Little Rock, Arkansas, is the state capital and was named by a French explorer navigating the Arkansas River in 1722. Local tribes settled here along with hunters and trappers and it became an important trading post.
Today it’s best known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, with the desegregation of a local high school, and the legacy of President Bill Clinton, who hails from the state and served as governor in the city.
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What to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas
If it’s your first visit to Little Rock, give yourself at least a long weekend to experience the many attractions and experiences around the city.
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts– Set in MacArthur Park, the free-to-visit museum has a wide collection of 14,000 works from eight centuries, with a special emphasis on work from Arkansas and the South. 501 East 9th Street
Bobby L. Roberts Library of Arkansas History & Art– The installation of the Little Rock library system is the state’s largest facility dedicated to the study of Arkansas history and culture with art and archival document exhibitions. 100 Rock Street
Central High School Museum and Visitors Center– While still an operational high school, this important landmark is where, in 1957, troops were dispatched after the governor tried to block desegregation. A National Park-run visitors center offers exhibits and programming. 2120 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive
William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum– The sprawling riverfront museum highlights the politician’s rise to the White House from his humble small-town upbringing. Check out the hall of gifts given by foreign leaders and the Oval Office replica. 1200 President Clinton Avenue
Esse Purse Museum– Originally one woman’s collection, this unique museum includes not just purses and accessories but focuses on the life of women through what they carry. Save plenty of time to peruse the gift shop. 1510 Main Street
Rock Town Distillery– This local operation crafts several types of spirits, including vodka, bourbon, gin, and moonshine. Come for a cocktail or take a tour of the facility. 1201 Main Street
Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center– Open since 2008, the three-acre facility overlooks the river, with exhibits on the state’s ecosystems, hiking trails, and program animals to see up close. 602 President Clinton Avenue
Where to Eat in Little Rock
The food and drink scene of Little Rock is rapidly developing, home to both old-school restaurants where you feel like you’re stepping back in time to modern spots incorporating several cuisines.
Allsopp & Chapple Restaurant + Bar– Housed in the historic Rose Building, constructed in 1900 and designed by George R. Mann, the restaurant takes its name from a bookstore with menu highlights like blackened redfish and shrimp pasta. 311 Main Street, (501) 902-4911
Brave New Restaurant– Take in views of the Arkansas River from this beloved restaurant with indoor and patio dining options. Don’t skip the goat cheese mousse and crab ravioli. 2300 Cottondale Lane, Suite 105, (501) 663-2677
Brood & Barley– This North Little Rock gastropub has something for everyone like its popular deep-fried olives stuffed with pimento cheese, Asiago shoestring fries, and Umami burger. 411 Main Street, (501) 400-8967
Bruno’s Little Italy– For classic red sauce favorites since 1949, this restaurant can’t be missed. Enjoy the popular lasagna Imbotito and hand-thrown Neapolitan pizza. Reservations are recommended. 310 Main Street, Suite 101, (501) 372-7866
Fassler Hall– The German-inspired beer hall is known for its authentic German fare and extensive beer selection. Enjoy the authentic schnitzel and house-made sausages, paired with brews from the motherland. 311 East Capitol Avenue, (501)-246-4757
George’s Little Rock– The stylish bar and lounge located in a former home in the Heights neighborhood has Italian-influenced cuisine and high-end cocktails. Don’t miss the speakeasy bar. 5510 Kavanaugh Boulevard, (501) 353‑2239
The Pantry Crest– The cozy neighborhood spot focuses on Czech & German classics, alongside appetizers, flatbreads, salads, European-style entrées, and award-winning desserts. 722 North Palm Street, (501) 725‑4945
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom– The vibrant Italian‑American restaurant in the SoMa district is known for its Neapolitan‑style pizzas, but don’t sleep on the creative cocktails. 1318 South Main Street, (501) 374‑7476
Rex’s Neighborhood Restaurant– The former pop-up at a SoMa bagel shop is now full-time for dinner with crab rolls, wine, and beer. 1501 Main Street, (501) 295-4457
The Root Café– The charming farm-to-table cafe sources most of its ingredients from farms around Arkansas. The SoMa district staple has plenty of veggie-forward dishes like the house-made veggie burger plus biscuits and carrot cake. 1500 South Main Street, (501) 414-0423
Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill– Dishes are prepared over a wood fire, including high-quality steaks and seafood. The restaurant also has 32 beers and 20 wines available on tap. 322 Main Street, (501) 379-8019
Sims Bar-B-Que- With two locations in town, this spot is known for its authentic Southern barbecue offerings and distinctive vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce. Order the pork ribs and sides like baked beans and potato salad. 2415 Broadway Street, (501) 372-6868
Sonny Williams’ Steak Room– Live music adds ambiance to the dining experience here, known for its premium aged Angus steaks, fresh seafood, and game dishes. 500 President Clinton Avenue, (501) 324-2999
Three Fold Noodles– This dumpling shop has two locations in the city, where you can enjoy noodle bowls, soups, and, of course, dumplings. 611 South Main Street, (501) 372-1811
Where to Stay in Little Rock
Little Rock has several big hotels, which you might expect from a capital city. There are also options for boutique stays and even camping and vacation rentals.
AC Hotel– The European-style hotel offers a fitness center, private parking, a shared lounge, and an on-site restaurant. This 4-star hotel features a 24-hour front desk, a business center, and complimentary WiFi. 201 West Capitol Avenue
Capital Hotel– Built in 1876, the hotel is known as “The Front Porch of Little Rock.” The hotel is home to two restaurants, including a popular bar that makes a perfect Negroni. 111 West Markham Street
The Empress of Little Rock– The Victorian-era bed and breakfast in the Quapaw Quarter has daily breakfast, in-room jacuzzis, and even a hidden card game for guests to enjoy. 2120 Louisiana Street
Little Rock Marriott– Formerly the Peabody, you’ll notice a few remaining duck details. The hotel is convenient to the convention center, with an in-house Starbucks and restaurant. 3 Statehouse Plaza
Camping- There are several places to camp in the area, including Little Rock North KOA, Downtown Riverside RV Park, and Maumelle Park.
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