Little Rock

The capital city's namesake – the little rock – is now the center of this beautiful area with interpretive plaques and innovative landscaping.The story of the "little rock" -- Benard de le Harpe, who is believed to have travelled about 50 miles above the present sites of Little Rock and North Little Rock, described the area when writing about his journey.  He noted a landmark on the north bank of the Arkansas River, which he referred to as the "French Rock" (now known as "big rock"). The first outcropping of rock along the riverbanks above its mouth on the south bank came to be known as the La Petite Roche -- "Little Rock." The city of Little Rock was incorporated just over 100 years later.

The arts flourish in Little Rock, Arkansas with the gallery at the Arkansas Arts Center, offering free admission and housing one of the most-acclaimed collections of works on paper in the country. Performing arts opportunities are abundant, as are fine and casual dining, with a wide variety of restaurant options.

For a change of scenery, Little Rock has plenty for outdoor lovers as well with great weather and numerous city parks offering running/walking trails, bike paths, fishing, private and public golf courses, sports facilities and picnic areas. The Little Rock Zoo is a treat for families seeking a leisurely and scenic stroll. Don't miss taking a whirl on the historic Over the Jumps Carousel, the only one still in existence in the world. Just to the west of town is Pinnacle Mountain State Park, a day-use facility close to town which everyone likes for its birds-eye view of the city from its summit as well as a variety of nature trails around the base. Overlooks at the park provide views of the water portion of the Trail of Tears route and, on a nice day, you're likely to see a plenty of hikers on their way up to the top to check out the next-level view.