24 Hours In Little Rock: Our Suggestions For A Jam-Packed Stay

You may have a free day, but the clock’s ticking. Here’s our suggestions for how to make the most out of 24 hours in Little Rock.

When you hear “Little Rock,” what do you think of?

Maybe you remember watching Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton on television claim victory in the presidential race at the city’s Old State House on November 3, 1992.

Maybe you recall Central High School, made famous in 1957 when nine black students, later dubbed the Little Rock Nine, became the first to desegregate the school.

Little Rock has a storied history – racial, political, and otherwise – and several museums, venues and attractions which highlight it; not to mention, great shopping and beautiful outdoors.

It may not be possible to see everything in a day, but if you have just 24 hours in Little Rock, here are our suggestions on how to spend that limited time:

Spend a presidential time in Little Rock

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of just 15 presidential libraries in our country during your quick stop in Little Rock. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum covers all things Bill Clinton. There’s even an on-site restaurant, 42 bar and table and a gift shop.

On a beautiful summer day, take the time to walk across the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge. And, consider stopping by the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library and Learning Center if you want a complete Clinton experience.

Look no further if you’re a history buff

Little Rock has a wide range of museums that touch on various aspects of the city’s history. Some of these include the Old State House Museum, Historic Arkansas Museum, and the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site. Prefer the arts? Check out the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

If you’re traveling with children, you can’t go wrong with the Museum of Discovery. And if you love fashion, you can’t leave Little Rock before you visit the Esse Purse Museum. This museum is notable because it covers purse trends decade by decade.

Time to unleash your inner fashionista

If you’re a true fashion lover, it’s not enough just to see it – you need to buy it too. And Little Rock is a perfect shopping destination. From small shops in the Hillcrest neighborhood to large shopping centers in West Little Rock, there’s something for every taste.

Head out to the Outlets of Little Rock if you’re looking for deals. It’s a short drive from downtown, and you can take your time and see what else Little Rock has to offer along the way.

Enjoy time in our city’s great outdoors

Little Rock has no shortage of beautiful nature. You don’t even have to travel far – or at all – from downtown to see it. If you’re staying downtown, visit Riverfront Park along the banks of the beautiful Arkansas River. There are also some great photo opportunities around Junction Bridge.

Other outdoor attractions include Big Dam Bridge, Two Rivers Park, and Pinnacle Mountain State Park. There’s also a new visitor center at Pinnacle Mountain, so you can relax before – and after – your hike.