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Little Rock will probably be
remembered by many as the capital of President Clinton's home state.
Yet, before this "claim to fame", Little Rock attracted visitors to
its wonderful setting on the banks of the Arkansas River, surrounded
by the Quachita Mountains. The city boasts over 50 parks and is only
a short drive from Hot Springs National Park, renowned for its hot
mineral springs. With an abundance of lakes and the River, the
Little Rock area is a water sports paradise. It's easy to see why
Arkansas is called "The Natural State".
When at last you pull yourself away from all the natural beauty, you
will find a wonderful variety of activities within Little Rock. As
the state capital, Little Rock is a cultural center with a variety
of theatres, museums, galleries and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
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Children will discover a host of
activities including the Children's Museum, Little Rock Zoo, Museum
of Science and History, The Aerospace Education Center and an
appealing historic area. This includes The Quapaw Quarter, The
Arkkansas Territorial Restoration Center, Old Mill and Old State
House. Just a short drive from downtown you will find the State
Fairgrounds, where you can easily spend a full day of fun.
The River Market District is fast gaining a reputation as a target
destination. A lively array of people gather for a variety of
entertaining things to do, from the library to the Science and
History museum to a multi-purpose arena.
Whether a single adventurer or couples, groups or the whole family,
travelers are discovering that Little Rock is truly a place for a
memorable vacation. |
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Quapaw Quarter
A wealth of information awaits the visitor to this historic area. From
frontier days to the present, this nine-square mile area can tell
stories from many different eras. This architectural delight is still
very much alive as it moves into the 21st century. From the homes of the
residential area to the business district, the buildings are put to good
use. Although some may only be viewed from the outside, others allow the
visitor a tour of the homes' interiors. The Pike-Fletcher-Terry House
houses the Decorative Arts Museum. The beautiful Victorian Villa Marre,
dating back to the late 1800s, is open throughout the week for tours.
Trapnall Hall is another attractive home, viewed by appointment only. In
May, during the Quapaw Quarter Spring Tours, Little Rock's preservation
organization arranges tours of various privately owned historic houses.
Visitors to Little Rock during the first weekend in December can enjoy
the Christmas open house tours.
The famous MacArthur Park is also located in the historic quarter along
with the Arkansas Governor's Mansion.
Arkansas Territorial Restoration Center
A notable restoration project in the early 1940's created the
Territorial Restoration Center. The oldest of the state's neighborhoods,
the Center is a living museum complete with actors who portray the
original residents. The backdrop of authentic 19th Century homes
captures the imagination with tales of bygone eras. From a print shop to
a grog shop to constantly changing exhibits, visitors discover a unique
experience. Be sure to stop by the museum store to purchase crafts
produced by local artists.
Old Mill
History buffs should visit the Old Mill. Famous for its appearance in
the opening scene of "Gone with the Wind", this 1800's grist mill
re-creation is a "must see". Set in Old Mill Park and surrounded by a
lake, it is a lovely area to visit. After a tour of the mill, visitors
may tour the park and enjoy the many whimsical sculptures created by
Dionico Rodriguez, an artist from Mexico.
Old State House
The first state capitol building of Arkansas and the seat of government
until the early 1900s, the Old State House now serves as a museum of
Arkansas history. There's 'Granny's Attic' where you can spend time
actually trying on Victorian items plus an ever-changing and interesting
variety of exhibits.
It was from the Old State House that President-Elect Bill Clinton gave
his victory speech in 1992; a reproduction of the Oval Office is now in
place there.
Arkansas State
Fairgrounds
Five different building offer a variety of yearly activities. Each
October, the Fair presents a rodeo, livestock show and an exciting
fairground filled with rides and booths.
RiverFest
Memorial Day Weekend means RiverFest in Little Rock. This nationally
recognized festival encourages visitors to eat to their hearts' content
as the local merchants bring out their finest culinary delights. Enjoy
three full days of arts, crafts and music culminating in a magnificent
fireworks display.
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SummerSet
Labor Day weekend and Burns Park is the place to be with a great way to
say goodbye to summer. At Summerset, you can meander through the last of
the lazy, hazy days of summer while browsing the antiques show and
enjoying the arts and crafts of numerous vendors. You'll discover why
SummerSet has become a popular Little Rock tradition.
Arkansas Repertory Theatre
For theatre lovers, the Repertory Theatre is well worth the ticket. Each
year the theatre presents eight main stage shows in addition to three
shows on the second stage. The season runs September through June.
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra
From September to May, this is the place to enjoy numerous wonderful
concerts. Besides the orchestra, many world-famous artists, both
classical and pop, visit the stage. On July 4th, the venue changes to
Riverfront Park for the 'Pops on the River Concert'.
Arkansas Museum of Science and History
Originally the Little Rock Arsenal dating back to 1838, this
distinguished building is the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur
and is on the National Register of Historic Places. On weekends,
visitors can enjoy live programs; special events geared to the whole
family take place all through the year.
Arkansas Aerospace Education Center
For the adventurer in each of us, a trip to the Aerospace Education
Center is a must. Exhibits of American and Russian space exploration,
and the six-story-high projection screen of the IMAX theatre will put
you in a world of wonder and excitement.
Arkansas Arts Center
With its constantly changing exhibitions, the Art Center is always an
interesting place to visit. Whether it's painting, sculpture or
photography you'll find it here. The 'Children's Little Theatre' is also
another good reason to visit the center with its range of excellent
theatrical productions. Visitors may dine onsite at the Vineyard
Restaurant.
Little Rock Zoo
If you want a great day out for all the family, the Little Rock Zoo
offers a first-class collection of animals. Young children will enjoy
Kiddieland where a fun ride around the duck pond on a train provides an
additional thrill.
Maumell Park
This attractive park is located in close proximity to Little Rock
itself. Set on the Arkansas River, Maumell Park combines access to the
city with the fun of camping. Featured are over 80 campsites and all
amenities for families including boat ramps.
World Fest
A real
international flavor is created when World Fest comes to MacArthur Park
each October, featuring a marketplace and music and dance from a variety
of nations. |
