“Not on my bucket list” was the response received when asking my husband to come along with me for a weekend in Little Rock, to attend a conference. He had no intention of spending 1 day in Little Rock, let alone 3 days in Little Rock! So, off I went alone with a few extra days so I could discover what to do in Little Rock. After hitting the Little Rock must do sites, and then loads of other Little Rock attractions, I was pleasantly surprised by “The Natural State.” Little Rock is not the backward little southern town one might expect.
At first glance, Little Rock may appear to be a breeze-through town but dig deeper. Besides the must do Little Rock attractions such as Little Rock Central High School and the Clinton Library (essentials if you have only one day in Little Rock), downtown offers quaint shops for exploring, walking paths, historical museums, and excellent restaurants.
Plus, much to my delight, Little Rock has quite a few craft breweries, and fun hangs. Don’t be fooled by its Bible Belt location. The streets may appear rather sleepy Monday through Wednesday evenings but just pop inside any of the establishments mentioned for a delightfully good time. I thoroughly enjoyed my long weekend in Little Rock.
I have put together itineraries for both – one day in Little Rock, and three days in Little Rock. For those who have only one day, it lines up the most important Little Rock attractions. For those who have more time, there are many more Little Rock attractions. The first two days of the three-day guide have an emphasis on indoor attractions, the local beer scene, and dining. Read on, and you will never wonder what to do in Little Rock again.
Getting to Little Rock
If you are driving, Interstate 40 passes through Little Rock, and Interstate 30 begins in the city. This provides pretty direct access from most major cities in the south and central states.
For those who prefer train service, Amtrak stops at Little Rock Union Station. The Texas Eagle connects directly to Chicago and St. Louis to the north, to Dallas an Los Angeles to the west, as well as several other cities of the deep southwest in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.
If you opt to fly, Little Rock is served by the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport. Direct flights are offered from several cities across the United States via American, United, Southwest and Allegiant airlines.
Where to Stay for a Weekend in Little Rock
About a dozen chain-type lodging options are available in Little Rock’s immediate downtown area, less than a half-hour drive from the Clinton National Airport.
Little Rock Marriott
The Little Rock Marriott at Three Statehouse Plaza is connected with the convention center and provides modern, spacious accommodations with a free airport shuttle. Consider it ground zero, the perfect base for a weekend in Little Rock, or more. It is literally on the banks of the Arkansas River and affords beautiful views of Little Rock’s skyline, its bridges, and the peaceful Arkansas River Trail. It also provides easy access to most of the Little Rock attractions.
Capital Hotel
Are you looking to splurge? The answer is the landmark Capital Hotel opened in 1877. The Grande Dame of Little Rock, the Capital Hotel exudes exquisite elegance in a historical setting and is just across the street from the Little Rock Marriott. Nicknamed the “front porch” of Little Rock, the Capital Hotel has been hosting dignitaries such as President and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant since the 1880s.
The Empress
The Little Rock Marriott and the Capital Hotel are two excellent lodging possibilities in downtown, but Little Rock also has its share of beautiful B&B’s. Located south of I-630 in what is known as the historic Quapaw Quarter, The Empress of Little Rock is the neighborhood princess offering a romantic, relaxed feel complete with a Cinderella tower and wrap-around porch.
The area, known as SoMa for South Main Street, has a few blocks of superb restaurants and shops, making it almost unnecessary to go downtown. However, The Empress is walkable to the River Front, but it might be a rather long walk for some, so keep that in mind.
If You Have A Day in Little Rock
If you want more details about any of these locations, you will find each place outlined in the 3 days in Little Rock itinerary further down.
In the briefest terms one day in Little Rock looks like this:
- Clinton Avenue Shops
- River Market
- Arkansas River Trail
- Little Rock Central High School
- Clinton Presidential Library
- State House Museum
- Dinner
- Evening trolley ride
- Nightcap
If you have only one day in Little Rock, you can still hit most of the Little Rock attractions. Start with a quick tour of the shops lining President Clinton Avenue and wander through the River Market.
Go behind the market and walk a little on the Arkansas River Trail to see some of the sculpture garden and the Junction Bridge.
Then, head over to Little Rock Central High School on the west side of downtown and the Clinton Presidential Library on the east side of downtown. Both are absolute must do Little Rock attractions.
Take a spin on the free trolley that loops across the Arkansas River through North Little Rock and returns. Cap off your day in Little Rock with a toast at the Capital Hotel Bar & Grill.
Spend any remaining time visiting the Old State House Museum or the Historic Arkansas Museum in the city center before enjoying dinner at Samantha’s Tap Room, Bruno’s Little Italy, or the more casual Flying Fish.
If You Have 3 Days in Little Rock
If you have a 2 or 3 day weekend in Little Rock, then the itinerary below will provide a more leisurely, albeit busy, look at all of the major Little Rock attractions. It does maintain quite a pace, so you may note that day 3 goes beyond the city limits. So if you want to slow it down a little bit you can, and you will still have time to take in everything over 3 days in Little Rock.
Weekend in Little Rock – Day 1
Breakfast
The River Market, a few blocks down from the Little Rock Marriott on the same side of the street, is filled with many ethnic eateries and little shops perfect for a fast breakfast or lunch. The Corner opens at 7:30 am weekdays featuring a farm to table filled menu of southern favorites like chicken and waffles, and healthier options such as parfaits and energy bowls.
Morning on The Arkansas River Trail
Focus this morning on the Little Rock attractions of interest in the immediate downtown area.
Pick up the Arkansas River Trail behind the River Market. Here, the majority of the artwork in the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden lies along Riverfront Park behind the River Market and heading west up through the back of the Little Rock Marriott. A perfect way to spend a morning before it gets too hot, stroll along and see the pretty, but sometimes unusual, installations of public art.
Take note if any concerts are taking place. “Jazz in the Park” is held Wednesdays in September from 6 pm to 8 pm.
You won’t miss the dominant, dark gray structure of the Junction Railroad Bridge constructed in 1884, now a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly link to North Little Rock (mentioned later).
Old State House Museum
Emerge from the trail just west of the Little Rock Marriott to find the Old State House Museum. The focus here is on Arkansas’s political history from statehood in 1836 to present with permanent exhibits that include the House of Representatives Chamber and the First Ladies of Arkansas.
Rotating exhibits include, for example, the exquisite “Piece of My Soul” quilt collection, over 200 quilts made by local African Americans, and each telling a unique story, that was on display until July 2020. This historic landmark was the backdrop for the Clinton election-night celebrations in 1992 and 1996.
H. U. Lee International Garden and Gate
Head east on Markham Street when you exit the Old State House, passing in front of the Marriott. The H. U. Lee International Gate and Garden stand at the corner of E. Markham Street and Main Street, just next to the Main Street Bridge. It will probably be the most unexpected of the Little Rock attractions.
Costing approximately $1.4 million, it is a tribute to the martial arts contributions of the Eternal Grand Master Haeng Ung Lee. It also symbolizes the friendship between the United States and South Korea. Since 1977, the American Taekwondo Association (ATA) directs its national and international operations from its Little Rock headquarters.
Clinton Avenue Shops
Past the gate and garden, Markham Street becomes President Clinton Avenue heading east. Stroll around President Clinton Avenue and its side streets for some notable shops.
4Square Cafe and Gifts
4Square Café and Gifts is a cool place for souvenirs but also offers smoothie milkshakes and a vegan menu.
Kilwins
Observe chocolate-making demonstrations at Kilwins Little Rock location. There’s no getting out of this shop without sampling at least a couple of the decadent delicacies.
Fringe Clothing
Fringe Clothing is an upscale women’s fashion store.
The Museum of Discovery
The Museum of Discovery has plenty of kid-friendly interactive exhibits. Former director of the visitor experience, Kevin Delaney, got his start here before starring on the Science Channel and is now the science demonstrator on the Jimmy Fallon show.
Historic Arkansas Museum
The Historic Arkansas Museum brings history and heritage to life through permanent and rotating exhibits thanks to Peg Newton-Smith, a resident who volunteered in costume for the museum’s opening day in 1941 and had an immense passion for Arkansas artisans. Learn about the 175-year history of Arkansas’ famous Bowie knife. Understand the “pARTy for Peg” aluminum sculpture on the front lawn, otherwise known as “Arkansassy and her Dancers” by the artist. Explore the restored 1850’s log house that takes up a half block.
Lunch Options
If you have went by every stop I have suggested, it has been quite a morning, and you are probably famished. There are several dining options on Clinton Ave, but some stand out.
Flying Fish
At some point during your visit, be sure to stop in at the Little Rock location of Flying Fish, the retiree home for all the Big Mouth Billy Bass animatronic singing fish plaques. No joke. Go in and have a look.
Walls of mounted fish plaques, inscribed with personal notes and dates of retirement, compete for space. Photos of successful fishing trips line the Liars Wall, where patrons post their catch and can lie about the size. Overall, the place feels friendly and casual.
Grab a little red and white checkerboard table or plop down into a green, cushiony booth to enjoy non-greasy fried or grilled catfish, fried pickles, or gumbo. Opening daily at 11 am, the line starts forming out the door by late afternoon.
Flying Saucer
The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is a quirky chain with a few locations sprinkled throughout the southeast. While not a brewery, it does carry a wide selection of draft beers within its 35 taps.
The vast, open space, grounded by dark wood tables and booths, is a perfect place for groups. The walls and ceilings, covered with plates, provide the saucer motif. The menu is as big as the restaurant with plenty of casual salads, sandwiches, soups, and entrees.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
When I was considering what to do in Little Rock, Little Rock Central High School was the one place on my list from the onset. You’ll need to drive, or grab a Lyft. From the Little Rock Marriott on W. Markham Street, turn left onto Broadway Street (three blocks), and then right on W. 14th Street (also known as West Daisy L Gatson Bates Drive). The visitor center sits at the corner of W. 14th Street and S. Park Street.
Prepare yourself for an emotional journey into the story of nine brave male and female students who stood their ground in 1957 for what they believed in – the right of black students to receive an education. It is almost inconceivable this could have happened. Filled with first-hand newsroom footage, recordings, and interviews, expect to spend one to two hours here.
Next, walk catty-corner across the street to see “The Most Beautiful High School in America” as named by the American Institute of Architects. Still in operation today, only students may enter, but visitors may view the iconic building from the street.
Stand silent and observe the power of place. Imagine the hatred and harassment encountered on this very sidewalk, and those who had the courage to walk through and demonstrate against it. Looking so pristine today, it was the center of cruelty and hatred on some of the dark days of our nation’s past. You will understand why this is the most important Little Rock attractions.
Complete your visit with a stop at the memorial garden, directly across from the visitor’s center.
White Water Tavern
To lighten up the somber mood, consider a refreshing 20-minute walk (north on S. Park Street and left on W. 7th Street) to the legendary White Water Tavern. Less than a mile away and bordering the edge of the downtown area, White Water Tavern opens weekdays at noon and Saturdays at 6 pm.
No words can do justice to describe this little hole in the wall. Witness the many strange bric-a-brac and graffiti walls, meant to be absorbed in the moment. The stage may be tiny but has seen the gamut of many national and local recording artists.
Arkansas State Capitol
The Arkansas State Capitol, also located on this side of town, offers free tours weekdays from 9 am to 3 pm. Call 501-682-5080 to arrange guided tours. While not a necessity during your 3 days in Little Rock, Capitols always lend a new understanding to any destination.
Ride the Trolley
It is time to drop off the car and hop on the free local trolley. The trolley is a fun way to get the lay of the land. If you’re lucky, you may have Jerry as your driver who will gladly whip out his banjo to entertain you at an appropriate stop. The trolley is a Little Rock attraction in itself.
The Blue Line (think water) is the trolley that crosses the Arkansas River for the short ride to North Little Rock. Blue Line Trolley Stops 13 and 14 (see trolley map) are east and west of the convention center, depending upon your location. It makes a loop around the small downtown area of North Little Rock, officially known as the Argenta Arts District, before returning.
The Green Line stays in Little Rock proper, does not cross the river, and makes a loop around downtown Little Rock. Grab yourself one of the maps, as you will probably ride the trolley more than once during your 3 days in Little Rock.
Late Afternoon Choices
Some of the top Little Rock attractions are in North Little Rock, so here are a few ideas for sightseeing once you there. (I am a beer lover, so if it is my only 3 days in Little Rock, I am going on to option 3.)
Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
1) For navy buffs, exit the trolley at Stop 4 (first stop after crossing the river) and make your way down to the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum by the shore. Climb aboard the USS Razorback Submarine docked on this side of the Arkansas River, and learn about the role it played in WWII and Vietnam. Winter hours are 10 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday with the last tour beginning at 4:30 pm. Open Sunday 1-5 pm.
From the maritime museum, you could walk across the Junction Bridge mentioned earlier, which deposits you back onto the River Walk trail from early this morning. Take the elevator up, walk under the fine latticed structure and snap a few shots of the city, and take the elevator down.
The Argenta Neighborhood
2) However, there’s still more to see in North Little Rock. You could get off the trolley at Stop 4 and roam around on North Main Street. Check out what’s playing at the Argenta Community Theater. Have some laughs at The Joint Theater, which has live entertainment 7 days a week, from Improv nights to Jazz evenings. Or check out the modern impressionist artwork at the Barry Thomas Fine Art & Studio.
Sample a Couple of Breweries
3) Another option is to stay on the trolley and exit at Stop 1. Then, make a left on Bishop Lindsey Avenue and follow it three blocks until it curves around. I assure you, beer aficionados need never wonder what to do in Little Rock, and the breweries are among my favorite Little Rock attractions.
Diamond Bear Brewing Company
You will see the fermentation tank of Diamond Bear Brewing Company, named by combining two prior nicknames for the State of Arkansas. Diamond Beer, a larger brewery colorfully decorated with what else but bears, moved to this location in 2014, having outgrown its original home in downtown.
The brewery has a large outdoor patio and several rooms to settle in for a taste, have a bite to eat, watch TV, play darts, or a few board games. It’s a sure bet, all-around type of spot that locals love, as witnessed by the extent of the mug club that lines the walls. Start with the Southern Blonde.
Flyway Brewing
From Diamond Bear, make your way back east on either 4th or 5th streets toward Maple Street. You probably saw Flyway Brewing coming in on the trolley. The one-room brewery sits comfortably at the corner of W. 4th Street and Maple Street and makes for easy access to stop in for a brew, of which they have a dozen on tap.
Try one of their seasonal “Cake Series” such as the Carrot Cake Golden Ale in the summer. Flyway, named for the migratory flight pattern of birds that gather over Arkansas on their journey south, brings the outdoors in with its grassy green accent wall and duck paintings.
Dinner Options
Cregeen’s Irish Pub
Both Diamond Bear and Flyway offer menus for dining, as mentioned above. Other options in the Argenta district include Cregeen’s Irish Pub with Fish and Chips, simple sandwiches, 50 beers on tap, and over 200 whiskeys.
Restaurant Capeo
Restaurant Capeo offers up excellent Italian food in a warm Italian atmosphere for something a little more upscale. Consider making reservations.
Samantha’s Tap Room
Of course, you can always take the trolley back into downtown and dine at one of the restaurants along Main Street. The modern, bustling Samantha’s Tap Room offers a full menu comprised of appetizers, salads, and entrees to be enjoyed under the beehive lights and woodsy décor of its interior.
Bruno’s Little Italy
Right next door on Main Street, Bruno’s Little Italy serves the whole range of pizza, pasta, and homemade Italian delicacies.
Evening Entertainment
Check the online calendars for The Rev Room, Vino’s Brewpub, or The White Water Tavern if you’re craving a little music. As it happens, live music is one of the top Little Rock attractions.
In downtown, The Rev Room presents a wide variety of all musical genres. You probably walked right by this place earlier today. It’s directly across from the H.U. Lee International Gate.
Snag a Lyft over to Vino’s Brewpub, a music venue showcasing bands in the Midwest and South for over 15 years. A true grit local pizza and beer pub, Vino’s has three or four rooms decorated with beer cans and local artwork and a back deck. At the intersection of W. 7th Street and S. Chester Street, it’s still considered part of downtown.
A little further west and requiring a Lyft would be The White Water Tavern if you missed it earlier.
Ending the Evening
109 & Co
Do you desire a nightcap? It has been a very busy day in Little Rock, and you deserve one. Pop in at 109 & Co., a lobby speakeasy-style cocktail lounge in a condo building located at 109 Main Street (catty-corner from Bruno’s). Dark lighting and overstuffed comfy leather couches entice relaxation and are opposite the small, candlelit bar. Friendly locals will keep you laughing, and hospitable bartenders make patrons feel right at home.
Capital Hotel Lounge
If you’re in search of something more sophisticated to top off today’s adventures, stop in at the Capital Hotel. Sit for a moment in a comfy lobby chair surrounded by marble columns and take in the prominent staircase while listening to smooth jazz. Look down to see the white and gray mosaic floor tiles accented with green and rust. Look up at the spectacular warmth of the intricately designed yellow, orange, and green stained-glass ceiling.
Dining at One Eleven takes you on a pricey culinary journey while the Capital Bar & Grill is more casual, providing lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks and drinks.
Weekend in Little Rock – Day 2
Breakfast
Eat a light breakfast today. Save yourself for lunch and dinner. Grab a coffee at the Starbucks in the Little Rock Marriott. If it’s a Saturday in late May through early September, check out the Farmer’s Market located in the outdoor pavilion in the back of the River Market.
Morning – Little Rock’s East Side
Today’s adventure takes you to the east side of town on the trolley’s Blue Line mentioned earlier. It offers an extension that will take you down to World Avenue and 3rd Street, which is the Clinton Center stop. Just be sure the trolley driver is clear on where you want to go. A short drive or Lyft will also bring you there.
William J Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
Expect to spend one to two hours exploring the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.
No matter one’s political ideologies, this museum should be a must-see. Permanent educational collections highlight the enormous responsibilities of the presidency and life in the White House.
Special exhibitions often highlight critical issues, such as the fun, thought-provoking Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea. The artist, Angela Haseltine Pozzi, creates art from trash and marine debris collected from Pacific beaches. The sheer volume is mind-boggling and reminds us of the urgency of plastic pollution issues.
Lunch – Onsite
Consider having lunch at 42 Bar and Table on the lower level. You can’t go wrong with flavorful entrees and inspired dishes paired with polished service. Sit inside or on the outdoor patio.
Afternoon – Heifer International
A ten-minute walk from the Clinton Center brings you to the headquarters of Heifer International.
Visit the welcome center first and learn about their work on economic development, empowering women, sustainability, and stamping out hunger. Then go around the back and visit the onsite farm and the animals. Stop by the global village for boutique shopping from around the world.
Try A Walking Brewery Tour
When I wondered what to do in Little Rock, I never imagined there were so many up and coming breweries. I suggest a walk to the SoMa neighborhood (about a half-hour in total without stops) via the brewery tour that follows. On the map, A is Heifer International, and F is SoMa. Everything between is one of the stops on our tour. If you want more details about any of these establishments, we also published The Best Breweries in Little Rock!
Rail Yard Little Rock
The Rail Yard Little Rock is an urban beer garden with dedicated food trucks. Locals, and especially cyclists, love to hang out here and enjoy the sunshine.
Lost Forty Brewing
Named for some lost parcel of forest (no one knows the real story), Lost Forty Brewing has called this area home since 2014. At the back bar, grab a pint such as the Silver Medal Winner, Easy Tiger, a Mexican-style lager with a lot more depth. Join the locals at one of the long, steel, and wood communal tables.
The lights strung overhead soften the warehouse feel. Lost Forty has an extensive menu featuring BBQ, sandwiches, house-made bratwurst, and rib plates every Thursday and Friday.
Stone’s Throw Brewery
Cross the I-30 overpass, walk four blocks, and make a left on Rock Street. Enjoy the sights of the beautiful old homes of which Little Rock has many. Three blocks up Rock Street on the left is Stone’s Throw Brewing. Hit it at just the right time of evening and enjoy the sunset on the picnic benches outside.
Stone’s Throw Brewing is a smaller two-room brewery with a lineup of a few all-year-round brews, plenty of seasonals, and limited releases. They even dabble in ciders such as the Pear Guavara, a pear cider with a guava puree. Stone’s Throw Brewing sits in a renovated old building, the work of four friends, and is a (you guessed it) stone’s throw from the neighborhood. The natural warmth and hospitality of the staff, especially Seth and Michelangelo, make guests feel right at home.
Rock Town Distillery
By now, you may be a bit beered-out. Less than a ten-minute walk brings you to Rock Town Distillery on Main Street, the vision-come-true of Little Rock local Phil Brandon. A lover of music and fine whiskey, Phil came up with the idea for a craft distillery after being laid off during the mid-2000’s economic meltdown. Shaky, during those first few years, Phil’s distillery is knocking the ball out of the park these days, winning double gold awards for its bourbon whiskey and gin. Rock Town’s vodka is a crowd favorite.
The red wall of fame, lined with awards and accolades, welcomes visitors. Turn right into a spacious room where you’ll find wood tables surrounded by a long bar on one side and a separate tasting area on the other side. Drink selections include traditional cocktails, as well as modern concoctions and hard coffees. They also offer flights, wines by the glass and local craft beers.
Rock Town’s location on Main Street at E. 12th Street anchors the north end of the SoMa (South Main) neighborhood. Here are about four blocks of quaint little shops, restaurants, and even a museum.
Alternative for non-beer lovers
Take a Lyft over to the SoMa (South Main) neighborhood if you prefer to bypass our brewery tour.
Or, consider having Lyft drop you off at The Empress Bed & Breakfast mentioned earlier. To get there, follow Main Street south to W. 22nd Street, less than a ten-minute drive. A block west sits the delightful Empress of Little Rock B&B.
This red-brick Victorian transports you back to the 1880s and sits on a pristinely manicured yard encircled by a green wrought iron gate. Walk to the corner of W. 22nd Street and S. Louisiana Street to snap the iconic shot of the Cinderella tower with its wrap-around porch and take in the majesty of the structure in front of you. Even if you’re not staying here, it is a Little Rock attraction in its own right, and worth the trek. From here, walk back (north) a few blocks to SoMa’s downtown area and the Esse Purse Museum (see below).
The So-Ma Neighborhood (South Main)
Root Cafe
Next to the Esse is the Root Cafe, a delightful little spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They source as much as possible from local farmers and growers.
The Green Corner Store
Across the street is The Green Corner Store. Your source for sustainable living, this fun shop has something for practically every room in the house.
Loblolly Creamery
The Loblolly Creamery is a small-batch ice cream shop providing cold refreshments for the hot Arkansas days. Their assortment of unusual flavors includes Black Cat Vanilla (yes, it’s black) and Red Velvet Pig Sooie. Coffee and baked goods, as colorful as the ice cream, round out the menu.
Bernice Gardem
Enjoy the ice cream with a stroll through the Bernice Garden at the corner. This lovely garden, surrounded by unique sculptures and crowned with an open slat roof, is the backdrop for the local Sunday farmers market. Anita Davis (from the Esse) created this beautiful space rentable for special events as well.
The Esse Museum
The unique Esse Purse Museum is the creation of Anita Davis. “Esse” is from the Latin “to be.” The idea is that a purse carries who a woman is or her essence.
The museum provides the history of ladies’ handbags from the dawn of the century and includes a temporary exhibit on ladies’ hats. Collections from each decade are on display with a synopsis of what was in vogue during that time–corresponding artwork by Anita’s daughter, Betsy, line the walls. Everything from the Mother of Pearl calling card case to The Beatles Yellow Submarine bag, the Esse has all the glitzy, beaded purses in between, and this is only ten percent of the entire collection. (For me it is a must see Little Rock attraction, as it’s almost as cool as Amsterdam’s Taschenmuseum!)
Dinner Options
Raduno Brick Oven and South on Main are two excellent choices for casual dining.
If you prefer, walk straight back into the downtown area (about a 15-20-minute walk) and opt for dinner at other local establishments such as Asian from the casual Three Fold Noodles and Dumplings, or modern American from the classy Allsopp and Chapple.
Weekend in Little Rock – Day 3
The last two days have crammed in a lot of activity, so there may be places you want to circle back to investigate further. Most Little Rock attractions are open on Sundays but double-check the hours before heading out. The good news is, since you spent 3 days in Little Rock, you have time to do so if you choose.
Otherwise, the following options involve getting out a little further from downtown Little Rock.
Option 1 – A Biking Adventure
For some physical activity, consider renting bikes at Rock Town River Outfitters, located adjacent to the River Market. Choose routes from among almost 100 miles on the Arkansas River Trail. Ride around town or head out on the 34-mile trip to Pinnacle Mountain State Park or one of the many other parks in Little Rock.
Option 2 – Historic Scenery
2) Gone with the Wind fans might want to take about a 25-minute drive north of downtown Little Rock to see The Old Mill. The replica of the 1800’s gristmill, said to be the last standing filming prop from the movie, is positioned beautifully on the grounds next to the lake and the three-acre T. R. Pugh Memorial Park. A major project, completed in September 2019, installed a water pump that enables water to flow through the cascading waterfall and other features. The Old Mill is the site of many weddings, and couples often come here to reminisce or have a picnic. Although out of town, it is considered one of the top Little Rock attractions.
Option 3 – A Relaxing Soak
3) Take a dip in a thermal bath with a visit to Little Rock’s Hot Springs, about an hour drive from downtown Little Rock. Follow this Guide to Hot Springs, Arkansas (written by Amanda Galiano) for details on shopping and attractions near this natural wonder.
Isn’t it Time to Spend A Weekend in Little Rock?
So, while Little Rock may not initially be on your bucket list, there are plenty of reasons why it should be. Full of southern hospitality, all the Little Rock attractions make for an adventurous, yet relaxing, weekend getaway. Whether you have one day in Little Rock, or 3 days in Little Rock, you may be planning your next visit before you leave!
Help your friends plan 3 days in Little Rock – Pin it now.
Looking for other weekend getaways in the central states?
Here are some you might love!
- A Weekend in Hannibal, Missouri
- A Weekend in St. Louis
- A Weekend in Memphis
- A Weekend in Nashville
- A Weekend in Coastal Mississippi
- A Weekend in New Orleans
About the Author
Joanne Galko is first and foremost an explorer craving new experiences, whether it’s a destination, activity, or different hair color. Having visited over 30 countries, she loves learning about world cultures and all things ethnic (her blog on All Things Ethnic is coming soon). Joanne is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She says that life happens, and it was finally time to do something that truly makes her happy. So, after escaping the corporate accounting world, Joanne is now an aspiring travel writer and makes her home in Colorado’s Front Range with her husband and two cats.
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I loved reading about your experience in Little Rock. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!
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