Story Ideas

Need a spark for your next story? As Arkansas’ capital city, Little Rock is a dynamic and diverse place teeming with world-class dining, arts, hotels, shopping, and attractions. It’s a city where intrepid explorers, civil rights pioneers, and even world leaders have left their mark. Start here and see where the story takes you!

Presidential History

The presidential library of Bill Clinton resides within the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park. The 30-acre campus includes the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, the Clinton Foundation offices, the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service, and the full-service restaurant 42 bar and table.

The Clinton Library during sunset with the Arkansas river and a collection of trees near the edge of the museum.

CIVIL RIGHTS/BLACK CULTURE

When most people think of Little Rock, they think of Central High School and the desegregation crisis in 1957, and they do so for good reason. The story of the Little Rock Nine is one of courage in the face of fear and righteousness in the wake of hate; a story that still guides our city on the path of justice. Today, the school is a national historic site and is the only functioning high school within the National Park Service. Little Rock is home to six sites along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail and is a Top Ten Trail destination. Little Rock honors its rich Black heritage and celebrates its culture. Multi-generational Black-owned restaurants and attractions like Mosaic Templars Cultural Center honoring Arkansas’ many African American achievements, have shaped our community into the modern and thriving city it is today.

A Liittle Rock Nine bronze sculpture called "Testament" located at the State Capitol building.

Outdoor Adventure

Head a few miles in any direction from downtown Little Rock, and you’ll discover beautiful scenery. Little Rock is home to more than 60 city parks, and people of all ages recognize the great outdoors as the city’s most valuable natural resource. Connecting everything is more than 1,200 miles of road, mountain, and gravel cycling trails for every skill level. The Arkansas River is one of the city’s most iconic features, and it’s best experienced from the heights of the multiple pedestrian bridges that span it or, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, viewed from a rented kayak or pontoon boat as you make your way along the river.

A group of cyclists biking across a bridge downtown Little Rock with the Arkansas River below.

ARTS

It’s impossible to visit Little Rock and not be inspired. Home to one of the most robust art scenes in the mid-South, visitors here will find art and an artistic sensibility around every turn. Dozens of murals and hundreds of sculptures dot the city. The re-imagined Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is one of the state’s tentpole artistic jewels. One of only two purse museums in the world, ESSE Purse Museum explores concepts of art, history, and femininity through the lens of women’s handbags and their contents. These exhibits celebrate the progression of the 20th century American woman. And, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and Ballet Arkansas make Little Rock their home base.

LGBTQ+

See Little Rock the way locals do: a dynamic and diverse city that welcomes its LGBTQ+ visitors and residents alike. Little Rock celebrates its LGBTQ-owned businesses from restaurants to gift shops, and showcases annual events and nightlife options throughout the city.

A couple hugging each other and laughing in front of a mural of dancing corn and an onion in SoMa by the Root Cafe.

LOCAL FLAVOR

Nothing defines a city quite like its food, and Little Rock’s expansive menu of southern cuisine, local restaurants, craft breweries, bars and cafes, and local festivals is what makes us the dining capital of Arkansas. Little Rock is home to Arkansas’ first legal distillery since prohibition Rock Town Distillery. Central Arkansas is the birthplace of cheese dip (circa. 1935), and Little Rock is home to the World Cheese Dip Championship.

A group of friends laughing while sitting down at a resturant drinking beer, eating BBQ, and nachos.

LA PETITE ROCHE

On April 9, 1722, French explorer Jean-Baptiste Bénard de La Harpe led his expedition up the Arkansas River, having traveled more than 700 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. A small, welcoming rock formation on the river’s southern banks caught his attention. This natural harbor became known as La Petite Roche - “The Little Rock.” That simple stone outcropping would go on to inspire the name of Arkansas’ future capital city and become a vital stop for trade and travelers alike.

FAMILY FUN

Little Rock, Arkansas is a vibrant blend of fun, adventure, and learning for the whole family. Explore scenic trails, paddle along the river, or enjoy hands-on excitement at interactive science centers. Dive into the city’s rich history through engaging museums that bring the past to life. From vintage streetcar rides to wild encounters at the Little Rock Zoo, Little Rock promises unforgettable experiences that spark curiosity and create lasting memories for all ages.