Memorial Day Events & Activities in Little Rock

Discover family-friendly events and things to do for this Memorial Day weekend in Little Rock.

In Little Rock, Memorial Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. Visiting military museums and spending time with the veterans in your social circle are just a couple of the ways to enjoy this Memorial Day in our city. Experience a variety of memorable Memorial Day activities with our list of events and activities around Little Rock.

Join the Little Rock Zoo in a Memorial Day Celebration

The Red, White, & Zoo: Memorial Day event will be honoring veterans and military members, as well as offer fun activities for the whole family. Running from May 24 to 26, 2025, veterans and active military members with a valid military ID can enjoy a discounted admission price of $6. This two-day event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring a chance to see the animals and commemorate local heroes at the Little Rock Zoo.

Learn About the Military Heritage of Arkansas at the MacArthur Museum

The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History features curated collections of wartime artifacts, weapons, uniforms, and documents from different time periods. Permanent exhibits include the state’s role in the Civil War, World War I, and World War II. Complete your museum outing by learning about the museum’s namesake—General Douglas MacArthur. The museum features the birthplace of this military leader, as well as in-depth information about his legacy.

The interior of the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History with a bronze statue sitting down looking at paintings and memorabilia on the walls.
MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

Stroll Through Eras of Sacrifices & Dedication During the Military History Tour

The past of fallen veterans can be found at an array of memorials and museums in Little Rock. Create your own self-guided tour with our military history checklist, including the War Memorial Stadium, Arkansas State Capitol, and more. Marvel at the grand architecture of the Arkansas State Capitol and visit several onsite war memorials. Cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge on foot or a bike rental. Keep an eye out for the Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial when exploring the outdoor area of the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History.

See the Longest Serving Combat Submarine in the World at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum

World War II aficionados will enjoy exploring the navy vessels that had a significant impact in World War II, from saving sailors at Pearl Harbor to being stationed in Tokyo Bay when Japan surrendered at the end of the war. With immersive sights and sounds of the submarines’ previous lives, the USS Hoga and USS Razorback almost feel like time machines.

The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum which is a submarine partially covered in water from the Arkansas River that you can tour.

Explore the Monuments of Civil War Soldiers at Little Rock National Cemetery

The Little Rock National Cemetery was used as a Union encampment for troops in 1866 and is now a cemetery for fallen soldiers. Stretching over 31 acres, the Little Rock National Cemetery offers opportunities to learn more about Civil War history with the Minnesota Monument and the Confederate Monument. Both monuments are part of the National Register of Historic Places.

Expand Your Knowledge About War Histories at the Jacksonville Museum of Military History

Jacksonville is typically less than a 20-minute drive from Little Rock and is home to a military history museum, where rare artifacts, vehicles, and machinery tell the stories behind centuries of different battles. From the Civil War to World War II, the museum encourages visitors to learn about Little Rock’s role in different eras of history. Notable exhibits include the Titan II Missile program, which was started in Arkansas during the Cold War, and the Arkansas Ordnance Plant, which showcases Jacksonville as a booming town during World War II due to the development of a munitions factory.

For more ideas on things to do in Little Rock, check out our guides on museums, free activities, tours, and more. It typically takes more than one day to appreciate everything that Little Rock has to offer. Book a long weekend stay during Memorial Day and fill your itinerary with local treasures, from culinary delights to upcoming seasonal fun.

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