10 things to do on your next visit to Little Rock
Posted: July 7, 2021
At CalArk, we’re proud to be based in the bustling city of Little Rock, Ark. Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, our city has so much to offer visitors. Whether it’s good food, the opportunity to step back into history or a stroll on some of the most scenic trails in the country, you can find it all here. Any time you’re visiting us at our Little Rock office, coming here for orientation or just passing through and have some downtime, check out this list of some of our favorite places around Little Rock!
1. The Old Mill
If you’re a big Gone With The Wind fan, this attraction is one you won’t want to miss. The Old Mill in Little Rock is believed to be the only structure remaining from the 1939 movie. You can find it in T.R. Pugh Memorial Park and it’s the perfect spot for picnicking and taking some time to relax.
2. River Market District
The River Market in downtown Little Rock is an entertainment district with two open-air pavilions, an amphitheater, indoor market and a mix of shopping, restaurants, live music and art. This is a great place to grab some coffee or freshly baked goods or catch a concert if you have extra time to spare.
3. Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Pinnacle Mountain is one of our favorite landmarks. The park has over 15 miles of hiking trails and seven miles of mountain bike trails. Hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain (the entire Summit Trail loop is 2.5 miles), explore the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers or do some bird watching at the Arkansas Arboretum.
4. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
In 1957, nine Black high school students enrolled in Little Rock Central High School. On the first day of school, the students were met by an angry mob. President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent in federal troops to escort the students into the school, which became a focal point for the integration of public schools. Plan ahead and sign up for a streetscape tour - this is a guided walking tour that will teach you about the Little Rock Nine, civil rights and desegregation in education.
5. Little Rock Zoo
We’re proud of our little zoo. It’s the home to over 200 different species and 500 animals from around the world including elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos and bears. The Little Rock Zoo is open year-round.
6. Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
Located along the shore of the Arkansas River, the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum allows you to explore Naval vessels from history, including the tugboat Hoga, which is recognized for her efforts during the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, and the submarine USS Razorback that was in Tokyo Bay when Japan surrendered at the end of World War II.
7. Big Dam Bridge
The Big Dam Bridge is the longest bicycle and pedestrian bridge in the country. It stands 90 feet above the Arkansas River and connects over 14 miles of scenic riverside trails throughout Little Rock and North Little Rock. You can also access the Clinton Presidential Center, the River Market, museums and restaurants from this trail.
8.METRO Streetcar
Riding the METRO Streetcar is a fun way to explore our city. The fare-free replica vintage electric trolley travels throughout Little Rock and North Little Rock every day of the week. Get on and hop off at all the points of interest around the downtown areas that you’d like to see. The entire route is 3.4 miles long.
9. The Bernice Garden
Located on South Main Street, the Bernice Garden is a privately-owned garden that is shared with the public. It features permanent and temporary sculptures designs by local artists as well as mosaics and rock formations throughout the garden. In addition to all the flowers, herbs and native plants, the garden is also a great place to watch butterflies and dragonflies.
10. Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is one of our favorite spots in the whole city, and in our opinion, one of the best parks in the country. It stretches 11 blocks along the Arkansas River in downtown Little Rock and it’s the perfect location for outdoor events, going for a walk or bike ride, or even learning a little history. Walk along the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge or in the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, visit the Little Rock Civil War Marker, or stop to see the Indian Head statue carved by Peter Toth, a tribute to Native Americans, that sits in the Riverfront Part History Pavilion.
Another great site? The CalArk headquarters! We’d love to see you on our team. Connect with us today to learn more about CalArk careers
