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3 Days in Little Rock: Itinerary for a Perfect Long Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas - Little Rock - 3 Days in Little Rock - Long Weekend in Little Rock Itinerary

Last Updated on: 2nd April 2022, 10:30 pm

Little Rock is Arkansas’s capital city,  and is bursting with exciting things to do! 

While you could spend weeks exploring this culturally-rich city, a  long weekend in Little Rock  is well-spent! 

This  3-day Little Rock itinerary  will take you through some of the city’s best historical haunts, delicious southern eateries, amazing shopping, and outdoor excursions! 

From  breakfast to after-dinner activities,  this travel guide will take you through three days in Little Rock visiting the best attractions the city has to offer – compiled by an Arkansas native! 

So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy your  weekend getaway  in the capital of the Natural State!

Read next:  33 Thrilling Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas: Activities to Make Little Rock Come Alive!

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3 Days in Little Rock: Itinerary for a Perfect Long Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Good to Know:  This guide on the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas comes to us from Kendall Davis, who is originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas, and graduated from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas.

She currently lives in New York City with her husband and their dog, Scout.

The Top 6 Most Popular Little Rock Tours & Attractions

Before you dig into all the city has to offer, you should know that these are the most popular guided tours, attractions, day trips, and skip-the-line tickets in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Little Rock: Private Vacation Photo Session

Little Rock Central High School Guided Tour

Arkansas Civil Rights History Audio Tour

Little Rock Race Scavenger Hunt

Little Rock Self-Guided Mural Tour

William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum Guided Tour

Where to Stay in Little Rock, Arkansas

Mississippi - Jackson - Homewood Suites by Hilton - Jordan

Looking for a great place to stay during your time in Little Rock? Here are the best places to stay with options for different budget categories so there’s something here for everyone!

Budget Hotel (Under $100 per night)

With great reviews and a great price, you really can’t beat the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Little Rock.

The rooms are modern, and each is a suite with a kitchenette and a seating area. We stayed in a similar SpringHill Suites in Jackson, Mississippi and we just loved it!

They have a heated indoor pool, so it’s a great place to stay year-round!

Check availability or book your stay at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Little Rock

Midrange Hotel ($100-200 per night)

If you want something with a great location close to downtown, check into the Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown.

Located within walking distance of the Historic Arkansas Museum and steps from some of the best sites in Little Rock, you’ll love the location as much as the updated rooms and beautiful decor.

Amenities include valet parking and an indoor heated pool.

Check ava ilability or book your stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown

Luxury Hotel ($200 or more per night)

The Capital Hotel is a beautiful historic hotel that’s on this list as a can’t-miss thing to do in Little Rock, so even if you don’t end up staying here you should still set aside time to stop by for dinner or drinks!

Beyond its status as one of the best hotels in Little Rock, it has a great location near many of the most important Little Rock sites.

The decor is historic but amenities like wifi are up-to-date!

Check availability or book your stay at the Capital Hotel

How to Get to Little Rock, Arkansas

Mississippi - Gas Station Jordan Stephanie

We drove through Little Rock as part of our Big Sout hern USA Road Trip! I’ve also visited growing up as a child, and we have always driven from OKC to Little Rock.

Driving is the easiest way to get to Little Rock since you will really want to have a car here during your trip.

While you can get around without a car, we found having our own wheels makes travel in the South much easier.

If you want to drive to Little Rock but don’t have your own wheels, I use  Discover Cars  when I rent cars on my travels.

If you don’t want to drive to Little Rock, you have other options.

You can fly into the Little Rock Airport, known officially as the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT).

Flights here are relatively inexpensive, and the airport is serviced by American Airlines, among others.

Arkansas - Little Rock - Union Station AKA Mopac Station where Amtrak Services Little Rock

Another option is to take the train! Little Rock is serviced by Amtrak at the Little Rock Union Station, which is also called the Mopac Station.

Little Rock is on the “Texas Eagle” line , which goes from Chicago to Los Angeles via San Antonio . You can be in Little Rock in under eight hours if you are coming from St. Louis.

One thing that makes traveling to Little Rock by train difficult is that it arrives and departs the city at about 3 AM.

However, if you like traveling by overnight train, this can be a great way to visit Little Rock!

Alternatively, you can reach Little Rock by bus. Keep in mind that Greyhound Bus trips can be excruciatingly long compared to the time it takes to travel by car, plane, or even train.

Further, it may not be less expensive than driving (provided you have a car) or taking a train).

Get a rental car quote for your trip

How to Get Around Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas - Little Rock - Old Bridge

As I said above, I have always gotten around Little Rock by car, but there are other options if you aren’t driving your own or renting a car once you’re here.

First, there are local taxis that service Little Rock. There are also rideshare services. Both Uber and Lyft operate in Little Rock.

Depending on where you’re staying, you may be able to enjoy some of downtown Little Rock on foot.

Traveling by foot is one of the most popular modes of transportation for sightseeing in downtown Little Rock’s River Market District  and North Little Rock’s Historic Argenta Arts District.

There are also famous parks and pedestrian bridges listed in this article that you can enjoy by walking.

Finally, you can take advantage of the city’s famous vintage yellow streetcars to get from place to place within their operating zone.

The River Rail Trolley goes to several places you’ll want to make sure to see while in Little Rock, and it is a fun way to see the city!

How Many Days Should You Spend in Little Rock?

Honestly, the city is completely overlooked! Between great outdoor day trip options like  Pinnacle Mountain State Park  and the  Buffalo National River  (one of the great  National Park sites in Arkansas  ), you can easily fill up a  long weekend in Little Rock  and the surrounding area.

So if you can only spend  2 days in Little Rock,  we understand. But if you have  3 days  or  4 days in Little Rock,  that’s even better!

How to Use this Little Rock Itinerary

This  Little Rock itinerary  is designed for those coming for a long weekend, but you can easily tailor it to fill your needs. 

If you will only be in Little Rock for two days, then  take out the items  that you aren’t as excited about. 

And if you can stay for an extra day or two and need more ideas, here’s a much longer list of all the  best things to do in Little Rock  and the  best things to do with kids in Little Rock!

How to Get the Best Little Rock Vacation Photos

If you are going on a special trip to Little Rock, like a family vacation or couples getaway, you may want to leave making sure you have the best vacation photos!

You can use the service  Flytographer  to book a personal Little Rock photo session so that you leave knowing you have amazing pictures to help you treasure the memories of your trip.

I used them in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and I loved how our family photos came out! In just thirty minutes, we were able to capture professional travel photos that will last a lifetime:

Travel Writer Stephanie Craig in Jackson Hole, Wyoming at Grand Teton National Park

You can use the code  HISTORYFANGIRL  for 10% off your first photo session.

Book your Little Rock vacation photo session.

The Perfect 3 Day Weekend in Little Rock Itinerary

All right, let’s get started! 

Day 1: Delicious Dishes, Beautiful Gardens, & Important History

9:00 am: wake up with a good breakfast at the root cafe.

Fuel up for a day of exploring Little Rock at  The Root Cafe.  

Step into The Root’s modest digs for a simply delicious breakfast! And what better way to begin immersing yourself in all of Little Rock’s glory than with locally sourced foods? 

root at night looking cute

The Root Cafe sources as many of its ingredients as possible from  small local farms,  so you will be indulging in a delicious breakfast with  true Arkansas roots.  

You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but for a real southern experience, try the biscuits and gravy!

Address:  1500 Main Street., Little Rock, AR 72202

Read next: What to Eat in Arkansas

10:30 AM: Frolic Through the Bernice Garden 

After breakfast, head to the  Bernice Garden  to see the gorgeous plants and sculptures in the fresh morning light. 

See native flora, and sculptures, and artwork that reflect the spirit and culture of Arkansas!

Located in the SoMa neighborhood of Little Rock, which  Southern Living  magazine touts as one of the city’s “Next Great Neighborhoods.”

Address:  1401 S Main St., Little Rock, AR 72202

12:00 PM: Explore the Quapaw Quarter!

Starting at the Bernice Garden and heading south, stroll through the  Quapaw Quarter  and see the city’s oldest buildings – some of which date back  before the Civil War.  

See the gorgeous architecture and the tree-lined streets and reminisce on Little Rock’s storied history – both for good and for ill.

Arkansas - Little Rock - Quapaw Quarter - Villa Marre

During your Quapaw Quarter escapade, grab a sweet treat at  Loblolly Creamery ! Named for the Arkansas state pine tree, this ice cream shop specializes in small-batch, handcrafted treats made with locally-sourced ingredients. 

They offer deliciously unique flavors, as well as some perfected classics!

Address:  1423 S. Main St., Little Rock, AR 72202

Get your cone to go and continue the antiquities theme by walking to  South Main Creative  – an amazing antique store bursting at the seams with trinkets and goodies from near and far!

Address:  1600 Main St., Little Rock, AR 72206

After perusing the tchotchkes at South Main Creative, continue your southward trek to the  Arkansas Governor’s Mansion ! Call ahead (501-324-9805) and schedule a free tour if you like exploring grand old houses.

Address:  1800 Center St., Little Rock, AR, 72206

2:00 PM: Grab Lunch at Vino’s!

Refuel with some of the best pizza in Little Rock and one of  Vino’s own handcrafted beers! 

This funky spot is a local favorite – and for good reason! Enjoy a casual lunch of pizza and calzones before continuing through Little Rock’s historic sites.

Address:  923 W 7th St., Little Rock, AR 72201

3:30 PM: Visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center

After lunch, head just over a mile southwest and visit the visitor center for the  Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site! 

Here you’ll learn about how the courage of the  Little Rock Nine  changed Little Rock, and national, history forever. 

Central,High,School,,Little,Rock

After educating yourself on the fight for  desegregation and equality for African Americans  in Little Rock, you can travel right across the street to see the stunning Gothic Revival style facade of the school – which is still an operating public high school today!

Note:  If you would like to go on a  Ranger-led guided tour,  you will need to pre-arrange it with the  National Park Service.  NPS tours leave at 1 PM, so in this case, you will also need to move some things around on your first day in Little Rock.

Address:  2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr., Little Rock, AR 72202

5:30 PM Visit the Arkansas State Capitol

Continue your historical-themed day in the Natural State’s capital city with a trip to the  Arkansas State Capitol!  

See the facade of the Neo-Classical capitol building, which is a scale replica of the United States Capitol. 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Arkansas State Capitol

Although the interior will be closed at this time, the evening light makes the exterior glow beautifully! 

You can also see the  Civil Rights Memorial  sculpture and the  Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial,  which are both located on the capitol grounds.

Address:  500 Woodlane St., Little Rock, AR 72201

7:00 PM: Enjoy Dinner at the Capital Hotel!

Located about fifteen  State  Capitol Building  by  streetcar  (or you can drive, of course), enter the beautiful Capital Hotel, completed in 1873, and visit the  Capital Bar & Grill  for a delicious, southern dinner. 

The restaurant’s menu is centered around southern comfort foods and Arkansas-sourced ingredients. 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Capital Hotel

They also specialize in mixing up wonderful cocktails that pair perfectly with the fare – all within the walls of the gorgeous historic hotel which is one of the fanciest in the entire state of Arkansas!

Address:  111 West Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201

9:00 PM: Catch Some After-Dinner Entertainment at Willy D’s Rock & Roll Piano Bar

Just a five-minute walk from the Capital Hotel is  Willy D’s Rock & Roll Piano Bar  – an absolute must-do for live music in Little Rock! 

Each night, Willy D’s puts on a fun interactive show with  dueling pianos,  requests from the audience, and more! 

Sip a nightcap and laugh and sing along after a long day of exploring. You’ve earned this slice of Little Rock nightlife!

Address:  322 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201

Day 2: The River Market District & Little Rock’s Great Museums

9:00 am: grab a quick bite for breakfast at hurts donuts.

Choose a funky flavored donut and a cup of coffee at  Hurts Donuts  to prepare yourself for a day spent wandering the Little Rock River Market District! 

Hurts has unique flavors and are arguably the best donuts in town.

While the company is based outside of Dallas and has locations in other nearby states like Oklahoma, Missouri, and Louisiana,  Little Rockers  love the level of creativity and passion at Hurst Donuts!

Address:  107 E Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201

10:00 AM:  Peruse the Farmer’s Market at the River Market

Grab some of the best of Arkansas’s bounty, and amazing crafts made by locals at the gorgeous open-air  River Market  pavilion! 

The  Farmer’s Market  is one of the most beautiful and beloved ways to spend a  weekend morning in downtown Little Rock.  

Little River Market in Little Rock Arkansas

Interact with local farmers and artisans and experience authentic Little Rock!

Address:  400 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201

12:00 PM: Indulge in Lunch at the River Market

After walking around the open-air sections of the River Market, head inside where you’ll find an unparalleled selection of eateries! 

You can get  worldwide cuisine  from any of the River Market’s amazing food options. 

This is especially great for big groups or families with picky eaters – since everyone can order from the spot that best suits their appetite!

1:30 PM: Experience the Childlike Wonder Inspired by the Museum of Discovery

Just a stone’s throw from the River Market is  the Museum of Discovery  – an interactive science and technology museum that is hands-on fun for all ages. 

Even if you aren’t  visiting Little Rock with kids,  the Museum of Discovery is an engaging and exciting experience for a day in Little Rock. 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Museum of Discovery

Adult tickets are only $10, and child tickets are $8, making this an affordable and enriching stop!

Address:  500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 150, Little Rock, AR 72201

3:30 PM: Continue Your Education at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

See the presidential library of the 42nd president, Arkansas native Bill Clinton – situated right on the Arkansas River in Little Rock. 

Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock, Arkansas

See the archives, special exhibits, replicas of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room from the White House, artifacts from Clinton’s presidency, and learn about Bill Clinton’s administration and legacy.

Address:  1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, AR 72201

5:00 PM: Visit the Heifer Village and Urban Farm

See the live animals and greenhouses of the Urban Farm, and tour the Village to see the amazing work that  Heifer International  is doing around the world! 

Heifer Villiage and Urban Farm in Little Rock, Arkansas

Engage with  interactive exhibits and games,  and see how Heifer International, headquartered right here in Little Rock, is changing the world.

Address:  1 World Ave., Little Rock, AR 72202

7:00 PM: Enjoy a Casual Dinner at Lost Forty Brewing

Sip like the locals at  Lost Forty Brewing  after a day of exploration and education! 

Lost Forty is a craft microbrewery that makes uniquely Arkansas brews and delicious burgers and pizza. 

Arkansas - North Little Rock - Flyway Brewing

Truly one of the state’s most beloved breweries, Lost Forty is the perfect place for good conversation and great beer. The Love Honey Bock, sweetened with Arkansas honey, is a can’t-miss!

Address:  501 Byrd St., Little Rock, AR 72202

9:00 PM: Take a Night Stroll along the Big Dam Bridge

After dinner, drive out to the  Big Dam Bridge  (about a twenty-minute trip) and take a stroll along the gorgeously-lit pedestrian bridge! 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Big Dam Bridge

Take in the gorgeous views and reflect on your day spent exploring Little Rock.

Address:  4000 Cook’s Landing Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72118

Day 3: Hike Pinnacle Mountain & Explore The Heights

10:00 am: have brunch at boulevard bread co..

Boulevard Bread Co.  is a local favorite for delicious baked goods and an amazing brunch menu. 

Indulge in the bread pudding french toast, or get some good southern fried chicken and grits to prepare for your final day in Little Rock!

Address:  1920 N Grant St., Little Rock, AR 72207

11:30 AM: Hike Pinnacle Mountain

Pinnacle Mountain  is a Central Arkansas favorite for getting outside in the Natural State!

There are two different hiking paths up the mountain – with the  West Summit Trail  which is a more accessible, easy walk up, and the  East Summit Trail  involving a little more of a scramble to reach the top. 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Pinnacle Mountain

No matter which path you choose, you are greeted by  sweeping views of Little Rock  and the greater Central Arkansas area at the summit. 

Pinnacle Mountain is one of the  most beautiful spots in Little Rock!

Address:  11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd., Little Rock, AR 72223

3:00 PM: Have Lunch at Heights Taco & Tamale Co.

This popular spot in  The Heights  neighborhood of Little Rock serves up delicious tacos, tamales, and other Mexican-Southern fusion eats. 

Make sure you get some cheese dip (not queso) – an Arkansas favorite!

Address:  5805 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207

4:30 PM: Shop Local in The Heights

The Heights neighborhood is a swanky section of Little Rock with some great local shops and boutiques! 

Some notable stores that you must hit are:  Domestic Domestic , with rugged goods and gifts and great Arkansas finds,  Eggshells Kitchen Co. , with craft kitchen trinkets and sundry,  WordsWorth Books & Co. , for a great selection of books, and  Ozark Outdoor Supply  for outdoor adventure gear and gifts.

Domestic Domestic 

Address:  5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207

Eggshells Kitchen Co. 

WordsWorth Books & Co. 

Address:  5920 R St., Little Rock, AR 72207

Ozark Outdoor Supply 

Address:  5514 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207

6:30 PM: Continue Your Shopping Spree at the Promenade at Chenal

Head west to one of Little Rock’s newest developments, the  Promenade at Chenal.  This gorgeously-manicured shopping center has amazing stores for some of the best shopping in the city!

Address:  17711 Chenal Pkwy., Little Rock, AR 72223

8:00 PM: Have Burgers and Shakes at the Big Orange

Located in Chenal, the  Big Orange  is home to incredible burgers, shakes, and salads! 

Refuel from a long day of hiking and shopping with a juicy burger finished with Arkansas-grown produce and a creamy boozy milkshake!

Address:  17809 Chenal Pkwy., Little Rock, AR 72223

9:30 PM: End the Night at Big Whiskey’s

Head back to downtown Little Rock for a drink at one of the city’s favorite bars,  Big Whiskey’s ! 

You can sip some local whiskey, poured up on draft, distilled at  Little Rock’s Rocktown Distillery,  or any other delicious cocktail you’re craving. 

Arkansas - Little Rock - Big Whiskey’s

Enjoy the good company at this lively bar and then end the night with a stroll around downtown.

Address:  225 E Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201

What to Do in Little Rock in 4 Days

If you end up extending your stay, here are other  fun things to do in Little Rock  that you can add to your itinerary.

Things to Do in Little Rock

You can add more Little Rock museums like the  Old State House Museum (located in the Old State House on West Markham Street),   the  Historic Arkansas Museum,  and the unique  Esse Purse Museum,  which covers the history and importance of women’s handbags.

The Old State House Museum Little Rock Arkansas

Enjoy some more outdoor time at  Riverfront Park  including walking through the sculptures.

Go on a long walk or go biking n the  Arkansas River Trail,  which runs over eighty miles through the towns of Little Rock, Maumelle, and North Little Rock. 

Arkansas - Downtown View of Bridge and River at Sunrise - Things to Do in Little Rock AR

It connects with Riverfront Park and you can also walk out to  Junction Bridge.

See more about the destinations on the Arkansas River Trail on  their website.

For more ideas of what to do with kids in Little Rock, you can add a stop at the  Little Rock Zoo. 

Check out  The Corner  for another great Little Rock breakfast spot.

For another great place to eat, check out the  food trucks  at the  Rail Yard Little Rock.

Arkanasas - Little Rock - Arkansas Repertory Theatre

For another Little Rock nightlife option, see what’s playing at the  Argenta Community Theater.

If you want to see another neighborhood in Little Rock, check out  Hillcrest  in Midtown.

Get your adrenaline pumping by going  kayaking  on the Arkansas River or  mountain biking  on Little Rock’s many trails. 

If you need gear, you can find kayak and bike rentals at  Rock Town River Outfitters . They also have organized  bike and kayak tours.

Day Trips from Little Rock

​If you have a car and want to get out of the city, check out one of these options!

Head to North Little Rock for one of the metro’s most beautiful photography spots at  the Old Mill.  (About fifteen minutes away).

Arkansas - Little Rock - The Old Mill

You can take a day trip down to  Hot Springs National Park  (About one hour away).

If you want to get your adrenaline going, you can head to the  Buffalo National River.  (About 2 hours away).

Arkansas - Buffalo National River

If you’re interested in a longer drive from Little Rock and aren’t on a big Arkansas road trip, you can head up to  Bentonville , near the Missouri border. (About 3 hours away).

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to Arkansas

Mississippi - Jackson - Homewood Suites by Hilton - Jordan

Whether you’re going on an Arkansas honeymoon or a family vacation, there are a few things that everyone will want to bring with them.

A  local guidebook.   It’s very difficult to find guidebooks once you are already on the ground. Pick up a copy of  Arkansas Off the Beaten Path to help you plan ahead of time and keep with you once you’re here.

A  camera .  While it’s great to have a cell phone with you for quick pics, if you want to do more serious photography or take more videos, I find it nice to travel with a separate dedicated camera as well.

If I will be wrestling with my toddler on the trip, I’ll grab my  Sony ZV-1 , which is a powerful compact camera with great video capabilities as well. If it’s just me, I’ll take my  Nikon   (though if you’re buying a new camera I have my eye on this  Sony ).

Mississippi - Jackson - Fine & Dandy Restaurant - Stephanie and Jordan

A  Backup Charging Bank .  This is for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie. The mountains can drain your battery since it will take more power to continually check for a signal where it gets spotty.

A  Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). 

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe ,  which is especially great for tourist destinations because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets plus RFID technology to keep your credit card digits safe. 

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.

Mississippi - Jackson - Farrish Street Historic District - Valentine

A Pair of Comfortable Closed-Toed Walking Shoes .  I use  boots like these  or  like these .  Pack hiking shoes if you’re planning on hiking.

Otherwise, any closed-toed shoes will work. This itinerary is packed and you’ll be on your feet a lot. Make sure to take care of them!

Arkansas Travel Resources

Arkansas - Church seen while traveling through Arkansas on I-40

Looking to make the most of your Arkansas adventures? Check out these Arkansas travel resources!

Statewide Arkansas Guides

The Best Beaches in Arkansas

The Best Castles in Arkansas

The Best Hidden Gems in Arkansas

The Best Jokes about Arkansas & Arkansas Puns

The Best Lakes in Arkansas

The Best National Parks in Arkansas

The Best Quotes about Arkansas

The Best Scenic Drives in Arkansas

The Best Small Towns in Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Arkansas in Winter

The Best Things to Do in Arkansas with Kids

The Best Waterfalls in Arkansas

The Best Weekend Getaways in Arkansas

What to Eat in Arkansas

Little Rock Guides

The Best Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

How to Spend a Weekend in Little Rock: A 3 Day Itinerary

The Best Things to Do in Little Rock with Kids

The Best Quotes about Little Rock, Arkansas

Arkansas City & Town Guides

The Best Things to Do in Conway, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Hardy, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Jonesboro, Arkansas

The Best Things to Do in Mountain View, Arkansas

Included in these Southern USA Round-Ups

The Best Places to Visit in the South

Included in These USA Round-Ups

The Best Waterfalls in the US

The Prettiest Scenic Drives in the USA

Guidebooks I Used to Plan My Trip Around the South

These are the travel guidebooks that I used to plan my entire 5-week Southern USA road trip. I highly recommend each of them!

This is My South  – written by my friend Caroline Eubanks of the  eponymous blog , this book is a must-read if you plan on visiting a few places on your trip.

Lonely Planet Florida & the South’s Best Trips  – this book was essential for me when I was trying to plan our road trip and understanding what was near each other and what absolutely not to miss.

Moon U.S. Civil Rights Trail: A Traveler’s Guide to the People, Places, and Events that Made the Movement  – we did a lot of Civil Rights and Civil War historic sites on our trip, and if you’ll be doing any of this kind of travel, make sure to get this. 

It was invaluable for finding off-the-beaten-path sites and can’t miss Black-owned historic businesses.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance

Before you leave for Arkansas make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I like to use  World Nomads   when I travel, and I happily recommend them.

It’s especially important to get travel insurance whenever you are more than one hundred miles from home.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin this Weekend in Little Rock Itinerary for Your Trip to Arkansas!

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little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

16 Fun Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Updated May. 24, 2022

Central to many of Little Rock's attractions is one thing: history. Take a dive into its civil rights history by visiting the Central High School National Historic Site , then explore the Clinton legacy at the Clinton Presidential Center . You can

  • All Things To Do

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site free

In 1957, nine Black students enrolled at Little Rock Central High School. The school had been all-white since its construction in 1927. Minnijean Brown, Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest Green, Thelma Mothershed, Melba Pattillo, Gloria Ray, Terrence Roberts, Jefferson Thomas and Carlotta Wells were the first Black students at the school following the 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, which ruled that school segregation was unconstitutional. The day the students went to school, they were met with a racist mob of white students as well as about 270 soldiers who barred the entrance to the high school. It took almost two weeks before the Little Rock Nine were able to access the building. Though they were able to enter the school, they faced physical and verbal abuse throughout their high school careers. The Little Rock Nine's historic and brave acts helped to spur the civil rights movement and brought national attention to the U.S.'s racist practices.

Today, Little Rock Central High School is a National Historic Site and is still a working high school. The associated visitor center sits kitty-corner to the school and features exhibits about the desegregation crisis as well as a book store. There is also a Commemorative Garden. Tours of the exterior of Little Rock Central High School are also available, but must be reserved in advance through the National Park Service.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Pinnacle Mountain State Park Pinnacle Mountain State Park free

Pinnacle Mountain State Park's peak rises more than 1,000 feet and the park itself encompasses 2,351 acres. The park boasts more than 40 miles of trails for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails range from easy walks, such as the paved Kingfisher Trail, to more challenging hikes, such as the East Summit Trail, which takes you to the top of Pinnacle Mountain. Longer trails that stretch for 3 or more miles are also available. There are two mountain biking trails: one for beginner riders and one for advanced riders. If you'd rather float your way through the park, check out the Little Maumelle Water Trail. (Note: You can only experience this river trip on a guided tour in the spring or fall.)

In addition to strenuous outdoor fun, visitors can take it easy at the on-site picnic area that features restrooms, a playground and a vending machine. It is also the start of a few trailheads as well as the site of the park's boat launch. Travelers can also check out the visitor center that has permanent exhibits about the park's wildlife and ecology, as well as restrooms, a gift shop and a wildlife viewing area. An arboretum and garden are also on-site for visitor enjoyment.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Clinton Presidential Center Clinton Presidential Center

The Clinton Presidential Center is an educational complex named for and devoted to former President Bill Clinton. Here, visitors will find a 20,000-square-foot museum that exhibits different aspects of Clinton's administration – everything from his presidential campaign to the Clinton family's life in the White House – as well as replicas of the White House Cabinet Room and the Oval Office. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library, which houses presidential documents, is also located on-site. You can conclude your visit with a trip to the museum gift shop and refuel at the on-site restaurant, 42 Bar and Table.

Previous museumgoers enjoyed their trips. They said the museum has a good layout and provides a thoughtful overview of the Clinton administration. Others were somewhat disappointed, saying that the presidential library "pales in comparison to other presidential libraries" in the country.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Riverfront Park Riverfront Park free

Located in the River Market district and spanning 11 blocks is Riverfront Park, a 33-acre mecca of outdoor activity in the heart of the city. The park features a splash park for children; La Petite Roche Plaza, which showcases the "little rock" from which the city got its name from French explorers; an amphitheater; and a sculpture garden with more than 80 pieces of art. Nature lovers can rejoice, too. Riverfront Park is also home to both the William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands and the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center.

Reviewers say the park is a must-do activity and call it a great place to snap some photos. Many also enjoyed the myriad of activities available and appreciated the trails for some outdoor exercise.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

River Market District River Market District free

Travelers looking for a bustling atmosphere should head to the trendy River Market district. This section of downtown features plenty of amenities, from Little Rock's top attractions like the Clinton Presidential Center to parks and playgrounds for children to shopping. Visitors can refuel at the Ottenheimer Market Hall, which features 15 shops selling everything from coffee to sushi to burgers. This section of town is also home to numerous events, including live music performances and the seasonal farmers market.

While River Market is a great daytime spot, don't discount it for your evening activities. There are several clubs and bars in this area to explore. It's also home to the River Market Entertainment District, which allows visitors to purchase alcoholic beverages and enjoy them within the confines of the district. This means that you can purchase a beer at one spot then take it with you to a public area like the Galleries at Library Square and the River Market Pavilions. Note that if you want to participate, you need an official RMED wristband as well as an RMED cup. You can find a full list of participating businesses, program rules and a map of the RMED here .

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Heifer International Heifer International free

Heifer International is a global organization dedicated to ending world hunger and poverty. The nonprofit seeks to empower and train people to become farmers, ranchers and business owners to create sustainable economies, secure food and protect the environment. Heifer also places a focus on empowering women in the process.

Visitors can stop by Heifer's headquarters in Little Rock, which houses a hands-on museum, to learn more about Heifer's mission. There's also a 3-acre working farm that has an aquaponics space, greenhouses, gardens and animal ambassadors like alpacas and goats. While you're welcome to visit on your own, there are also more structured experiences, such as tours and learning programs. When you're done exploring, stop by the on-site cafe or the gift shop to purchase fair-trade wares.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Arkansas State Capitol Arkansas State Capitol free

In 1911, the General Assembly convened for its first session in the near-complete Arkansas State Capitol. It would be another four years before the neoclassical structure would be completed. Totaling 247,000 square feet, the stately building features marble walls and floors, a limestone exterior and a cupola covered in gold leaf.

During a visit, travelers can peruse exhibits that detail the capitol's lengthy building process, Arkansas' history in the civil rights movement and the state's role in wartime efforts. Visitors can also book a free guided tour of the building or take a self-guided tour using one of the pamphlets available at the on-site visitor center. Be sure to wander the surrounding gardens as well, which feature more than 50 varieties of roses and house a monument to the Little Rock Nine . For an extra treat, time your capitol visit to coincide with a legislative session so you can watch lawmakers at work.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Rock Town Distillery Rock Town Distillery

Little Rock's history is even evident in its local drinks. Rock Town Distillery is the first legal distillery in Arkansas since Prohibition. It was founded in 2010 and ships its liquor nationwide as well as to the U.K. and Canada. The distillery crafts a variety of liquors, including vodka, bourbon, whiskey, rum and gin from ingredients grown by local farmers. It also creates its own moonshine. Visitors can taste the liquors at the on-site bar and sample locally made wine and beer.

Rock Town Distillery also offers behind-the-scenes tours of its facility where visitors can learn how grains become their favorite libations. It also offers cocktail-making classes.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Museum of Discovery Museum of Discovery

Founded in 1927 and reimagined in 2012, the Museum of Discovery has long been the place in Little Rock for patrons to learn about the sciences. Permanent exhibits include "Earth Journeys," which explores Arkansas' weather patterns and its native fauna; "Amazing You," which explains how our bodies function; and "Tinkering Studio," where patrons can build and play with all kinds of materials. Visitors can also enjoy the Tornado Alley Theater, which explores the devastation of the 1999 tornado that ripped through Little Rock, and the Tesla Theater, which houses a Tesla coil that produces a high frequency of plasma (or lightning) that can be manipulated to play songs.

Families raved about the museum, saying it's the perfect place to take kids on a rainy day. They also encouraged future patrons to make time to see the Tesla coil demonstration.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Historic Arkansas Museum Historic Arkansas Museum free

Unlike other museums that just have artifacts on display, the Historic Arkansas Museum has both exhibits with local artifacts as well as historic buildings. The facility has several antebellum homes that have been restored as well as the Hinderliter Grog Shop, the city's oldest structure that dates back to the 1820s. Other buildings include a cabin where enslaved peoples used to live, a blacksmith shop and a carriage house. Throughout the grounds, you'll be treated to the museum's Living History program, in which actors and actresses portray people who used to live in Arkansas' frontier times and provide demonstrations of different tasks.

Inside the museum center, visitors will find numerous permanent and temporary exhibits. Permanent displays include "We Walk in Two Worlds," which describes the lives of native Caddo, Osage and Quapaw Indian tribes, and the "Knife Gallery," which tells visitors about the history of the bowie knife, which was invented in Arkansas. Temporary exhibits share everything from art to photographs to metallic items.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Little Rock Zoo Little Rock Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo opened in 1926 with just two residents: a timber wolf and a bear. In the ensuing years, the zoo has grown to incorporate more than 700 animals and multiple habitats to keep those critters happy and healthy. Visitors can see and learn about sloths, monkeys, zebras and reptiles among other critters. Behind-the-scenes tours as well as education programs are also offered to provide further information about the zoo's animals and how to conserve nature. There's even a train and carousel (though both cost $3 per person to ride). The zoo also hosts several events throughout the year such as Wild Wines, an annual food, wine and music event held at the zoo.

Previous travelers said that the zoo was worth visiting and is a great activity for the kids. However, many caution future patrons that the zoo is undergoing a renovation, so certain exhibits may be closed and the animals may not be out and about.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Big Dam Bridge Big Dam Bridge free

A bridge may not seem like an exciting activity, but hear us out. Little Rock's Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America. It stretches nearly 4,300 feet across the Arkansas River. The bridge connects a series of walking and biking trails in Little Rock and its neighboring city, North Little Rock. It's also the namesake of the Big Dam Bridge 100 , Arkansas' largest cycling tour. From atop the bridge, you'll see beautiful views of the structure itself as well as the cityscape and the river. If you stop by at night, you may be treated to the bridge lit up in brilliant colors.

Past visitors had nothing but positive things to say about the bridge. They recommended taking extra time to walk the paths leading up to the bridge, especially on a nice day.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Esse Purse Museum Esse Purse Museum

This museum wins top marks from travelers for its intriguing exhibits and extensive collection of handbags despite the museum's small footprint. At the Esse Purse Museum, visitors can explore the evolution of purses throughout the 20th century along with the ever-changing nature of what women carried inside their bags. The exhibit also explores the women's rights movement and how women's position in society changed throughout history. In addition to this permanent exhibit, Esse puts on temporary displays that it changes about four times per year. Past exhibits have detailed wedding dress designs, historical objects associated with the Girl Scouts, hats and the style of the 1970s. There is also an on-site store where visitors can purchase handbags, accessories and souvenirs.

The Esse Purse Museum is currently operating on a limited schedule due to COVID-19. It is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and is open by appointment only Sunday and Monday. Tickets cost $10 per person and $8 for students, seniors and members of the military. Children age 6 and younger visit for free. The museum is located downtown and is a 5-minute walk south of Rock Town Distillery . To learn more about the museum, or shop its purse selection online, visit its website .

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Old State House Museum Old State House Museum free

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little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Arkansas River Trail Arkansas River Trail free

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Robinson Center Robinson Center

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

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little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Union Pacific Steam Schedule

Keep safety top of mind.

  • Stay back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks. This includes drones.
  • Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right of way are private property -  do not trespass.
  • Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive - ALWAYS expect a train .
  • Be a safe and considerate driver - do not pace the train .
  • Be Aware of the Environment : While we strive to provide access to all guests, Big Boy is positioned in a working rail environment with uneven walking surfaces that may create difficulty for accessibility.

Read more safety tips

Heartland of America Tour

Big Boy No. 4014 will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October. No. 4014 will be on display in the following locations:  

  • Sunday, Sept. 8: Rochelle, Illinois (Chicago metro area)
  • Sunday, Oct. 6: Houston, Texas
  • Thursday/Friday, Oct. 10-11: Fort Worth, Texas

Note: All schedule times and locations are subject to change. Please check back periodically for updates and be aware there is no public access to the Big Boy outside these listed stops. Overnight stops are closed to the public unless otherwise noted; afternoon arrival times are not available. Questions about the route? Check out our Steam Locomotive Tracking map , which has the planned route highlighted.

Heartland of America 2024 Big Boy Tour Route Map | S

You can also view the route on our interactive Steam Location Tracking map.

Key Definitions 

On Display Admission to display days are free (no tickets required), though parking at surrounding parking facilities may involve a charge. These are the best times to see the Big Boy.

Viewing Only Locations where fans can safely view the Big Boy. In some cases, the Big Boy will be displayed behind a fence or other perimeter. 

Passenger Excursion  Opportunities to ride are rare, but when they are available as a fundraiser for charitable groups, they are listed on this schedule. Any passenger excursion tickets are sold by outside entities -- not Union Pacific -- and are not available on the day of the excursion.  There will not be a passenger excursion during the Heartland of America tour, though there will be an exciting opportunity to ride in the Big Boy's cab! As part of the tour, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum will be auctioning off four cab rides on Big Boy No. 4014, with proceeds going to two worthy causes: the Union Pacific Museum Association and Union Pacific’s Friend-to-Friend Network, a nonprofit that benefits railroad families in times of need, such as medical or natural disaster hardships. The auction starts Monday, Aug. 12 and ends Monday, Aug. 19. Details can be found at https://rarauctions.com/upm .

Overnight Stops Locations where the Big Boy stops overnight are closed to the public due to safety and security reasons, unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Non-employees who access these locations without permission will be treated as trespassers. Afternoon arrival times are not available.

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Westward Bound Tour

Earlier this summer, Union Pacific's legendary Big Boy No. 4014  toured in five states during its 2024 Westward Bound Tour from Wyoming to California. In addition, this mighty steam locomotive was on public display for two days each in Roseville, California and Ogden, Utah. During the tour, the Union Pacific Museum  hosted a special, sold-out passenger trip from Roseville to Sparks, Nevada. The unique experience was the annual gala fundraiser for the nonprofit organization and provided a rare opportunity to travel on this historic heritage equipment. In all, Big Boy No. 4014 will visit 14 of the 23 states Union Pacific serves in 2024.

Union Pacific Steam Club

To be notified when news about Union Pacific's legendary steam program becomes available, join the Official Union Pacific Steam Club at http://UP.com/SteamClub !  Steam club members always get notified first when news about Union Pacific's steam program is released!

Future Schedules

Last fall, we had anticipated including Boise, Idaho, and Portland, Oregon on the Westward Bound tour. As planning continued, we determined that the network capacity on our northern corridor could not accommodate Big Boy No. 4014 along with anticipated demand on a single track. Our goal is to share the Big Boy with as many rail fans as possible across our network, and we look forward to seeing everyone track side – 25 feet back – this fall.

Section Menu

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10 Daytrips and Outings in Little Rock

November 18, 2021

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Bernard de la Harpe, a Frenchman leading an exploration expedition up the Arkansas River, first discovered the town now called Little Rock. He noted a change in the terrain as he came to a spot in the river and called it “La Petite Roche.” Quapaw Indians initially inhabited these lands that transferred “ownership” through the Louisiana Purchase.

As community establishment continued, Arkansas became known for its river access and easy crossing spot into the new territory. The first steamboat arrived in 1822, and Little Rock gained a reputation as an economic center of Arkansas. Over time Little Rock grew by annexing smaller communities around it and continues expanding influence through innovation, economic development and cultural significance.

When was the last time you took a play day in Little Rock? It might just be time to update your Arkansas Bucket List with some of the items on this list!

Daytrips in Little Rock

Little rock zoo.

1 Zoo Drive | website Special Features: Over the Jumps Carousel , Penguin Point, Arkansas Heritage Farm, Cafe Africa, train ride This location is the only zoo in the state and is excellent for families with small children with top animal picks like bears, rhinos, tigers, lions, cheetahs and gorillas. The zoo is easy to meander for family and very self-paced for a few hours of enjoyment.

MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

503 E. Ninth Street | website Special Features : history of the building, collection of unpublished WWII photos, military weapons, vehicles and uniforms.

Located at the Little Rock Arsenal and named for General Douglas MacArthur, born in the barracks in the late 1800s. Exhibits focus on women in the military, Medal of Honor recipients, a unique photographic story of the Vietnam conflict and political cartooning. The museum is free and includes a self-guided audio tour .

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

1200 President Clinton Ave. | website Special Features: replica Oval Office and Cabinet Room, interactive timeline, inauguration gown, Presidential china, Clinton School of Public Service

While Bill Clinton, the 42nd U.S. President, is often a controversial figure, his political roles as Governor and then President drew much attention for Arkansas. His library overlooks the Arkansas River and is a unique experience to view national artifacts of our country’s heritage.

little rock tours schedule of trips for 2022 itinerary

Museum of Discovery

500 President Clinton Ave. | website Special Features: 90 interactive experiences including Tesla coil, Lego car, heart dissection, bubbles, caves, slime

Founded in 1927, this museum stop is delightful for families with children. A premier science and technology learning space, they are driven by a mission to “mission to ignite and fuel a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts and math through dynamic, interactive experiences.”

Mosaic Templars Building Little Rock

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

501 W Ninth Street | website Special Features: history of the fraternal organization, integration experiences and African American entrepreneurs

The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center displays the African-American history of Arkansas through a heritage preservation museum. Recently, they hosted a unique The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibit , shared by the Smithsonian Institution, highlighting the cultural significance of helping black motorists navigate the country with safety and dignity. The book highlighted many of the buildings around the Cultural Center as havens for citizens during the Jim Crow era.

Central High School Little Rock

Central High National Historic Site

2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Drive | website Special Features: National Park headquarters, Little Rock High School steps, Elizabeth Eckford bus bench, Magnolia Mobil Gas Station and the commemorative gardens

Located on the grounds of an active high school, these hallowed steps were an integral part of school desegregation in 1957. The museum and tour tell the story of the sacrifice and struggle of the Little Rock Nine on September 4, 1957, and the days that followed.

Old State House Museum

Old State House Museum and Historic Arkansas Museum

200 and 300 W Markham Street | website Special Features: The museum is free and tells the story of Arkansas from its statehood to the present day.

The Old State House Museum, located inside the original state capitol building built in 1883, stands as the oldest state building west of the Mississippi River. Just down the road, visitors can experience the heritage of Arkansas as she became a state through the Historic Arkansas Museum, a city block depicting the life of Indigenous Arkansans, early craftwork and an 1850s farmstead.

Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Little Rock

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

11901 Pinnacle Valley Road | website Special Features: 22 miles of foot trails, 14 challenging bike trails, Trail of Tears path, and a hike on the 1.5-mile trail to the top

Minutes away from downtown office buildings, Pinnacle Mountain stands as a centerpiece to the diverse terrain of the Natural State. Sunrise at Pinnacle is an Arkansas Bucket List for many.

Heifer in Little Rock

Heifer Village & Urban Farm

1 World Ave. | website Special Features: interactive displays where children and adults can learn more about the global impact of Heifer’s projects

The Village is a unique museum experience within the World Headquarters of Heifer International, focusing on consumption, sustainability through the nearby wetland environment, green spaces and green energy construction. An on-site restaurant brings a unique farm-to-table menu where produce and products come from the Urban Farm setting behind the Village.

Riverfront Park Little Rock

Riverfront Park, Arkansas River Trail , Two Rivers Park

400 President Clinton Ave. | website Special Features: sculpture garden , bike trails, Civil War markers, splash pad and Nature Center

Getting outside in the winter months is hard, but three parks in the heart of the city provide easy access to trails and outdoor experiences along the Arkansas River . The parks provide access to walking trails and adventurous bike paths, as well as kayak tours .

Where are your favorite places to explore in “The Rock?”

Photos courtesy of Arkansas Parks & Tourism

Meet the author.

Learn more about Keisha Pittman McKinney .

A little about Keisha Pittman McKinney .

Keisha (Pittman) McKinney lives in Northwest Arkansas with her chicken man and break-dancing son. Keisha is passionate about connecting people and building community, seeking solutions to the everyday big and small things, and encouraging others through the mundane, hard, and typical that life often brings. She put her communications background to work as a former Non-profit Executive Director, college recruiter and fundraiser, small business trainer, and Digital Media Director at a large church in Northwest Arkansas. Now, she is using those experiences through McKinney Media Solutions and her blog @bigpittstop, which includes daily adventures, cooking escapades, #bigsisterchats, the social justice cases on her heart, and all that she is learning as a #boymom! Keisha loves to feed birds, read the stack on her nightstand, do dollar store crafts, cook recipes from her Pinterest boards, and chase everyday adventures on her Arkansas bucket list.

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Adventures of A+K

A Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary (Where to stay, things to do, & more!)

Last updated on June 10th, 2024

This weekend in Little Rock guide is full of the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas if you only have two days, including food, historical sights, hikes, and more! With tons of nature, great local restaurants and businesses, and a less busy feel, Arkansas is truly a hidden gem in the United States. We spent 10 days during the fall of 2020 exploring as much of the state as we could. And we are already dying to go back!  We spent the first part of our time in the state mountain biking and exploring Bentonville , hiking the Goat Trail to Big Bluff in the Buffalo National River, and visiting the famous Whitaker Point in the Ozark Mountains, before venturing southeast to central Arkansas to explore Little Rock.

Pinnacle Mountain | Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock wasn’t part of our original plan when exploring Arkansas. But after chatting with one of our patrons , Jonathan, who lives in the area, we learned about all of the fun and outdoorsy things to do in Little Rock and decided to add it to the list on our way back to Texas. While we only had about 48 hours in the city, and 24 of them were spent working, we had a great time checking out the city’s history, going for an incredible hike, and eating delicious local foods ( watch our experience !). And we’re excited to share some of our top tips and favorite spots from our visit to help you plan your own weekend in Little Rock. Including when to visit, where to stay, the best places to eat, must-visit activities, and more!

About Little Rock, Arkansas

When to visit little rock, arkansas, getting to little rock, arkansas, getting around little rock, arkansas, where to stay in little rock, arkansas, weekend in little rock itinerary, if you have extra time….

Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Despite its name, Little Rock is the largest city in the state of Arkansas, as well as the state’s capital. But similar to its name, the city is actually named after an actual little rock. In the 1700s, a French Explorer named Jean-Baptiste Bénard de la Harpe, who was leading a party of travelers, noted a small rock formation on the Arkansas River and referred to it as “La Petite Roche”, which means “the little rock”, and the name stuck around once the area was settled. The city is now home to just under 200,000 residents, giving it a smaller city feel. And is home to museums, a market, waterfront activities and tons of parks. There’s cool little neighborhoods, historical sights, and so much more!

Little Rock Weather Chart

Little Rock is a great place to visit year-round! The winters are mild, with the occasional snowfall (the average is 4 inches per year), making it still bearable to be outdoors. However, if you do get too cold, there are some great indoor activities too! The spring and fall temperatures are about as perfect as you can get, in our opinion. With highs in the 60s-80s, there is no better time to explore all of the beautiful nature near the city. We visited Little Rock in mid-November and the weather was great, although a little cloudy. The highs were in the 60s-70s and the lows were in the 40s, making it super nice to walk around! The summers can be hot, with highs in the 90s, but with the Arkansas River, as well as nearby lakes, you can find lots of spots to get on the water to kayak or boat!

Little Rock is located right in the center of Arkansas and is close to many other major cities in the United States. Making it pretty easy to get to no matter your mode of transportation.

Flying to Little Rock

If you plan to fly to Little Rock, then the city is home to the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) . Which is located just minutes east of downtown Little Rock. Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United, and Frontier all fly in and out of LIT. And there are nonstop flights from Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver , Houston, Las Vegas , Chicago , Phoenix, Orlando , and St. Louis.

Driving to Little Rock

Driving to Little Rock instead? Here is how far the city is from nearby destinations:

  • Memphis, Tennessee: 2 hours, 137 miles
  • Fort Smith, Arkansas: 2 hours 15 minutes, 160 miles
  • Fayetteville, Arkansas: 2 hours 45 minutes, 193 miles
  • Shreveport, Louisiana : 3 hours, 213 miles
  • Tulsa, Oklahoma: 4 hours, 275 miles
  • Dallas, Texas: 4.5 hours, 319 miles
  • Nashville, Tennessee: 5 hours, 349 miles
  • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: 5 hours, 340 miles
  • St. Louis, Missouri: 5.5 hours, 347 miles

Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

During our time in Little Rock we did a combination of walking and driving to get around the city. The downtown area of Little Rock is very walkable and so are some of the neighborhoods around the city. However, to get to some of the top things to do in Little Rock, you will have to either drive, take an Uber or Lyft, or public transportation.  Despite Little Rock’s smaller city feel, it actually has a pretty decent public transportation system, especially in the downtown area. There are multiple bus routes, as well as a street car that takes you from downtown Little Rock to North Little Rock. You can see the routes and schedule here ! For Uber and Lyft, we’d highly recommend looking at their fare estimator tools ( Uber , Lyft ) to see how much you’d expect to spend when getting around town. While it would likely be affordable around town, it may get pricey to visit some of the spots outside of the downtown and main city area. If you want the ultimate freedom getting around, then we highly suggest renting a car (if you’re not driving). Rental car prices can be as low as $30/day in Little Rock, which is worth the flexibility of being able to explore on your own schedule. We had no issues parking our van (which is longer than a regular vehicle) downtown or in the neighborhoods surrounding downtown!

Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

During our visit to Little Rock, we stayed in our self-converted Sprinter van in various Cracker Barrel parking lots around town (the glamorous side of van life 😉), but we’ll assume you’re not traveling in a van and need something a bit more traditional when it comes to lodging. Below are some of our top suggestions of vacation rentals (our preferred way to stay when not in our van!) and hotels. All convenient to the things to do in this Little Rock guide and located in safe areas. One thing that we feel is important to note: After our visit, we found out that Little Rock has a higher crime rate than other cities its size. However, we never felt unsafe while in Little Rock and were actually surprised to hear of this stat. While you should always be careful and alert wherever you are, and things can happen anywhere, the places we are recommending to stay, as well as our suggestions of things to do in Little Rock are totally safe.

Vacation Rentals

If you want to get a true taste of Little Rock, we highly recommend booking a vacation rental! You’ll be able to stay in some of the best neighborhoods in town. Where hotels usually aren’t as common, and get a more local experience!

  • Cozy One Bedroom Apartment : A nice apartment located close to SoMa (South Main), a cool little neighborhood with one of our new favorite ice cream shops!
  • Historic Home Near Downtown : An incredibly charming 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom historic home in SoMa.
  • Charming Cottage Home : A 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom house located in the hip SoMa neighborhood.
  • Midtown Loft : This 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment is located in the historic Hillcrest neighborhood.
  • Remodeled 3 Bedroom: A 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home int he heart of Hillcrest, near the zoo!
  • Charming Townhome in Argentina : A beautiful 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom house in the Argenta Arts District, just north of downtown.

The majority of the hotels that are convenient to the best things to do in Little Rock are located downtown. But we are including one that is outside of the main city area as well!

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown
  • Hilton Garden Inn Downtown
  • Homewood Suites Downtown
  • The Capital Hotel
  • The Burgundy by Hilton (Located west of town)

Curious how we get FREE flights and hotels? Check out our list of our favorite travel cards that have saved us thousands of dollars!

This weekend in Little Rock itinerary is filled with the best things to do in Little Rock, as well as delicious places to eat, if you only have two days to explore! Looking for even more ideas? Check out the “if you have extra time” section for extra ideas of things to do in Little Rock!

Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

Your first day in Little Rock will be spent exploring the downtown area, including the riverfront, must-eat spots, historical sights, and more!

  • Kick off your time in little rock with coffee at Fidel & Co ! This shop is in East Village, which is close to the waterfront and has a really cool vibe. As well as some delicious latte options!  
  • Grab breakfast @ The Corner in downtown Little Rock! This spot was so busy when we walked by it. And came very highly recommended to us by a handful of locals. (Note: Closed on Mondays)  
  • Walk around downtown Little Rock and visit the River Market . During our visit the River Market was closed due to COVID-19. But they typically have a farmers market on Saturdays in the summer, as well as vendors open during the week.  
  • Continue to explore the downtown Little Rock Area and its riverfront trails and bridges. We recommend walking on Junction Bridge , taking the trail over to the William E. Clark Presidential Park Wetlands , seeing the cool sculptures along the river, and snapping a photo of the “Greetings from Little Rock” frame that sits in front of the Junction Bridge.  
  • Try an Arkansas speciality for lunch: fried catfish! If you Google “iconic Arkansas food,” fried catfish is on about every list. And it’s so dang good! The batter is so crispy, while the fish is so hot and tender. Even Kathryn, who doesn’t really love fish, loved it! We suggest grabbing your fried catfish (and southern sides to go with it!) at Soul Fish Cafe or Flying Fish . Both of which are downtown. Fun fact: Flying Fish has a wall full of singing Billy the Bass fish that people have given to the restaurant.  
  • Visit the historic Little Rock Central High School . This school played a significant role in the desegregation of educational institutions in the United States in the 1950s with the Little Rock Nine. In 1954 Brown vs. Board of Education declared that state laws segregating schools were unconstitutional.  And in 1957, nine black students, called the Little Rock Nine, were selected to attend Little Rock Central High School, an all white school.  Their attendance was met with great challenges, as they battled the governor trying to prevent them from entering the school. As well as an uproar from the community and horrible treatment from other students. However, despite the difficulty, the only senior student among the Little Rock Nine, Ernest Green, graduated from Central High that year. And the entire Little Rock Nine have been widely recognized for their role in helping integrate schools nationally. We suggest watching Eyes on the Prize to learn even more about the Little Rock Nine. Today, the school is now the only operating high school in the US to be designated a National Historic Site. They have a great little museum that you can visit at the Visitors Center from 9 AM-4:30 PM every day. You can also go on guided tours at 9 AM and 1 PM every day (make sure to reserve in advance!). You can learn more about the history of the school and the Little Rock Nine. Pre-COVID, they would take you inside of the school as well!  
  • Check out the Arkansas State Capitol , which is said to have one of the prettiest capitol grounds in the country! The building is actually a replica of the US Capitol and they have used it in movies as a substitute for the US Capitol. When visiting the capitol, we suggest walking the grounds, seeing the statues of the Little Rock Nine (located on the north side of the building), and going inside the building. The capitol is open from 7 AM to 5 PM during the week and 10 AM-3 PM on the weekend. The guided tours are unfortunately only available during the week, but you can do a self-guided tour on the weekends!  
  • Have dinner at Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling (closed Sundays). Which is a popular spot for dumplings, noodles, and steamed buns. This is a counter-serve spot, which is our favorite, but has a nice interior and great, authentic food!  
  • If you’re not ready for the day to end yet, go out for drinks at Lost Forty Brewing or Rock Town Distillery !

Pinnacle Mountain | Weekend in Little Rock, Arkansas Itinerary | Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas

For your second day in Little Rock, you’ll venture outside of the main downtown area to a couple different neighborhoods, as well as experience some of the great nature nearby!

  • Start the day with coffee and breakfast at Mugs Cafe in the Argenta Arts District, just north of downtown. This is a cool coffee shop with lots of seating and a variety of breakfast options!  
  • Walk around Argenta Arts District , a really cool neighborhood home to murals, sculptures, cute buildings, art studios, and more. When we visited, we even got to see an artist painting a dog mural (pictured above)!  
  • Venture even more north of Little Rock to The Old Mill , which is an 1880’s-style water mill that. It is famous for being in the opening scene of “Gone with the Wind!” It’s located in the beautiful T.R. Pugh Memorial Park with sculptures and a short walking loop.  
  • Walk across the Big Dam Bridge . Which is the longest pedestrian and bike bridge in the United States at 4,226 feet long. It is on top of the Murray Dam, which is located on the Arkansas River. This is a super popular local spot to walk, run, and bike, and has some great views!  
  • After working up a bit of an appetite, head to Big Orange for lunch ! This local burger spot is known for having gourmet and unique burgers and delicious fries.  
  • Spend the rest of the afternoon at Pinnacle Mountain State Park ! This was one of our favorite things to do in Little Rock. And is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. While you’re here, make sure to hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain. There are two ways to access the summit, via the West Summit Trail or the East Summit Trail . The West Summit Trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip and 725 ft of elevation gain. While the East Summit Trail is 1.4 miles roundtrip and 698 ft of elevation gain. The biggest difference between the two is that the West Summit is more like rocky stairs to the top and the East Summit is basically all rock scrambling to the top. We did the West Summit and while it wasn’t hard necessarily, the ground was covered in fallen leaves, which made the trail slick, and the rocks themselves were slick, so we had to be careful going up and down to not slip and fall. The views at the top of the summit are incredible! You have 360 degree views of the mountains, city (off in the distance), and Lake Maumelle. It was one of the best rewards vs. effort hikes we have ever done! Next time we want to take the East Summit Trail to the top and then the West Summit Trail down. There is a base trail that connects the two trailheads, which makes it easy to do both trails and get to and from your car. If you have more time after your hike, another hike to check out in the park is the Rocky Valley Trail/East Quarry Spur . Which is 2.9 miles and 505 ft of elevation gain. This trail features a lake, water views, mountain views, and more!  Something very important to know is that the park gates close one hour after sunset. So if you do a sunset hike like us, make sure to hustle down. We heard some alarms going off as we descended. Which we assume were the park’s way of saying “make your way down now!”  
  • After hiking, freshen up and grab dinner at The Root Cafe (closed Mondays). Which is located in one of our favorite areas of Little Rock, SoMa (South Main). This spot uses local ingredients and has an awesome menu with something for everyone. Including those with dietary restrictions and vegans!  
  • End your time in Little Rock in the best possible way. With ice cream at Loblolly Creamery (right across from The Root Cafe)! Holy moly, this is one of the best ice cream shops we have been to in the country! The ice cream flavors are unique, oh so creamy, and full of chunky goodness. And the inside of the shop is super colorful and fun!

Clinton Library

  • The Pantry Restaurant
  • Cathead’s Diner
  • The Fold: Botanas & Bar
  • The Fried Pie Shop
  • Mylo Coffee
  • Blue Sail Coffee
  • River City Coffee
  • Nexus Coffee and Creative
  • Visit the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum . While we didn’t have the chance to visit this library and museum, we did walk by the outside and the building is really cool! It costs $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for kids between 6-17 years old to enter and has a variety of displays to check out. Note: the museum is currently closed due to COVID
  • Check out the Heifer Village & Urban Farm , which is a really neat, FREE, interactive museum, which educates on issues around the world, such as hunger and poverty, and also has a farm with alpacas, sheep, goats, and more! Note: currently closed due to COVID
  • Wander around the historic Hillcrest neighborhood , which is located northwest of downtown.
  • Walk or bike at Two Rivers Park , which connects to other trails in the city, like the Big Dam Bridge!
  • Rent kayaks and get on the water!
  • Visit the Museum of Discovery , which is ranked as one of the top science museums in the US! It costs $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and kids 12 and younger. 
  • Check out the Historic Arkansas Museum , which is a really cool and FREE museum in downtown Little Rock. It features the oldest home in Little Rock and pre-Civil War buildings. Another free museum to visit is the Old State House Museum , which is the original Arkansas state capitol building.

Looking for more things to do in Arkansas? Check out our other guides:

  • Hiking the Whitaker Point Trail to Hawksbill Crag in Arkansas
  • Things to do in Hot Springs National Park
  • Exploring Bentonville, Arkansas
  • Hiking the Goat Trail to Big Bluff

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1. When is the final payment due?

Once your deposit is paid, the final payment for is due 45 days prior to departure. You must call us at 501-868-7287 to make that payment by phone, as we are unable to receive final payments on our website. It's also a great time for you to ask any questions about your tour. If we do not hear from you when payment is due, someone from our office will call you as a friendly reminder that your final balance is due.

2. When will I receive my itinerary?

You will receive your final travel documents about 3–4 weeks before departure. This will include your tour itinerary as well as your departure time and location with directions. We will also add important information about your tours, such as how to pack, what to bring on the motorcoach, and other tips.

3. What are your cancellation and refund policies?

We have dedicated an entire page to our tour terms and conditions, which detail our refund policy. Please click here to browse our terms and conditions page.

4. Is there a dress code?

Our tours are mostly casual and comfortable. Occasionally, we will visit some resorts or attractions that require dressier attire. These can include theaters and cruises, which have a dress-up night. You will get dress code information in your more detailed itinerary.

5. What if I become ill and cannot travel? Do you offer travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is available on every departure. We recommend you consider this optional protection. For your convenience, our company offers travel insurance through Travelex Insurance Services. For more information about the available plans or to enroll call 1-800-228-9792 with location # 04-0012. To be eligible for the pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver, the Travel Select plan must be purchased within 15 days of your initial trip payment. The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc CA Agency License #0D10209. Travel Insurance is underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. V94

6. I have some special dietary restrictions. Is this a problem?

If you have mild dietary restrictions or are a vegetarian, you must notify our office at the time of registration or through email. Advance notification about our passengers' special needs is essential to every tour.

7. Do I get the same seat on the bus every day?

Bus seating is unassigned and on a first-come basis. It may start over every day, at the discretion of the tour director. So, if you are in the front seat the first day, it doesn't mean you will get that same seat every day of the tour. Occasionally, we will have limited reserved seats for passengers with special needs and limited mobility. Please understand we do our best to accommodate all passenger requests and needs. The motorcoach holds 56 passengers—all of which will arrive at our destination simultaneously and enjoy the same experiences.

8. What can I expect on the motorcoach?

Modern motorcoach travel is a vastly different experience than what you expect. Your pleasure, comfort, and safety are of utmost importance to us. Onboard amenities include plush seating, audio and video systems, climate control, a restroom, WiFi, and electrical outlets for your electronic devices. Your tour director usually has complimentary bottles of water and refreshments and offers onboard entertainment with videos and even fun games along the way where you can even win a prize or two! Additionally, the motorcoach will make "stretch" stops along the way on long travel days.

9. How important is punctuality?

No matter where you travel, there is a tremendous amount to see and do—and a limited time in which to cover it! For that reason, most of our itineraries are packed with activities. Everyone must prioritize punctuality, especially for wake-up calls, sightseeing tours, etc. It takes just one person showing up late to throw off a whole day's schedule.

10. Is driver and tour guide gratuity included?

We are dedicated to providing outrageous hospitality in the months before your trip, throughout the journey, and until the motorcoach pulls back into Little Rock. Our drivers and tour guides work hard to ensure you have an outstanding trip! Gratuity for our drivers and escorts is not included in tour pricing. The industry standard is $3-5 per person per day for the escort and driver individually. However, keep in mind that gratuity is always at the passenger's discretion.

11. What are your preventative measures for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases?

Committed to keeping our customers safe, we have established new cleaning and disinfecting protocols for our vehicles. Our cleaning team cleans, disinfects, and sanitizes our coaches after every use. We also use fogging machines as another layer of protection, and our drivers help sanitize surfaces with disinfectant wipes at the end of each day. We will supply hand sanitizer on each trip.

12. Where do your tours depart from?

Most tours depart from our tour office, located at 3100 Interstate 30, Suite 2, Little Rock, AR 72206. If we are traveling near your city along the route and are further out from Little Rock, it is not unusual for us to offer pick-ups in Conway, Fort Smith, Bentonville, or West Memphis, if it is directly on the route we are traveling. For example, if we are traveling west toward the Grand Canyon, we can do a pick-up from Fort Smith. Each pick-up location offers free parking in a dedicated parking area.

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  1. Little Rock Tours and Travel

    Experience, Discover, and Have Fun With Our Award-Winning Tour Company in Arkansas. Little Rock Tours is a national award-winning sightseeing tour company in Arkansas. We offer tours by motorcoach and even cruises. Travel with us on one of our tours and see why we are the best of the best!

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    To learn more about how our knowledgeable and experienced sales staff can make planning your group tour visit to Little Rock a dream come true, contact us. 101 S Spring Street | Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 376-4781 | [email protected]

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    This was one of our favorite things to do in Little Rock. And is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. While you're here, make sure to hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain. There are two ways to access the summit, via the West Summit Trail or the East Summit Trail. The West Summit Trail is 1.5 miles roundtrip and 725 ft of elevation ...

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  20. Little Rock Tours

    Most tours depart from our tour office, located at 3100 Interstate 30, Suite 2, Little Rock, AR 72206. If we are traveling near your city along the route and are further out from Little Rock, it is not unusual for us to offer pick-ups in Conway, Fort Smith, Bentonville, or West Memphis, if it is directly on the route we are traveling.

  21. Trip Plan Listing

    To add items to your trip, browse our website for attractions, events, places to stay and more. When you find things of interest, just click the "Save" button.Then, these items will be listed here and can be shared with friends via email or a URL link.