Bill Clinton's Little Rock (Self Guided), Little Rock

The Clinton Presidential Library is a beautiful, modern building near the downtown area of Little Rock. When you enter the presidential library, your eyes will be met with many items and artifacts that tell the story of the presidency of Bill Clinton, which took place between 1993 and 2001. This facility is educational, entertaining, and intriguing for everyone, especially history lovers.

Some of the objects that can be viewed at the Clinton Presidential Library are films, videos, timelines, Clinton's personal items, interactive rooms, and more. Each visitor will also have the opportunity to observe several replicas of how the Cabinet Room and Oval Office looked during Clinton's presidential terms.

The focus of the Clinton Presidential Library is domestic and foreign policy as well as what life was like in the White House in the 90's. The objective is to preserve the historical items of Bill Clinton and provide a glimpse into his time serving as the 42nd President of the United States.

Why You Should Visit:
To learn about Bill Clinton, former President of the United States, and his well-known policies and time spent in the White House.

The Bill Clinton Campaign Headquarters during the 1992 presidential election was housed in the historic Gazette Building in downtown Little Rock. This three-story structure, built in 1908, was originally the home of the Arkansas Gazette, one of the earliest newspapers west of the Mississippi River, which had been an Arkansas institution since 1819. The building remained the Gazette’s headquarters until 1991 when the paper merged with the Arkansas Democrat to form the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Designed by George R. Mann and constructed by Peter Hotze, the Gazette Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The building is notable for its fire-resistant construction, using 7,000 barrels of concrete, and its decorative terra-cotta embellishments, including lion head ornaments, Doric and Ionic columns, and festooned spandrel panels between windows. Its Italian marble wainscoting and white tile flooring on the first floor highlight its elegant interior design. Despite modern renovations, the building’s exterior and interior have been well preserved.

During the 1992 U.S. presidential election, the building became the nerve center for Governor Bill Clinton’s successful campaign. After serving this historic role, it underwent a transformation in 2007, reopening in 2008 as part of the eStem Public Charter Schools, which continues to occupy the space today.

With its deep political and journalistic history, the Gazette Building stands as a landmark of Arkansas' past and national political history, reflecting both its significance in media and its role in the election of the 42nd President of the United States.

Doe's Eat Place in Little Rock is more than just a steakhouse—it’s a piece of political and culinary history. A favorite of Bill Clinton since his Arkansas days, this no-frills establishment became nationally recognized during the 1992 presidential election, when it served as an unofficial hub for Clinton’s campaign staff. Located near the campaign headquarters and the state capitol, Doe’s quickly became associated with the down-home, grassroots charm that Clinton exuded. Today, it remains one of his favorite restaurants, a testament to its lasting appeal.

The restaurant's walls are lined with memorabilia, including photographs of Clinton and other notable figures who have passed through its doors. Many politicians and public figures still frequent Doe’s, gathering over a cup of coffee or a hearty meal. But despite its political connections, Doe’s stays true to its origins—a welcoming, unpretentious eatery where anyone can enjoy a meal, whether dressed in jeans or their finest attire.

Founded in 1988 by East Arkansas restaurateur and pilot George Eldridge, Doe’s Eat Place in Little Rock was inspired by the legendary Doe’s in Greenville, Mississippi. After years of flying clients there, Eldridge secured the rights to the name and menu, recreating its no-frills charm at Ringo and West Markham Streets. The gamble paid off, earning Doe’s a regional and international reputation for its unbeatable steaks.

Doe’s has been serving up steaks by the pound for over 35 years. Their menu is filled with Southern staples, from mouthwatering T-bones, Porterhouses, and Sirloins to hot tamales with chili, broiled shrimp, catfish plates, and old-fashioned burgers with hand-cut fries. Generous portions, reasonable prices, and a welcoming atmosphere have made it a beloved institution.

Doe’s blends rustic charm with lively energy, featuring a bustling open kitchen and dining areas filled with historical memorabilia. A full bar offers everything from sweet tea to draft beer alongside hearty meals. A Little Rock landmark, Doe’s welcomes everyone—locals, politicians, and travelers alike—for a meal rich in history, Southern hospitality, and bold flavors.

More than just a fast-food joint, the Broadway McDonald's in downtown Little Rock holds a peculiar spot in political history. This wasn’t just any McDonald's—it was Bill Clinton’s McDonald's. Back when he was governor of Arkansas and later a presidential candidate in 1992, Clinton made it a routine stop after his morning jogs from the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. A coffee here, a quick chat there, and soon, this McDonald's became as much a part of his public image as his campaign bus.

During the 1992 presidential campaign, Clinton’s frequent visits to the restaurant didn’t go unnoticed. The national media picked up on the habit, further fueling the well-known jokes about his love for fast food. Eventually, the location became so tied to his legacy that a plaque was dedicated in June 2019, reading: "Bill Clinton made regular stops at this downtown McDonald’s during his morning runs from the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. Thank you for your business, Mr. President."

Clinton's political journey in Arkansas began when he moved to Little Rock in 1976. By 1979, he was elected the youngest governor in the country at age 32. Though his tenure had ups and downs, his fondness for McDonald's remained a constant. Today, the Broadway McDonald's stands as an unusual but amusing landmark in presidential history—a place where politics, jogging, and fast food culture collided in the most American way possible.

Nestled in the heart of Little Rock, Community Bakery is more than just a place to grab a pastry—it’s a cherished local institution with a history that spans over seven decades. Established in 1947 by Ralph Hinson in the Rose City section of North Little Rock, the bakery quickly became a household name, moving to its iconic Main Street location in 1952. Over the years, it has remained a cornerstone of the community, known for its fresh, made-from-scratch treats that have delighted generations.

This beloved bakery gained even more recognition thanks to Bill Clinton, who was a frequent visitor with a well-known sweet tooth. While there are other Community Bakery locations in the city, this one held a special place in his heart.

Today, Community Bakery continues its tradition of excellence, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where customers can enjoy everything from beautifully decorated cakes to European-style pastries and an espresso bar. Their cakes, petit fours, cupcakes, and iced sugar cookies are legendary, crafted with care using recipes that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just stopping by for a quick treat, you’ll find that every bite is a taste of tradition.

Operating out of the historic Cohn Building since 1993, Community Bakery employs a dedicated team of 65 people who ensure that Arkansas stays well-fed and well-sweetened. So whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a cozy café experience, or the perfect cake for your next celebration, this Little Rock staple is ready to welcome you with open arms—and plenty of frosting.

The Arkansas Governor's Mansion, located on Center Street in Little Rock, serves as the official residence of the governor of Arkansas and the First Family. Since its completion in 1950, the mansion has been the focal point of numerous public events, including state dinners, luncheons, and official celebrations. Over the years, eleven governors and their families have resided in the mansion, each contributing to its rich heritage. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton and Mike Huckabee once lived here. A bust of Clinton stands on the mansion’s grounds, marking its history.

The mansion was built on the former site of the Arkansas School for the Blind, which had relocated to Pulaski Heights. Architects Frank J. Ginocchio, Jr. and Edwin B. Cromwell designed the residence in the Georgian Revival style, with brick as the primary exterior material. The mansion’s construction incorporated 300,000 bricks from the old school structures, blending historical elements into the new design. The first governor to reside there, Sidney S. McMath, moved in on February 3, 1950.

Significant renovations and additions were made during Governor Mike Huckabee’s tenure (1996-2007), further enhancing the mansion’s structure and functionality. Beyond its role as a political and historical landmark, the mansion has also found a place in pop culture. From 1986 to 1993, it was featured in the television series Designing Women, serving as the on-screen home of Suzanne Sugarbaker and later, Anthony Bouvier. In 2008, it appeared in 30 Rock as the residence of a character played by Steve Martin.

The Arkansas Governor’s Mansion anchors the Governor’s Mansion Historic District, a diverse neighborhood south of downtown Little Rock. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the district features Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes, once home to both affluent residents and middle-class workers. The mansion and Trinity Episcopal Cathedral have played key roles in the area's revitalization.