Little Rock is the capital and most populous city of Arkansas. Located on the Arkansas River, it serves as a political, economic, and cultural hub for the state. The city is well known for its historical significance in the American civil rights movement.
Overview
- Population: ~200,000 (over 740,000 in the metro area)
- Founded: 1821 as the territorial capital
- Geography: Located in central Arkansas on the south bank of the Arkansas River
Landmarks and Attractions
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site – pivotal to the civil rights movement
- William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum
- Arkansas State Capitol and Riverfront Park
- Big Dam Bridge – one of the longest pedestrian/cyclist bridges in the world
- Museum of Discovery and Old State House Museum
Economy
Little Rock’s economy includes:
- Healthcare and medical research
- Government and education
- Transportation and logistics
- Banking and financial services
It is home to several corporate headquarters including Dillard’s and Stephens Inc.
Culture and Lifestyle
- Strong Southern heritage blended with modern city development
- Known for outdoor recreation, especially along the Arkansas River Trail
- Hosts Riverfest, music events, and seasonal farmers’ markets
- Diverse dining scene from Southern comfort food to global cuisine
Education and Research
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
- Institutions focused on public health, law, and technology
Transportation
- Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT)
- Rock Region Metro bus system
- River rail streetcar system for downtown and riverfront areas
Fun Facts
- The “Little Rock” refers to a small rock formation along the Arkansas River used as a navigation marker by early travelers
- Nine African-American students known as the “Little Rock Nine” integrated Central High School in 1957 under national attention
- The city was a finalist for the permanent location of the United Nations headquarters after WWII