Little Rock Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Little Rock

The Old State House Museum in Little Rock stands as a testament to the state's rich and often tumultuous history. Constructed in 1833 and completed in 1836, it originally served as the first state capitol building of Arkansas and remains the oldest standing state capitol west of the Mississippi River. Designed in the Greek Revival style by architect Gideon Shryock, the building symbolized a young state's connection to the ideals of democracy rooted in ancient Greece.

The Old State House has witnessed key moments in Arkansas history, from statehood and secession to medical research and a violent legislative knife fight. It changed hands during the Civil War and hosted the 1868 Constitutional Convention, which established legal equality, voting rights for freedmen, and segregated public education. Today, the museum preserves artifacts like quilts by Black Arkansans, photos by Geleve Grice, and music by Louis Jordan.

In 1947, the Old State House was repurposed as a museum by the Arkansas legislature, a role it continues to fulfill. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1969 and later designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997. Visitors to the museum can explore a variety of exhibits, such as Pillars of Power, which delves into the history of the building itself, and Arkansas’ First Families, showcasing gowns worn by the state’s First Ladies. The preserved 1836 and 1885 House of Representatives chambers further immerse visitors in the political history of the state.

Beyond its exhibits, the Old State House Museum offers a range of visitor experiences, including guided and self-guided tours, educational programs, and event spaces like the Riverfront Room and the historic front lawn, which features monuments and a notable fountain. Situated in downtown Little Rock, this National Historic Landmark continues to play a crucial role in preserving, interpreting, and celebrating Arkansas' past while remaining open to the public as a center for historical exploration and learning.

Why You Should Visit:
Visit the Old State House to learn about several important moments in Arkansas' history, which also contributed to the history of the United States. To set your eyes on the many fascinating artifacts from an earlier time in history.

Tip:
There is a guided tour option available for visitors, which is offered every hour and last about 50 minutes. The tours are led by a professional tour guide, and no reservation is needed. However, guided tours are not necessary at the Old State House Museum. There is also a self-guided tour option in which visitors can use their cell phones to learn information.

The Historic Arkansas Museum (HAM) in downtown Little Rock is a deep dive into the state's early history, showcasing Arkansas' cultural and material heritage through interactive exhibits, historic structures, and living history programs. Established in 1941, the museum was born from the passionate efforts of Louise Loughborough, who led a campaign to save the Hinderliter House, Little Rock’s oldest surviving building, from demolition.

HAM spans an entire pre-Civil War city block, offering visitors a rare glimpse into frontier life. Costumed interpreters bring history to life, guiding guests through four original dwellings, an 1850s farmstead, and exhibitions featuring Arkansas-made art and artifacts. The museum also highlights Arkansas' Indigenous history in its "We Walk in Two Worlds" exhibit, which tells the stories of the Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw tribes through their voices, pottery, clothing, and weapons.

A notable feature of the museum is "Giving Voice," a permanent memorial honoring the 138 enslaved individuals who once lived on the land. The museum regularly features African American history in its exhibits and living history portrayals, ensuring these stories are told with authenticity and respect.

HAM is more than a museum—it’s an experience. Its seven galleries, children’s interactive space, and Orientation Theater provide dynamic ways to explore Arkansas’ past. Throughout the year, the museum hosts public events, rotating exhibitions, and online programs, making history accessible to all. As a Smithsonian Affiliate, it offers visitors a high-quality historical experience, blending education with engaging storytelling.

For those looking to step back in time, Historic Arkansas Museum is a must-visit destination. Whether exploring its National Register-listed historic district, engaging with costumed guides, or discovering Arkansas' artistic and cultural legacy, the museum offers something for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious minds alike.

Why You Should Visit:
To get an up-close look at the incredible history and way of life of Arkansas before the Civil War.

Tip:
Every second Friday of each month, the Historic Arkansas Museum hosts a fun event called Friday Art Night in which everyone can enjoy live music, food, shopping in the museum store, and exhibit openings. This event is free and takes place between 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. If you are unable to visit the museum during the day, this may be a good alternative for you.

The H.U. Lee International Gate and Garden is a striking tribute to the legacy of Taekwondo and the enduring friendship between South Korea and the United States. Situated in downtown Little Rock, near the River Market District and steps from Markham Street, this serene space honors Eternal Grand Master Haeng Ung Lee, the founder of the American Taekwondo Association (ATA). Established in 1977, the ATA grew into one of the largest martial arts organizations worldwide, with its headquarters in Little Rock.

The elaborate gate, constructed in the Hongsalmun style, was handcrafted by South Korean artists and incorporates traditional Korean colors and symbols. These colors—blue (wood), red (fire), yellow (earth), white (metal), and black (water)—represent the five cardinal elements of Um-Yang, the Korean philosophy akin to yin and yang. The gate’s structure is a blend of Arkansas River Rock, concrete, and South Korean clay tiles, symbolizing the fusion of cultures.

Two Foo Dog statues stand guard at the entrance, embodying Korean tradition. Inside, a serene garden showcases sculptures and artifacts honoring Korean heritage and Taekwondo. Highlights include a nine-foot fountain with dragon motifs symbolizing martial arts knowledge and a Songahm Star-shaped reflecting pool, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

The garden also houses a Wall of Vision, inscribed with the names of ATA Masters, alongside a bust of Eternal Grand Master H.U. Lee. A prominent artifact, the Bee Ryong Bong (Staff of the Flying Dragon), stands nearby as a revered object in Songahm Taekwondo. Several Harubang statues, carved from basalt and gifted from Cheju Island, further enrich the space with cultural depth.

One of the most significant elements within the garden is the Statue of Nine Turtles, a polished granite replica of a beloved wooden carving from Eternal Grand Master Lee’s office. This statue symbolizes longevity, familial strength, and unity, core values both in Korean tradition and martial arts philosophy.

Throughout the garden, full-sized statues of male and female ATA students bow in a traditional greeting of respect. The combination of lush greenery, Arkansas-native boulders, and East Asian flora creates a contemplative atmosphere that invites visitors to reflect on the values of discipline, perseverance, and cultural appreciation.

If you are looking for a fun-filled, exciting atmosphere, take a trip to the River Market. Visitors will find amazing food, live music, beautiful plants, and many shops to purchase unique items from. The types of food found here are American, Indian, Japanese, Thai, burgers, pizza, Middle Eastern, pasta, and bakery items.

The River Market is located in downtown Little Rock and is a quick walk or ride from any of the hotels surrounding the downtown area. It hosts many festivals and fun events throughout the year, such as The Little Rock Marathon, Jazz in the Park, The Arkansas Literary Festival, the Little Rock Farmers' Market, World Cheese Dip Championship, Movies in the Park, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, and more. Every second Friday evening of the month, the River Market also holds an Art Night event in which visitors can view incredible art pieces created by local artists.

Admission to visit the River Market is free.

Why You Should Visit:
Listen to live music, and to try a variety of different foods. To relax and enjoy a peaceful view of the Arkansas River. To have an exciting night out at the countless bars, restaurants, and pubs.

The Riverfront Park is claimed to be one of the finest public parks in the United States. It extends across eleven blocks alongside the Arkansas River in the downtown area of Little Rock. Visitors will have access to over 30 acres of land to partake in outdoor activities, get some fresh air, let their little ones run free, and learn about Arkansas' history.

A few of the remarkable features of this park are the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, Little Rock Civil War Marker, Riverfront Park History Pavilion, William E. "Bill" Clark Presidential Park Wetlands, La Petit Roche Plaza, the Medical Mile, Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center, and much more. Each of these attractions are worth taking a stroll through the park to see.

If you are looking to spend a day outdoors, the Riverfront Park is an excellent place to visit. There are many trails, playgrounds, and historical objects throughout the park. It also offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere overlooking the river.

The Junction Bridge, a historic lift-span bridge spanning the Arkansas River, has stood as a vital link between downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock for over a century. Originally constructed in 1884 as a railroad bridge, it was rebuilt in 1970 and later transformed into a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle bridge, officially opening on May 17, 2008. The bridge is now a key feature of the Arkansas River Trail system, offering residents and visitors alike a unique vantage point to experience Central Arkansas’ scenic beauty and urban landscape.

Junction Bridge was built in 1884 by the Little Rock Junction Railway and Bridge Company to provide a second rail crossing over the Arkansas River. Supervised by Major T. E. Sickles, the structure featured five stone piers and an iron-steel superstructure, costing about $400,000. In 1885, a second level was added for pedestrian and wagon traffic, and in 1917, upgrades supported heavier vehicles. The bridge remained a key crossing until the Broadway Bridge opened in 1922. A lift span replaced its swing span in 1970, but by the 1980s, rail traffic had dwindled, and by the 1990s, it was largely abandoned.

In 1999, Pulaski County secured a 99-year lease to convert Junction Bridge into a pedestrian and bicycle crossing. A $5.8 million renovation fixed its lift span at 38 feet and added stairs and a glass-enclosed elevator for accessibility. The bridge reopened in 2008 with the “Tying Our Cities Together” ceremony, where local students joined two 900-foot ribbons at the center, symbolizing the unity of Little Rock and North Little Rock.

Today, Junction Bridge serves as a popular attraction within Riverfront Park, offering breathtaking views of the Little Rock skyline and the Arkansas River. The bridge is a favored spot for cyclists, walkers, and photographers, and its elevated walkway provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below. At night, the bridge comes to life with vibrant LED lighting, enhancing its appeal as a scenic and social destination.

Tip:
There are stairs located on both sides of the bridge. There is also an elevator if you do not want to climb up and down steps.

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.

If you are a military enthusiast or a military service member, the MacArthur Museum may well be the highlight of your visit to Little Rock. It has many showings and displays that provide visitors with information about the legacy and history of Arkansas' armed forces. The MacArthur Museum received its name after Douglas MacArthur, the legendary army general during World War II and Korean War. He was born in the Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, which is where the museum is currently located.

When you step foot inside, you will be surrounded by an abundance of objects that represent the women and men from Arkansas who have served in the military. Some of the items that you will be able to catch a glimpse of are artifacts, weapons, photographs, uniforms, documents, medals, and so much more. The mission of the MacArthur Museum is to ensure that everyone who visits has gained a clear and informed understanding of the courageous past of the Arkansas' military.