Tourist places in Little Rock, Little Rock Travel Info
Little Rock is the capital and most populous city of Arkansas. It is a city where the South meets the West, offering rich Civil Rights history, a vibrant river market district, and abundant outdoor trails.
Little Rock is located in central Arkansas on the south bank of the Arkansas River. It sits in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains.
It is globally famous for the "Little Rock Nine" and the desegregation of Central High School in 1957. It is also the home of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be hot and humid.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: A vital Civil Rights landmark offering guided tours and a visitor center chronicling the 1957 desegregation crisis.
William J. Clinton Presidential Library: A striking modern building cantilevered over the river, housing archives, replicas of the Oval Office, and exhibits on the Clinton presidency.
River Market District: The entertainment hub of the city with an indoor market hall, restaurants, shops, nightlife, and a riverfront amphitheater.
Big Dam Bridge: The longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America built specifically for that use, offering great views of the river.
Museum of Discovery: A top-ranked science museum with interactive exhibits that are fun for both kids and adults.
Walk or bike the Arkansas River Trail, explore history at the Capitol and museums, dine in the River Market, and hike Pinnacle Mountain for panoramic views.
Sample Arkansas cheese dip (it was invented here!), fried catfish, Southern barbecue, and artisan chocolates. The local craft beer scene is also booming.
The Heights and Hillcrest neighborhoods offer charming local boutiques and antique shops. The Outlets of Little Rock provide brand-name deals.
Downtown/River Market: Ideal for tourists, walking distance to the Clinton Library, museums, and nightlife.
West Little Rock: A suburban area with many modern hotels, shopping centers, and restaurants.
Argenta (North Little Rock): Across the river, offering a cool arts district vibe with easy trolley access to downtown.
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) serves the city. I-30 and I-40 intersect here, making it a major driving hub.
A car is best for exploring. However, the Rock Region METRO streetcar connects Little Rock and North Little Rock downtown areas. The River Trail is great for biking.
Hot Springs National Park is about an hour away, offering historic bathhouses and hiking. The Crater of Diamonds State Park lets you dig for real diamonds.
The Old Mill in North Little Rock is a picturesque replica of an 1880s mill, famous for being in the opening scene of *Gone with the Wind*. ESSE Purse Museum is one of only three purse museums in the world.
The Rock Region METRO streetcar is free to ride. If hiking Pinnacle Mountain, bring water and wear good shoes. Central High School is a functioning school, so tours are limited—book ahead.
Little Rock is a city of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're learning about pivotal moments in American history or enjoying a sunset on the river, it offers a meaningful and enjoyable visit.