Little Rock Entertainment
Whatever the reason for your trip to Little Rock, you are sure to
find something to do in your free time. Surrounded by mountain peaks and
a lush green countryside, Little Rock is a cultural and historical
treasure trove of interesting historical sites, activities for the whole
family and local celebration.
Fun for Everyone
If the whole family needs entertaining, theres plenty of places for both
kids and adults. The Museum of Discovery is a science and technology
museum that includes hands-on activities. Everyone can learn something
here! Its conveniently located in the Riverfront Park area. Also located
in Riverfront Park is the Riverfest Amphitheater, which features live
concerts throughout the year. While in Riverfront Park, don't forget to
take a look at the original 'La Petite Roche,' located in the History
Pavilion at the north end of Rock Street. This, of course, is the
landmark for which the city is named.
Everybody will enjoy a film at the IMAX Theater, located in the
Aerospace Education Center. While you're there, tour the exhibits of
aerospace and aviation history and get into the space mood with a
virtual reality experience. If you just want to gaze at the stars, stop
at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Planetarium.
Of course, there are places that are designed just for kids. Try the
Childrens Museum and the Childrens Little Theater in the Arkansas Arts
Center.
History and Government in Action
Little Rock is awash in history. The beginnings of Little Rock and the
state have been preserved in the Arkansas Territorial Restoration.
Living history guides lead tours of buildings such as the first
territorial government meeting house, which was used until 1836. The
complex also includes a gift shop and a new visitors center. Mount Holly
Cemetery is an interesting stop with graves from the territorial days.
A short distance from the Territorial Restoration is the Old State House
Museum, used from 1836 to 1911. The current Arkansas State Capitol
building is also open for tours.
The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History is located in the
Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal. Military history buffs will
also want to check out the National Cemetery. Central High Museum and
Visitors Center, and EMOBA, The Museum of Black Arkansans tell some of
the story of African American history in Arkansas.
Outdoor Fun
Little Rock boasts several championship golf courses, including Rebsamen
and Hindman. More than sixty parks are located in Little Rock, not
including those in neighboring North Little Rock. Many include extensive
facilities for softball, golf, tennis and swimming. War Memorial Park
has its own amusement park and fitness center, as well as the Little
Rock Zoo.
Riverfront Park is the site of the Riverfest every year in May. Check
out the River Market every week on Thursday for Big Downtown Thursday.
From 6pm-10pm, food, music and festivities reign. If you're looking for
something wet and wild, there are two waterparks in Little Rock. Wild
River Country Water Park features thrill chutes, while Willow Springs
Water Park is more like an old-fashioned swimming hole.
Be a Fan
The people of Little Rock have their calendars filled year-round when it
comes to watching sports. The famous Arkansas Razborbacks make their
home in War Memorial Stadium, with fan allegiance second to none. Theres
AA baseball at Ray Winder Field with the Arkansas Travelers. Hockey fans
can watch the ECHL Riverblades, who make their home in the Alltel Arena
in North Little Rock, while the WPHL Glacier Cats play out of Barton
Coliseum.
Or, do it yourself
Little Rock Skating Arena has rinks for both roller-skating and
ice-skating. In Pinnacle Mountain State Park you can hike or visit the
Arkansas Arboretum. Go fishing on the river or sailing on Lake Maumelle.
Thunder Road II will really get your blood pumping, as you pilot your
own racing go-kart around a winding track.
Arts and Performing Arts
Art devotees can choose from many galleries and museums. The Arkansas
Arts Center and the Decorative Arts Museum are two of the biggest. For
those who love classical performances, check out whats playing at the
Robinson Center Music Hall. This is the home of the Little Rock Symphony
Orchestra, Ballet Arkansas and the Broadway Theater Series. Theres also
Murrys Dinner Playhouse and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. If you are
looking for rock, country, or other pop acts, try the Barton Coliseum or
the ALL-TEL Arena.
Nightlife
Dance the night away at one of many nightclubs. DJ-style clubs abound:
Discovery Night Club is techno; at the Electric Cowboy you can two-step
and Joes Big Bamboo serves up top 40 hits. The Hollywood Country Club
packs them in with live country or rock music every weekend. Most any
kind of live music can be found, from blues to jazz to rock.
Shopping
The River Market District is probably the most popular shopping area for
tourists and locals alike. Merchants sell all types of food items, from
gourmet to fresh produce. The area around the Market is filled with
shops, restaurants, and the occasional outdoor concert. Other areas
known for great shopping are Park Plaza and University Malls, near West
Markham and University west of downtown, and the Hillcrest area.
L. A. Smith
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