Little Rock

Day Trips

Start your day at the Historic Arkansas Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing early Arkansas history and craftsmanship. Wander through the preserved 19th-century buildings and learn about pioneer life. The museum's hands-on activities and artifacts provide a rich introduction to the region's cultural heritage.

Head to the nearby River Market District for lunch, sampling local cuisine at one of the vibrant eateries. Spend your afternoon browsing the eclectic shops and artisan stalls in the market. Take time to enjoy the lively atmosphere and street performances that often animate this popular gathering spot.

As the sun sets, stroll along the Arkansas River Trail, enjoying scenic views of the city lights reflecting on the water. Dine at a riverside restaurant offering Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. Wrap up your evening with a relaxed walk or a visit to a local bar featuring live music.

Begin your day at the Clinton Presidential Center, immersing yourself in the exhibits detailing Bill Clinton’s presidency and Arkansas history. Explore the replica Oval Office and interactive displays that provide a unique political perspective. The center’s extensive archives and art collections offer a thought-provoking experience.

Enjoy lunch at the center’s café before heading outside to Clinton Park. Take a leisurely walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens and along the riverfront trails. If interested, rent a bike to explore more of the park’s scenic paths and bridges.

Visit the nearby SoMa (South Main) district for dinner, known for its trendy restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Choose from a variety of dining options, from upscale eateries to casual gastropubs. End your night with a craft cocktail or local brew in one of SoMa’s cozy bars or lounges.

Spend your morning at the Little Rock Zoo, home to over 700 animals representing 200 species. Start with the South American exhibits and watch the playful penguins and colorful birds. The zoo’s naturalistic habitats provide educational opportunities and up-close wildlife encounters.

Grab lunch at the zoo’s café before continuing your exploration of the African savanna and Asian exhibits. Attend an animal feeding or keeper talk to learn about conservation efforts. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the interactive play areas and butterfly garden.

Head to nearby Rebsamen Park for a peaceful evening walk through wooded trails and alongside the river. Enjoy a picnic or relax in the open green spaces as the sun sets. Finish the day with a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the area.

Begin at the Arkansas Arts Center to admire a diverse collection of visual arts, including contemporary pieces and regional works. Participate in a morning art workshop or guided tour to deepen your appreciation. The center’s sculpture garden offers a serene outdoor experience.

Have lunch at one of the River Market’s popular eateries, then explore the local galleries and artisan boutiques. Visit the Old State House Museum nearby to learn about Arkansas’s political history and architectural heritage. Take your time to enjoy the vibrant street art and murals scattered throughout the district.

Catch a live performance at the Robinson Center or a local theater company showcasing plays, concerts, or dance. Dine at an upscale restaurant offering farm-to-table cuisine, highlighting Arkansas’s fresh ingredients. End your evening with a stroll along the riverfront, enjoying the city’s illuminated skyline.

Kick off your day with a hike up Pinnacle Mountain, where trails range from moderate to challenging and offer breathtaking views of Little Rock and the Arkansas River Valley. Bring a camera to capture the panoramic vistas at the summit. The fresh morning air and natural surroundings are invigorating and perfect for nature lovers.

After descending, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated areas surrounded by lush forest. Explore additional trails or visit the park’s nature center to learn about local flora and fauna. The peaceful environment provides a perfect contrast to the city’s bustle.

Return to Little Rock for a relaxed dinner at a nearby bistro specializing in Southern comfort food. Consider a casual evening walk along the Arkansas River Trail to unwind. Reflect on the day’s adventure as you watch the sunset paint the sky over the river.

Spend your morning wandering through the Quapaw Quarter, Little Rock’s historic district known for its beautifully preserved Victorian homes and architecture. Join a guided walking tour to learn about the area’s rich history and notable residents. Visit boutique shops and quaint cafés that line the charming streets.

Enjoy lunch at a locally owned restaurant featuring Southern specialties in a historic setting. Tour the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History to gain insight into the state’s military past. Take time to relax in one of the district’s picturesque parks or gardens.

Dine at a fine dining establishment in the district, where historic ambiance meets modern cuisine. Attend a cultural event or live jazz performance often hosted in the neighborhood’s intimate venues. End your evening with a leisurely stroll beneath the glow of vintage street lamps.

Start your day at the Museum of Discovery, a hands-on science museum perfect for families and curious minds. Engage with interactive exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to biology. The museum’s live science demonstrations make learning exciting and immersive.

Have lunch at the museum café before visiting the adjacent Discovery Heights playground, which offers creative outdoor play structures. Explore the museum’s temporary exhibits or participate in a scheduled workshop or science camp activity. Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop garden for great city views.

For dinner, head to a family-friendly restaurant in downtown Little Rock offering diverse menu options. Enjoy a relaxed evening stroll along the Arkansas River Trail, which is safe and scenic for all ages. Consider catching an early movie or local performance geared toward children.

Begin your culinary day by visiting a local farmer’s market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from Arkansas growers. Meet the vendors and learn about regional ingredients that shape Southern cuisine. Pick up some unique spices or preserves as souvenirs.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal and local flavors. In the afternoon, embark on a guided brewery tour visiting several of Little Rock’s craft breweries. Taste a variety of craft beers, learning about the brewing process and Arkansas’s growing beer scene.

Dine at a gastropub well-known for pairing creative dishes with local brews. Experience the lively atmosphere with live music or trivia night. Conclude the evening by visiting a cocktail lounge specializing in Southern-inspired drinks using local ingredients.

Rent a bike and begin your day cycling along the scenic Arkansas River Trail, which offers over 17 miles of paved paths connecting parks and landmarks. Stop frequently to take in views of the river and the city skyline. The morning light and gentle breeze make for a refreshing start.

Pause for lunch at one of the trail-side cafes or picnic areas, enjoying the outdoors. Continue your ride toward the Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America, and explore the surrounding parklands. Take breaks to photograph wildlife and wildflowers along the way.

Return your bike and visit a nearby restaurant known for healthy, organic options ideal after a day of exercise. Spend your evening relaxing at a local spa or wellness center to rejuvenate tired muscles. Alternatively, enjoy an early evening concert or art exhibit in the vibrant downtown area.

Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site to learn about its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Start with the visitor center’s exhibits and documentary films that provide historical context. Take a guided tour of the school grounds, gaining insight into the 1957 desegregation crisis.

Have lunch in the Quapaw Quarter before visiting nearby civil rights landmarks and monuments. Reflect on the powerful stories and personal accounts presented in the area’s museums and galleries. Consider attending a lecture or panel discussion if available during your visit.

Dine at a thoughtful, locally inspired restaurant that emphasizes community and history through its menu. Enjoy a quiet evening walk in Riverfront Park, contemplating the day’s experience alongside the tranquil Arkansas River. End your day with a visit to a coffee shop or bookstore featuring regional authors and stories.