As the capital of Arkansas, Little Rock is a lively tourist destination filled with everything from award-winning restaurants to historic homes and landmarks with great significance to the South.

It’s a mix of the old and the new, the classic and the modern.

For every streetcar that toots its way across town, there’s also a glamorous art gallery, a glittering shopping mall, or a neon-lit nightclub.

Outside of the metropolis, you’ll also find stunning natural scenery in the form of woods, lakes, rivers, and mountains.

There’s a reason why Arkansas is called the Natural State, so if you’re a fan of the outdoors, there are plenty of ways to work up a sweat!

Another great thing about Little Rock is that it’s a place that everyone in the family can enjoy.

1. Big Dam Bridge

An architectural marvel, the Big Dam Bridge is one of the biggest points of interest in Little Rock.

It’s also a history maker: It’s the largest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in all of North America.

Walk, bike, hike, or jog along more than 14 miles of beautiful riverside trails.

2. Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Nicknamed “The Natural State” for its abundant parks, rivers, mountains, and hot springs, Arkansas is filled with beautiful and natural scenery, and Pinnacle Mountain State Park is one of the best places to see it.

Covering more than 2,000 acres, this park is spread across Pinnacle Mountain and its surrounding Big Maumelle and Little Maumelle rivers.

There are dozens of trails, including walking and biking trails, and the views from the cliff tops are simply breathtaking.

Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Roland, AR 72135

3. River Market

With food, drink, music, theater, and more shopping opportunities than your poor wallet can handle, the River Market is one of the best things to do in Little Rock.

Despite the name, it isn’t just a market.

It’s actually an entire district filled with everything from historic riverside homes to bars, boutiques, and bistros.

You can dine at restaurants, explore nature trails, and take public artwork tours all within a few blocks.

The River Market is also home to a number of special events throughout the year.

Some are recurring, including the local farmer’s market, while others are more time- and location-specific like spring jazz festivals and holiday caroling events.

Whether you’re headed to Little Rock this weekend, this summer, or next year, you’ll definitely want to check out the River Market District.

The good news is that it isn’t going anywhere.

It’s been a staple of the city since the 1990s, and even today, it stands as a shining beacon of ingenuity and city planning in the South.

Check it out!

Address: E. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201

4. The Arkansas River Trail

What covers 88 miles and costs less than 88 cents?

The answer: a trip across the Arkansas River Trail.

Spanning the entire breadth of Little Rock as well as surrounding areas like Maumelle and Conway, the Arkansas River Trail is a gigantic pedestrian pathway that’s used by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and more.

It connects dozens of landmarks and attractions, including almost 40 different parks and recreation areas, so you can spend all day in nature while also appreciating the convenience of a clean, tidy path with lots of signage.

5. Clinton Presidential Center

Formally known as the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, the Clinton Presidential Center is a standing tribute to Bill Clinton, the 42nd president of the United States.

It’s also an impressive landmark in its own right!

Even if you aren’t interested in politics, it’ll be hard not to gawk at its size, scale, and unique architectural features.

The building, for example, is constructed primarily of steel and laminated glass that gleams in the sunlight.

It’s also raised off the ground, allowing visitors a stunning bird’s eye view of the river and greenery below.

Inside, there are all of the galleries and archives that you’d expect from a presidential museum, but there’s also a theater, cafe, great hall, and restaurant.You can explore all kinds of novelties, including full-sized replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room from the Clinton era.

If you’re at all interested in history, politics, or just cool architecture, you’ll want to make time for the Clinton Presidential Center.

Address: 1200 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201

6. Arkansas State Capitol

With its bright white dome, the Arkansas State Capitol is one of the most iconic places to visit in the state.

It also has a fun and fascinating history: Originally built in the late 1800s, it was constructed on the site of a state penitentiary, and prisoners helped to raise it.

Today, you’re more likely to see folks in business suits rather than orange jumpsuits, but it’s still a bustling location filled with motion, activity, and purpose.

Politicians use the offices.

Tourists check out exhibitions like the Civil Rights Memorial and the Confederate War Prisoners Memorial.

People interested in government work can even watch legislators from a public gallery!

If you’re headed to Little Rock, it’s worth checking out the Arkansas State Capitol.

Not only is it an impressive architectural feat, but it’s a place where you can learn a little history and celebrate the legacy of the Natural State.

Address: 500 Woodlane St, Little Rock, AR 72201