Central Arkansas, Arkansas
Little Rock and North Little Rock form the vibrant heart of Arkansas. The two cities and their neighboring towns comprise a metropolitan area of some 500,000 people in central Arkansas. This metropolis, as well as Conway, Searcy and Cabot, and nearby cities in the central region, offer a cosmopolitan mix of historic attractions, imaginative shopping opportunities, fine dining, nightlife and creative arts and fine hotels.
A grand collection of museums offers something for every taste - from art to history to aerospace. And the Quapaw Quarter of restored 19th-century homes is one of the country's finest examples of bringing an older neighborhood back to life through adaptive reuse. Be sure to visit the new River Market in Little Rock for tastes of exotic cuisines and the freshest of produce from nearby farms in season.
Extensive park systems in both cities provide the chance to play golf or tennis, fish for lunkers in the Arkansas River or on area lakes, hike leafy trails, talk to the animals in the park-like Little Rock zoo or picnic in beautiful natural settings.
Central Arkansas is an ideal staging area for your Natural State vacation. Its big city tempo exists side by side with small-town charm. Discover Central Arkansas's winning ways for yourself.
Explore Central Arkansas
Bald Knob Lake
Bald Knob Lake was built in 1960 as a 217-acre reservoir for the city waterworks. Bass, crappie, bream and catfish are popular catches. The lake is restricted to 10
Bald Knob, AR RecreationOld Ferry Landing Park/Toad Suck Park
West of Conway along the Arkansas River at Toad Suck Lock and Dam; includes boat ramp, picnic areas, pavilions, playground, campsites; a restored metal towboat once used by the ferry.
Conway, AR ParksNorth Little Rock Historic Sites
Tour includes the Baker House Bed and Breakfast, the Old Mill, City Hall and other historic structures.
North Little Rock, AR Historic SitesArkansas Arts Center
World class art exhibitions; seven galleries; internationally recognized drawing collection; "Best Impressions" restaurant offers soups, salads, entrees, desserts; museum shop; Children's Theatre; over 10
Little Rock, AR ArtsOld State House Museum
Built in 1836, the Old State House was the state's original capitol until 1911 and served as the seat of both the Confederate and Unionists governments in Arkansas during the Civil War. It was also the site of the 1861
Little Rock, AR MuseumsAerospace Education Center
Directions: I-440 Airport Exit The Aerospace Education Center is home to Arkansas's 300-seat IMAX Theater. The IMAX delivers a true "you are there"
Little Rock, AR ArtsNorth Shore Riverwalk
Located on the north side of the Arkansas River, this park offers picturesque views, lighted walkways and a jogging/fitness trail. New North River Landing off I-30
North Little Rock, AR ParksHarding University Stevens Art Center
Two galleries featuring works of students and faculty; visiting exhibitions.
Searcy, AR ArtsJ&P Ranch
Directions: Take I-40 East to the Kerr Road Exit. Go right onto Kerr Road and go about 2 blocks to McCoy Lane. Make a right on McCoy Lane and go to the end of the road to the J & P Ranch gate. Small children'
Lonoke, AR RanchesLittle Rock Central High School
The site of a major test in 1957 of the Civil Rights act where nine (the Little Rock Nine)
Little Rock, AR Historic SchoolhousesBattle of Reed's Bridge Marker
Directions: Ark. 161 at Bayou Meto Creek The Batttle of Reed's Bridge was fought during the 1863
Jacksonville, AR Markers