Top Rated Attractions in Little Rock

If you are entering Little Rock from I-430, you cannot miss the mammoth Pinnacle Mountain to the west, with its pointy, volcano-esque top. The state park centered around this mountain, just a few miles from Little Rock proper, is a unique Arkansas treasure. There are multiple hiking options sure to please adventure seekers. There is also a family-friendly hiking trail that leads to the top of the mountain. Plenty of picnic tables are available, and campgrounds are nearby. The park staff offers frequent events such as cookouts and puppet shows for families, along with survival lessons for adults.

Located in Little Rock, the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is run in partnership with Little Rock public schools and the National Park Service. This regular high school came into the public eye when it was the site of desegregation in public schools during the Civil Rights Movement in 1957. The event gained national attention for its controversy, with many still being staunchly anti-integration at the time. After several attempts to enter and attend the school that was marred by violence, nine African-American students were finally escorted into the school by the U.S Army's 101st Airborne Division. This event provided a huge step towards equal civil rights in the American South, and all over the country. The site has a visitor center that displays a film and various exhibits centered around the Civil Rights Movement. Apart from this, there is a garden which has nine trees planted in honor of the Little Rock 9, who was at the center of the Little Rock Integration Crisis.

Old Mill has been called the most picturesque spot in North Little Rock. The actual mill, which operated in the 1800s, provided the background for the opening scenes of 'Gone With the Wind'. Today, visitors can explore the inside of the mill or sit on the surrounding mushroom-shaped benches and watch the waterwheel churn. In the spring and early summer, flowers decorate the banks of the pond. You can take in the scenery while enjoying lunch at one of the numerous picnic tables in the surrounding TR Pugh Memorial Park.

Located in the two-story 1840 Pike-Fletcher-Terry mansion, the Arkansas Arts Center is the cultural focus of Little Rock. Rotating exhibits of paintings, photographs and sculptures feature both local artists and renowned masters. The center boasts an eclectic gift shop, the upscale Best Impressions Restaurant and the Children's Little Theatre, which stages several theatrical productions a year. Check website for details on upcoming events.

The Arkansas Maritime Museum tells the heroic tale of the USS Razorback. The legendary submarine came back without any major damages after its various escapades in World War II and the Vietnam War. It was later sold to Turkey in the 1970s. Restoring the legend of the ship became essential and hence was brought to the Little Rock in 2004, to be displayed in the Maritime Museum. The graphic account of the war means children are advised against the tour. Hours vary as per season.

Discover the secrets of Arkansas' history in the oldest still-standing state capitol building to the west of the Mississippi River. Peruse permanent exhibits of Arkansas' women, President Clinton's journey to Washington, the first Arkansas House of Representatives, Arkansas' first families, period rooms and the State House's history. Special exhibits change various times per year, always featuring fascinating subject matter about the Natural State. Visitors may either take a self-guided tour of the museum or take one of the guided tours available each hour.