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EXPLORING LITTLE ROCK & CENTRAL ARKANSAS
I lived in Little Rock for about 3 years, which gave me ample time to sniff out all the best activities to do here. While not a major metropolitan area, Central Arkansas is best known for its awesome outdoor adventures as opposed to the city life. So, here you have it from a former local-what not to miss!
WHAT TO SEE & DO
Big Dam Bridge
Little Rock, free
It’s more than a funny name, it’s a spectacular location to bike, rollerblade, walk, run, and basically anything active. It’s a gigantic dam built over the Arkansas River, which you can gaze out at at the top of the bridge. It’s huge, it’s beautiful, it’s a place you won’t forget.
The Old Mill
North Little Rock, free
This place is actually from a scene in Gone With The Wind. After you visit, you’ll understand why. There’s an old brick mill, obviously, that you can walk around in, and all kinds of pretty landscaping, and cool bridges and walkways. It’s like something out of a fairy tale.
Pinnacle Mountain:
Little Rock, free
In my opinion, this is the best state park Arkansas has to offer. It is, in fact, a mountain that you can hike up to and go all the way to the top. It’s safe with marked paths for levels of difficulty. Ya girl went up the backside of the mountain once-yea don’t do that. Twas scary! As long as you stick to the more populous paths, the heights shouldn’t frighten you and you’ll love the beautiful scenery on your way up.
Horseback Riding
Little Rock $$
Play cowgirl for a day and hit the stables. No matter where your route will take you, I’m sure it will be gorgeous as this area offers nothing but pretty views.
Emerald Park
North Little Rock, free
It’s named after a stone because you can find actual ones here! My dad and stepmom have been digging here many times and found some beauties. Aside from that, there are many pretty and peaceful trails here to walk on. It’s a less populated park so it’s a great place to go and relax. I like to gaze out over the cliffs while here.
Little Rock Central High School
Little Rock, free
Head over here on a weekend day and walk around the campus to take in the beautiful architecture and rich history. it was the first public high school in Arkansas to allow desegregation.
Junction Bridge
Little Rock, free
If you happen to be downtown, be sure to hit up this site. It is right over the Arkansas River, so it’s nice to stroll around. It’s especially nice at night as it lights up with multi-colored lights. Perfect for date night!
Petit Jean State Park
Morrilton, free
The park is about an hour outside of Little Rock, but so worth the drive. This is another awesome state park filled with pretty views at lookout points over cliffs, easy to rigorous trails, caves, and waterfalls.
Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs, free
This national park is free to get into because it technically is nustled into downtown Hot Springs. You can stay in town and hit up the cute shops or partake in fun events such as Josephine Tussaud’s Wax Museum, or walk around the Arlington Hotel. There are also actual hot springs you can dip your hands into, as well as the bathhouses you can either tour or book a spa day at. If you’d rather do some hiking, head up to the trails above the town. This is an absolutely gorgeous area that is also rich with history.
AWESOME GRUB SPOTS
Vino’s
This small bar doesn’t look like much from the outside but it definitely doesn’t disappoint. Between their NY-style pizza or their draft beer, you can’t go wrong here! It’s a great spot to go if you’re downtown, also.
David’s Burgers
Retro 50s diner, delicious burgers. Need I say more?
Whole Hog Cafe
If you’re a BBQ fan, this is the place for you. While I am not crazy about BBQ, I do love me a big ole tater spud from here with.
Purple Cow
If the name alone doesn’t pique your interest, then the food will. This is another diner joint offering burgers, shakes, and all kinds of yummy fried foods.
Shorty Smalls
This place has been around for as long as I can remember. It’s very All-American with their food choices with a homey feel to it.
Hideaway Pizza
One of the best pizzas I’ve ever had, and that’s coming from a pizza snob!