individuals of different age groups walking around for hours, soaking in the local vibes. Whether it is day or night, the River Market District never loses its charm.

The River Market District is home to some of the popular tourist landmarks of Little Rock, including Riverfront Park and William J. Clinton Presidential Center. In addition to endless shopping and dining opportunities, that marketplace also features art galleries and numerous changing exhibits. It is where people gather to witness Fourth of July fireworks and for accessing the Arkansas River Trail. Individuals who aren’t interested in walking around can rent Rock Region METRO Streetcar and explore the downtown.

5. Big Dam Bridge and the Arkansas River Trail

An engineering marvel, the Big Dam Bridge is North America‘s largest pedestrian and bicycle bridge. Due to its 4,226 feet long length, Bid Dam Bridge got its quirky name. Flowing 90 feet above the Arkansas River, this bridge allows Little Rock locals to commute for their daily life. It, in addition, is also popular amongst tourists who choose to explore the nature trails on the other side. The bridge connected the River Market, multiple museums, Clinton Presidential Center, restaurants, and other popular landmarks in the city.

Alongside, the Arkansas River Trail is one of the popular outdoor landmarks in Little Rock. This multi-purpose trail runs through the town, covering a 15.6-mile loop. The loop connects 23 attractions and parks, multiple pedestrian bridges, and nearly 70 additional small and large trails. The best time to hike the Arkansas River Trail and Big Dam Bridge is during sunset hours. It is when the sunlight makes a rainbow of colors reflect off the river right below the bridge.

6. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Central High School is a still operational unit yet a National Historic Site. It is the exact place where in 1957, desegregation began. The school came into highlight when the Little Rock Nine, 9 African-American teenagers, tried entering the school and became the highlight of the desegregation debate. Escorted by the U.S. Army, these Little Rock Nine became a pivotal moment in the history of Civil Rights. It is after them that the city of Little Rock got its name and managed to proudly keep it for years till now.

Individuals can walk outdoors on the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site and appreciate the towering architecture. Or, opt for guided tours, which are organized once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Each tour has a different route depending upon the school’s operations. Individuals can also check out the visitor center, learn some history and shop for brochures.

7. Little Rock Zoo

Started back in 1926 with just 2 animals, the Little Rock Zoo is a must-visit place in Little Rock, Arkansas. Initially, it had an abandoned timber wolf and a circus-trained bear though today, this 33 acres Zoo is home to 725 animals representing over 200 different species. It, in fact, is the largest Zoo in Arkansas state. The Zoo features several theme-based areas from where visitors can view animals from a distance. Visitors can also engage in several hands-on interactive activities, feed fish, and get clicked on several fun photos.

In the Little Rock Zoo was Trudy, the gorilla, perhaps the most popular animal. It is, in fact, the oldest living gorilla that has been taken care of by humans. According to theories, she was born back in 1956 or 1957. Besides that, the Zoo today is home to Asian Elephants, Big cats, Bears, primates, Reptiles, and Birds.

8. Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden

Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden is a popular outdoor attraction in Little Rock. This famous landmark sits east towards the River Market, north of the Little Rock Marriott Hotel. A visit to this delightful place allows individuals to witness one of the most inspiring and admirable art displays. The sculpture garden is home to 90 pieces of public art; the elegant accents make the green space absolutely adorable. The garden allows visitors to admire the art at their own pace while walking around. No matter which time of the day you are here, everything in this artistic world seems enjoyable.

As you walk through Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, you will have to focus your eyes to find smaller, more delicate statues. However, several large statues are easy to be found even from a distance. While some of the sculptures here are modern, others look classically outstanding. Regardless of one’s interest and experience in art, the public display here will entertain everyone equally.

9. Pinnacle Mountain State Park

If you happen to visit Little Rock, you need to spare some time for exploring the grand Pinnacle Mountain State Park. This 2,356 acres State Park is just outside Little Rock, less than half an hour’s drive away from the town. Pinnacle Mountain is undoubtedly the highlight of the State Park and is perhaps an ideal place to have some outdoor fun. A visit to Pinnacle Mountain State Park allows wanderers to enjoy some exciting hiking adventures. For the ones who want to reach the summit, the 1.5-mile East Summit Trail and the 1.5-mile West Summit Trail are two chosen pathways. Other popular trails include Kingfisher Trail, Base Trail, Rocky Valley Trail, Arkansas Trail, and East Quarry Trail.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park is also popular for Mountain Biking opportunities. The park boasts a 13-mile-long trail system for adventure seekers. This long trail system includes cross-country, downhill, flow, and beginner sections. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of adventure and recreational opportunities at the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers. Or someone who is interested in camping can. Maumelle Park is right next. However, camping at Pinnacle Mountain State Park isn’t allowed.

10. Historic Arkansas Museum

Last but not least on your Guide to Little Rock list is Historic Arkansas Museum. This historical museum is housed inside an 1850s Farmstead. It, in addition, also has some of the oldest buildings in Little Rock of the downtown region. History enthusiasts can visit the Historic Arkansas Museum from inside Tuesday to Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. The museum remains closed on Mondays and other National/ State holidays.

Historic Arkansas Museum is a living history museum featuring galleries of Arkansas Made art and history and works from contemporary artists and from indigenous Arkansans. Visitors get to admire a lot of things on display ranging from Hunting Horns, Knives, photographs, jewelry, Furniture pieces, Pottery, and more. Exploring the galleries here is free of cost, but exploring the ground, an entry fee of $1.00 to $2.00 is asked.