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17 Fun and Memorable Things to Do in Little Rock, AR

If you’re planning a trip to central Arkansas you won’t want to miss this list of fun things to do in Little Rock.

Things to Do in Little Rock

Whether you want to get outside, learn some history, or find something the whole family can do together, there are plenty of interesting places in Little Rock to explore.

Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas for everyone in your group.

Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas for Families with Kids

It can be hard keeping kids entertained but there are a lot of activities in Little Rock for families with kids to enjoy!

1. Take a Ride on the METRO Streetcar

The METRO Streetcar is a fun way to get around North Little Rock and downtown Little Rock. Hop on at one of the stops and see the sights as you enjoy the ride on an old-fashioned cable car.

The streetcar operates seven days a week and better yet- it’s free!

2. Visit the Little Rock Zoo

If you have an animal lover in your group, the Little Rock Zoo should definitely be on your list of things to do in Little Rock.

The zoo is home to many interesting animals like elephants, penguins, zebras, siamangs, reptiles, birds, and more!

Meerkats at the Little Rock Zoo

While you’re there, check out some of the other attractions a the zoo like the carousel, zoo train, and educational programs in the amphitheater.

3. Have some Fun at Funland Amusement Park

Funland is a small amusement park located in North Little Rock. Kids can have a ball riding all the fun rides like a Ferris wheel, giant slide, carousel, spinning space shuttles, and mini roller coaster.

4. Check out the Museum of Discovery

At the Museum of Discovery, visitors learn about science, technology, and engineering through interactive exhibits. The two-story museum has lots of things to touch, turn, push, pull, and play with.

With both permanent and temporary exhibits, there’s always something new and interesting to see. Kids will have so much fun they won’t even know they’re learning.

Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas for Nature Lovers

Outdoor enthusiasts don’t have to look hard to find things to do in Little Rock. The city has a lot of beautiful outdoor activities to enjoy.

5. Bike Across Big Dam Bridge

Big Dam Bridge is the longest bridge in America that was built specifically for pedestrians and bicycles.

Take a bike or walk the 4,226 feet across the bridge as you take in the views of the Arkansas river 90 feet below.

The bridge is situated above the Murray Lock and Dam, which is where it gets its name. The bridge is a great place to watch the sunset!

6. Take in the Scenery at Pinnacle Mountain State Park

If you want to spend some time in nature while you’re visiting Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain State Park is a great place to do it.

One of the Many Things to Do in Little Rock Is Visit Pinnacle Mountain State Park

The park has over 22 miles of trails for walking, hiking, and mountain biking. Hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain for incredible views, or take one of the paved trails for an easier walk.

7. Walk the Arkansas River Trail

The Arkansas River Trail is an 88-mile trail system that connects Little Rock and the surrounding areas. The trail goes beside dozens of parks and attractions making it a great way to see the city.

Start wherever you like and walk a little or a lot.

To see more of the trail, you can even take a bike. There’s a 15.6-mile loop from the Clinton Presidential Bridge to the Big Dam Bridge and back that’s perfect for a bike ride.

8. Wander the Bernice Garden

Located in downtown Little Rock, the Bernice Garden is a peaceful place to take a stroll and enjoy some time outside. Walk through the sculpture garden or spend some time relaxing under the canopy.

The garden hosts special events throughout the year including live concerts, private events, and more.

They have a farmer’s market every Sunday from April-November.

9. Go for a Stroll in Allsopp Park

Allsopp Park is a large park with many nature trails for walking and biking plus a playground, baseball fields, and a large pavilion. It’s a beautiful place to spend some time exploring.

If you want to spend some extra time at the park, bring a picnic to eat at one of the picnic tables.

Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas for History Lovers

If you enjoy learning about American history, there are several interesting places to visit in Little Rock.

10. Go to Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Central High School was full of controversy and racial tension during the late 1950s. Nine black teenagers known as the “Little Rock Rock Nine” were some of the first African American high school students to attend a desegregated public school.

Little Rock Central High School

There was so much turmoil that both the Army and the National Guard were called in to protect the kids at school.

Today you can visit the historic site to learn more about desegregation and the Civil Rights Movement. Spend some time in the visitor center or take a guided tour.

11. Explore the Clinton Presidential Center

The Clinton Presidential Center is a fascinating place to learn about the presidency of Arkansas native Bill Clinton.

The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits to explore. Step inside a full-size replica of the oval office or cabinet room. See artifacts on display from some of the policies the Clinton administration worked on, and learn about the state of the world during the time of Clinton’s presidency.

12. Visit the Historic Arkansas Museum

You’ll feel like you stepped back in time at the Historic Arkansas Museum. The museum includes an entire city block of historic buildings, the oldest of which dates back to the 1850s.

Take a self-guided tour to experience living history as you walk among the buildings. Before you go, spend some time checking out the exhibits in the large museum building.

Unique Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

If you’re looking for things to do in Little Rock that are off the beaten path, check out one of these activities!

13. ESSE Purse Museum

Learn about women’s history through the accessories they carried at the ESSE Purse Museum. With both temporary and permanent exhibits, the museum tells the story of art, fashion, and the life of women.

Check out the museum gift shop to browse unique handbags and other accessories.

14. Visit the Old Mill

The Old Mill is famous for being featured in the opening credits of Gone With the Wind.

Little Rock Old Mill

The Mill was built in 1931 to honor the memory of pioneers during frontier times in Arkansas. It was never actually used as a mill and was built intentionally to look abandoned. The building does include some artifacts from the 1800s that you can see on your visit.

It’s a beautiful place to walk around or stop for a photo.

Things to do in Little Rock, Arkansas for Foodies

After all that sightseeing you’re sure to work up an appetite. Visit some of these unique restaurants to fuel up for your next adventure in Little Rock.

15. Check out the Restaurants at River Market

In the heart of downtown, the River Market is one of the best places to go in Little Rock for shopping and dining. The market has a large selection of food vendors with flavors from all over the world including Thai, Irish, Mexican, and more.

River Market District

If you’re not sure what to try, get a little something from several different places and have your own progressive dinner.

16. Join the Liar’s Wall at Flying Fish Restaurant

The Flying Fish is a kitschy restaurant celebrating the traditional Fish Joint. They serve all kinds of tasty seafood like catfish, oysters, shrimp, and more.

To join the liar’s wall, all you have to do is bring in a picture of yourself with a special catch and lie about its weight. Have your picture posted on the wall and see what other huge fish people have caught.

The restaurant is a lot of fun for any seafood fan. Kids like it too! All of their kid’s meals are served in a boat.

The restaurant is located on President Clinton Avenue near Riverfront Park.

17. Enjoy Southern Fare at Table 28

If you’re looking for a more elevated dining experience, check out Table 28.

The food is modern American with a strong southern influence. Dishes are made with fresh, local produce for incredible flavor and quality. Everything is beautifully prepared from the appetizers all the way to dessert.

Southern Food

Try southern favorites like meatloaf, shrimp and grits, southern greens, and crispy pork jowl.

Wrapping Up the Best Things to Do in Little Rock, Arkansas

A trip to central Arkansas wouldn’t be complete without spending some time in the capital city. Which of these things to do in Little Rock are you looking forward to trying first?

At Life in The USA, we’re passionate about helping you make the most of your time in different cities and states. For more ideas of things to do, don’t miss Things to Do in Memphis.