Little Rock Travel Guide

Surrounded by mountain peaks and a lush green countryside, Little Rock is a cultural and historical treasure trove of interesting sites and activities for the whole family.

Local History

Little Rock is awash in history. The beginnings of both Little Rock and the state as a whole have been preserved in the Historic Arkansas Museum. Living history guides lead tours of buildings such as the first territorial government meeting house, which was used until 1836. The complex also includes a gift shop and a new visitors center. Mount Holly Cemetery is another interesting stop, as it is home to graves from the territorial days.

A short distance from the Territorial Restoration is the Old State House Museum, which was used as the state capitol building from 1836-1911. The current Arkansas State Capitol building is also open for tours. You might recognize it—it has been used as a "stand-in" for the nation's capital in films.

Museums

The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History is located in the Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal. Military history buffs will also want to check out the National Cemetery. Meanwhile, the Central High Museum and Visitor's Center and EMOBA, The Museum of Black Arkansans give a partial account of African-American history in this state.

Sports

Little Rock boasts several championship golf courses, including Rebsamen Golf Course and Hindman Golf Course. The city is also home to more than 60 parks, not including those in neighboring North Little Rock. Many include extensive facilities for softball, golf, tennis and swimming. War Memorial Park houses War Memorial Fitness Center as well as the Little Rock Zoo.

Julius Breckling Riverfront Park is the site of Riverfest, which takes place every year in May. If you are looking for something wet and wild, try one of Little Rock's two water parks. Wild River Country Water Park features thrill chutes, while Willow Springs Water Park is more like an old-fashioned swimming hole.

On a more wintry note, Arkansas Skatium has rinks for both roller-skating and ice-skating. At Pinnacle Mountain State Park, you can hike or visit the Arkansas Arboretum.

Performing Arts

Art lovers have many galleries and museums from which to choose. The Arkansas Arts Center and the Decorative Arts Museum are two of the biggest. Classical music lovers, meanwhile, will want to check out what's playing at the Robinson Center Music Hall, Murry's Dinner Playhouse and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. If you are looking for rock, country or other large popular acts, try consulting the schedule for Barton Coliseum or the Alltel Arena.

Family Friendly

If the whole family needs entertaining, there are plenty of places in town to suit both kids and adults. Conveniently located in the Julius Breckling Riverfront Park area, the Museum of Discovery (The) is a science and technology museum that includes hands-on activities—everyone can learn something here! Also located in Riverfront Park is the Riverfest Amphitheatre, which features live concerts throughout the year. While in Riverfront Park, don't forget to take a look at the original "La Petite Roche" (that's French for "Little Rock"), located in the History Pavilion at the north end of Rock Street. This, of course, is the landmark for which the city is named.

Continuing with the family-friendly theme, everybody will enjoy a film at the IMAX Theater, located in the Aerospace Education Center. While there, tour the center's exhibits on aerospace and aviation history or travel through virtual reality. If you prefer to simply gaze at the stars, visit the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Planetarium. There are also places that are specifically designed just for kids. Try the Childrens Museum Of Arkansas and the Children's Little Theater in the Arkansas Arts Center if you seek something to keep the young ones busy.

Shopping

The River Market District is probably the most popular shopping area for tourists as well as locals. The area around the Market is filled with shops and restaurants, and also hosts the occasional outdoor concert. Other areas known for great shopping are Park Plaza Mall and University Malls (both west of downtown near West Markham Street and University Avenue) and the Hillcrest and Heights areas.2008-08-02T07:29:22.000 327