Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Little Rock, Arkansas. #Top Attractions

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Up for an adventure? Little Rock, Arkansas, has a lot to offer! Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Little Rock, Arkansas, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas, and the best places to visit in Little Rock, Arkansas. Wondrous Drifter is a Web 3.0 travel startup with ambitious goals to change the world.

Big Dam Bridge

Is cycling a hobby of yours? You would want to visit the Big Dam Bridge!

The Big Dam Bridge is the state’s longest bicycle and pedestrian bridge explicitly constructed.

Also, The Big Dam Bridge links over two dozen miles of riverside paths in North Little Rock and Little Rock.

More than 70,000 acres of public land are linked by the Bridge.

In addition to fostering a sense of togetherness, the Bridge serves as a location for community events, contests, and recreational activities.

Moreover another popular annual event is the Big Dam Bridge 100-mile bicycle trip.

The Ronde von Burns Criterium Series, Race the Base, and the Full Moon Walk is common events on the marvelous bridge.

Other tourist destinations, including the River Market and Clinton Presidential Center, can be accessed from this Bridge.

Starting out in Little Rock and not sure what to do? This is the perfect place for you to start your holiday.

You’ll want to visit at sunset when the river 90 feet underneath the Bridge mirrors a rainbow of colors.

Address: 1818 North Taylor Street, Suite B, PMB # 157, Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Witness arts and culture that are unique to Little Rock!

The museum is a gallery of the greats, with works by Rembrandt, Picasso, and Degas among the prominent figures.

A 150-million-dollar renovation of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts will reinforce the city’s dedication to visual and performing arts.

Since the first Center opened in 1937, the organization has been a living example of how the arts are valued in the state.

Artworks from personal collections are featured in gallery exhibitions, making this a must-see for anyone interested in rare art or art history.

Moreover, performances in singing, dancing, and theater make up a large part of the Center’s services.

Permanent and temporary exhibitions are on display at the museum, including a wide range of art, from up-and-coming artists to explorations of classic and antique works.

All in all, you can take a museum tour, use the library, or enroll in one of their many art classes and workshops.

The auditorium in Little Rock can be rented if you’re planning a significant event there.

Address: 2510 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

Arkansas Repertory Theatre

Watch the classics or be the new rising star of plays in Arkansas Repertory Theatre!

As one of Little Rock’s oldest theaters, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre has been operating since 1976 and is located in a historic building.

Repertory Theater, or the “Rep,” presents a wide range of performances from classics to contemporary comedies and stages eight to ten shows a year.

Additionally, the theater provides educational programs for young people all across Arkansas.

A Student Matinee Program and a Young Artist Program for aspiring performers are among the offerings.

The theater’s playwriting residency program is Voices at the River.

Every year, around 70,000 people come to see the shows.

You can enjoy everything, from classical music to modern plays and stand-up comedy, at this venue, which is devoted to the arts in all their various forms.

Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Les Miserables and Monty Python’s Spamalot can be seen in the theatre.

There’s always something new to watch!

The theatre’s cozy and intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for a romantic date night.

Address: 601 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Arkansas will surely surprise you with its many wonders! Come over and check out our best travel guides for Eureka Springs and Bentonville. You should not miss out on the fun, check out on best things to do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, and the best things to do in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Arkansas State Capitol

Visit one of the most significant places to visit in Arkansas!

One of Arkansas’ most important landmarks is the State Capitol building, which stands on Woodlane Street.

Inmates helped build the structure, which stood on the state prison site until 1915.

The dome is adorned with 24-carat gold leaf and is among the most popular attractions in Little Rock.

The Old Supreme Court Chamber, the Governor’s Reception Room, and a shiny dome are some of the most popular open spaces in the Capitol.

The building’s interior is filled with permanent and changing exhibits.

Many people will be moved when encountering a bronze sculpture honoring Little Rock Nine, the courageous students.

Additionally, The Civil Rights Memorial and the Confederate War Prisoners Memorial are popular tourist attractions.

Nonetheless, the grounds outside of the Capitol are beautifully landscaped with paths and memorial statues.

You should definitely check out the Arkansas State Capitol if you’re planning to go to Little Rock!

Address: 500 Woodlane Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Clinton Presidential Center

Walk around the Oval Office in the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum!

In Little Rock, Arkansas, the Clinton Presidential Center and Park include the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum as part of the larger complex.

Additionally, the Clinton Foundation’s Little Rock office and the University of Arkansas’ Clinton School of Public Service are housed in the Center.

There is a White House cabinet room replica at the Library and Museum, which is popular with historians, researchers, and scholars.

Visitors can now access the Oval Office and take photographs as a memento of their time there.

The replica room is decorated and furnished exactly as during President Clinton’s time in office.

The sheer size, scale, and unique architectural details of the building will amaze even those who aren’t interested in politics.

The structure’s exterior is primarily composed of steel and laminated glass, which reflect light beautifully.

Events, exhibits, and educational programs are frequently organized by the Library and Museum.

It’s an attraction unique only to Little Rock. Make sure not to miss this one out!

Address: 1200 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Looking forward to exploring Arkansas? If you’re looking for unique travel ideas, see our guides for Fayetteville and Fort Smith! Pay attention to the engaging things to do in Fayetteville, Arkansas and the best things to do in Fort Smith,Arkansas, to make out the most of your trip!

ESSE Purse Museum

The ESSE Purse Museum is one of the top attractions in Arkansas.

Immerse yourself with women’s history in the ESSE Purse Museum!

One of the most unique museums in Little Rock focuses on women’s history through the use of handbags.

In each of the exhibits in this museum says a lot about the past and present society.

And also, women’s handbags developed to reflect that period’s cultural and personal preferences.

South Main Street is home to the ESSE Purse Museum. Handbags are the sole focus of this museum, which is the only one of its kind in the country.

Moreover, to commemorate a century of women and their handbags, the museum’s permanent exhibition is titled “A Century of Women and Their Handbags 1900-1999.”

Same as the museum’s name “ESSE,” you will also get the essence of belongingness and become familiar with the fashion trend of the society as you tour the place.

Stop by the ESSE store on your trip to Little Rock, and surely, an interesting piece with catch your attention!

Address: 1510 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

Heifer Village

Discover how Heifer made the world a better place in Heifer Village!

Heifer Village is nestled in the Heifer International Headquarters, Little Rock.

Exhibitions, demonstrations, and videos combine to explain Heifer’s strategy for ending world hunger and poverty.

School groups and educators are amongst few curious visitors that usually roam around the village to particular learn about the important worldwide problems and what they can do regarding them.

More than 22.6 million households from more than 125 countries have received assistance from Heifer since 1944.

There is a thirty-minute guided tour and an option for visitors to wander around independently. Beside that, the complex has a garden as well.

Urban gardens can be found on the property and Café@Heifer and Shop@Heifer, where you can buy unique gifts.

Lowering Heifer’s dependence on fossil fuel, the 100-panel solar array gives 25 kilowatts of electrical power that powers the building’s lights, water, and electricity in the case of an emergency.

Visit Heifer Village and discover how you can involve yourself in resolving world hunger! 

Address: 1 World Ave., Little Rock, Arkansas

Historic Arkansas Museum

If you’re a fan of history and want to see what life was like in Arkansas in the mid-19th century, the Historic Arkansas Museum is the place to go!

Some of Little Rock’s most historical sites can be found on a single city block downtown at the Historic Arkansas Museum, which was initially built in 1850 as a farmstead.

A look at Little Rock’s frontier era history is provided by the restored structures.

There are actors on-site who play the roles of homeowners and period characters to bring this era to existence at this museum.

Relics are housed in various structures throughout the city.

Some can find paintings, pottery, and other works of art.

You can peruse displays of antique firearms and hunting horns in other places.

In fact, the clothing and jewelry that date back to the 1800s.

Remember to not touch the exhibits of other people’s possessions which include faded photographs and brittle antique furniture.

Just like the inside, the outside tends to be equally stunning.

There are gardens and sculptures to explore and charming old buildings from another time.

Address: 200 E. Third Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Discover how nine students made a significant impact on Little Rock’s history!

Desegregation at Little Rock High School, which took place in 1957, was a significant step toward equal opportunity for all students during the Civil Rights Movement.

In 1927, when the school first opened, it was only open to white students.

There was so much violence when the Little Rock Nine tried to enroll in 1957 that the military and air force were brought in to help.

Little Rock High School is no longer a school but a museum honoring the legacy of the Little Rock Nine and all that they achieved.

Visitor center exhibits and an educational film allow you to follow in their footsteps. You can also take a tour and read their testimonies from the time.

There is also a memorabilia garden and kid-friendly activities aimed at promoting respect and acceptance.

Another nice feature of the site is that there is no entrance fee.

Address: 2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

Little Rock Zoo

Calling the attention of animal lovers! Little Rock Zoo is the place for you!

On Zoo Drive in Little Rock, Arkansas, the Little Rock Zoo is the state’s largest zoo, with 33 acres of exhibit space.

It was established in 1926 and now houses over 725 animals from over 200 different species.

Following its Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation, the Little Rock Zoo maintains a zoological collection. 

Also, there are plenty of large and exotic animals to be found at this small zoo, including elephants, giraffes, big cats, rhinos, and bears and wolves.

There are four sections to the zoo’s layout. Exhibits in the North Zone include the African Veldt and Big Cats, while those in the South Zone include a Children’s Farm and an Elephant Barn.

Moreover, zookeepers are available for meet-and-greet sessions, as are the animals themselves.

Additionally, feedings and other demonstrations are also available.

An old-fashioned carousel is a fun option for the kids, or if you get hungry or tired of walking, you can take the train or cafeteria.

Address: 1 Zoo Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205, United States

Metro Streetcar

With its color combination of red and yellow, the Metro Streetcar is among Little Rock’s most noticeable attractions and one of the most enjoyable!

Retro-style streetcars run throughout Little Rock and North Little Rock on the Metro Streetcar system.

In 1876, streetcars ran through the city until they were phased out in 1947.

The present system was launched in 2004 with a 2.5-mile-long line that links Little Rock to North Little Rock.

Up until 1947, the knockoff vintage electric tram was designed after the Birney-type streetcars were used.

Also, the streetcars run 24 hours a day, you will expect to stop by many tourist spots in the city. 

In fact, free rides are provided, so there’s no need to worry about spending a lot of money.

Indeed, this is an excellent option if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Little Rock.

Address: Little Rock, AR, United States

Museum of Discovery

The Museum of Discovery is one of the best things to do in Arkansas.

A spot where everyone in the family can have fun? 

With over a hundred different hands-on exhibits, the Museum of Discovery is the perfect place for children to get hands-on experience with scientific concepts.

Many exciting activities await you!

From petting live animals, managing switches and circuits, trying to dig for fossils, and moving through a “tornado alley” filled with thumps and rattle.

Moreover, visitors of all ages are invited to get involved in the experiments themselves.

The Tinkering Studio, Bed of Nails, Tesla Coil,  Amazing You, Pet Clinic, and Earth Journeys are some of the few popular attractions in the museum.

Furthermore, The Tornado Alley Theater should not be overlooked for its eye-catching display and educational value.

During the January 1999 tornado, you can step in and feel what it was like.

Certainly, The Museum of Discovery in Little Rock is an excellent place for families to visit.

Once you enter, it will be challenging to keep your children from running from one immersive exhibit to the next.

Address: 500 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Old State House Museum

Curious about where government business was held during the 1800s? Check out the Old State House!

Gideon Shryock designed Arkansas’ Old State House, the state’s first capital and a prime example of Doric architectural style in the South.

In 1833, construction continued until 1842, when it was completed with some modifications in 1885.

In the heart of Little Rock, the Old State House Museum is a convenient stop to the River Market District.

It’s open to the public and provides an opportunity to understand the significance of historical events.

Furthermore, various artifacts from Arkansas and Little Rock’s past and a fascinating look at the city’s history.

All kinds of historic memorabilia are on display, including battle flags to the opening ceremony gowns of previous First Ladies.

Be sure not to miss out on this attraction!

Address: 300 West Markham Street, Little Rock, Arkansas

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

If you are tired of the city lights, you can visit the Pinnacle Mountain State Park and stargaze at the mountaintop!

Pinnacle Mountain State Park, located west of Little Rock, is a great place to go hiking, biking, camping, etc.

The Big and Little Maumelle Rivers encompass more than 15 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Moreover, there are various interpretive park programs available to visitors.

It’s fine if you have no prior outdoor experience.

Any hiker can find a peak that suits their abilities, whether a leisurely stroll with your dog or a strenuous ascent that involves scrambling over rocks and through streams.

The Monument Trails, popular with mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers, are ideal for all three activities.

Rentals for pedalboats, canoes, and kayaks are available at the Visitor Center to explore the rivers.

You and your family can bring your own picnics and spend the day relaxing in nature’s majestic beauty.

Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Roland, AR 72135, United States

Riverfront Park

Looking for a place to view the Arkansas River? Admire the view and enjoy the activities that Riverfront Park has to offer!

Riverfront Park is a downtown park with historic landmarks, play areas, statues, and trails along the Arkansas River.

It is an eleven-block-long park with 33 open spaces for recreation, historical education, and outdoor events.

The Riverfront Park History Pavilion, The Little Rock Civil War Marker, the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, and La Petit Roche Plaza are just a few of the park’s most important features.

Both Peabody Splash Park and the Witt Stephens, Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center offer family-friendly activities and information on the area’s diverse wildlife.

Additional facilities include Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden and a theatre.

Overall, the best thing about all of it is you don’t have to pay for its admission!

Visit Little Rock and check out the list of upcoming events at this great park!

Address: 400 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

River Market

Prepare your wallet! The River Market will surely be one of the places you should spend your money on.

The River Market District’s marketplace has more than 10,000 square feet of businesses, stalls, and tables.

It is available year-round and provides a wide variety of foodstuff and unique items.

Food courts, coffee vendors, grocery stores, and take-out alternatives fill the market hall, which is an open-concept building.

It’s not just about shopping in the River Market District.

More than 30 acres of open land and art can be found near the River Market Entertainment District and the Riverfront Park.

Furthermore, you can make plans to take a free Rock Region METRO Streetcar vintage ride.

Besides that, different events are held at the River Market all year long.

While some of these events are reoccurring (like the farmers market), others are time and location-specific (like spring jazz celebration and holiday caroling).

It’s one of the must-visit locations when you’re in Little Rock!

Address: E. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201, United States

Rock Town Distillery

Want to know how different kinds of booze are made? Check out Rock Town Distillery to see how alcohol is produced!

Rock Town Distillery is a great place to learn about how grains like corn, rye, and wheat are transformed.

These raw products are turned into bourbons, vodkas, and other spirits.

Moreover, you can also enroll in classes ranging from cocktail making to “the history of whiskey.”

At this award-winning craft distillery, distillers use grains grown within 125 miles of the distillery.

They produce some of the best alcohol you’ll ever taste.

Suppose you’re over the age of 21. In that case, you’ll be able to sample the product after having a guided tour in the facility.

It would be an exciting time while you watch the alcohol-making process.

If you’re going to be behind the wheel, make sure not to drink too much. 

Visit Little Rock, avail the tour, and purchase their award-winning products at a gift shop.

Address: 1201 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

The Bernice Garden

The Bernice Garden is one of the best places to visit in Arkansas.

Flowers? Arts? Butterflies? Make sure not to miss out on the Bernice Garden!

Privately owned but open to the public, the Bernice Garden on South Main Street is a haven for nature lovers.

Local Arkansas artists’ permanent and temporary artworks are on display in the garden, established in 2007.

Art is also prominent at Bernice, from statues to mosaics to rock formations.

Besides that, your eyes will be as pleased by the sights as your nose by fragrances.

Additionally, a farmer’s market is held every week, and concerts are often held under the pavilion’s tall wooden arches.

You’ll be able to see herbs such as lavender and rosemary, annual and perennial flowers such as cosmos and zinnias, and various native plants in the garden.

Not to mention butterfly, dragonfly, and moth populations are also drawn to the wildflower garden.

Finally, the garden can also be rented for special events like concerts, gatherings, or wedding ceremonies.

If you are fond of nature, here’s a place to visit in Little Rock!

Address: 1401 S Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

The Old Mill

One of the fantastic places to visit in Little Rock is the Old Mill!

Bring out your camera and take a snap of the unique architectural design of the mill.

The Old Mill is a spectacular replica of a grist mill from the 1800s, set on three acres of landscaped grounds.

Also, The National Register of Historic Places added the park’s sculptures by renowned artist Senor Dionicio Rodriguez to the beauty of The Old Mill itself.

Moreover, North Little Rock city park offers free admission and sightseeing for groups of 10 or more.

As its flowers grow and the water cascades over its rocks, its delicate wheels turn in time.

Finally, pedestrians can take in the views and sounds of nature from a wooden bridge that connects the park to a nearby nature trail.

If you’re a history buff, a visit to Little Rock’s Old Mill will highlight your trip.

Address: 3800 Lakeshore Drive, North Little Rock, Arkansas

Two Rivers Park

If you’re looking for a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride, kayak, or other outdoor activity, Two Rivers Park is great!

With more than a hundred miles of trails winding through 38 parks along the Arkansas River, this stretch is widely regarded as the most scenic. 

The park has 450 acres, mainly wooded wetlands and 550 acres of open spaces.

It is located at the confluence of the Arkansas River and the Little Maumelle River.

Moreover, numerous gardens, paths, and hiking trails are available to explore on the ground.

It even crosses the Arkansas River Trail bridge, so you can continue exploring even after you’ve seen the entire park.

Kayaking around one or both rivers is a great way to taste the water.

Furthermore, guests are free to roam the park at their own pace because the surrounding counties jointly own it.

One of the most popular Little Rock attractions is Two Rivers Park, which is always open to the public!

Address: 6900 Two Rivers Park Road, Little Rock, AR 72223, United States

Volunteer At Animal Shelters

One of the most meaningful things to do is volunteer work. Animal shelters require your aid! The majority of pet overpopulation in animal shelters is the result of irresponsible pet ownership and uncontrolled reproduction. Approximately two liters of puppies can be born each year to a female dog. Most litters consist of six to 10 puppies. If permitted to continue reproducing, one mother dog and her progeny might produce approximately 67,000 puppies in six years. Even more astonishing are the cat facts. Up to three litters per year are possible for a female cat, with an average of four to six kittens per litter. One cat and her progeny could produce 420,000 kittens in seven years.

You know that nice, satisfying feeling you get when you do something unselfish to make someone’s day? Helping a sick or depressed shelter animal will get you this.

Some volunteer ideas include: walking dogs at a local shelter, fostering kittens with a rescue group, doing clerical work like stuffing envelopes for a good cause, helping with fundraising or organizing events for local animal charities, and participating in local events to raise awareness about animal welfare.

One of the most fulfilling activities is volunteering at a local animal shelter and giving back to the community. Check out the directory of animal shelters in Little Rock, Arkansas, to get started.

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Still undecided about visiting Little Rock, Arkansas? Check out reasons to visit Little Rock, Arkansas, at least once in your lifetime here.

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