26 Cool Things To Do in Metro Little Rock
![River Market](https://s3.amazonaws.com/assets.inarkansas.com/31929/river-market.jpg)
1. THE CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER.
How can you move to Metro Little Rock and not check out the notable center named for our 42nd president? The 148,000-square-foot William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park encompasses a museum, presidential archives and educational and research facilities. Must-see permanent exhibits include full-scale replicas of The Oval Office and the Cabinet Room, decorated exactly the way they were during Clinton’s time in office. A steady stream of visiting exhibits also comes through the center each year. Visit on Aug. 19 and get
free admission in honor of President Clinton’s birthday! (501) 374-4242, ClintonPresidentialCenter.org
2. BIG DAM BRIDGE & ARKANSAS RIVER TRAIL.
The world’s longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge built especially for that purpose, the Big Dam Bridge is a favorite among Metro Little Rock residents. Located over Murray Lock & Dam, the bridge has a 14-foot-wide deck that extends 4,226 linear feet across the Arkansas River. Locals love to walk, run or ride their bikes over the bridge and along the 17 miles of scenic Arkansas River Trail that runs on either side. BigDamBridge.com
The Razorbacks may call Fayetteville home, but they make the trip to Little Rock twice a season for games at War Memorial Stadium. Both the tailgating and the football are often memorable — like the Hogs’ 21-20 victory over LSU in 2002 that will forever be known as the “Miracle on Markham.” Being a part of a packed house at War Memorial in the fall is simply hard to beat. ArkansasSports360.com
4. FARMERS MARKETS
Over the past few years, farmers markets have sprouted up all over the state, and they’re especially plentiful in Metro Little Rock. Local markets sell everything from farm-fresh eggs, grain-fed beef and organic produce to goats’ milk soap and heirloom plants and seeds. For more information and a helpful list of farmers markets in the area, visit Arkansas.com.
5. ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER
The AAC is known for one of the world’s most unique collections of works on paper, including sheets by Cezanne, van Gogh, Pollock, O’Keeffe, Saar, Rembrandt and more. In addition, the center houses an art school, children’s theatre, restaurant and gift shop, specializing in unique gifts and works made by regional artists. Admission is free. A fee may be charged for special exhibitions. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. (501) 372-4000, ArkArts.com
6. MOVIES IN THE PARK
A free outdoor movie series in Little Rock’s River Market, Movies in the Park is one of our favorite summer activities. Movies begin at sundown each Wednesday in June and July and are held in the Riverfest Amphitheatre on the banks of the Arkansas River. Picnics are encouraged and alcohol is allowed, but glass containers are prohibited. Concessions are also available for purchase. Don’t forget a blanket and some bug spray! MoviesInTheParkLR.net
7. OAKLAWN RACING & GAMING
Some of the world’s best Thoroughbreds have raced at Oaklawn, including Smarty Jones, the 2004 winner of both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Oaklawn’s live season runs annually from January through April and simulcast racing is broadcast year-round. In addition, the park has recently expanded to allow forms of electronic gambling, including video poker and other games of skill. And don’t leave the park without gobbling up one of their popular corned beef sandwiches. (800) OAKLAWN, Oaklawn.com
8. FIRST THURSDAYS IN HILLCREST
One of Little Rock’s most unique neighborhoods, Hillcrest (located on Kavanaugh Boulevard) is home to a plethora of charming boutiques and shops. Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month, Hillcrest merchants and restaurants stay open late and offer sales and samples, plus entertainment, nibbles and drinks. It’s a great way to meet the natives and get some great deals. (501) 666-3600,
HillcrestMerchants.net
9. QUAPAW QUARTER
History buffs, this one’s for you. Located in downtown Little Rock, the Quapaw Quarter contains Little Rock’s most historic homes and mansions, some predating the Civil War and many on the National Register of Historic Places. Drive or stroll through the neighborhood, or take advantage of the Quapaw Quarter Association’s annual Tour of Homes. (501) 371-0075, Quapaw.com
10. CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS
This touring company brings Broadway performances to Metro Little Rock every year. The 2012-13 season includes favorites like “West Side Story” (Jan. 29-31, 2013) and “Jersey Boys” (June 11-23, 2013). All performances are held at Robinson Center Music Hall in downtown Little Rock at Markham and Broadway. (501) 244-8800, www.CelebrityAttractions.com
11. CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
As soon as you get settled in, this is a trip you must take. The recently opened Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art houses “one of the most dazzling and glorious collections of American art anywhere,” says Don Bacigalupi, the museum’s executive director. Envisioned by Walmart heiress Alice Walton and named for nearby Crystal Spring, the museum’s architecture is inspired by its picturesque surroundings and aimed at enhancing and protecting the natural beauty of the site. Works by Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, Roy Lichtenstein, John Singer Sargent and more grace the walls of the the eight individually designed pavilions. (479) 418-5700, CrystalBridges.org
12. ARKANSAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Led by Conductor Philip Mann, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents a season of beautiful masterworks, pops and chamber concerts. Don’t miss the “Cirque de la Symphonie” performance on May 11-12, 2013 at Robinson Center Music Hall. Can’t get enough of the symphony? We’ve got good news; season subscribers enjoy the best seats in the house and hefty discounts over single ticket prices. (501) 666-1761, ArkansasSymphony.org
13. LITTLE ROCK MARATHON
Each March, 12,000-plus participants from across the region, state and beyond flock to downtown Little Rock to take part in this annual athletic competition. The event includes more than the 26.2-mile trek, but also a half marathon, 10K, 5K, kids marathon, pasta party and more. This year’s marathon has a Western theme called “Lucky” and will take place at 8 a.m. March 3, 2013. Other related marathon event dates and times vary. LittleRockMarathon.com
14. THE BUFFALO RIVER
Located just off Scenic Byway 7 near the town of Jasper and approximately 100 miles from Little Rock, the Buffalo National River winds through the Arkansas Ozarks, flowing into small rapids and calm pools before emptying into the White River. The Buffalo’s beauty and mild manner make it a perfect destination for canoeing, floating and fishing, and the 95,000 acres of public land surrounding the river offer campgrounds and cabins, as well as springs, caves, waterfalls, trails and more. (870) 741-7286, National Park Service
15. ALLSOPP PARK
Located in historic Hillcrest on Cantrell and Cedar Hill roads, Allsopp Park is a local favorite that features popular shaded biking and hiking trails, and a 7-acre activity area with a ball field, playground, pavilion, and tennis courts. LittleRock.org
16. WINE COUNTRY
About a half-dozen wineries near where the Arkansas River meanders between the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains offer tastings, tours and events. Wine-making began there in the 1880s, making Arkansas the South’s oldest wine-producing state. Two European families started it all after noting the region’s similarities in climate and soil with that of Switzerland and Germany’s wine-making regions. Arkansas.com
17. HOLIDAY HOUSE
This shopping event showcases items from more than 150 merchants from across the country and benefits programs of the Junior League of Little Rock. Times vary over the course of the three-day event, taking place next on Nov. 8-10, 2012, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock. Tickets: $8 for a one-day pass; $15 for a three-day pass. (501) 375-5557, JLLR.org.
18. RIVER MARKET ON ICE
Even though winter temps in central Arkansas are mild, thanks to an outdoor ice rink in the River Market, we can still enjoy good old-fashioned ice skating. Located in one of the River Market Pavilions, the rink opens just before Thanksgiving and closes after the New Year. Check the website for ticket information and times. (501) 375-2552, HolidaysInLittleRock.com
19. LITTLE ROCK FILM FESTIVAL
Founded by Emmy and DGA-nominated filmmakers Brent and Craig Renaud, the five-day Little Rock Film Festival is held annually in the downtowns of Little Rock and North Little Rock. Hailed by Austin’s Paste Magazine as “potentially one of the best fests in the country,” the LRFF draws more than 25,000 attendees and features more than 100 films from across the world, as well as workshops, panels and parties. Visit the website for 2012 festival info. LittleRockFilmFestival.org
20. RIVERFEST
This is a huge visual and performing arts celebration held annually over Memorial Day weekend in downtown Little Rock. Past acts include Al Green, REO Speedwagon, Nelly, B.B. King, Steve Miller Band, Ludacris and more, making it one of the Top 100 Events in North America, per the American Bus Association. RiverfestArkansas.com.
21. 2ND FRIDAY ART NIGHT
On the second Friday night of each month, galleries, museums and businesses in downtown Little Rock are open late (5-8 p.m.) for an after-hours gallery walk featuring music and hors d’oeuvres. Hop on the free shuttle to each venue, or stroll the River Market District and visit galleries on foot. 2ndFridayArtNight.com.
22. ARKANSAS LITERARY FESTIVAL
Held annually, this event features panels, events, performances, workshops and appearances and readings by celebrated authors such as David Sedaris, Garrison Keillor and Arkansan Charlaine Harris (True Blood). This year’s event will be held April 18-21, 2013 in the downtowns of Little Rock and North Little Rock. (501) 918-3029, ArkansasLiteraryFestival.org
23. HEIFER INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Tour the nonprofit organization’s LEED Platinum building that features a 30,000-gallon rainwater collection tower, among other things. Heifer Village on the Heifer International campus showcases inspiring, interactive exhibits that describe how individuals can help end hunger, poverty and environmental problems. Also, check out Shop@Heifer to purchase ethically sourced and artisan products from around the world. (800) 422-0474, Heifer.org
24. LOCO ROPES
Zip lining has propelled toward popularity over the past few years, and Arkansas has several locations that offer the high-flying adventures. Loco Ropes at Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View is worth the drive. Choose from a handful of zip lining options that vary in intensity, height and length. Don’t worry if you’re afraid of heights; cutting-edge safety equipment and harnesses ensure your safety. (888) 669-6717, LocoRopes.com
25. ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE
Known to locals as “The Rep,” this is the only professional, nonprofit theater of its size within 300 miles of Little Rock, including Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans. The 2013 season includes “Singin’ on a Star” (Oct. 24-Nov. 3, 2012), “White Christmas” (Nov. 28-Dec. 20, 2012), “Gee’s Bend” (Jan. 23-Feb. 10, 2013), “Treasure Island: A New Musical” (March 6-31, 2013), “Death of a Salesman” (April 24-May 12, 2013) and more. (501) 378-0405, TheRep.org
26. PINNACLE MOUNTAIN
Eight hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous wind their way around Pinnacle Mountain, with two leading to the summit. Those who reach the 1,011-foot peak are rewarded with views of the Arkansas River, downtown Little Rock and Lake Maumelle. The park also features two mountain bike trails – the 0.70-mile Rabbit Ridge Trail and the 7.4-mile Jackfork Trail – and two barrier-free trails, the half-mile paved Kingfisher Trail and .60-mile paved Arkansas Trail in the Arkansas Arboretum. ArkansasStateParks.com/PinnacleMountain