Little Rock History Walking Tour, Little Rock

Little Rock History Walking Tour (Self Guided), Little Rock

Lying in the heart of the State of Arkansas, separated from its sister city of North Little Rock by the Arkansas River, the city of Little Rock boasts an abundance of cultural attractions and monumental landmarks, which have been luring tourists for more than a century. Among them are a bunch of family-friendly locations that saw momentous events in American history.

One such notable site is the Arkansas State Capitol, a symbol of political power and governance in the state. Built in the early 20th century, the Capitol building reflects the state's commitment to democracy and public service.

Another – poignant – place is the Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial, dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who fell during the Vietnam War in the 1960s and 70s. This memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families in the defense of their country's interests.

Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Little Rock is the Central High School National Historic Site. This high school gained national attention in 1957 when nine African American students enrolled in the previously all-white school, marking a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. Today, the site stands as a testament to the struggle for racial equality and the importance of education in shaping society.

Additionally, Mount Holly Cemetery holds distinction in the city's history as the final resting place for many prominent figures like people of arts, politicians, and other individuals, who have contributed to the growth and development of Little Rock.

Little Rock's history is a tapestry woven with stories of resilience, progress, and remembrance. Exploring these landmarks, one can not only learn about the past but also gain insight into the values and aspirations that continue to shape the city today. We therefore encourage you to visit Little Rock and experience firsthand the richness of its heritage by taking this self-guided walk.
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Little Rock History Walking Tour Map

Guide Name: Little Rock History Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Little Rock (See other walking tours in Little Rock)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 4
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: vickyc
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Arkansas State Capitol
  • Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
  • Mt Holly Cemetery
1
Arkansas State Capitol

1) Arkansas State Capitol (must see)

The Arkansas State Capitol is a spectacular place that anyone traveling to the state of Arkansas should consider visiting. The architecture and history of the building will leave visitors inspired. While visiting, you may be able to see legislators at work as well as see the place where many of Arkansas' historical events have taken place.

Through the halls of the Arkansas State Capitol, there are many rooms which lawmakers and the state government are determining policies and solutions to issues within communities. The building is home to six constitutional offices as well as the House and Senate Chambers. When you visit, you may be able to attend a public gallery which allows visitors to watch the lawmakers working.

This building should be at the top of the list for any history and political fanatic. The residents of Arkansas take great pride in their Capitol, as it is a representation of their government, state, and people.

Admission to the State Capitol is free, and tours are provided on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Why You Should Visit:
To get an up-close look at the legislators at work. To stand in the same places that several historical events took place that shaped Arkansas into what it is today.

Tip:

Be sure to walk the grounds after touring the building, as there are more than 50 different types of roses, 40 different trees, and 15 monuments and memorials.
Sight description based on Wikipedia.
2
Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial

2) Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Arkansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located near the Capitol Building. This solemn memorial depicts an American soldier, designed by John William Deering. There is a list of those who served and lost their lives in Vietnam on the granite monument. There is an American flag as well as flowers at the memorial, which was erected in 1987.
3
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

3) Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site (must see)

Central High School is one of the most interesting and important attractions in Little Rock. It is the only open high school in the United States that is considered to be a National Historic Site. Guests who visit this school will learn about the hurdles and issues that nine African American children dealt with more than 60 years ago during their first few days at the school. Learning about these struggles will help the public comprehend how these nine young individuals paved the way for a better education for all African Americans in this country.

The goal of the Central High School National Historic Site is to preserve the history and present it to the public in hopes of teaching and educating on the ending period of segregation in schools and the Civil Rights Movement. When you step into the high school, you will be taken back to 1957 when Brown v. Board of Education was implemented and desegregation of schools was beginning. The stories and valuable objects are inspiring and worth seeing.

Admission to Central High School National Historic Site is free.

Why You Should Visit:
To learn about an important day in history when integration in schools began. To step back to a past time and learn about the struggles that occurred during the Civil Rights Movement.
4
Mt Holly Cemetery

4) Mt Holly Cemetery

Mount Holly Cemetery is a historic cemetery in Little Rock. On the cemetery ground, you will see many beautiful statues and sculptures. It is sometimes called the "Westminster Abbey of Arkansas" as there are many famous Little Rock people like artists, poets, politicians and religious figures buried there. Mount Holly Cemetery was established in 1843. The cemetery is now a National Historical Site.

The art works in this cemetery are as wonderful as the people buried there. Some of the graves are from the 1800s and belong to the first leaders of Arkansas. The tombs are very creatively and artistically designed.

Walking Tours in Little Rock, Arkansas

Create Your Own Walk in Little Rock

Create Your Own Walk in Little Rock

Creating your own self-guided walk in Little Rock is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Little Rock Introduction Walking Tour

Little Rock Introduction Walking Tour

Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, is a cultural, economic, government, and transportation center of the State. Sitting on the south bank of the Arkansas River, it became the capital of Arkansas Territory in 1821 and was incorporated as a city in 1831.

The name "Little Rock" (French: La Petite Roche) was coined by the French explorer and trader Jean-Baptiste Bénard de la Harpe in...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Bill Clinton's Little Rock

Bill Clinton's Little Rock

Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States and the former Governor of Arkansas, has strong ties to Little Rock, where several significant locations mark his legacy. Besides the Capitol, you can see many other places where he spent time while living in the city. These locations reveal a lot about his character, hobbies, and job.

The Clinton Presidential Library stands as a symbol of...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 5.7 Km or 3.5 Miles