I am an Arkansas girl to the core. I call the Hogs, hike the trails, enjoy the waterfalls, and occasionally float the Buffalo National River. (That is a story for another day!) I will confess my favorite things fall more in line with boutique shopping, casual dining, coffee shop visits, and a trip to the spa. Thankfully, in Arkansas, we offer it all!
Arkansas is called the Natural State for a reason. We have some of the most beautiful trails and scenic views you will find. I never get tired of seeing God’s creation on display.
We are so excited to welcome women to Little Rock, Arkansas for Going Beyond Live with Priscilla Shirer on Saturday, September 25, 2021. This event provides a great opportunity for a girl’s trip, a Bible Study group trip, or to take some much-needed alone time. I can promise you that there are fun things and meaningful things to enjoy during your stay in Little Rock. This really can be a destination trip! We hope you will come early or stay an extra day or two so you can take advantage of amazing tourist attractions. In Arkansas, there really is something for everyone.
In true southern hospitality, I offer this list to you as my recommendations for eating, shopping, sightseeing, and entertainment while in Little Rock. Oh, and while you are here, be sure and ask someone how to call the Hogs!
PLACES TO EAT
Argenta—North Little Rock
Mugg’s Café: Specialty coffee and espresso drinks along with breakfast and lunch fare in a relaxed, modern space.
Ristorante Capeo: Simple Italian dishes made with the freshest ingredients prepared in an open kitchen.
SoMa District
Community Bakery: “We are here to serve the community! Sweets, treats, locally roasted coffees, fresh soups, sandwiches, and more!”
Loblolly Creamery: This ice cream shop with fresh and unique flavors is a must-stop spot in Little Rock.
Root Café: Specializing in farm-to-table dining, you will love the uniqueness this café offers. Dining is available inside or outside. It was featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
River Market District
@ the Corner: A mom and her daughters took the concept of a diner and matched it with modern expectations of cuisine. From farm-to-fork, they feature fresh, local ingredients from over 100 different farms.
Fidel & Co Coffee: One of Little Rock’s newest coffee shops in a remodeled industrial building. You’ll find a gorgeous modern yet warm setting with top-notch coffee and baked goods.
Flying Fish: This laid-back eatery serves seafood with a Cajun twist, from fried catfish to po’boy sandwiches.
Gus’s World-Famous Fried Chicken: The long-running chain out of Memphis, Gus’s award-winning spicy, crispy chicken and comfort sides is the perfect place to gather with friends.
The Heights and Hillcrest
The Fold: Bright and trendy restaurant in a converted gas station with a modern take on Mexican fare. Was also featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.
Heights Tacos & Tamale Co.: Where they prepare your favorite Mexican and Tex-Mex-inspired dishes with local, seasonal, and Arkansas influences.
Le Pops: You’re going to love the “Gourmet cream and ice pops, with chocolate dips and 10+ toppings.” Non-dairy and vegan options as well.
THINGS TO DO
Central High School: This historic school was the site of forced desegregation in 1957 after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that segregation of public schools was unconstitutional three years earlier.
Heifer International: Heifer works with 21 countries around the world supporting farmers and their communities as they mobilize and envision their futures, provide training so they can improve the quantity and quality of the goods they produce, and make connections to the market to increase sales and incomes.
Moss Mountain Farm: Home of P. Allen Smith, described as one of America’s most talented garden designers. A visit to Moss Mountain Farm is an immersive experience of inspiration, education, and conservation.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park: If you are a hiker, climb up to the top of this iconic landmark and enjoy the beautiful view.
Rock Region Metro Streetcar: How about an inexpensive and fun way to take in the downtown sights, restaurants, shopping, and cultural destinations of central Arkansas’ “twin cities”?
Two Rivers Park: Almost perfectly flat and an amazing place for biking, jogging, and walking. Here you’ll find the best views in Little Rock that don’t require climbing—including deer.
William J. Clinton National Library: The William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park is the presidential library of Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States.
FOR THE ‘GRAM
The Junction Bridge: This vital landmark that served as a backdrop to both Little Rock and North Little Rock’s skylines for over 100 years has been transformed into a pedestrian bridge that provides a view of the Arkansas River and the heart of these two flourishing cities.
La Petite Roche Plaza: This rock outcropping discovered in 1722 was referred to as the “Little Rock” to distinguish it from the “Big Rock” upstream. It is one of the most important landmarks in Arkansas.
The Old Mill: You will definitely want your camera to visit this historic recreation of an 1880’s water-powered grist mill which appears in the opening scenes of the classic movie Gone with the Wind.
For even more ideas on things to do in Little Rock, check out the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau. Also, be sure to register for Going Beyond Live with your group so you can explore Arkansas together. We can’t wait to see you in September!
Andrea Lennon is an “on the go” kind of girl who loves Jesus. Andrea is a Bible teacher whose life calling is to teach women to know the truth, live the truth, and share the truth. She is the founder of Andrea Lennon Ministry and serves as the women’s ministry specialist for the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. Andrea is a wife to Jay and a mom to Jake and Andrew. Connect with Andrea at andrealennonministry.org
