Little Rock isn't exactly the first destination that pops to mind, isn't it? You’re probably thinking about reeling in trout on the White River or maybe hitting up a craft brewery nestled deep in the Ozark Mountains. But before you write off the capital city as a boring governmental hub with nothing but bureaucrats roaming the streets, hear us out. This ain't your grandpa’s Little Rock.
Behind the totally not-exciting state capitol building and political offices, there’s a thriving undercurrent of culture, food, and outdoor adventure just waiting to be unpacked. No really, we packed all sorts of handy tips and quirky stops for your own Little Rock trip into this tell-all travel guide! From the history trail of the Clinton and cheese (!?) trails to the best place to catch live tunes while knocking back local craft beers, we’ve got you covered.
And get this - there’s real culture! From the hidden galleries at the River Market District to the vast network of art deco architecture downtown, we’ll have you feeling like a bonafide sophisticate. Even if you do embarrass yourself by mispronouncing “Arkansan” along the way. Hey, it happens to the best of us.
Sound a little better than you thought? Then what’re you waiting for? Let this Little Rock travel guide surprise you and make you fall in love with the Quirky Rock.
About Little Rock
There are many things to love about Little Rock, Arkansas. The city offers gorgeous scenery, a vibrant nightlife, and museums and parks. You can also find affordable housing and a low cost of living. If you are considering moving to Little Rock, you might want to know some interesting facts about this state capital.
The city was a pivotal part of US history during the 1957 Civil Rights Crisis. The case changed the way the US looked at race relations, and questioned the evil practice of racial segregation. The city's residents made history by standing together and speaking out against discrimination against black people.
Little Rock, Arkansas is a bustling city, serving as the government, transportation, and cultural center for the state. The city is home to several cultural institutions, including the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, and the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. Visitors to the city can also take advantage of outdoor recreation, and enjoy the rich history of this area through museums and history centers. The city is also home to major companies and organizations, including Dillard's, Windstream Communications, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Other notable companies in Little Rock include the Clinton Foundation, Winrock International, and the Rose Law Firm.
Why Go to Little Rock
There are a lot of reasons to visit Little Rock, Arkansas. For starters, the city is a great place for families. It has many museums and historical sites to explore. You can learn more about the pioneer life in Arkansas or visit the former White House of President Bill Clinton. There are also many things to do outdoors. You can take a walk across the Big Dam Bridge or walk the city's riverfront. And the city hosts many events throughout the year.
Little Rock is full of historic sites. The Governor's Mansion Historic District preserves many unique historic buildings and homes. Many of the attractions in Little Rock are within a few blocks of one another. Some of the most popular attractions include the Old State House, which is a must-see for history buffs. You can also visit the MacArthur Museum, which is home to the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur. The newly renovated Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is another interesting place to visit.
Little Rock's Civil Rights Movement history is well-documented. Its 1957 desegregation struggle began at Little Rock Central High School, which is still in operation today. At that time, the school was only open to white students. However, in 1957, a court ruling declared school segregation unconstitutional. This landmark event brought civil rights to national attention. To honor this historic place in history, Little Rock is home to several memorials and exhibits.
Best Time to Go
If you're visiting Little Rock, Arkansas, it's probably best to plan your trip between the months of March and May. The weather in these months is moderate, with daytime highs hovering around the mid to low-sixties. During these times, the prices for hotels and flights are cheaper. However, it's important to note that the summer months can be very hot. Temperatures can rise to the low-90s during the summer, and even lower during the winter months.
The best time to visit Little Rock depends on personal preference and budget. The summer months can get extremely busy, so you may want to consider traveling in the cooler months. However, if you're looking to take a nature walk, fall is the best time to visit. The wildlife is especially beautiful at this time. The fall season also marks the beginning of football season.
If you have kids, you can also take them to the Little Rock Museum of Discovery, which is a great way to spend a morning. The museum has interactive science exhibits and offers field trips. You can also rent the museum's facilities for birthday parties. Little Rock is also home to the historic Old State House. It was home to President Bill Clinton's election night celebration in 1992. It was constructed between 1833 and 1842 and was used until the new capitol was built in 1912.
If you're a beer lover, you can visit the Arkansas Brews Cruise and tour the brewery in person. While you're there, don't forget to sample the local craft beer. If you're over 21, you can also check out the Rock Town Distillery. The tour lasts about thirty minutes and includes a stop in the gift shop.
How to Get Around
If you are visiting Little Rock, you will want to find out how to get around the city using public transportation. The city has an extensive bus system. Many routes center around the River Cities Travel Center on Capital Avenue. You can buy passes to ride the buses for a fixed price of around $10. These passes are good for up to ten rides. Most routes will drop you off near one of the city's major attractions.
If you are traveling from outside the area, consider getting a ride on one of the city's streetcars. There are multiple routes available, and you can download an app to keep track of the schedule. The streetcar service is an excellent way to get around the downtown area, where most events take place.
Another must-see landmark in Little Rock is the Old State House Museum. This historic building is one of the oldest state capitol buildings west of the Mississippi River. It preserves artifacts and presents traveling exhibits. Visitors can explore themes related to politics, families, women's rights, and culture. It is a cultural landmark in Little Rock, and the Old State House Museum is free to visit.
Best Restaurants
There is a wide variety of great restaurants in Little Rock. You can enjoy everything from American-style food to international cuisine. There are also many options for nightlife in the city. If you're looking for a new dining experience, you'll find a great selection of restaurants in Little Rock.
You can try smoked salmon salad, veal with wild mushrooms, and a mixed grill. You can also try a dessert like chocolate creme brulee. The restaurant also offers takeaway and curb pickup. You'll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere here. Guests of the restaurant can eat with their families.
The Capital Hotel has been in business for over 140 years, and this restaurant is nestled within its historic walls. The menu at One Eleven at the Capital combines rich history with fine southern cuisine. The atmosphere is romantic, and the chef is a James Beard Award winner. One Eleven at the Capital offers the perfect meal for two. The restaurant also offers private dining for special occasions.
Things to Do
When it comes to attractions, Little Rock has a lot to offer. The Clinton Presidential Center, Esse Purse Museum, and Riverfront Park are just a few of the city's best spots. If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, you can also check out the Museum of Discovery.
River Market District: Downtown Little Rock's River Market District is a popular destination for nightlife, shopping, and live music. You'll find over 10,000 square feet of shops, restaurants, and bars here. You'll also find a farmers' market here. The River Market also hosts live music performances and a seasonal farmers' market. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll be able to find something that's perfect for you.
Museum of Discovery: Little Rock's oldest science center and museum, the Museum of Discovery has an exciting selection of exhibits and activities for kids. Its seven galleries are sure to keep your kids entertained for hours. You can take them on a run through the galleries or let them explore the different exhibits. Kids will love the Earth Journeys area, where they can learn about the natural world of Arkansas. Kids will also love the Tinkering Studio, where they can learn about the human body.
Neighborhoods to Know
There are many neighborhoods in Little Rock, each with their own distinctive characteristics. Typically, neighborhoods are smaller, with lower cost of living and a slower pace of life. While these characteristics are common, not all neighborhoods are created equal. To help you choose the best neighborhood for your needs, we've outlined the main features of each. Here's an overview of the neighborhoods in Little Rock. If you're considering moving to the city, you should consider the neighborhood amenities.
The Riverdale neighborhood is located a few miles west of downtown and is a popular place for people who enjoy outdoor activities. It is home to the largest public golf course in the city, several yoga studios, and public parks. The neighborhood also offers scenic views of the Arkansas hills and is home to numerous bike trails.
The River Market neighborhood is a popular area for singles and millennials. It has a thriving arts scene and some of the city's best restaurants and bars. It is also home to the Capitol Hotel, Little Rock's grand dame, and the Old State House, the oldest state capitol west of the Mississippi River.
Weather
When you're planning a trip to Little Rock, Arkansas, it's important to know what to expect in terms of weather. Little Rock has relatively mild weather for the most part, with the exception of the hottest months. Temperatures in Little Rock can vary from season to season, but on average, temperatures in Little Rock are between 37-38°F.
Little Rock is known for having hot and muggy weather during the summer and mild, partly cloudy weather during the winter. The average temperature in Little Rock is around 34°F in July and 73°F in February. The length of daylight in Little Rock varies greatly throughout the year, with the shortest day occurring on December 21 at 9:49 PM and the longest day of 14:29 PM. Depending on the topography of the area, wind speeds vary more than hourly averages.
The area experiences an average of 50 inches of precipitation per year. Spring and early summer have a longer wet season, while late September has the least rainfall. During the dry seasons, August and July bring the lowest chance of precipitation. By contrast, January and August have a much higher percentage of sunny days than the national average.
