Arkansas is nicknamed the Natural State for its picturesque rivers, mountains, lakes, and hot springs. It’s also considered one of the birthplaces of jazz and folk music. Little Rock is a charming city with a long history, and it has something for everyone—nature devotees, history buffs, and those who love a night out on the town.
Where to Stay
For those with a taste for modern luxury, a stay at the famous Capital Hotel, aka the Front Porch, will make guests feel catered to and comfortable.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate The Firehouse Museum and Hostel of Arkansas, a lovingly restored 1917 Craftsman-style firehouse converted into shared lodging. The AC Hotel Little Rock Downtown is just minutes from the Bill Clinton Presidential Library and a vibrant downtown scene.
Where to Eat
Breakfast cocktails, coffee, and farm-to-table fare are on the menu at The Root Cafe.
Grab an authentic Latin American lunch or dinner at the popular El Sur Street Food Co. It was named one of the 11 best restaurants in Little Rock by Southern Living magazine.
If you’re in the mood for some famed Arkansas barbeque, Count Porkula is a go-to for satisfying a craving for tender, delicious smoked meat. An award-winning beer from Lost Forty Brewing will taste great after a bike ride over the Big Dam Bridge—enjoy the Rooster Illusion made with the juicy flavors of pineapple, stone fruit, and mango.
Or grab a cocktail at the Rock Town Distillery, where they make their own bourbon, gin, and vodka.
What to See and Do
The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum offers numerous exhibitions, including a replica of the Cabinet Room and Oval Office.
Walk or ride along the Big Dam Bridge, North America’s longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge. Elevated 90 feet above the Arkansas River, it connects 14 miles of trails throughout Little Rock.
A visit to the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is a compelling, educational experience. Learn about the “Little Rock Nine,” a group of nine African American students who made history in 1957 by entering an all-white high school.
Enjoy a picnic and a stroll at the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden in Riverfront Park. There are more than 90 works of sculpture art at this park, ranging in style from abstract to whimsical.
Just west of Little Rock is one of Arkansas’ most geographically diverse state parks. Pinnacle Mountain State Park offers more than 22 miles of hiking and biking trails, plus a beautiful overlook at the top of Pinnacle Mountain.
For more travel ideas, check out Visit Little Rock.
