Little Rock, Arkansas, is an often-overlooked tourist destination. It has the feel of a big city while still retaining its Southern charm. There's plenty to explore in and around the city.
Downtown Little Rock
Little Rock has a thriving downtown area that was completely refurbished in 1996. The highlight is the River Market District. Running along the Arkansas River, the district houses the Clinton Presidential Library and many shops, restaurants, museums and the actual River Market, a vibrant market with over a dozen merchants offering a variety of specialty foods.
Enjoy lunch at the River Market and then catch the River Rail Trolley, which runs between Little Rock and North Little Rock, for a visit to the Clinton Library and Heifer International, which has its headquarters here. Ride the trolley back to the downtown area and visit one of the many free attractions, such as the Historic Arkansas Museum or the Arkansas Arts Center. Or take a stroll on the Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian- and bicycle-only bridge in the United States. It crosses the Arkansas River, connecting Little Rock and North Little Rock.
End your day with dinner at one of many great restaurants in the downtown area. Whether you’re looking for barbecue, catfish, or pizza and chicken wings, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.
Hot Springs
Less than 60 miles from Little Rock is the resort town of Hot Springs. Known for its bubbling springs and fantastic spas, you could spend an afternoon or a week here. Kids love to ride the Ducks in Lake Hamilton and the roller coasters at Magic Springs Theme Park.
Hot Springs National Park is the oldest national park in the country. Enjoy an afternoon of hiking or camp for the night.
While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by Oaklawn Park, an American Thoroughbred Racetrack, where you can watch the horses or play in the casino.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
About 60 miles from Hot Springs and 100 miles from Little Rock, Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is the only still-producing diamond mind in the world where you can dig for diamonds and keep them. For a low fee, you can spend all day digging up rocks and minerals to take home. Enjoy a lunch break at Buddy’s Ranch House Café (try the chicken-fried steak) and then go back to dig for more, or visit the Kadoha Indian Village, just a few miles away. You can dig for arrowheads and take a self-guided tour of the museum.
North Little Rock and the Old Mill
Just across the river from Little Rock is the city of North Little Rock. While not as well-known as Little Rock, it’s certainly worth a visit. You can visit The Old Mill, a recreation of an 1800s water-powered grist mill. It was built in 1933 and is featured in the opening credits of Gone With the Wind. It's a beautiful spot for pictures, picnics, a stroll or even a wedding.
If you visit in the summertime, Wild River Country, Arkansas’ largest water park, is a great place to relax on a hot day. There are plenty of rides for kids and adults of all ages.
Spend some time at Burns Park, which has many hiking trails, a golf course, tennis and basketball courts, and much more.
End your day by eating at Grandpa’s Catfish House, an award-winning restaurant with all-you-can-eat dinners.
Little Rock and the surrounding area provide family-friendly fun year-round.
Jessica Miller - Jessica Miller spends her time working with children with autism and taking pictures wherever she can.
Join the Conversation