VISITORS GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK & NORTH LITTLE ROCK 2018
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VISITORS GUIDE
323 president clinton ave., little rock, ar 72201 beerknurd.com • 501.372.8032
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WELCOME TO G R E AT E R L I T T L E R O C K ! Arkansas’s capital city is celebrated for its charming hospitality, genuine people and new Southern style. In fact, we’ve been honored with such accolades as being named one of Forbes Travel Guide’s “Five Secret Foodie Cities,” USA Today’s No. 3 “Travel Worthy State Capital” and Trivago.com’s Top Ten “U.S. Best Value Destinations” for the third consecutive year. In recent years, Little Rock has undergone a tremendous renaissance. An initial catalyst, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center has been a wonderful addition to our destination city. Since then, new attractions, restaurants and shopping and entertainment venues have contributed to the city’s revitalization. The arts and culture scene has blossomed with the renovated historic Robinson Center, a beautiful anchor to our downtown district. It is home to the Arkansas Ballet, Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and Celebrity Attractions’ Broadway Theater Series. And the Arkansas Arts Center, Arkansas Repertory Theatre and Wildwood Park for the Performing Arts are all part of our city’s vibrancy. Some of Little Rock’s unique attractions are Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, one of our nation’s most important Civil Rights landmarks; Esse Purse Museum, the only of its kind in the U.S.; Museum of Discovery, a fun, hands-on science, technology, engineering and math museum; Heifer International and Urban Farm, an interactive lesson on community sustainability; and much more. Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the Arkansas River Trail, a 17-mile loop connecting downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock via four pedestrian and bike-intended bridges, including the Big Dam Bridge, North America’s longest built for that purpose. Take in Riverfront Park, a 33-acre urban spread featuring our city’s namesake, a sculpture garden, and River Lights in the Rock—three illuminated downtown bridges that provide nightly light shows. Little Rock has created quite a stir with its restaurant scene. From family-owned landmarks and traditional Southern cuisine, to farm-to-table and local artisanal fare, there is something for everyone. Be sure to explore our craft breweries, wineries and award-winning distillery with the Locally Labeled passport. Many are located along our electric streetcar route downtown. I invite you to discover the pleasant surprise of Little Rock, and see why we say, “Life is Better with a Southern Accent.” Warm Regards,
Gretchen Hall President & CEO Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau
CO N V E N T I O N A N D V I S I TO R S B U R E A U
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Little Rock’s dining and craft food and beverage scene is on the rise. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner for two, using our Locally Labeled Passport program to sample our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits, or savoring any of the amazing products our artisan food producers are making, there’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock. • Little Rock named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities” Forbes Travel Guide, 2014 • Loblolly Creamery’s ice cream named a “Superior Scoop,” Saveur, 2014 • One Eleven at the Capital Semifinalist, Best New Restaurant, James Beard Awards, 2015 • Rock Town Distillery “2015 U.S. Micro Whisky of the Year,” The Whisky Bible, 2015 Edition • Trio’s Restaurant named “Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant in Arkansas,” Travel + Leisure, May 2016 • Little Rock featured in “15 Southern Cities All Food Lovers Should Visit Now,” Food & Wine and Southern Living, August 2017
IN GREATER LITTLE ROCK
Lost Forty Brewing > To see more, visit LittleRock.com Visitors Guide | 2018 9
NORTH LITTLE ROCK IS A D E S T I N AT I O N F O R A L L S E A S O N S — THE RE’S SOMETHING FOR ALL AGES, YEAR-ROUND! Family-Friendly Fun: Spend a sun-filled day at Arkansas’s largest water park, Wild River Country. The 26-acre park offers non-stop fun with a variety of slides and water attractions. Enjoy the favorite American pastime of baseball at Dickey-Stephens Park, home to minor league team the Arkansas Travelers. Live Entertainment: The 18,000-seat Verizon Arena brings in sporting events and entertainment acts like Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Garth Brooks and Bruno Mars. The Joint Comedy Theater hosts improv groups, local musicians and the comedic group The Main Thing, known for writing for “Saturday Night Live.” Four Quarter Bar, Skinny J’s, Gigi’s Soul Café & Lounge and Lindsey’s Hospitality House regularly bring in blues and jazz talent to entertain diners. Outdoor Activities: Burns Park, a 1,700-acre park with 18-hole golf courses, a dog park, hiking trails and tennis courts, is perfect for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The Arkansas River Trail is a scenic 17-mile loop crossing pedestrian and cyclist-friendly bridges. You can even take a guided kayak tour of the Arkansas River at sunset from Rockwater Marina! Shop and Dine: Ride vintage-style streetcars to shopping and dining in downtown Argenta Arts District, which hosts monthly art walks through local galleries. McCain Mall is Central Arkansas’s largest indoor shopping center with more than 80 specialty shops, restaurants and a movie theater. Three Arkansas breweries—Diamond Bear, Flyway and Core Public House—call North Little Rock home and Crush Wine Bar offers an extensive list for the wine connoisseur. Dive into History: North Little Rock is the only place other than Honolulu to have two Naval vessels that bookend World War II. At the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, see the National Historic Landmark USS Hoga, a tugboat that fought fires for 72 continuous hours in Pearl Harbor. Also tour the longest-serving submarine in the world, USS Razorback, which was present in Tokyo Bay during Japan’s formal surrender. Everything you want to know about North Little Rock’s colorful past—including mining for silver, the railroad, the Trail of Tears and the much-debated nickname of “Dogtown”—can be found within the walls of an old fire station, home to the North Little Rock Heritage Center. Hollywood Ties: Film fanatics appreciate the Old Mill, an authentic reproduction of an old, water-powered grist mill that appears in the opening credits of the 1939 film, "Gone with the Wind." The Old Mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is surrounded by a beautiful park and bridges. Welcome to North Little Rock, we hope you enjoy all that our beautiful city offers. For more information, visit NorthLittleRock.org.
Bob Ma jor Executive Director North Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
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take a photo of this Guest take a Ad photo Guide for of this Guest BUY 1, Get 1 Guide Ad for tour tickets. BUY 1, Get 1 tour tickets.
The tugboat USS Hoga is known for her heroic actions in Pearl Harbor on December The tugboat 7, 1941, USS Hoga and the is known submarine for USS herRazorback heroic actions was present in Pearlin Harbor Tokyoon Bay during December the 7, formal 1941,surrender and the submarine of Japan. USS Razorback was present in Tokyo Bay Experience these vessels firsthand along during the formal surrender ofNaval Japan. with artifacts from two other Experience vessels these and the vessels Arkansas firsthand River.along with artifactsAdmission: from two other Naval vessels the| Child Arkansas River. Adultsand $7.50 (5-12) $5
Seniors $5 | Military $5 Admission: Adults $7.50 Child (5-12) $5 Arkansas Inland| Maritime Museum Seniors $5 | Military $5 120 Riverfront Park Drive | North Little Rock 501-371-8320 | Info@AIMMuseum.org Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum www.AIMMuseum.org 120 Riverfront Park Drive | North Little Rock 501-371-8320 | Info@AIMMuseum.org www.AIMMuseum.org #ExploreNLR
#ExploreNLR
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THINGS TO DO! JANUARY LIVE RACING SEASON AT OAKLAWN RACING & GAMING Head to the track at Oaklawn Racing & Gaming in Hot Springs for an exciting season of live horseracing. Live racing begins Jan. 12 and continues through April 14. Don’t forget to check out the gaming facilities with live blackjack, video poker, roulette and more.
MARCH LITTLE ROCK MARATHON The 16th annual Little Rock Marathon and companion races will take place March 3-4, in downtown Little Rock. The fast-growing marathon is a favorite of runners the world over for its combination of flatroad running and hilly climbs and descents through some of Little Rock’s most scenic neighborhoods. Runners can try the full marathon, a halfmarathon, a 10K and a 5K. 12 Visitors Guide | 2018
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Celebrate Irish heritage at the 19th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade beginning at the corner of Third and Rock streets in Little Rock, and ending at Sixth and Main streets in North Little Rock. The parade route will feature decorative floats, Irish dancing, Irish Wolf Hounds, candy, music and more.
strawberries or vegetables to Arkansas-style trinkets, all while entertained by street performers and other characters. The market starts in early May and runs every Saturday through the last Saturday in September inside the River Market pavilions. Market is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
APRIL FOOD & FOAM FEST This lively charity event provides samples of more than 350 varieties of craft beer from around the world with food offerings from Central Arkansas restaurants. Entry gets unlimited beer samplings, live music and more at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock.
DOGTOWN FARMERS MARKET Find certified Arkansas-grown fruits and vegetables along with meats, cheeses and more in historic downtown North Little Rock. Find the market in the parking lot near the William F. Laman Argenta Branch Library at 410 Main Street. The market is open on Saturdays from late April until September.
LITTLE ROCK FARMERS MARKET The market has already seen 40 years come and go-as a destination for folks wanting to find anything from fresh
ARKANSAS LITERARY FESTIVAL This annual event is the state’s premiere gathering of readers and authors. During a weekend each April, Central Arkansas
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN CHILSON
POPS ON THE RIVER
welcomes well-known national and international authors as well as Arkansas favorites for lectures, workshops, book-signings, cooking demonstrations and more. And the kids aren’t forgotten; several events feature children’s book authors. BERNICE GARDEN FARMERS MARKET The South on Main neighborhood offers a farmers market opportunity Sundays at the Bernice Garden on Main and 14th streets from late April until October. Find fresh produce, flowers, food trucks and entertainment. JEWISH FOOD & CULTURAL FESTIVAL Explore Jewish and Israeli cultures at War Memorial Stadium. Sample traditional Jewish foods, shop vendor’s booths with jewelry and other gifts, and enjoy traditional Jewish music and kids’ activities. Admission is free.
MAY ARKANSAS TIMES MARGARITA FESTIVAL This popular tequila-based festival will be back for its second year close to Cinco de Mayo. Look for samples of creative margaritas by local restaurants, food and live music at this unique event. Tickets can be purchased at centralarkansastickets.com. Sponsored by the Arkansas Times. INTERNATIONAL GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL If you love baklava and other Greek delights, this annual festival, held the third weekend of May on Napa Valley Road at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, is for you. Just follow the signs to the ample parking outside the festival perimeter and ride the shuttle to the church. Besides
the great food, you’ll find music, dancing and plenty of other entertainment. TOAD SUCK DAZE This family-friendly festival in downtown Conway is the only place in Arkansas (and probably the world) to find concerts, carnival rides, arts and crafts, a petting zoo and the World-Famous Championship Toad Races.
JUNE-JULY MOVIES IN THE PARK A Riverfront Park staple for a decade now, Movies in the Park presents a popular feature film every Wednesday night starting in early June at the First Security Amphitheater, with the projector kicking on at dusk. It’s free, filmgoers are welcome to bring a cooler, and the River Market vendors typically stay open late to offer food and drinks as well.
JULY POPS ON THE RIVER Music and fireworks join forces in this annual Fourth of July event. Enjoy a memorable fireworks display over the Arkansas River that is synchronized to a live performance by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.
SEPTEMBER PIG & SWIG The most perfect food and beverage come together at this premium whiskey and bacon tasting event featuring local food and beverage vendors. Get your tickets online at centralarkansastickets.com. Sponsored by the Arkansas Times.
OCTOBER HERITAGE HOG ROAST Bring your bib and appetite to Argenta’s event grounds near Sixth and Main streets in North Little Rock. Sixteen whole hogs from Farm Girl
Meats will be roasted by local chefs in another contest to see who’s the best at fixing whole pig. The event begins at 1 p.m. Tickets are available at centralarkansastickets.com. Sponsored by the Arkansas Times. ARKANSAS STATE FAIR October 12-22 the Arkansas State Fair will set up this family-friendly event on the fairgrounds in Little Rock. Enjoy live music, livestock shows, rides, food, drinks and more for the whole family. CENTRAL ARKANSAS PRIDE/ LITTLE ROCK PRIDEFEST A Little Rock Pride Parade in downtown Little Rock as well as entertainment and events around the Clinton Presidential Park celebrate the gay and lesbian community. The date is typically the first Saturday in October, which coincides with LGBT History Month. HARVESTFEST Kavanaugh Boulevard will be blocked from the promenade area to Spruce Street on Oct. 14 for Hillcrest’s annual fall celebration, with food, art sellers and clothing for sale, local music and more, from the morning until night. It’s almost like a fair midway parked itself on Kavanaugh. ARKANSAS CORNBREAD FESTIVAL Enjoy some of the best cornbread in the South at this food-themed festival and cornbread competition in the SoMa neighborhood on Oct. 21. Find great music and tons of cornbread samples in professional and amateur categories.
MOre events this way! Visitors Guide | 2018 13
YEAR-ROUND ARGENTA ART WALK Every third Friday of each month, North Little Rock welcomes art lovers to its galleries, restaurants and businesses. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with special refreshments and other sidewalk entertainment available. CLINTON SCHOOL OF PUBLIC SERVICE DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES World leaders, famed entrepreneurs, celebrities and activists are scheduled throughout the year to speak at the School.
Arkansas Craft Beer Festival ARKANSAS CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Arkansas Times and the Argenta Arts District know how to party. On Oct. 27, look for the Arkansas Craft Beer Festival in which the Times and AAD share with you the celebration of the fine art of craft brewing in America by offering samples from more than 150 brewers, as well as local food and music. WORLD CHEESE DIP CHAMPIONSHIP Arkansas is believed to be where cheese dip began, and where better to settle on a world champion than in Arkansas? The 2017 event will be hosted at the Clinton Presidential Center in downtown Little Rock, Oct. 28. Look for plenty of cheese dip samples from professional and amateur competitors, live music and more.
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NOVEMBER HOLIDAY HOUSE Get your holiday shopping done in one convenient event, usually hosted in early or mid November. The Junior League Holiday House at the State House Convention Center hosts more than 150 specialty merchants, many of which are hand-made, unique gifts.
DECEMBER BIG JINGLE JUBILEE PARADE AND STATE CAPITOL LIGHTING CEREMONY Usually on the first Saturday of the month, the Capitol dome is adorned in lights, and fireworks add to the excitement as the city of Little Rock’s Christmas Parade culminates there.
HILLCREST FARMERS MARKET Some of the local markets only run from mid-spring to fall, but the Hillcrest market, held every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pulaski Heights Baptist Church (22 Kavanaugh Blvd.) runs year-round. More Arkansas produce will be available in the warmer months, but look for meats, honey, jams, baked goods and more for sale at any time. SECOND FRIDAY ART NIGHT Little Rock’s downtown museums and galleries are open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a gallery walk. SHOP & SIP Hillcrest’s Kavanaugh Boulevard and neighboring streets are rocking until dark—and sometimes later—every first Thursday of the month for, yes, shopping and sipping. Galleries, shops and other businesses welcome visitors starting at 5 p.m., and many offer wine and other refreshments. THIRD THURSDAY IN THE HEIGHTS Hillcrest’s neighbor to the northwest saw how much fun was being had at Shop & Sip and started its own party with live music, food vendors, open shops until well past usual close, and more.
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ILLUSTRATION BY VINCE GRIFFIN
DOWNTOWN
The River Market area, East Village and South Main (known as SoMa) comprise Little Rock’s downtown. Here, visitors will find a vibrant business district, lively nightlife and a culinary community that raises the bar for the rest of the city.
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EAST VILLAGE THE GIST OF IT:
East Village is a relatively new moniker for one of Little Rock’s oldest neighborhoods. An area that saw only deterioration for decades is now downtown’s true up-and-comer. Since 2004, when the Clinton Presidential Center was built and Heifer International anchored its international operation here, a new crowd has gravitated beyond the ever-bustling River Market District, past I-30. Expect an urbanindustrial vibe with a distinctly rugged inflection.
EAT Embark on a culinary adventure and take in the astonishing view at Forty Two, inside the Clinton Presidential Center, where locally grown, seasonal produce is center stage and the river view creates a peaceful atmosphere. Chow down on hearty, Ca jun-inspired dishes— including an array of “shareables” at Rebel Kettle, a brewery that takes its food very seriously. Indulge the meat lover inside with an order from the “Beer Food” menu at Lost Forty Brewing, where no effort is spared to achieve the pinnacle of flavor in favorites like the house-smoked pork cuts and house-made bratwurst; or beat back your brunch cravings on the weekend with a giant cinnamon roll or a hash skillet. Look for a fresh and delicious lunch—with mouth-watering daily specials, made of locally sourced ingredients at the Café @ Heifer, on the grounds of the Heifer International Headquarters, where ease and convenience don’t require lowered expectations.
DRINK Boost your spirits with some bourbon, rye whiskey or flavored vodkas on a tour of Rocktown Distillery, a “grain-to-glass” artisan craft distillery that uses grains from Arkansas to distill awardwinning spirits. Catch on to the beer craze that’s sweeping the entire state, by enjoying a brew created at Lost Forty Brewing. Choose one of the year-round
Rebel Kettle
standards, like the Rockhound IPA or the Love Honey Bock, or taste the season with a limited-release beer; you’ll leave happy either way. Continue your beer tour at Rebel Kettle, with one of their small-batch craft brews. Settle in at the bar, in the restaurant or in the beer garden, where there’s often live music on an outdoor stage.
SEE & DO Take in the spectacle of the Clinton Presidential Center, where you’ll see a replica of the Oval Office and a museum that chronicles the career and twoterm presidency of the 42nd Commander in Chief, Bill Clinton. And be sure to find out which traveling educational and/or cultural exhibit is in place during your stay. Stimulate your intellect by taking in a lecture at the Clinton School of Public Service, where globally hailed thinkers present ideas and concepts to the great minds of the future. Learn about world hunger through interactive exhibits at the Heifer International Headquarters, and marvel at the Leed Platinum building and its many “green” features, including the grounds, which are restored wetlands.
SHOP Shop for a fair trade memento of your time at Heifer International’s headquarters at the Shop@Heifer. Take home a gift or souvenir from the Clinton Museum Store.
Clinton Presidential Center
Check It Out! Pop into the Clinton Center to check out the temporary exhibit "Art of Africa: One Continent, Limitless Vision" through Feb. 12. The exhibit explores the William J. Clinton Presidential Library's stunning collection of art from the continent, as well as pieces from President Bill Clinton's personal collection. Look for a beautiful presentation of textiles, paintings, sculpture, jewelry and clothing given to the president and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton by African heads of state.
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HOTTEST NEIGHBORHO ODS: DOWNTOWN
zeteo coffee
RIVER MARKET THE GIST OF IT:
There’s rarely a time of day—or a time of year—that the River Market District is not bustling with people: an eclectic mix of professionals, visitors and residents. This makes for a constant buzz of energy—it’s unquestionably a pulse point of the city. No matter your quest in exploring Little Rock, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest in the heart of Downtown.
array of spice and sauce combos for the tasty chicken fingers at Stickyz Rock n’ Roll Chicken Shack. Grab a “rockin’ taco” and an allfresh-juice house margarita at Revolution Taco & Tequila Lounge. Feel the O.G. Little Rock vibes at Vino’s, the hippest pizza joint and brew pub in town. Reel in a tasty seafood dinner at the Flying Fish, and be sure to tell them to “make it snappy!”
CACHE EAT Don’t let the long line at @The Corner deter you—the sleek diner has earned its popularity with delicious breakfast and lunch offerings, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Get your morning buzz on and grab a light breakfast at Zeteo Coffee, Nexus, Andina Café, or Blue Sail Coffee. Feast on French and New American cuisine in a contemporary atmosphere at Cache. Taste the Old World at Bruno’s Little Italy—a family restaurant with a rich (and delicious) history. Experience world class dining at One Eleven at the Capital and Capital Bar & Grill, both located inside the Capital Hotel, the hub of cosmopolitan Little Rock. Take in the spectacular river view from the balcony patio at Damgoode Pies, while your taste buds delight in what many claim is the best pizza in town. Dine in style at Samantha’s, where the kitchen features an open-air, mesquite, wood-burning grill and the bar has 32 beers and 20 wines on tap. Go to Doe’s Eat Place expecting a no-frills atmosphere and some of the best steaks and tamales in the South. Order the cheese dip at Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro—just trust us on this one. Try Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. for a quick, handmade and delicious lunch on the go. Choose from an
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DRINK Share a bottle of fine wine and a charcuterie board at The Southern Table. Order a specialty whiskey or gin cocktail at 109 & Co., a speakeasy style lounge. Try a wine flight (three half-glasses) at Zin Urban Wine & Beer Bar. Drink anytime from happy hour to the wee hours at 610 Center, a gay bar that welcomes all. Find a beer you’ll love when you choose from the 75 beers on tap and the 150 bottled brews at the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. People watch from the patio of Dugan’s Pub, an Irish bar that also has a cool karaoke night. Sing along at Ernie Biggs or Willy D’s, the River Market’s two dueling piano bars.
DOE'S
SEE & DO Take a stroll in Riverfront Park and enjoy the sculptures in the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden, or let the kids climb, run and bounce around at the park’s playground. Discover Arkansas history, artwork and artifacts at the Butler Center galleries, the Old State House Museum and the Historic Arkansas Museum. Explore the permanent collection and special exhibits at the Arkansas Arts Center museum, which boasts a number of renowned works including drawings, contemporary craft and special collections. Watch an acclaimed theatrical performance at one of Arkansas’s Actor’s Equtiy-caliber theaters, Arkansas Repertory Theater and the newly renovated Robinson Center. Enjoy a classic film or a reading at the Ron Robinson Theater. Get a drink and enjoy a show at the Studio Theater, a community theater with a progressive attitude. Take in a concert in the open air at the First Security Amphitheater, right on the river. Salute Arkansas’s military history at the Macarthur Museum of Military History.
SHOP Purchase handmade jewelry and eclectic gifts at Bella Vita Jewelry. Stop by Shop the Rock inside the River Market’s Oppenheimer Hall for souvenirs. Take home a piece of handcrafted Arkansas from the Freckled Frog. Browse books, toys and other goodies at River Market Books & Gifts. Shop a curated collection of sleek and sophisticated clothing for men and women at Beige. Put a little free-spirited fun in your fashion and be sure to check out the vintage-inspired jewelry at Fringe. Grab grocery essentials, including wine and spirits, at Stratton’s Market. Swing into 4Square Café & Gifts for souvenirs and gifts; and, if you’re hungry, try one of their delicious vegan or vegetarian wraps.
DOE’S CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS Lunch: Mon- Fri 11am-2pm Dinner: Mon-Thur 5:30-9:30pm • Fri & Sat 5:30-10pm
FULL BAR & PRIVATE PARTY ROOM 1023 West Markham • Downtown Little Rock 501-376-1195 • www.doeseatplace.net
Welcome to
DoubleTree Little Rock Located in the heart of downtown and seamlessly connected to the Robinson Center, the DoubleTree Little Rock is only five blocks from the River Market Entertainment District and so much more. Enjoy our recently renovated guest rooms, new lobby, and redesigned business center and Concierge lounge. Dine at our new restaurant and lounge, Bridges, for a casual experience with local and regional fare, or pick up freshly made specialties at the new Made Market. We look forward to welcoming you.
DoubleTree Little Rock | 424 West Markham Street Little Rock, AR 72201 | 501.372.4371 | doubletreelr.com Visitors Guide | 2018 19
, N U F WILD . Y L L A R N AT U Visit the LITTLE ROCK ZOO and experience a living classroom full of wild wonders, with over 700 animals representing 250 species from all over the world, including endangered ones that you can help zoos like ours save through conservation efforts. A TRIP FULL OF MEMORIES:
X X X X X X X X X
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Historic Over the Jumps Carousel Arkansas Diamond Express Train Arkansas Heritage Farm Laura P. Nichols Penguin Pointe Behind-the-Scenes tours NEW! Laura P. Nichols Cheetah Outpost CafĂŠ Africa & snack stands Safari Trader Gift Shop Exotic animals and much more!
NATURE SPEAKS Listen. Learn. Conserve.
littlerockzoo.com | 501.666.2406 1 Zoo Drive Little Rock, AR 72205 Visitors Guide | 2018 21
HOTTEST NEIGHBORHO ODS: DOWNTOWN
LOC AL PICKS
SoMa
THE GIST OF IT:
Located across I-630 from Downtown proper, SoMa is the hippest little neighborhood in the city. It’s easy to enjoy the change of pace here, though you’re just blocks away from the hustle and bustle; the community is earth-loving, artistically inclined, dog-friendly and accommodating to cyclists. Home to many festivals and a bustling Sunday farmers market, don’t be surprised if you find a reason to hang around in SoMa a little longer than you anticipated.
SEE & DO
Bark bar EAT Try South on Main for a culinary experience on-par with the best restaurants in the South—the Hot Chicken Sandwich is a favorite; come on the right night, and you can stay late and enjoy a musical performance in the Oxford American music series. Order a Neapolitan-style, brick-oven pizza and a signature craft cocktail at Raduno. Gather round a table at The Root, a restaurant with a radical commitment to building community, operating sustainably and sourcing ingredients from local farmers. Grab a coffee or espresso drink and choose from a variety of European-inspired pastries at Community Bakery. Try a Balsamic Chicken Salad Panini at Boulevard Bread Co., and be sure to get a cookie! Indulge your sweet tooth at Loblolly Creamery, with a scoop of one of their unique, small batch ice cream flavors, like Rock Town Bourbon Pecan in a house-made cone.
DRINK Pull up a barstool at Midtown Billiards, a favorite Little Rock latenight spot, which was completely rebuilt and reopened this year after a fire gutted it. If you’re hungry for a midnight meal, order the cheeseburger—it will leave you speechless. Bring your pooch to Bark Bar, where both of you can enjoy playtime, in Arkansas’s first indoor/outdoor off-leash play area with a bar.
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Lose yourself in Bernice Garden, among the lushly landscaped native plants and quirky sculptures made from repurposed materials. Relearn your 20th-century history through the lens of handbag evolution at the Esse Purse Museum. Tour the historic homes of the Quapaw Quarter and the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion. Appreciate the architectural beauty of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. Lock yourself in a room for fun and see if you can puzzle your way out at The Escape. Stretch yourself into serenity at a yoga or pilates class at SparkFit Community by Arkansas Wellness Professionals, a workout space for adults and children.
SHOP Shop sustainable goods at the Green Corner Store, where you’ll find everything earth friendly, from clothing to cleaning products. Browse a wide collection of quirky, vintage-inspired gifts, furniture and accessories at Moxy Modern Mercantile. Travel back through time at Sweet Home & clement; which is actually two antique/ vintage home stores in one. Find a plant for your home at the plant lab inside Electric Ghost Screen Printing, where there is also an assortment of gifts and jewelry on hand. Spend some time inside South Main Creative, where vendors have assembled a fresh take on the antique mall concept. You’ll find everything from vintage goodies to art and artisanal goods. Let your imagination run wild at Argenta Bead Company—a jewel box of every type of bead imaginable, where you can create something for yourself or to give as a gift.
GANELLE & CHARLES BLAKE We are Ganelle and Charles Blake, and we love downtown SoMa because of its historic roots, vibrant businesses and good-hearted community members. We both grew up in the area and are part of a committed group of folks who want to see south Main continue to thrive. SoMa is eclectic during the day, and the nightlife hits just the right notes for us. We’re here for keeps! COMMUNITY BAKERY This place is a staple and community hub of business deals and casual meet-ups. Order the Smoke and Goat Panini and the soup of the day (whatever it is). Challenge yourself to leave without satisfying that sweet tooth! LOBLOLLY CREAMERY It all started with the buttermilk, so whatever scoop you get add that to it and top it with local candied pecans. Salted Caramel is the jam! SIM’S BBQ Generations of goodness in one satisfying secret sauce. Hands down best BBQ in Little Rock, and it doesn’t matter which meat you pick—chicken, beef or pork— you’re winning. MIDTOWN We simply wouldn’t be complete without our sweet, local dive bar. It’s a smoky hole-in-the-wall with late-night live music. Definitely order the cheeseburger! SOUTH ON MAIN We love them for their gourmet southern cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails, and ear for fantastic live music. Reserve the front booth for the next TP and the Feel show, and enjoy that soulful, southern vibe.
Dine-in, Carry Out and Full Catering
TOURs & tastings daily A Locally Owned Sports Bar Where You Can Enjoy Great Food And Great Sports! Best Wings In Arkansas and we are ranked #6 in the United States for our wings according to USA Today!
2 projection screens • 32 more HD TVs • Free Wi-Fi Happy Hour Specials • Live Music Thu-Sat To-go orders welcome. 17815 Chenal Parkway • The Promenade At Chenal 501-830-2100 www.thetavernsportsgrill.com
M-F 11am-2am, Sat 11am-1am, Sun 11am-Midnight
Tour Times: Monday - Friday 2pm & 4pm Saturday 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 Sunday 1:30 and 3pm PRODUCT OF ARKANSAS UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
1216 E 6th Street, Little Rock, AR 72202 www.rocktowndistillery.com Please Enjoy Responsibly
HAND CRAFTED W W W. R O C KTO W N D I S T I L L E R Y. CO M
Grounds Open Daily
For information (501) 372-6429
Ask about our free cell phone tour sponsored in part by a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the Endowment for the Humanities.
2101 Barber St. · Little Rock | oaklandfraternal.com Visitors Guide | 2018 23
ILLUSTRATION BY VINCE GRIFFIN
MIDTOWN
If you’re looking for neighborhoods lined by gorgeous trees and homes with charm, Midtown is the area to see. Comprised of some of Little Rock’s historic neighborhoods and refreshed with new amenities and attractions, Midtown offers something for every taste and every age.
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THE HEIGHTS
THE GIST OF IT:
Established as its own bedroom community to Little Rock in 1905 as Pulaski Heights, the neighborhood has traditionally catered to the affluent looking for big lots and comfortable living. The Heights, as it is now known, is touted for its boutique shopping, restaurants, historic mansions and active community atmosphere.
Boswell-Mourot fine art
red mango
EAT
DRINK
The Heights has an established commercial district, the “Main Street” of which is Kavanaugh Boulevard. Here you’ll find an array of some of the best locally owned restaurants anywhere in town. For starters, there’s Heights Taco and Tamale Company, which since 2015 has offered upscale Ark-Mex fare that includes the 2016 World and Republican Congressional Challenge champion cheese dip. You'll find folks lining up for lunch at Burge’s, a Southern deli offering the best in comfort sandwiches stacked with the company’s famous smoked turkey or ham. Other must-trys are Heights Taco and Tamale’s sister restaurant Zazafor fresh, made-to-order salads and wood-fired pizzas, or Boulevard Bread Company, for fresh artisan breads, fine cheeses and delicious sandwich options. Also in the neighborhood are U.S. Pizza, a locally-based small chain; Cafe Prego, serving homemade pasta in an intimate setting; and Ba ja Grill, serving smartly prepared Mexi-Cali cuisine. The Pizzeria, serves up some of the best Napoli-style pizza in town. Scallions offers lighter fare in a bright, tastefully appointed dining room. You can also indulge your sweet tooth with a treat at Cupcakes on Kavanaugh, a LePops gourmet popsicle or yogurt with a variety of toppings at Red Mango.
By The Glass Wine Bar is perennially ranked among the top bars in Little Rock offering a variety of wine selections accompanied by fine cheeses and other fare. Another good place to chat up friends over a nice glass of wine is Cheers in the Heights, a Little Rock institution featuring terrific food and a solid wine list. Catch a ballgame and some nightlife at Prospect Bar & Grill, a sports bar with a great menu. Indulge in an artisan cocktail at the bar of Boulevard Bistro & Bar.
SEE & DO The Catholic Diocese of Little Rock was an early inhabitant of the neighborhood, relocating its St. John Seminary there in 1916. Today, the stately iron gates beckon visitors of all faiths to the vast grounds and ornate buildings of the former seminary, now home to the diocesan administrative offices, including that of the Bishop of Little Rock. Check out the Westover Farmers Market for the best farm-fresh produce and tasty bites from area food trucks. The Farmers Market is open on Tuesday evenings, from May to September. Also not to be missed are various community events that happen in the Heights every year. The Firecracker Fast 5K is a July 4 tradition that starts in the Heights then runs downhill to the finish line at War Memorial Stadium exactly 3.1 miles away. Other community events include Handmade in the
Heights, Cinco de Heights Street Festival and Hoppin’ in the Heights Easter Egg Hunt, to name a few.
SHOP The number and variety of merchants to be found in The Heights defies description. Feinstein’s and Mr. Wicks are among the oldest and bestknown of the neighborhood shops, featuring fine clothing for the fashionable woman and tailored man. Cap off your look with a fine timepiece or dazzling jewelry from Sissy’s Log Cabin, one of the premiere jewelry stores in the state. Check out cool-casual menswear, accessories and miscellany at Domestic Domestic and Old Heights Corner Store, or fashion-forward young women’s clothes at Steamroller Blues, Tulips and Proposals. Kids will love a trip to Bologna Joe's, which is full of trendy children's clothes and accessories and a free arcade game to keep the little ones busy while you shop. Go!Running keeps runners of all ages and abilities suitably attired, while Ozark Outdoor Supply carries everything you need for a weekend in the woods or the mountains. For the home, check out Cobblestone and Vine, White Goat or Eggshells Kitchen Company. Add an artistic touch to your home with a trip to Boswell-Mourot Fine Art. And make sure to treat your animal friends with a trip to Doggy Daddy pet supply or Wild Birds Unlimited.
Visitors Guide | 2018 25
HOTTEST NEIGHBORHO ODS: MIDTOWN
HILLCREST
THE GIST OF IT:
Just south of The Heights lies Hillcrest, a mash-up of home styles and architecture from the pre-World War II era, clustered around a winding, scenic commercial district of shops, restaurants and green spaces. Hillcrest lays claim to being the first suburb of Little Rock and one of the oldest organized neighborhoods in the state of Arkansas.
District fare EAT An eclectic blend of restaurants call Hillcrest home. Check out the sophisticated SŌ Restaurant and Bar, featuring award-winning fine dining in a beautifully repurposed neo-rustic space. Another casually elegant restaurant is The Pantry Crest, featuring artisan sausage and hand-crafted burgers along with other European favorites. The owners have also recently opened District Fare, an upscale deli and charcuterie offering hearty sandwiches and signature boards of artisan meats and cheeses. Hillcrest supports a number of come-as-you-are neighborhood haunts boasting fare from all points around the globe. Two of Little Rock’s favorite pizza joints sit across the street from each other—locally-based Damgoode Pies and U.S. Pizza—offering great pies, tasty salads and sandwiches, washed down with your favorite beer. Locals love Cañon Grill for Mexican food and Leo’s Greek Castle for what is regularly touted as the best breakfast in town. Or try a true international taste at Kemuri sushi and Japanese grill or Cafe Bossa Nova, featuring authentic Brazilian dishes.
DRINK Start your day at Mylo Coffee Company which custom roasts beans from around the world and pairs them with house-made baked delicacies. Cyclists will love
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Stifft station gifts
the new Meteor Cafe, a bikefriendly coffee shop and bistro. For an evening out where the wine is as good as the food, head to Ciao Baci, occupying a lovingly restored home in the heart of the neighborhood. Next Bistro & Bar offers a full menu of beer, wine and cocktails with occasional live music. After hours, find your way to The Hillcrest Fountain, a wellestablished watering hole in the center of the neighborhood. Two other places that every visitor should see at least once is Pizza D’ Action, which bills itself as “Little Rock’s Favorite Dive Bar,” and the nearby Oyster Bar where locals go to get a dozen on the half-shell and cold beer. Off the beaten path, nestled in the nearby Stifft Station neighborhood, look to White Water Tavern for lowkey atmosphere and an excellent, diverse musical lineup ranging from indie to alt-country and hiphop.
SEE & DO History abounds in Hillcrest; the neighborhood features a delightful variety of pre-World War II homes in several distinct architectural styles. Individual homes on the national register include the Retan House (2510 Broadway), Werner Knoop House (6 Ozark Point), Reid House (1425 Kavanaugh), Williamson House (325 Fairfax) and Boone House (4014 Lookout). Another neighborhood landmark is Mount St. Mary Academy, the
oldest continually-operating educational institution in the state. Finally, don’t miss the Farmers and Craft Market in warmer months, cheer runners cutting through the neighborhood for March’s Little Rock Marathon, or prepare a picnic and visit historic Allsopp Park.
SHOP Expect the unexpected in Hillcrest’s array of one-of-akind shops, including Box Turtle clothing, gifts and jewelry, which specializes in local artisans. Shop Haus Werk for unique gifts and home decor items or Hillcrest Designer Jewelry where jeweler/gemologist Eric Coleman works his magic. At the bottom of Kavanaugh, you'll find Stifft Station Gifts and Sundries, a cute boutique filled with an array of accessories, decor, edibles, jewelry and more. E. Leigh's has trendy women's clothing and jewelry, and Gallery 26 hosts excellent art and handmade gifts and crafts by local artists. Check out the classic, retro, period, cottage and vintage pieces at Kahler Payne Antiques. And don’t let the name fool you, Hillcrest Junk is a charming, eclectic shop featuring antique miscellany from used to vintage to retro. And if you can’t remember the last time you were in a real corner drugstore, visit Rhea Drugstore, which has been serving the neighborhood for the past 80 years.
Fabulous Finds
LOC AL PICKS
Antique & Decorative Mall
Selection Changing Daily
Mimi San Pedro & Mary Ann Coleman
40+ Dealers
We live in the Overlook neighborhood near the Big Dam Bridge where there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy, the sunsets are a daily celebration and the deer run wild.
Voted Best by our customers!
THE FOLD They serve the best Bloody Mary for weekend brunch.
2905 CANTRELL ROAD TUES.- SAT. 10-6 & SUN. 12-5
BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Take in the breathtaking view of downtown Little Rock while you dine. It’s a great and memorable place to take your out of town guests. BY THE GLASS This wine bar is our go-to place every Friday evening to meet up with our wine group. Buffalo Grill We love to grab veggie burgers, fries and beer at Buffalo Grill after a golf game at the nearby Rebsamen Golf Course. CYNTHIA EAST FABRIC This is a place, not only to purchase unique designer fabrics, but also where you can pick up last minute gifts on your way to a party.
501-614-8181
Minutes from downtown Little Rock fabulousfindsantiques.com
Here’s To Your Health!
We’ll Buzz your hair and Shine your shoes! Best Barbershop 1996-2004, 2006-2017
BEST YOGURT/ SMOOTHIES
ICE CREAM/ COOL TREATS
Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm • Sat 8am-1pm Closed Sun 5815 Kavanaugh • In the Heights
663-9875
RIVERDALE 10 CINEMA This movie theater is just down the hill from our home. You can catch first-run movies in an intimate setting while drinking wine or beer.
5621 Kavanaugh Blvd Little Rock, AR 72207 (501) 663-2500 PHOTO BY LANCE JOHNSTON
Visitors Guide | 2018 27
HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOODS: MIDTOWN
MIDTOWN PROPER THE GIST OF IT:
Tying everything together to the south is Midtown proper, coalescing at the intersection of University and Markham. Midtown is a hub of activity in Little Rock with nearby shopping, dining and amenities. It's a center of healthcare in Little Rock, with the University of Arkansas Medical Center and CHI St. Vincent residing within mere blocks of each other.
Midtowne shopping center
arkansas state fair EAT While the district is dominated by chains and franchises, there are still several independent gems to be found within the local dining scene. Among these, Big Orange is the standout. The gourmet burger joint elevates the lowly cheeseburger to a work of art, with varieties boasting such unexpected toppings as white truffle, chipotle red-pepper mayo and house-made spicy pimento cheese. Splurge for the truffle fries and save room for one of the diner’s decadent milkshakes. For a casual, quick bite that’s easy on the wallet, try Arkansas-born Slim Chickens where chicken fingers are fried, grilled and chopped over fresh salads or rolled into tasty wraps. Pick your favorite house-made dipping sauce and sit back to enjoy the blues bouncing off the walls. Get a fresh, healthy meal and an energizing juice at I Love Juice Bar in the Midtowne Shopping Center. Grab a salad at Trio's or a sandwich at Jimmy's Serious Sandwiches.
SEE & do The crowning attribute of the district is War Memorial Park, the 202-acre urban park around which the neighborhood revolves. Originally constructed as the grounds for the Arkansas State Fair (which it hosted from 1868 to
28 Visitors Guide | 2018
1924) the ground was originally named Fair Park. Presiding over ceremonies that changed the name was none other than sitting U.S. President Harry S. Truman, in 1948. The park includes a variety of amenities such as War Memorial Stadium—home to local high school football teams and on certain weekends of the year, to several of the state’s college football teams as well. The stadium also hosts a variety of other community events and concerts. Next door is War Memorial Golf Course, a 90-acre, 18-hole, urban executive golf course. The par-64 layout, featuring Champion Bermuda greens, takes an unusual turn in the fall, as locals and visitors alike rent spaces on the course for tailgating activities. War Memorial Park is also home to the Little Rock Zoo, featuring more than 500 animals and 400 insects, representing 200 species in all. Through the years, the zoo has expanded to include specialty enclosures highlighting big cats, lemurs, cheetahs, grizzly bears and apes. In fact, Little Rock’s apes exhibit is one of the few to feature all three categories of great apes—orangutans, chimpanzees and gorillas. On the southernmost edge of the park sits the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library and Learning Center. The six-acre,
$12 million complex goes well beyond books to include a computer lab, a teaching kitchen, individual and group study rooms, a theater and community room. The very grounds are also meant to educate, featuring a greenhouse and teaching garden and landscaping reflective of Arkansas’s ecosystems from native hardwood trees to wetlands vegetation. An outdoor amphitheater is used for various presentations on local ecology.
SHOP Parked at the center of Midtown proper is Park Plaza Shopping Mall. One of the original indoor malls in Central Arkansas, Park Plaza has undergone several renovations over the years. Open seven days a week and home to more than 80 premier retailers, Park Plaza buzzes with activity and promotions year-round. Across the street sits Midtowne Shopping Center, boasting 130,000 square feet of upscale shopping for apparel, children’s wear, home amenities and decor. Across the intersection sits Park Avenue Shopping Center, one of the first mixed-use developments in the city. Office, retail, residential and dining all reside within a short walk, including one of the city’s largest health clubs.
See what a difference a stay makes.
EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON. TWICE THE HOTEL.
Located in West Little Rock, just off the intersection of I-630 and I-430, Embassy Suites Hotel by Hilton and Convention Center is Little Rock’s ONLY full-service, all-suite hotel. Over 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including 10,800 sq. ft of Grand Ballroom, which provides the perfect setting for any event. The two-room suites offer comfortable luxury for one person or a family of up to six. • Complimentary Made-to-Order Breakfast and Evening Reception Daily • Indoor Pool, Sauna, Whirlpool and 24 Hour Fitness Center • 24/7 Business Center • The Athletic Club Sports Bar and Grill • Refrigerator, Microwave, Coffee Maker, Two 37" Flat Screen LCD HD Televisions • High-Speed Internet Access
11301 Financial Centre Parkway, Little Rock, AR 72211 (501) 312-9000 • Fax: (501) 312-9455 • Sales Fax: (501) 954-7296
MAKE YOUR RESERVATION TODAY!
1-800-EMBASSY • www.littlerock.embassysuites.com
Where the locals go!
PO-BOYS • GUMBO • GRILLED MAHI MAHI • CHEF SALADS • DAILY SPECIALS • BEER • JUKE BOX • WINE
We now offer Salmon!
Grilled Shrimp Ba sket
Ham/Cheese & Oyster Po-Bo ys
Cajun Soups
Since 975 1
3003 W. MARKHAM • LITTLE ROCK • 501-666-7100 • WWW.LROYSTERBAR.COM OPEN MON - THURS 11AM-9:30PM • FRI 11AM-10:30PM • SAT 11AM-10PM
Visitors Guide | 2018 29
HOTTEST NEIGHBORHO ODS: MIDTOWN
RIVERDALE
THE GIST OF IT:
A little further east, discover the elegance of Riverdale, a district that combines stunning views of the Arkansas River with many amenities, just minutes from downtown. Riverdale is home to upscale corporate office complexes, gated communities and swank apartments and townhomes, all flanked by some of the city’s largest outdoor attractions.
CAJuN's WHARF
Cynthia east fabrics
Brave new restaurant
the fold
EAT Loca Luna is home to the city’s first wood-fired pizza oven and casually elegant Southern cuisine. Loca Luna’s plate lunches, pasta and skillet dinners and cheese dip are the stuff of legend. Parked next to each other are three of the city’s other most recognizable dining establishments, Buffalo Grill, Faded Rose and Pizza Cafe. All three are come-as-you-are places with an easy, relaxed vibe. Faded Rose serves New Orleans cuisine and great steaks. The burgers at Buffalo Grill are among the best in the city (get the guacamole while you wait). Pizza Cafe delivers dependable, satisfying pies with cold beer to match. Don't miss the iconic, slow-smoked fare at Whole Hog Cafe, which has won numerous awards for its ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. La Hacienda serves authentic Mexican dishes
30 Visitors Guide | 2018
and frosty margaritas. Maddie's Place is another gem, offering New Orleans-style fare in a causal atmosphere. Grab a seat on the balcony at the upscale Brave New Resturant and enjoy the view of the river.
and more, but the cocktail menu is what really sets it apart. We recommend the Lemon-Rosemary or Jalapeño margaritas from the creative bar menu.
DRINK
A number of centrally located attractions make Riverdale a destination stop for many locals, starting with Rebsamen Golf Course, a municipal course featuring 18 holes on Champion Bermuda greens on the regular course as well as a 9-hole executive course featuring TriDwarf Bermuda greens. A little farther up lies Murray Park, where you'll find 18 pavilions, soccer fields, a boat slip, sand volleyball courts and miles of hiking trails. The Murray-Rebsamen stretch is a popular route for runners and cyclists and makes up part of the Arkansas River Trail. More than 88 miles in total, the Little Rock-North
Riverdale is home to some of the most acclaimed and iconic restaurants in Little Rock including Ca juns Wharf, a landmark seafood restaurant and hopping music venue. Locals make their way out on the large deck in nicer weather; enjoy dancing inside on the ground level or grab a quiet table by a window and watch the river roll by. Set into a low-slung ministrip mall, the Town Pump evokes bars and taverns of days gone by. Reasonable drink prices, solid bar food, a shuffle board, a pool table and musical entertainment. The Fold offers excellent tacos, burritos
SEE & DO
ck ’s o R e l tt i L n u f d n a c i r b fa . e c a l p w o h s
Little Rock loop from downtown to Murray Park covers 15.6 miles. Bordering Murray Park and forming the arc of the loop is one of the city’s engineering marvels, the Big Dam Bridge. Elevated 90 feet above the surface of the water, the Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge in North America, and looks particularly beautiful at night when the bridge lights up. Fitness enthusiasts should pop into the hip boutique gym, Clubhaus Fitness. This modern health club offers tons of classes and equipment. Get centered at Barefoot Studio, one of Central Arkansas's most popular yoga studios offering a range of classes from beginner to advanced. Catch a flick at the locally owned Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema. It shows blockbusters as well as retro classic films and serves a wide variety of foods and beverages from the snack bar, including beer and wine.
Bolts and bolts of designer fabrics IN STOCK! The most imaginative home decor and gifts. Put us on your “Must Visit” list. Like 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd | Riverdale Design District | Little Rock, Arkansas Us Ph 501.663.0460 | 10:00–5:30 Mon - Fri; 10:00–4:00 Sat | cynthiaeastfabrics.com
SHOP Fabulous Finds Antique Mall is a Central Arkansas landmark retailer. With multiple dealers under one roof, new inventory is arriving all the time featuring retro, primitive, European and American antiques from heirloom table settings to massive cabinetry and furniture. Botanica Gardens offers everything you need for your garden and home decor. Shop the nursery during growing season and find creative seasonal decorations in the shop throughout fall and winter. Cynthia East Fabrics is textile heaven, with bolts and bolts of decorator fabric, draperies, pillows and gifts .
Visitors Guide | 2018 31
ILLUSTRATION BY VINCE GRIFFIN
WEST LITTLE ROCK
West Little Rock has a great mix of walkable neighborhoods and shopping centers. While visiting, you‘ll find a good number of familiar national chains; however, we recommend trying out some of the locals’ favorite spots.
32 Visitors Guide | 2018
local lime
Promenade at Chenal two rivers park EAT Try a specialty martini and any one of Vesuvio Bistro’s Italian dishes, including the famed spaghetti chitarra, finished in a large wheel of Parmesan cheese. Imagination, southern tradition and culinary know-how intersect at Table 28, a stylish restaurant tucked away in a boutique hotel. Enjoy a bit of German fare as well as classic comfort food at The Pantry West. Local favorites: truffled deviled eggs and The Pantry Board. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent cupcake or petit four from Mickey’s Cakes & Sweets or a delectable miniature chocolate fudge brownie pie from Honey Pies. Enjoy brunch on the fabulous deck at Capers Restaurant, or if you're on the move, pick up a gourmet meal togo. Perhaps you love sushi? If so, a stop in the Sushi Café is a must; the cuisine is appealing to the eye as well as the palate. If surf and turf is more your style, you won’t find it better than the fare at Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse, where their Kobe beef and lobster macn-cheese are famed.
DRINK Five-dollar beer buckets, a traditional happy hour and a latenight happy hour make Bar Louie one of the area’s most popular spots. Local fave Big Orange’s
milkshakes have achieved national acclaim, and affiliated restaurant Local Lime has incredible tequila flights. Do a little toe tapping and finger snapping while enjoying an adult beverage or two at Thirst N’ Howl Bar & Grill. Love margaritas? Grab the crew, and enjoy a pitcher at El Porton or Señor Tequila. The Promenade at Chenal is home to The Tavern Sports Grill, a top spot to watch sporting events with ample TVs, a projection screen, a full menu, nightly drink specials and live music on the weekends. For creative concoctions, don’t miss the drinks at Petit & Keet.
SHOP Ladies, want to freshen up or change your wardrobe without breaking the bank? Check out the Clothes Mentor for you, and the Children’s Orchard next door for your little ones. Want a tee that expresses your faith? A stop in Faithful Chics Boutique will fulfill this need. If sneakers, slides and snapbacks are on your shopping list, you’ll love Rock City Kicks. If you’re due for a splurge, check out the designer digs at Kamille Marie. On the lookout for a great accessory for your home? Pick up some art at M2 Gallery or the Art Group Gallery, or the perfect furnishing from Howse or Cobblestone &
Vine. You’ll also find great gifts at the Crown Shop or Vanness Pen Shop. Need to spruce up your flower beds or add to your curb appeal? A visit to The Good Earth Garden Center is in order. Did you leave your four-legged babe with a sitter, or has he been the perfect travelling companion? Then a reward from Just Dog’s Gourmet is fitting.
see & do Walk, run, bike or fish near one of Little Rock’s three illuminated bridges at Two Rivers Park. Want to release your inner Picasso? Check out the parties at Painting with a Twist or Pinot’s Palette. Guys, take a load off and enjoy a cigar at West End Cigar Shop and Lounge while watching a game. And ladies, in the meantime, you can enjoy spa services at Rejuvenation Clinic Day Spa, or a facial or makeover at Pout. If all the running around leaves you frazzled, take time to meditate at the non-denominational Arkansas House of Prayer. Release the kids and your inner child with a trip to Altitude Trampoline Park. Climb to new heights—while staying cool indoors—at the Little Rock Climbing Center. Or make the drive and hike upward at Arkansas State Park’s Pinnacle Mountain.
Visitors Guide | 2018 33
ILLUSTRATION BY VINCE GRIFFIN
NORTH LITTLE ROCK
Head north of the Arkansas River to find a unique, quiet city full of artistic charm, historic neighborhoods and a growing nightlife scene. North Little Rock is home to breweries, its own art gallery walk, excellent dining and acres of city parks. Hop on the trolley and take a short ride to the north side!
34 Visitors Guide | 2018
PARK HILL & LAKEWOOD THE GIST OF IT:
Main Street becomes Highway 107, also known as J.F.K. Boulevard, as it continues north into Park Hill. This historic district features tons of bungalow-style homes and a budding restaurant scene. Farther north, Lakewood—named for a series of six lakes that serve as a neighborhood focal point—is home to several parks, shopping centers, and Restaurant Row along Highway 167 that offers diners a wide variety of options.
See & Do Lakewood and Park Hill are full of quiet parks and picturesque walking trails. Take the kids to the quiet Idlewild Park in Park Hill, or head to the Old Mill to explore an authentic reproduction of an old waterpowered grist mill that made an appearance in the film “Gone With the Wind.” The gardens are gorgeous and the park connects to another Lakewood lake encircled by a sidewalk with nearby playgrounds.
Shop north bar
Old mill
Eat Park Hill’s newest hot spot is North Bar, which offers an extensive menu with burgers, salads, snacks (everyone raves about the fried Brussels sprouts!), and a full bar. Next door is Bucanas Billar & Taqueria serving authentic Mexican fare with a billiards room. North Little Rock has a great selection of restaurants with a Latin flair! La Casa Real on J.F.K. Boulevard offers excellent street tacos; Rosalinda Restaurante Hondureño in Levy offers an extensive menu with Honduran influence; and Cilantro’s Grill in Lakewood Village offers a lively atmosphere, extensive fa jita options (we love the Hawaiian) and a full bar. Another new spot north of the river is Hawgz Blues Café serving up barbecue, soul food, Sunday brunch and live music. Jacob’s Wings offers delicious, hearty wings and a simple Greek-inspired menu. Scoop Dog serves gourmet brats and some of the best frozen custard in town with an extensive, creative menu (try the pineapple upside-down cake or whoopie pie custard!). In Lakewood, The Lakewood Lounge serves upscale entrees, sandwiches and brunch, using fresh ingredients with the new addition of a full bar for a delicious cocktail or beer on tap.
American Pie Pizza is serving up delicious pizza, salad, sandwiches and more with nightly food specials and a game room for the kids. Santo Coyote offers great Tex-Mex with guacamole made right at the table. Lakewood Village is home to Georgia’s Gyros with a casual, pub atmosphere serving up Greek and American fare with big mugs of cold draft beer. Sample more Greek offerings at Taziki’s Mediterranean Café in McCain Mall with an extensive menu of gyros, salads, entrees and more. North Little Rock’s Restaurant Row along Highway 167 has a little something for every taste with a great mix of national chains and local eateries. If you’re in the mood for pizza stop into U.S. Pizza Co., Chicago Pub Pizza, or Hideaway Pizza. For barbecue it doesn’t get better than the award-winning Whole Hog Café. Go south of the border at Chuy’s, On the Border, El Porton or Cactus Jacks. Find a classic menu of burgers, fries and shakes and friendly service at David’s Burgers. Get thick cuts of steak and excellent atmosphere at Texas Roadhouse or Outback Steakhouse.
North Little Rock’s retail scene includes an eclectic mix of shops and shopping centers full of unique gifts, art, home décor, musical instruments and more. Red Door Gallery on J.F.K. has been framing and selling locally and nationally known artists in Park Hill for more than 30 years. Pick up a piece of fine jewelry at Park Hill Jewelers. For all of your Razorback needs check out Hogman’s Gameday Superstore for an extensive collection of decals, clothing, tailgate gear and more. Plantopia, owned by local garden guru Chris Olsen, offers an array of plants at wholesale prices. Plan your next party, pick up some balloons or grab a last minute costume at Party City. McCain Mall is home to tons of great national retailers, food vendors and a Regal Cinemas theater with stadium seating and an RPX screen.
Drink Park Hill’s late night neighborhood dive can be found just on the outskirts of Levy at Spectator’s Grill & Pub, which offers a full menu (order a basket of fried zucchini chips!), full bar and live music and karaoke on the weekends. Fox & Hound Bar & Grill in Lakewood Village is a great venue with a billiards room, lots of TVs, a full menu and bar. In the lower level of McCain Mall is the conveniently located Bar Louie with a lively atmosphere, a menu of salads, burgers, sandwiches and more; they also serve creative cocktails.
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HOTTEST NEIGHBORHO ODS: NORTH LITTLE ROCK
ARGENTA
THE GIST OF IT:
North Little Rock neighborhoods are full of charm and character, and the business districts are seeing lots of growth and development. Argenta has nightlife, breweries, architecture that dates back to the late 1800s, large-scale concerts at Verizon Arena and ballgames at Dickey-Stephens Park.
DICKEY STEPHENS PARK
Ristorante Capeo
DIAMOND BEAR BREWERY
Eat Argenta has many great lowkey and special occasion dining options. Pop into Skinny J’s for a giant burger, steak, salad or Sunday brunch from the extensive menu, and get in a game of shuffleboard or enjoy live music on the weekends. Ristorante Capeo is one of the region’s top spots for authentic Italian fare and a date-night favorite. Everything on the menu is amazing, the wine list is extensive and the wood-fired pizza is top-notch. Two noteworthy restaurants are housed in the ground level of the Wyndham Riverfront hotel, Riverfront Steakhouse offers some of the best cuts of beef in town and Benihana is the place to go for a hibachi experience or delicious sushi. Brand new to the neighborhood is Kamikaito by Kiyens, an Asian-fusion restaurant on Main Street. For a cup of specialty coffee, pastry and light lunch or breakfast try Mugs Café.
see & Do Take a class in crafting or technology at the Innovation Hub, a nonprofit dedicated to community education. Get your literary fix as authors read their work at the monthly, free Argenta Reading Series at the Argenta United Methodist Church. Comedy doesn’t get better than with the
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Main Thing Friday and Saturday nights at The Joint coffeehouse and theater. Grab a coffee during the day and a cocktail or beer at night while enjoying stand-up comedy, improv, open mic night and more. The Arkansas Travelers baseball team knocks it out of the park April through September at Dickey-Stephens Park. Verizon Arena is the venue to see largescale concert performances as well as kids shows and more throughout the year. Take a tour of the USS Razorback submarine at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum perched on the north bank of the Arkansas River. Enjoy an evening appreciating art with some of the best galleries in the state along Main Street at the Argenta Art Walk, held every third Friday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m. Galleries including Greg Thompson Fine Art, Thea Foundation, Argenta Gallery and more open their doors to present innovative work to the public.
Shop Argenta welcomed a new retailer, About Vase, to Main Street this year. This popular florist is known for creative arrangements and unique gifts. Argenta Drug is a North Little Rock pharmacy providing over-the-counter and prescription medications and snacks in vintage style. It’s worth a walk through the aisles to marvel at the retro pharmacy décor.
Speaking of retro, Galaxy Furniture is one of the best spots in the area to find vintage treasures, records or office furniture.
Drink The bar scene in Argenta is full of options. Grab a glass of wine and enjoy the spacious patio at Crush Wine Bar. Cregeen’s Irish Pub offers an authentic Irish pub setting (the bar was built in Ireland and shipped to Argenta) with an excellent beer selection and full bar and menu. The brewery scene in North Little Rock is on-point, and you’ll find the great brews at Diamond Bear Brewing Company (a longtime Arkansas brewer) along with great food, darts and a spacious patio. Folks are flocking to Flyway Brewing for innovative beers, a great list of sliders and house-made soft pretzels, an impressive collection of board games and more. Core Public House offers a selection of labels made at their Springdale brewery along with a full menu and live music on the weekends. Two of the best dive bars in the city can be found on Main Street in Four Quarter and Reno’s Argenta Café. Both of these locations are open late, offer a great neighborhood bar vibe and serve a notable menu of quality bar food. Bring some dollars for the jukebox at Reno’s and a competitive spirit for shuffleboard upstairs at Four Quarter.
LOC AL PICKS
Home of the Best Steaks & Prime Rib in Arkansas Matt & Amy Bell Matt and Amy Bell own and operate South on Main, a restaurant and music venue in the SoMa district. They lived in Argenta from 2006 to 2016 and moved to Lakewood last fall. Gadwalls We’re loving our new proximity to North Little Rock’s favorite diner. You’ll find us here grabbing fried bologna for breakfast, or late night sweet potato fries and a local brew in a frosty mug!
Open for Dinner: Mon-Fri 5pm, Sat & Sun 4:30pm West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Road 501-312-2748 thebutchershoplittlerock.com
Scoop Dog Seriously, being this close to custard and cake concretes has become a real problem for our waistlines. The Lakewood Lakes After living downtown for 10 years, we feel like we’ve moved to the country in Lakewood— spotting bunnies, wild turkeys and deer in our backyard. Arkansas Record-CD Exchange Since our new place has builtins that are perfectly sized to house records, Matt’s trips to Arkansas Record-CD Exchange have become a weekly ritual. Good Weather Gallery It has been incredible to watch Arkansas’s art scene grow dramatically over the past 10 years. But there is nothing more inventive than this home garage-turned art gallery on Edgemere Road. Pro-tip: catch opening nights of rotating exhibits and meet the artists.
BEST HOME ENTERTAINMENT STORE
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check out an exhibit!
MUSEUMS & HISTORIC SITES
From visual arts to music, history and science, Greater Little Rock's museums offer a little something to suit every taste and interest. No matter what you're into, you're sure to find a gallery, workshop, lecture, tour or performance you'll enjoy. ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER 501 E. Ninth St., 501-372-4000 arkarts.com The Arkansas Arts Center offers traveling exhibits and an expansive permanent collection, from American, Renaissance and European artists to modern works. Throughout the year, the Arts Center brings in special exhibits and its Museum School offers a variety of arts classes for all ages. Its Children’s Theatre is a professional theater company staging new takes on children’s classics. Grab lunch at Canvas Restaurant and shop the museum store for unique gifts and interesting works by regional artists. ARKANSAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME 3 Verizon Arena Way, 501-313-4158 arksportshalloffame.com Established In 1958, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame gives visitors the chance to learn about some of Arkansas’s sports greats. A sample of those enshrined here include Arkansas Razorbacks coaches Frank Broyles and Lou Holtz, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, NBA legend Scottie Pippen, golfer John Daly and more. BUTLER CENTER FOR ARKANSAS STUDIES 401 President Clinton Ave., 501-320-5700 butlercenter.org The Butler Center for Arkansas Studies is a department of the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS). More than 10 million
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documents and photographs related to Arkansas history are available for public viewings. Galleries featuring Arkansas artwork, crafts and more are open to visitors. The Arkansas Sounds music collection provides a treasure trove of artifacts from Arkansas's rich musical history. ESSE PURSE MUSEUM & STORE 1510 Main St., 501-916-9022 essepursemuseum.com One of only three purse museums in the world, Esse Purse Museum & Store explores art, history and the feminine experience. ESSE's permanent exhibit, entitled "What's Inside: A History of Women and Handbags 1990-1999" traces the progression of the 20th century woman by decade through the lens of her handbag and its contents. The exhibit is joined by a number of temporary exhibits. LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 2120 W. Daisy Gaston Bates Drive, 501-374-1957 nps.gov/chsc The Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center offers guests a look at the historic events surrounding the Central High Crisis. In 1957, nine AfricanAmerican students attempted to enter the all-white Central High School for the start of classes, only to be blocked by an angry mob and a defiant Gov. Orval Faubus. The event, which resulted in a deployment of National
Guard troops to restore order, garnered international attention and is considered an important flashpoint for the Civil Rights movement in the United States. WILLIAM J. CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER AND PARK 1200 President Clinton Ave., 501374-4242 clintonfoundation.org/clintonpresidential-center Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center is comprised of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum which houses thousands of artifacts, photographs and interactive exhibits telling the story of the Clinton presidency from the campaign trail to the end of his tenure. Inside, find a replica of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, as well as one of the largest archival collections in American presidential history. The center also includes Forty Two Restaurant, the Clinton Museum Store and educational, research and reception facilities. HEIFER VILLAGE 1 World Ave., 855-948-6437 heifer.org/heifervillage Heifer Village offers interactive exhibits, galleries and more focusing on global issues, including ending hunger and poverty, through the work of Heifer International, which has helped more than 25 million families worldwide. Guests can also enjoy dining at Café @ Heifer.
HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM 200 E. Third St., 501-324-9351 historicarkansas.org Step back in time and learn about Arkansas’s frontier history at the Historic Arkansas Museum. The museum grounds include a pre-Civil War neighborhood, the oldest home still standing in Little Rock and the site where William Woodruff once printed the Arkansas Gazette. Livinghistory characters are on hand to demonstrate the lives of early Arkansans. The museum has four exhibit galleries featuring Arkansas-made art and artifacts, contemporary Arkansas art and interactive children’s activities. The museum shop offers quilts and other contemporary crafts. MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER 501 W. Ninth St., 501- 683-3593 mosaictemplarscenter.com The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and celebrating African-American history, culture and community in Arkansas from 1870 to the present. The museum informs and educates the public about black achievements, especially in business, politics and the arts. Learn about the legacy of the Mosaic Templars of America and listen to firsthand accounts of life in the segregated South from the people who lived through these challenging times. Visit the third floor auditorium and explore the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame.
COME EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF ARKANSAS, ITS NATIONAL GUARD, CAMP PIKE AND CAMP ROBINSON. The Museum’s exhibits tell the story of the Arkansas National Guard that extends back to the Militia days during the territorial period. In addition, the Museum adds the history of Camp Pike/Robinson, which was originally constructed in 1917 to train American soldiers for World War I. Camp Robinson was federalized in 1941 to prepare soldiers for World War II. Memorabilia covering many of the conflicts in which the Arkansas National Guard has participated are included. Military Identification or driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to get a day pass. Monday - Friday 8am-3pm • Also open one weekend a month. Free Admission • Free Audio Tour Available
ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD MUSEUM Located on Camp Robinson, North Little Rock Take exit 150 off I-40 and follow the signs to Camp Robinson 501-212-5215 • www.arngmuseum.com
MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-396-7050 museumofdiscovery.org The Museum of Discovery offers exciting educational and entertaining exhibits on science, social sciences and technology for the whole family to explore. Interactive exhibits offer handson experiences that allow kids to learn and discover all sorts of things. Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of special events and temporary exhibits. The Museum of Discovery traces its origins to 1927 and moved to its current location in the bustling River Market District In 1998.
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MILITARY MUSEUMS & MEMORIAL SITES Arkansans have a proud military heritage. The state was discovered by Spanish solider and explorer Hernando de Soto; in fact, the famed conquistador died on Arkansas soil and is buried in Lake Village in the southeastern corner of the state. In every ma jor conflict dating back to the Civil War, Arkansas men and women have stood on the front lines. The following museums salute their devotion and sacrifice. ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM 120 Riverfront Park Drive, 501-371-8320 aimmuseum.org Home of the U.S.S. Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the world, the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is fun for all ages. The museum focuses on the Razorback (SS 394) and the historic tug U.S.S. Hoga (YT 146). It also features displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River and aquaculture. Children under 4 not permitted in the submarine.
OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM 300 W. Markham St., 501-324-9685 oldstatehouse.com Arkansas's original state capitol, the Old Statehouse has witnessed many important and footnote historical events. Among these, Arkansas's admission into the Union, a fatal Bowie knife fight between two sitting legislators, Arkansas's vote to secede and join the Confederacy and two acceptance speeches by a President of the United States. As the oldest surviving state capitol building west of the Mississippi River, the Old State House Museum is designated as a National Historic Landmark. The museum hosts special exhibits in addition to its permanent collections, among which is it's nationally recognized collection of Civil War battle flags, First Ladies' gowns, AfricanAmerican quilts and Arkansas art pottery. WITT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS NATURE CENTER 602 President Clinton Ave., 501907-0636 centralarkansasnaturecenter.com The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center focuses on wildlife conservation and all that the Natural State has to offer. This 16,000-square-foot Arkansas Game and Fish Commission facility is located on nearly 3.5 acres near the riverfront. The center offers ongoing programming such as geocaching, archery and fishing and also highlights the wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities and the state’s fish and wildlife resources. An expansive aquarium demonstrates the state's five aquatic habitats.
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ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD MUSEUM Sixth Street and Missouri Avenue, Building 6400, 501-212-5215 arngmuseum.com Located on Camp Robinson, the Arkansas National Guard museum focuses on the history of the Arkansas National Guard from its inception in 1804 as the “Arkansaw Militia” to the present. It also explores the history of Camp Pike (later renamed Camp Robinson) from its founding in 1917. Exhibits feature the National Guard’s involvement in every American conflict from the war with Mexico to the Gulf War (except the Vietnam War) and Camp Robinson’s role as an Army training facility. JACKSONVILLE MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY 100 Veterans Circle; 501-241-1943 jaxmilitarymuseum.org Located in Jacksonville, north of Little Rock, this museum strives to educate the public about the men and women who serve our country in uniform. The museum focuses on the role of both military personnel and those serving on the home front through special and permanent exhibits, along with a media presentation, research facilities and a gift shop. The 15,000-square-foot complex is built on the site of what was the Jacksonville Ordnance Plant during World War II. MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY 503 E. Ninth St.; 501-376-4602 arkmilitaryheritage.com Named for World War II commander and Arkansas native Gen. Douglas MacArthur, the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History honors the state’s military heritage through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents, uniforms and other items. The museum is located in the city’s oldest surviving neighborhood, and the original Tower Building—where Douglas MacArthur was born in January 1880—is the centerpiece of the 36acre MacArthur Park where the museum is located. Adjacent to the museum itself is the Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial. LITTLE ROCK NATIONAL CEMETERY 2523 Springer Blvd.; 479-785-4189 cem.va.gov/CEMs/nchp/littlerock.asp The final resting place of soldiers dating back to the Civil War, Little Rock National Cemetery was originally the site of Union encampments during the War Between the States. It was designated a national cemetery in 1868 with the stated purpose of concentrating remains of Union dead who had been buried throughout Arkansas. Nearly 7,000 Union casualties were buried here at the time of the designation. Almost 20 years later, a Confederate cemetery was established to inter the remains of 640 soldiers.
TWO GREAT DESTINATIONS ONE AWESOME EXPERIENCE Immerse yourself in Heifer’s mission by visiting one of our learning centers. Come away knowing how rural farming communities lift themselves out of poverty. Schedule a program for your group or drop in to explore our grounds and events. Visit our website or social media profiles for event and workshop information.
HEIFER VILLAGE & URBAN FARM
Downtown Little Rock Enjoy hands-on, interactive exhibits that provide fun and challenging educational experiences at Heifer Village, or visit our animal ambassadors and learn about sustainable agriculture at Heifer Urban Farm.
HEIFER RANCH Perryville
Learn about sustainable agriculture by getting your hands dirty in our organic gardens and with our pasture-raised livestock. Explore the issues of hunger and poverty at Heifer’s Global Village.
For reservations, call 855.3HEIFER (855.343.4337) or visit WWW.HEIFER.ORG/VISIT Visitors Guide | 2018 41
While Central Arkansas is a hub for dining, shopping and nightlife, there are many one-fo-a-kind cities just a gas tank away that you’ve gotta see to believe! BY DWAIN HEBDA
HOT SPRINGS, 55 miles
Few places in Arkansas have as colorful a history as Hot Springs, and nowhere is that more pronounced than in the historic downtown district. The first national park in the nation, local preservation efforts have retained much of the charm of bygone eras. Stroll Bathhouse Row and visit one of the many unique shops, book a massage and take a dip on the natural hot springs, or take time to sip a craft brew at the sparkling Superior Bathhouse & Brewery. Hot Springs’ romantic past also includes being the Chicago White Sox’ one-time spring training home and a haven for another Chicago luminary Al Capone and his gangster peers, Charles “Lucky” Luciano and Owen “Owney” Madden. Learn all about them and their time in the city at the Gangster Museum of America and the Hot Springs Baseball Trail, then raise a glass to hero and scoundrel alike at the Ohio Club, where many of them partied. In the spring, don’t miss Oaklawn Racing & Gaming, the city’s premier thoroughbred racing venue and gaming facility, particularly during the sold-out weekends of the Rebel Stakes and Arkansas Derby, which are important tuneups for the nation’s top breeders preparing for a run at the Triple Crown. You won’t go hungry in Hot Springs: Start the day at the Pancake House then lunch at McClard’s Bar-B-Que, both places are national institutions. Pizza is a big deal in town represented by New York-style Deluca’s Pizzeria, Chicagostyle Rocky’s Corner and the something-in-between Rod’s Pizza Cellar. Great steaks and seafood are the ticket on the water at Fisherman’s Wharf and imaginative cuisine on display daily at Luna Bella. There are so many great festivals in the Spa City, including the Hot Springs Jazz Fest in late August, Spa-Con in September, Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival in October and many more.
EUREKA SPRINGS, 200miles
relax on bathhouse row
For something truly out of the ordinary, visit Eureka Springs. Explore historic One part hippie hideout, one part wilderness area, one eureka springs! part frontier town and never boring; Eureka Springs is the epitome of come-as-you-are. Your first hint that this is no ordinary destination is to take a stroll along the cliff-hugging streets past rows of Victorian houses. Hotels dating back to the 1800s nestle peacefully alongside coffee and curiosity shops here, while music wafts from one of the many restaurant or tavern decks, or floats up from the charming mini-park in the center of town. If you’re looking to tie (or re-tie) the knot, you’re in the right place. Eureka Springs regularly ranks as one of America’s most romantic wedding spots, with elegant bed and breakfast accommodations and the acclaimed Thorncrown Chapel tucked into primeval woods. Need something more memorable? How about getting hitched in the treetops at Crescent Cottage or atop the Basin Street Hotel overlooking downtown? The natural splendor that surrounds the city is home to miles of hiking, biking, swimming, birding and backpacking. The calendar of events is as varied and eclectic as the town itself, including car shows, Opera in the Ozarks and festivals celebrating blues, jazz and folk music. Only in Eureka Springs could events for bikers (fall), wine enthusiasts (early summer) and UFO aficionados (spring) share the same calendar. Dining options are similarly inclusive, from Grand Taverne French cuisine to Czech-German fare at the Bavarian Inn to Ermillios Italian Restaurant, not to mention great barbecue at Bubba’s and the Ozarks’ best burger and people watching at the Balcony Restaurant.
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Get down & rugged in boxley valley!
boyhood home of the man in black (mr. johnny cash)
BOXLEY VALLEY, 150 miles
They don’t call Arkansas the Natural State for nothing and the Boxley Valley proves it. Rugged and unspoiled, the region where State Highways 21 and 43 converge at the Buffalo River near Ponca provides a nature and wildlife lover’s paradise. Tourists from around the country come here to view great herds of elk year-round, from calving season in late spring to mating season in September and October. Elk can be easily viewed throughout the valley, best in the morning or early evening during warmer months. In winter, elk can often be found all day long. Boxley Valley is also home to many other forms of wildlife; The Mill Pond features trumpeter swans, egrets, herons, osprey and wood ducks to name a few. Otter, beaver and mink can also be seen, as well as the occasional raccoon or skunk. But perhaps the most thrilling of the local inhabitants are the bald eagles, most prevalent from Thanksgiving through Valentines’ Day. Other natural attractions include a variety of hikes to local waterfalls. The Glory Hole is a waterfall through the top of the cave that, while strenuous, is a must for serious hikers and nature photographers. The Hawksbill Crag is another rugged jaunt that yields spectacular views from the bluffs. For families, don’t miss the Lost Valley Hiking Trail, with its trio of easilyaccessible waterfalls Eden Falls, Natural Bridge Falls and Armadillo Falls. Springtime brings a carpet of colorful wildflowers, and fall a brilliant canopy of red and golden hues. If you still haven’t had enough, visit the Buffalo Outdoor Center in Ponca and take a zipline canopy tour over the trees. The center also offers cabin and lodge rentals as well as canoes, rafts and kayaks for rent and a store stocked with everything you need to make the most of your adventure.
THE ARKANSAS DELTA, 120 miles
Few places in America evoke the spirit of the nation as much as the Arkansas Delta, which is a band of counties that make up the easternmost third of the state. Home to the blues and the hard times they portrayed, of cotton and conflict, writers and rebels, the Delta gives visitors a look at their roots, regardless of where they come from. The Delta is divided into two sections. The Upper Delta starts at Brinkley and extends north to the Missouri state line. Prime attractions in this area include Crowley’s Ridge, site of Chalk Bluff Civil War battlefield and Parkin Archeological State Park, the site of a former American Indian village that thrived from around 1,000 to 1,600 A.D. It is widely believed that Hernando DeSoto’s expedition visited the village in 1541. More contemporary landmarks include Dyess Colony, birthplace of one J.R. “Johnny” Cash; Southland Park greyhound racing track in West Memphis; and Randolph County, featuring five rivers and great fishing and floating. If the Upper Delta represents the heart of a nation, the Lower Delta is its soul. From Helena-West Helena straight down to the Louisiana border, the area teems with good music, great hunting and fishing and friendly people. Nowhere can you get a better feel for the region’s culture than during Wings Over the Prairie Festival in Stuttgart, an homage to duck hunting season and home to the World’s Championship Duck Calling competition. If birds aren’t your thing, check out the cats at King Biscuit Blues Festival, which attracts world class musicians and hoardes of fans to Helena every October. If fishing is more to your liking drop a line at Bayou Bartholomew, the longest bayou in the world and home to more than 100 species of fish. Or, just grab a choice spot and watch the sun dip in brilliant hues over Lake Chicot, near Lake Village.
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There is so much to do within the bustling city, but open space, fresh air and adventure can be found around every corner throughout the region.
entral Arkansas is a great place to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you enjoy biking, hiking, sports or just relaxing and taking in the sights and sounds of nature, there’s bound to be a nearby escape to meet your needs. Burns Park in North Little Rock is the largest municipal park in the state at 1,700 acres. Get in a game of soccer, golf, tennis, disc golf, baseball or softball at the public fields tennis court and golf course or take a stroll through the miles of paved nature trails. Kids will enjoy playgrounds and the legendary Rocket Slide. Burns Park also offers a helping of out-of-the-ordinary attractions and activities: Tour a pre-Civil War cabin, stroll the covered bridge, launch your boat, ride a horse or enjoy the dog park. Want an unparalleled view of the river and Little Rock city line? Meander your way up to Emerald Park on the north shore of the river. It’s a 135-acre park near the University of Arkansas Pulaski Technical College with gorgeous scenic views along the river bluff. Central Arkansas residents on the Little Rock side of the river have gorgeous rolling hills and green space along the bank of the Arkansas River, highlighted by Murray Park. On Saturdays in the spring and fall you’ll find the soccer fields filled with kids, many pavilions are available for rental, the dog park is always buzzing, and several miles of paved walking and biking trails are high-traffic areas. Take a walk across the Big Dam Bridge, spanning the Arkansas River; at 4,226 feet in length, it’s the longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in North America that has never been used by trains
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Don't miss the sunset view at emerald park
or motor vehicles. On the other side of the Interstate 440 bridge, find Two Rivers Park, an unspoiled preserve that’s a haven for bicyclists and nature lovers alike. Nearby, on Rebsamen Park Road, you’ll find Rebsamen Golf Course, which is open to the public. You can tee-off there or at the War Memorial Park Golf Course near War Memorial Stadium, which is home to local sporting events, a craft fair and concerts. War Memorial Park also offers a recreation center with a swimming pool, a splash pad and playground and is home to the Little Rock Zoo. MacArthur Park downtown provides a refreshing escape for city dwellers that’s also home to the Arkansas Arts Center, MacArthur Museum of Military History and a lively dog park. The Arkansas River Trail System is popular with both runners and cyclists. It meanders through Little Rock and North Little Rock’s parks along the river and is made up of 88 miles of trails that stretch as far as Conway and Maumelle. One of the more heavil y used sections of the trail is a 15.6-mile loop from the Clinton Presidential Bridge to the Big Dam Bridge and back. One of the area’s most celebrated outdoor adventures is a climb up Pinnacle Mountain. The peak rises more than 1,000 feet over the valley below. You can get to the top two ways, either up by the East or West Summit trails or take an easy hike around the Base Trail. The way up is marked and will be steadily populated on a pretty day. Plan to spend some time at the top taking in the spectacular view.
PHOTOGRAPHY: MATTHEW MARTIN
GET OUT & ABOUT
Little Rock's original farm to table, fine dining restaurant.
Farm to Table
Founded in 1991
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GET OUT & ABOUT
Little Rock is a great city for the whole family! There are tons of activities to keep everyone busy and having a great time no matter their age. From museums to sporting events, parks, and indoor play centers there’s something to excite even the smallest members of the family.
get wild at the little rock zoo!
Altitude Trampoline
157078 Chenal Pkwy., 501-353-1281 altitudetrampolineparklr.com Altitude Trampoline Park offers more than 200 interconnected trampolines as well as a foam pit, slam dunk area, dodge ball and kids’ zone just for little ones who weigh 80 pounds or less.
Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
120 Riverfront Park Drive, 501-371-8320 aimmuseum.org The north shore of the Arkansas River is home to the U.S.S. Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the world. Other attractions include the historic tug U.S.S. Hoga (YT 146), displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River and aquaculture. This museum is recommended for children over the age of 5.
Arkansas Skatium
1311 S. Bowman Road, 501-227-4333 arkansasskatium.com This hot spot is a cool place to roller skate and ice skate—all in one building. Also find skating lessons and a snack bar.
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Arkansas Travelers Baseball
400 W. Broadway St., 501-664-1555 travs.com April through September enjoy a night at the ballpark with the whole family watching The Arkansas Travelers, the minor-league baseball team that makes its home at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. An array of snacks and a Kids Korner playground are available.
Big Rock Mini Golf & Fun Park
11411 Baseline Road, 501-455-3750 bigrockfunpark.com Little Rock’s premier family destination, this attraction has gokarts, an arcade, batting cage, bumper boats and mini golf—all in one location. New this year is an exciting aerial adventure and maze.
Burns Park
I-40, Exit 150, 501-791-8538 nlrpr.org This 1,700-acre park in North Little Rock is one of the nation’s largest. Its list of attractions include a 36-hole championship golf course, disc and miniature golf courses, tennis complex, softball and soccer fields, playgrounds, archery range, BMX track, hiking trails,
picnic areas, camping, an amusement park and One Heart Park, the city’s first inclusive playground for kids of all abilities.
Heifer Village
1 World Ave., 501-907-8800 heifer.org Heifer Village provides a handson educational (and entertaining) experience for the whole family. Visitors can learn about global consciousness and ending poverty and hunger worldwide. With special programs throughout the year, Heifer also has a café and gift shop onsite.
Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library & Learning Center
4800 W. 10th St., 501-978-3870 cals.org The Central Arkansas Library System’s 30,000-square-foot children’s library is named for the former United States Secretary of State and first lady of the nation as well as the state of Arkansas. In addition to special guests and programs scheduled throughout the year, the library has a teaching kitchen, activity area, more than 20,000 books, DVDs and CDs, 165-seat
theater, greenhouse, teaching garden, walking trails and an amphitheater.
Historic Arkansas Museum
200 E. Third St., 501-324-9351 historicarkansas.org Visitors of all ages will enjoy learning about frontier life and meeting living history interpreters, experiencing life in a pre-Civil War neighborhood, playing in the interactive children’s gallery and seeing Arkansas-made art and artifacts in the Trinity Gallery. Each spring, the museum hosts a Territorial Fair, and in December it welcomes the Christmas Frolic.
Jump Zone
9250 Commerce Cove, 501-907-5867 jumpzoneparty.com Kids can jump for hours in this indoor inflatable park featuring seven enormous, unique inflatable adventures. Find obstacle courses, slides, bouncy carousel and more. Great for all ages, but caters more to children 10 and under.
Little Rock Climbing Center
12120 Colonel Glen Road, Ste. 7000, 501-227-9500 littlerockclimbingcenter.com Burn some energy and build confidence with your kids at this indoor climbing gym. There are auto-belay and partner-belay setups throughout the gym with routes for every skill level. For kids 5 and older.
Little Rock Zoo
1 Zoo Drive, 501-666-2406 littlerockzoo.com There are endless opportunities for fun at the Little Rock Zoo! Spend the day with hundreds of species of animals— penguins, elephants, chimps, tigers and rhinos among them—take a whirl on the historic carousel, a ride on the train or play on the playground. The zoo hosts frequent animal education events, camps and special events such as Boo at the Zoo throughout the year.
Millennium Bowl
7200 Counts Massie Road, 501-7919150 millenniumbowl.net Hit the lanes at this bowling alley featuring 32 lanes, an arcade, a snack bar with adult beverages for parents and more.
Museum of Discovery
Wild River Country
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
William J. Clinton Presidential Center
Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre
Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center
500 President Clinton Ave., 501-3967050 museumofdiscovery.org Lean, play and explore at this sciencedriven museum with countless exhibits and activities for kids. Look for rotating exhibits and tinkering demonstrations as well as a playroom designed especially for children under 6 and more. 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, 501-8685806 arkansasstateparks.com/ pinnaclemountain Pinnacle Mountain State Park is central Arkansas’s highest peak and includes a playground, campgrounds, trails, picnic areas and a visitors center with educational activities. Located west of downtown Little Rock, this park gives families a chance to get back to nature without leaving town.
501 E. Ninth St., 501-372-4000 arkarts.com The Children’s Theatre presents stage versions of classic stories, often with a modern spin. Costumes are colorful, acting is superb, and the shows are geared to captivate the attention of children. Each season runs from September through May and features six productions. Shows are live on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with a meet-and-greet with the cast on each show’s opening night.
River Rail Streetcar
501-374-5354 rrmetro.org Three replica vintage streetcars take visitors on a nearly 3.5 mile route through downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock. Riders travel past the River Market, Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer Village, Dickey-Stephens Park, the U.S.S. Razorback submarine and more. Day passes are available to hop on and off the streetcar during your visit.
War Memorial Splash Pad
Inside War Memorial Park at 5110 W. Markham St., 501-663-0854 littlerock.com/things-to-do/detail/warmemorial-park A perfect spot for children and families, the War Memorial Splash Pad features caves, slides, waterfalls and a playground for hours of water fun. Free admission and appropriate for all ages.
6820 Crystal Hill Road, 501-753-8600 wildrivercountry.com North Little Rock’s popular water park offers 26 acres of water activities. Open from May through August, there are activities for all ages to enjoy as well as water slides, wave pools, a lazy river, the Tad Pool for young kids, pavilions and a sand volleyball court.
1200 President Clinton Ave., 501-374-4242 clintonfoundation.org Kids can learn about our nation’s 42nd president through thousands of artifacts, photographs and interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Clinton presidency from the campaign trail to the end of his tenure. View a replica of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, and explore the many temporary exhibits.
602 President Clinton Ave., 501-907-0636 centralarkansasnaturecenter.com This downtown nature center features a variety of indoor wildlife exhibits and outdoor nature exploration. Survey the nature trails and look for native wildlife, such as turtles and butterflies. There is also ongoing nature programming for the whole family.
The Wonder Place
10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-4050 thewonderplace.com This indoor play space especially designed for kids 8 and younger offers lots of attractions for children to expand their imaginations. Water table, tree house, drama stage, puppet area, art studio, vet clinic and farmers market are just a few of the play stations at this attraction.
Z82 Retrocade
051 E. Kiehl Ave., 501-425-9863 Miles into North Little Rock, in the city limits of Sherwood, you’ll find kids and adults enjoying the greatest arcade games of our time. The Retrocade charges admission for unlimited gaming on restored machines including Donkey Kong, Street Fighter, Killer Instinct, NBA Jam, Tron, Galaga and more.
Visitors Guide | 2018 47
SHOP TALK
Central Arkansas has a thriving creative community of makers and artists— and shops that support their art. BY AMY GORDY
AR-T's
stifft station gifts
hile you’re visiting The Natural State, get in some retail therapy and snag a handmade, one-ofa-kind souvenir or two from a local maker. You can find anything from T-shirts to jewelry, luxury bath products and edibles. Here are a few folks creating inspiring handmade goods and the places you can pick up their work:
AR-T’s
Justin Sharp always had a passion for fashion and art along with an entrepreneurial spirit, and in February 2016 he jumped into the T-shirt game. AR-T’s is a play on the words “arts” and “Arkansas Tees,” and Sharp’s designs convey his artistic touch with simple—sometimes abstract—images and messages, many of which have themes of Arkansas pride. Find his work at Box Turtle and Moxy Modern Mercantile.
Bang-Up Betty
Stacey Bowers created her feminist-minded brand of sweet and sassy jewelry, T-shirts, pins and stickers in 2013. She’s won the Arkansas Times Best Artisan Crafter award multiple times, and her work makes regular appearances on Buzz Feed and feminist blogs. If you’re in the mood to smash the patriarchy or buy a unique piece of handmade jewelry, you can find her work at The Green Corner Store, Moxy Modern Mercantile, The Freckled Frog and Domestic Domestic.
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Cocoa Belle Chocolates
Carmen Portillo left Little Rock at age 19 to travel throughout Europe, and while walking the streets of Paris fell in love with the look of decadent truffles. She studied at the Notter School for Confectionary and Chocolate Arts in Orlando, and earned a certificate from Ecole Chocolat Professional Chocolate Arts. She creates gorgeous and absolutely delicious chocolate edible art. You can indulge at her store at 3614 Market Place Ave. in Bryant, or locally at Nexus Coffee & Creative, The Green Corner Store, Market at Capers, Heights Corner Market or Tipton & Hurst in the Heights.
Tammy Sue’s Critters
Tammy Sue is a farm girl who spent her entire life learning to live off the land and honing her craft to create all-natural, luxury bath products. Her line of soap, lotion, lip balm, bug repellent and more is cruelty-free, wonderfully scented and made entirely on her farm in Central Arkansas. You can find her products at The Green Corner Store, The Freckled Frog and Historic Arkansas Museum Store.
bella vita jewelry and gifts
bang-up betty
SHOP LOC AL
There are many store owners who support local artists and makers by providing an outlet for their work. Here are a few local shops that specialize in authentic Arkansas creations:
Bella Vita Jewelry and Gifts
Leave with a shiny new bauble or gift at this shop located in the gorgeous Lafayette Building in downtown. Jewelry maker Brandy McNair handcrafts her own line of jewelry, which she sells in her storefront along with gift items made by local and regional artists. Everything curated for the shop is handmade, vintage, local or fair trade. 523 S. Louisiana St., 501-396-9146.
The Butler Center for Arkansas Studies
Arkansas Studies Institute is a joint project of the Central Arkansas Library System and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. The Butler Center houses four art galleries, including a retail gallery where you can purchase jewelry, art, prints, sculpture and more made by Arkansans. 401 President Clinton Ave., 501-320-5790.
Box Turtle
cocoa belle chocolates Gallery 26
See innovative fine art exhibits by local artists and shop locally made jewelry, prints, apparel, accessories, ceramics and more at this Hillcrest art gallery and gift shop. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. 1, 501-664-8996.
The Green Corner Store
Make a low impact on the environment with quality products and foods that are healthier for your family and better for the planet. This gift shop carries a variety of ecofriendly gifts and locally made edibles, apparel, jewelry, bath products and more. 1423 Main St., 501-374-1111.
Historic Arkansas Museum Store
Peruse the galleries of the Historic Arkansas Museum to learn about Arkansas history, view fine art by Arkansas artists and stop in the museum store to pick up a handcrafted souvenir or locally made piece of jewelry, art, ceramics and more. 200 E. Third St., 501-324-9351.
Moxy Modern Mercantile
This three-level Hillcrest gift shop and clothing boutique carries a fun, eclectic mix of artisan-minded products. Find clothes, shoes, home decor, accessories, stationery, jewelry and more, with many local vendors peppered throughout. 2616 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-661-1167.
Vintage, handmade and quirky blend together seamlessly in this exciting SoMa boutique. Spend an hour our two combing through the records, vintage treasures, locally made T-shirts, tea towels, decor and more. Everything has an edgy appeal with lots of local makers represented. 1419 Main St., 501-374-2474.
The Freckled Frog
Stifft Station Gifts and Sundries
This downtown boutique has a definite hippy vibe and passionately supports local makers, featuring more than 60 Arkansas artisans with a 100 percent handmade inventory. You’ll find a collection of T-shirts, jewelry, art, gifts and more. 419 President Clinton Ave., 501-514-2060.
Jewelry maker Cindi Booth has filled her shop with an eclectic mix of gifts, jewelry, bath products and more, the ma jority of which are locally made. 3009 W. Markham St., 501-725-0209.
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CYNTHIA EAST FABRICS has been Little Rock’s ”go-to” fabric source for over 40 years. You will always find designs and materials of every description in stock and a knowledgeable, fun staff that will coordinate any required labor. They also feature a showroom of imaginative gifts and home accessories. Treat yourself to a visit. Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm Sat 10am-4:00pm 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd • Little Rock 501-663-0460 • www.cynthiaeastfabrics.com
THE MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY was created to interpret our state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present. Located in the historic Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, the gift shop offers unique items that enhance and interpret the museum’s exhibits. Choose from a variety of books related to Arkansas’s military past, as well as historical collectibles and traditional souvenirs that serve as reminders of your visit. All proceeds from the gift shop go toward the fulfillment of the museum’s mission to preserve the historic Arsenal Building and interpret Arkansas’s military heritage. Mon-Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm 503 E. 9th St. • Little Rock 501-376-4602 • arkmilitaryheritage.com
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THE CLINTON MUSEUM STORE, conveniently located in the lobby of the museum, offers a diverse selection of unique memorabilia and gifts, including books, accessories, collectibles, and more. The Museum Store also features items related to the current temporary exhibit. Admission fees are NOT required to shop at the Museum Store.
SHOP@HEIFER is the place to find unique, globallythemed gifts, toys, handicrafts, books and Heifer branded merchandise. Products are ethically sourced, fair trade and artisan-friendly. Your purchase helps artisans find success and supports the mission of Heifer International to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth. Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 1 World Avenue • Little Rock, AR 501-907-8805 • heifer.org/marketplace
Shop at CUPIDS for lingerie and more! Stop in at any of our 6 locations: Conway, 2585 Donaghey Ave, (501) 764-0404 Little Rock South, 3920 W 65th St, (501) 565-2020 Open 24 Hours Little Rock West, 9700 N Rodney Parham Rd, (501) 227-8282 North Little Rock, 5400 John F Kennedy Blvd, (501) 753-3353 Jacksonville, 6111 John Harden Drive, (501) 241-2777 Open 24 Hours Hot Springs, 1910 Albert Pike Rd, (501) 623-1250
MUNRO SHOE FACTORY OUTLET.When it comes to shoes, women want it all and Munro wants to give it to them - fashion and fit in sizes and widths. Munro offers styles for every wearing occasion whether it be work, travel or relaxing with family and friends - all day comfort is no accident. Sizes 4-14, SS, N, M, W, WW. All styles may not be available in all sizes and widths.. 3770 Malvern Road • Hot Springs, AR Open Monday – Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm 501-262-6190 • www.munroshoes.com www.facebook.com/Munroshoes
Bentonville coming soon! We offer discreet packaging and shipping through our online store at www.Shopcupids.com.
Find all kinds of treasures at the LITTLE ROCK ZOO’S SAFARI TRADER GIFT SHOP. Ranging from stuffed animals and mugs to tote bags and post cards the Safari Trader Gift Shop offers a unique selection of animal-themed toys and gifts for children and adults of all ages. SAFARI TRADER GIFT SHOP 1 Zoo Dr. Little Rock • 501-666-2406 www.littlerockzoo.com
RHEA DRUG: Take home tthe h "flavor" he r of o Arkansas, with a unique gift from Rhea Drug. Shop from a surprising selection of jewelry, clothing, home goods, and treats. 2801 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, 501-663-4131 www.facebook.com/RheaDrug www.twitter.com/RheaDrug www.instagram.com/RheaDrug
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THE RIGHT KNIFE FOR THE JOB 2 PC PREP SET KREBS BROTHERS RESTAURANT STORE: Your Kitchen Supply Company. THE RIGHT experience as KNIFE FOR THE JOB 2 PC PREP Our extensive restaurant outfi ttersSET makes us a leading Central KREBS BROTHERS RESTAURANT STORE: Your Kitchen Arkansas kitchen supply company and the people to talk toSupply whenCompany. it comes Our extensive experience as restaurant outfi tters makes us a leading Central to your next restaurant or kitchen purchase, no matter how large or small. Arkansas supply company and the people to talk to when it comes M-F 8-5 Sat.kitchen 9-5 to your next restaurant kitchen purchase, no matter how large or small. 4310 Landers Road • NorthorLittle Rock M-F 8-5 Sat. •9-5 501-687-1331 www.krebsbrothers.com 4310 Landers Road • North Little Rock 501-687-1331 • www.krebsbrothers.com
Travel Smart. Travel AMTRAK. The Plush P42 Locomotive is a sizeable, soft and snuggly toy that measures approximately 11 Travellong Smart. AMTRAK. The Plush P42 Locomotive inches by 6Travel inches tall. It features an embroidered logois a sizeable, and snuggly toytoy that measures 11 and realisticsoft details. This plush would make approximately a great first train long by and 6 inches tall. It features anpillow embroidered logo forinches any little one, can double as a neck for adults. It is and realistic details. This plush toy would make a great fi rst train safety rated for all ages. for any little one, and can double as a neck pillow for adults. It is www.amtrak.com safety rated for all ages. 52 Visitors Guide | 2018 www.amtrak.com
THE CEN is a great to THE shop.C is a gre gallery fe to sho artists. Yo gallery read boo artists. and the G read bc Library andMa th River Library 501-918RiverCe M Butler 501-91 501-320Butler 100 Rock 501-32 www.cal 100 Ro www.c
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KREBS BROTHERS RESTAURANT STORE: Your Kitchen Supply Company. Our extensive experience as restaurant outfitters makes us a leading Central Arkansas kitchen supply company and the people to talk to when it comes to your next restaurant or kitchen purchase, no matter how large or small. M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-5 4310 Landers Road • North Little Rock 501-687-1331 • www.krebsbrothers.com
THE CENTRAL ARKANSAS LIBRARY SYSTE is a great place to find books and a great place to shop. Butler Center Galleries includes a reta gallery featuring jewelry and artwork by Arkan artists. You can find unique gift items and gen read books at River Market Books & Gifts. RMB and the Galleries are located on the CALS Main Library campus in downtown Little Rock. ARKANSAS RECORD-CD EXCHANGE is the state’s largest River Market Books & Gifts 501-918-3093 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-5p vinyl retailer. Owner Bill Eginton opened the doors in 1984. Butler Center Galleries Since then, it has grown into one of the nation’s most extensive 501-320-5700 • Mon-Sat 9am-6pm music stores, selling new, like new & collectible records 100 & CDs. Rock Street, Little Rock www.cals.org In addition to over 90,000 LPs, 120,000 45s & 20,000 CDs, you’ll
also find cassettes, 8-tracks & reel-to-reel tapes, DVDs & Blu-ray; buy, sell & trade. The store is a virtual cornucopia of pop culture collectibles featuring posters, autographs, tour programs, comics, toys, signs & more. Travel Smart. Travel AMTRAK. The Plush P42 Locomotive is a North Little Rock, 4212approximately MacArthur11 Drive, just off I-40 sizeable, soft and snuggly toy that measures inches long by Open 6 inchesTue. tall. It-features an embroidered Sat. 11am - 7pm logo and realistic details. This plush toy would make a great first train (501) 753-7877, www.arcd.com for any little one, and can double as a neck pillow for adults. It is safety rated for all ages. www.amtrak.com
RIGHT KNIFE FOR THE JOB 2 PC PREP SET BS BROTHERS RESTAURANT STORE: Your Kitchen Supply Company. extensive experience as restaurant outfitters makes us a leading Central nsas kitchen supply company and the people to talk to when it comes ur next restaurant or kitchen purchase, no matter how large or small. 8-5 Sat. 9-5 Landers Road • North Little Rock 687-1331 • www.krebsbrothers.com
MUNRO SHOE FACTORY OUTLET. While Hispanitas is available in the top fashion markets of the globe, all of their shoes are crafted in the Alicante region of Spain. Hispanitas shoes make a woman feel as wonderful as she looks which is why their motto is ‘Joy Is A Choice.’ Munro & Company is the US distributor for Hispanitas. 3770 Malvern Road • Hot Springs, AR Open Monday – Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm 501-262-6190 • www.facebook.com/hispanitasusa
ARKANSAS RECORD-CD EXCHANGE is the state’s l vinyl retailer. Owner Bill Eginton opened the doors in Since then, it has grown into one of the nation’s most music stores,ARKANSAS selling new, like new & SYSTEM collectible recor THE CENTRAL LIBRARY In a ddition to over 90,000 LPs, 120,000 45s & 20,000 C is a great place to find books and a great place also fi nd cassettes, 8-tracks & reel-to-reel tapes, DVDs to shop. Butler Center Galleries includes a retail buy, sell & trade. The store is a virtual cornucopia gallery featuring jewelry and artwork by Arkansas of p collectibles posters, autographs, tour progr artists. You canfeaturing find unique gift items and gently comics, toys, signs & more. read books at River Market Books & Gifts. RMB&G Little Rock, MacArthur Drive,Main just off I-40 andNorth the Galleries are 4212 located on the CALS Open Tue. - Sat. 11am - 7pm Library campus in downtown Little Rock. (501) 753-7877, www.arcd.com River Market Books & Gifts 501-918-3093 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat 9am-5pm Butler Center Galleries 501-320-5700 • Mon-Sat 9am-6pm 100 Rock Street, Little Rock www.cals.org
Visitors Guide | 2018 53
GALLERY TALK
GALLERY 26
2601 Kavanaugh Suite #1 501-664-8996 www.gallery26.com
LOUIE’S UNIQUE FRAMING & GALLERY 1509 Mart Drive Little Rock, AR 72202 501-907-6240 www.louiesframinggallery.com
Custom and do-it-yourself framing. Paintings, glass, pottery and jewlery by local and regional artists. Open Tuesday Saturday. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Custom Framing from 24K Gold Leaf to Simple Black Shadowboxes also available International & Local Art
BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART Little Rock • Miami 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd Little Rock, AR 72207 tel. 501-664-0030 www.boswellmourot.com
Fine Art from local, regional and international artists for the emerging and established collector. Susan Chambers “Southern Gardens”
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LITTLE ROCK SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS
APPAREL · BOOKS · MUGS · POST CARDS · FUN STUFF
SHOP THE ROCK · MON - SAT · 8 am - 6 pm
400 President Clinton Avenue · 501-320-3515 Order your favorite Little Rock items online at ShopTheRockLR.com
Naughty or Nice? At Cupids you can find something for every mood!
Lingerie | Toys | Games Party Supplies | Adult DVDs Your Pleasure is our Passion! www.ShopCupids.com | | Conway 2585 Donaghey Ave Conway, AR 72032 (501) 764-0404
Little Rock South Little Rock West North Little Rock Jacksonville 3920 W 65th St 9700 N Rodney Parham Rd 5400 John F Kennedy Blvd 6111 John Harden Drive Little Rock, AR 72209 Little Rock, AR 72227 N Little Rock, AR 72116 Jacksonville, AR 72076 (501) 565-2020 (501) 227-8282 (501) 753-3353 (501) 241-2777 Open 24 Hours Open 24 Hours
Hot Springs 1910 Albert Pike Rd Hot Springs, AR 71913 (501) 623-1250
BENTONVILLE COMING SOON!
Visitors Guide | 2018 55
ride e th rails!
NEWCOMERS
Central Arkansas has so much to offer residents. Whether you are looking to relocate for work, family or a change of scenery, the city is full of opportunity. We’ve got growing employment, vibrant neighborhoods, excellent schools and much more. Find where you fit in, and welcome to the neighborhood! BY ANGELA E. THOMAS GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS FOR WALKABILITY
discover all stifft station has to offer!
Drive through Hillcrest any time of day, any time of year, and you’re bound to see someone jogging, walking his dog or dining outdoors. It’s one of the most enviable areas of the city with good reason. It boasts a good number of locally owned, thriving businesses within walking distance and its residents are friendly and welcoming. It’s not uncommon to see an abundance of golf carts and bicycles in Cammack Village. The homeowners here take pride in their community, which includes a neighborhood pool, elementary school and a scenic park, all of which add to the appeal of this quiet area. The Ranch is located in West Little Rock just a short drive from Pinnacle Mountain. The community’s bike lane is well used and it’s quite common to see families walking to enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Residents and business owners of Little Rock’s SoMa (South Main Street) neighborhood have successfully created an atmosphere of community with a community garden, farmers market and a number of festivals. You’d be hard pressed to find neighbors who are more engaged than those in the Heights. The residents, businesses and neighborhood association host several events to benefit charitable and nonprofit organizations. We know it may seem cliché, but downtown Little Rock’s River Market District constantly bustles with activity. Whether it’s Movies in the Park, the farmers market, Jazz in the Park or yoga, urbanites who live in its lofts and condos can almost always find something to do.
GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS FOR NIGHTLIFE
At one time, downtown Little Rock became a ghost town after 5 p.m., however, with an influx of residential development, the evenings are now full of pedestrians enjoying live music and dancing, theater productions, outdoor movies and more.
CAPITOL VIEW-STIFFT STATION
central arkansas has so many biking trails!
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Capitol View-Stifft Station, which is just west of the State Capitol, houses several of the city’s most popular watering holes (a bit rough around the edges, but fun abounds). Ask the locals about the Oyster Bar, The Fountain and White Water Tavern, and you’re sure to get an earfull. They’ve been listed already, but the Heights, Hillcrest and SoMA are known for outstanding live music venues, great outdoor dining areas, locally owned eateries and bars and more. Get out and live it up!
GUIDE TO RELO C ATION I GET AROUND
Whether you’re looking to make a daily commute or get around to explore the capitol city, you may wish to “take it all in” while using alternate modes of transportation. Here are a few suggestions.
BY BUS OR TROLLEY
Rock Region Metro serves Little Rock, North Little Rock, Maumelle, Jacksonville and Sherwood as well as Pulaski County, providing transportation for about 3 million passengers annually through trolley cars, a bus system and Metro Links, a paratransit system. Adults may ride the bus one way for as little as $1.35; one- and 31-day passes as well as 10-ride passes are available. With an app that allows realtime tracking, online pass purchases and WiFi service, Rock Region Metro is a great option. For more information, log on to rrmetro.org.
BY BICYCLE
Get fit while taking in the sights with a rental from Bobby’s Bike Hike. Located in the River Market, this locally owned business offers rentals of hybrids, mountain bikes and tandem bicycles as well as guided tours through the city’s historic neighborhoods and themed tours for brews and food. Make your reservation at littlerock.bobbysbikehike. com.
STAND OUT AND STAND UP
Reservations are necessary, but touring the city via Segway is worth planning. For just $50, Segway Guided Tours offers a 20-minute orientation followed by an hour tour of the River Market area, including the Clinton Presidential Park. Visit 404tour.com for more information.
LEAVE THE DRIVING TO THE LOCALS
The Little Rock Yellow Cab is just a call away. You can book a ride for now or later online at yellowcablr.com or by calling the easy-to-remember phone number (501) 222-222. If you prefer to share or split fares, Uber is just a click away. Download the app or log on to uber.com.
RIDE THE RAILS
If you need to make a quick trip and want an alternative to flying or driving, visit the convenient Amtrak station in Little Rock. Amtrak delivers a high quality, safe and on-time rail passenger service with destinations across the country. Visit amtrak.com to book a trip.
Step into the Oval Office Plan your visit today at ClintonPresidentialCenter.org
#ClintonCenter Little Rock, AR • (501) 374-4242
Visitors Guide | 2018 57
Come Dancing!
SALSA NIGHT AT CLUB 27 Fridays 9pm-2am • Tuesdays 7:30-10:30pm Starts with a one hour lesson, no partner or experience required.
TOP OF THE CLASS
Education is a priority for every parent, and Central Arkansas is home to several chart-topping schools. Here are a few that made the cut with GreatSchools.
TOP 5 PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN LITTLE ROCK Forest Park Elementary School pre-K-5 This school is tucked away in the Heights and serves nearly 500 students by encouraging “good, old-fashioned wholesome values.” Baker Interdistrict Elementary School* K-5 15001 Kanis Road, 501-228-3250 This West Little Rock school’s staff encourages parental involvement, celebrates their students, and teaches the importance of community while preparing them for the next level. Don R. Roberts Elementary School K-5 The newest elementary school in the Little Rock School District, Roberts has combined innovation, the core curriculum and parental involvement to create an excellent atmosphere for its students.
27
614 President Clinton Avenue in the River Market District (501) 404-0400 www.littlerocksalsa.com • www.club27lr.com
Forest Heights STEM Academy K-8 The strategy at Forest Heights is to integrate its science, technology, engineering and math focus with applied learning. Based on the rave reviews we’ve seen thus far, they’re knocking it out of the ballpark. Lisa Academy West High School 7-12 Lisa Academy operates four charter schools in Central Arkansas. The high school boasts a 100 percent college acceptance rate, earning a reputation for graduating students who are highperforming achievers.
COOK LIKE A PRO
Parkview Magnet High School 9-12 Parkview High School is well known as a fine arts magnet school; however, it’s also a science magnet school that strives to prepare students for college and preprofessional ma jors in health professions.
TOP 5 PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN NORTH LITTLE ROCK Crystal Hill Magnet Elementary School* pre-K– 5 This magnet school’s goal is to empower its students to be critical thinkers and skilled researchers. They also have programs specifically tailored to encourage parental involvement. Crestwood Elementary School K-5 Students at this school are encouraged to become lifelong learners through events, such as science fairs, book character days, charitable fun runs and basketball games.
4310 Landers Road, North Little Rock, AR 72117 (501) 687-1331 • www.krebsbrothers.com M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-5 • OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 58 Visitors Guide | 2018
Indian Hills Elementary School K-5 Parents give this school great ratings, reporting a good balance of homework and homework-free evenings, and
administrators and faculty who are dedicated to children learning in a fun and safe environment. North Little Rock Middle School 6-8 Preparing students for maturation in high school and life is the goal of this staff. Faculty utilize a number of imaginative tools and out-ofthe-box learning experiences, such as collaborations with 4-H and the Innovation Hub, to foster well-rounded individuals. North Little Rock High School 9-12 State-of-the-art, modern accommodations for collaborative and group learning and innovative programs that enrich students’ learning experiences and awaken their interests are just the tip of the iceberg at the newly renovated North Little Rock High School, which is part of a district where the theme is “think world class.” Log on to greatschools.org/arkansas for more information on top schools in Central Arkansas. *Indicates a school is part of the Pulaski County Special School District.
CHOOSE A CAREER PATH Central Arkansas is home to tons of small businesses, national corporation headquarters, hospitals and more that offer ample job opportunities. Get your resume ready and schedule a meeting with any of these top employers in the area.
Discover the NEW Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown AT HILTON GARDEN INN WE HAVE ALL THE RESOURCES TO MAKE THE NEXT SPECIAL EVENT OR MEETING YOU PLAN A BIG SUCCESS.
• 140 luxurious Guestrooms; 5 Executive 2-Bedroom Suites • Meetings & Event Space: 4,000 SF of Flexible space:
Six Bridges Executive Boardroom to accommodate up to 40 people • Ballroom for up to 200 people • Outdoor Roof Top Reception for up to 150 guests
• On-site Restaurant and Bar as well as a our Agasi7 Roof Top Bar & Kitchen • Indoor Pool • Market Pantry • Complimentary hotel shuttle service to and from the Airport and within a 3 mile radius the River Market District Full Service Hotel Located in
LITTLE ROCK’S TOP 20 EMPLOYERS The staff members of the Federal, State and Local Governments keep things running smoothly for Arkansans. There are more than 70,000 men and women who help ensure the safety and wellbeing of the Natural State’s residents. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is the state’s only teaching hospital and has professionals and clinics for a plethora of specialties. Many of their doctors are worldrenowned and patients travel from afar to receive treatment at this facility. Baptist Health has served Arkansas for nearly 100 years. The hospital provides quality healthcare through innovation and great customer care, and has a reputation for employing people with service and leadership in mind.
Little Rock Air Force Base Arkansas Children’s Hospital Little Rock School District Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System Entergy Arkansas Pulaski County Special School District AT&T
322 Rock Street • Little Rock, AR 72202 • 501-244-0044 • www.littlerockdowntown.hgi.com
CHI St. Vincent Verizon Dillard’s Inc. Dassault Falcon Jet Union Pacific Railroad CenterPoint Energy University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Windstream Communications University of Central Arkansas North Little Rock Public Schools
Source: Little Rock Chamber of Commerce
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FOODIE SCENE
DIP YOUR CHIP There are three things that make a good restaurant: good service, good food, good location. In Little Rock, the survival of a restaurant also depends on a fourth option—cheese dip. BY KAT ROBINSON
1
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he creation of one Blackie Donnelly, a restaurant owner who conjured the emulsion of cheese and spices back in the 1930s, cheese dip made its debut at a little place called Mexico Chiquito. Over decades and generations, iterations of this savory staple popped up on menus throughout the city. Today, you’ll find versions served at pubs, pizza joints and down-home cooking establishments as well as the broad spectrum of Ark-Mex restaurants in the city. Here are nine you shouldn’t miss. MEXICO CHIQUITO. The original Donnelly restaurant has expanded and contracted as a chain and now focuses on its drive-thru product, but you can still enjoy this dip at the eat-in restaurant on Cantrell. This blend of American cheese and spices is what many others, including the over-spiced version at Chip’s Barbecue, aspire to be. Locations throughout Pulaski County; mexicochiquito.net. LOCA LUNA. The first white cheese dip was created at the old Blue Mesa grill by Chefs Mark Abernathy and Frank McGehee. Today, Abernathy serves up the original at his restaurant in the Rebsamen Triangle, with its signature flavors of roasted pepper and notes of Asiago. The perfect counterpoint to the original. 3519 Old Cantrell Road; 501-663-4666; localuna.com. US PIZZA COMPANY. (1)Judy’s White Dip is significantly different from the Blue Mesa dip, with three types of cheese and four types of roasted peppers. Somehow, it’s still mild enough for most diners, and it’s always served on warm, deep-yellow corn chips. Several locations in Little Rock and North Little Rock; uspizzaco.net.
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IZZY’S. (2) Proud purveyor of the make-at-home Velveeta-and-Rotel version, this West Little Rock family operation serves theirs with chips or over big, fat tamales. 5601 Ranch Drive; 501-868-4311; izzyslittlerock. com. CAFÉ @ HEIFER. (3)Winner of the 2015 World Cheese Dip Championship, this goat cheese dip stands out against most other dips in the region for its tart, sharp flavor tempered with poblano peppers and a little cream thrown in to boot. Great on corn chips or even pita chips. Available only at lunch. On the campus of Heifer International World Headquarters at 1 World Way; 501-907-8800; facebook.com/cafeatheifer. LOST FORTY. (4)Frank McGehee’s son Scott has introduced cheese dip at two of his other Yellow Rocket Concepts eateries—Local Lime and Big Orange—but it’s this amalgamation of some of Arkansas’s historic dips paired with Petit Jean bacon that brings this ruddy effort to the forefront. Pairs well with many of the eatery’s shop-created brews. 501 Byrd St.; 501-319-7275; facebook.com/lost40beer.
LITTLE ROCK’S MOST AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT 1619 REBSAMEN RD. 501.663.9734 • thefadedrose.com DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO. The very first World Cheese Dip Championship winner, this layered dip is known for its chunky pico de gallo cap, its blend of melted cheeses and its sheer size on delivery—a large bowl meant to be shared. 200 River Market Ave., Ste. 150; 501-375-3500; dizzysgypsybistro.net.
AUTHENTIC ARGENTINIAN CUISINE TUES - SAT 11AM - 9PM
CAPERS RESTAURANT. The only cheese dip in Greater Little Rock based on blue cheeses, this Blue Cheese Fondue goes far beyond Mexican flavors. Served with house made potato chips, it sets the very idea of Arkansas’s traditional cheese emulsion on its edge and spins it. 14502 Cantrell Road; 501-868-7600; capersrestaurant.com. THE FOLD. Getting on board with the white cheese dip movement, this Rebsamen Triangle bistro offers a creamy version with a nice light touch of roasted peppers that isn’t too overwhelming. Share this oversized bowl with its overly thick chips so you don’t ruin your dinner. 3501 Old Cantrell Road; 501-9169706; thefoldlr.com.
614 PRESIDENT CLINTON AVENUE | LITTLE ROCK (501)904.2133 | INFO@BUENOSAIRESGRILLCAFE.COM
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FO ODIE SCENE district fare
Cajun's
heights taco & tamale
loca luna
TR AILBL A ZING THE LOC AL FOODIE SCENE Early innovators lay the foundation for the current restaurant boom BY DWAIN HEBDA s foodie destinations go, Little Rock has received a lot of recent attention as a restaurant city on the rise. But as the closeknit community of restaurateurs well understands, the flowery accolades of today are bursting forth from seeds planted in days gone by. One stalwart of the industry is Mark Abernathy who’s spent nearly 50 years in the restaurant game, and whose establishments helped introduce and redefine food genres in Little Rock. “I didn’t see any of it as a challenge. I saw all of it as opportunities,” he said. “We didn’t, in most cases, reinvent the wheel; we tweaked it, added our own touches to it and gave it an Arkansas twist here and there.” After years working in the San Antonio market, Abernathy brought his version of Mexican fare to Little Rock diners via bygone iconic eateries Juanita’s in 1986, and Blue Mesa Grill shortly thereafter. In 1996, Abernathy opened the landmark Loca Luna, a place that continues to defy adequate description, combining a multitude of styles and influences. “I called it Nouveau-Schizophrenic. It was just like, ‘This sounds good. Let’s run this up the pole and see what happens,’” he said. “It’s always had a lot of Southern influence to it. Some of it worked, some of it didn’t, but after 21 years we’ve really settled into a groove.” Not far from Loca Luna and its sister restaurant Red Door, sits Ca jun’s Wharf, a hulking, waterside seafood restaurant and bar. Ca jun’s, as it’s known to locals,
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got its start in 1975 but didn’t earn its heart and soul until a 22-year-old Mary Beth Ringgold landed in Little Rock in 1982. The West Virginia transplant built her reputation around the place. “Looking back on it, to have somebody managing Ca juns who’s 22 years old, just would not happen today,” she said. “But like my mother said, I was born 40. No one ever thought of me as being a young person.” Ringgold said the fact that she was given that opportunity speaks to how gender-level Little Rock’s restaurant playing field is, with the breaks often going to who is willing to work hardest. “When you’re really devoted to what you do and you have an energy for what you do, I don’t care if you’re male or female,” she said. “Even back in the day, someone wanted to invest in you because you’re showing them something. I don’t think those things have changed at all today.” In addition to Ca juns—which she now co-owns— Ringgold’s restaurant family includes Capers in West Little Rock and Copper Grill. “Capers spoke to me in a very different way,” she said. “The priority, of course, was great food, everything from scratch. And when you make really fresh food it’s a natural pairing with wine, so we’ve always had a lot of emphasis on wine.” The Ringgolds and Abernathys of the market inspired other mavericks, including Tomas Bohm who introduced elegantly rustic European fare and charcuterie via his restaurant The Pantry nine years
ago. It wasn’t without its challenges, he remembers. “I was worried at first because I opened the restaurant and there was nobody there, right?” he said. “Lots of nights, we had one table all night. I mean it was just crazy times.” Bohm’s belief in the premise trumped his worry over lack of diners, faith that ultimately paid off as word of mouth started to spread. “I wanted to make sure I brought a middle-priced restaurant to the community that delivered great service and great food. I think that we definitely delivered with that,” he said. In the time since, Bohm opened another Pantry location, this one in Little Rock’s Hillcrest neighborhood where he’s also opened an upscale deli and meat market, District Fare. If there’s a Little Rock restaurateur prodigy, it would be Scott McGehee. McGehee grew up here and can trace his lineage in Arkansas restaurants across four generations. While not technically among the industry’s young guns, McGehee is the bridge between the excellence of the past and an exciting new era. “Those that came before me, all the giants from
the past, had a really big influence on me when I was young in Little Rock,” he said. “That’s why I really try to connect with young, local chefs. I try to meet with them and have coffee and brainstorm and let them know that if they need some sugar, or a case of hamburger meat, or some change on a Sunday that they can call me first. I think I’ve nurtured that relatively well.” McGehee’s talent is elevating what some people consider pedestrian fare—tacos, pizza and burgers— to an art form through skillful marriage of highest quality ingredients. At the same time, all of his restaurants—Big Orange Burgers, Zaza’s Fine Salad and Wood Oven Pizza, Heights Taco and Tamale Company, Local Lime and Lost Forty Brewing— demonstrate how affordable such high quality can be. “I’m a huge proponent of supporting local. One thing that I really try to nurture is that we are all one family, one team. If we support each other and support local we can grow the pie for everyone,” he said. “I think I’ve also shown people that focusing on good quality food, local farmers and being a good steward and a good neighbor is a path to success.”
Little Rock’s vibrant craft beverage scene continues to thrive. Use our Locally Labeled Passport program to get some free Little Rock swag, as you sample and enjoy our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits. Also savor the amazing products our city’s artisanal food producers are making using these products. National media is taking notice, and so should you. There’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock.
IN GREATER LITTLE ROCK
Tour Lost Forty Brewery > To see more, visit Littlerock.com
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FO ODIE SCENE Flyway brewing
LOC AL DR AF T PICKS The Central Arkansas beer scene is a unique community of brewers
who are pushing the limits, trying new things, supporting each other and making sure our glasses are never empty! BY AMY GORDY here are a few tried and true brewers who laid the foundation for the recent beer boom, and new makers who are coming up with creative and delicious concoctions to satisfy beer lovers through the seasons. You’ll find local labels in the brewery taprooms and in many local restaurants throughout the area. If you’re new to town, the options can be overwhelming so let us offer a few highlights!
Blue Canoe Brewing Co.
Paddle up to this nano-brewery and taproom in downtown Little Rock. It has tons of charm with thoughtful design and a retro Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game in the back. Look for great specials on burgers and tacos throughout the week! 425 E. Third St., 501-492-9378.
TAP INTO THIS
Lazy River Table Beer Float all day with this crisp, light and refreshing Belgian session. Razorback Rye PA If you like it hoppy give this wellrounded Imperial IPA a hog call.
Core Public House
While this location isn’t technically a brewery, the tap house offers a wide array of brews crafted just a short drive north at Core Brewing Co. in Springdale. 411 Main St., North Little Rock, 501-372-1390.
TAP INTO THIS
Arkansas Red It’s the brewery’s No. 1 selling beer and we can see why. Toasted Coconut Ale This is on the rotating menu, so grab it when you can!
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Damgoode Pies Pizzaria & Taproom
Build your own pizza (choose your crust, sauce and toppings!) at this unique pizza restaurant and brewery. 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-664-2239.
TAP INTO THIS
Red Ribbon This golden ale is light, easy-to-drink. Damgoode Pale Ale Wash down a slice of Stuffy pizza with this American pale ale that is super smooth.
Diamond Bear
This brewery and restaurant was one of the local pioneers in brewing. Since 2000, they’ve been creating awardwinning beers that you’ll find on most restaurant menus and are a go-to for many locals. 600 N. Broadway, North Little Rock, 501-708-2739.
TAP INTO THIS
Pale Ale It’s won many awards and is a very drinkable, slightly hoppy ale that is always a crowd-pleaser. Paradise Porter Porter fans and beer afficianadios know this porter packs a punch.
Flyway Brewing
You’ll want to migrate over to this Argenta brewery offering a range of fantastic year-round beers and creative seasonal concoctions on tap. They offer a creative menu with a list of handmade pretzels (topped with delicacies like lavender salt, bacon salt and espresso salt) that pair perfectly with the beers. Bring the kids for a root beer and pull out a board game from their extensive collection. 314 Maple St., North Little Rock, 501-812-3192.
TAP INTO THIS
Free Range Brown Ale If you typically like light beer, this is the beer to convert you to the dark side of ales. Bluewing Berry Wheat Flyway got it right with refreshing, crisp wheat beer.
Lost Forty Brewing
One of the most popular brewery/ restaurants in Little Rock, this rugged venue serves up hearty meals at family-style tables. Everything from the branding to the menu on on-point, and the locals can’t get enough of the brews. 501 Byrd St., 501-319-7275.
TAP INTO THIS
Bare Bones Pilsner This is a classic, easy-drinking pilsner. Love Honey Bock It’s sweetened with Arkansas honey and delivers a creamy, smooth and malty taste.
Rebel Kettle Brewing
You won’t find a better beer garden in town. This East Village brewery is known for crafting edgy ales that are never boring. Order from the full menu or enjoy a complimentary basket of seasoned popcorn to accompany your brew. 822 E. Sixth St., 501-374-2791.
TAP INTO THIS
Working Glass Hero This hard-working blonde ale is perfect for the beer garden on a warm day. Dirtbag This double brown ale packs a boldness with complex aromas and hints of chocolate.
Stone’s Throw Brewing
This cozy neighborhood taproom almost feels like hanging out in your own living room—with 14 beers on tap. Grab a board game, play pub trivia on Thursdays or just relax with a beer and a bite from the menu. 402 E. Ninth St., 501-244-9154.
TAP INTO THIS
Dirty Yankee This grapefruit and ginger IPA is a limited release. Shamus Oatmeal Stout It’s dark, but not too heavy with a smooth hint of coffee.
16 beers on tap with a full menu for lunch and dinner in our taproom and beer gardeN Rebel Kettle is an experience, not just a brew pub! Focused on specialty and small batch artisan beers. Beer is not the only thing at Rebel Kettle, stop in and eat the best brewery food in the state. Our Cajun inspired menu brings Gulf Coast inspiration to everything we do. Join us for live music Friday, Saturday and Sunday brunch. We’re located within walking distance of the Arkansas River and the Clinton Presidential Center. 822 E. 6th St., Little Rock 501-374-2791 OPEN: Tues-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
REBELKETTLE.COM
Vino’s Brew Pub
This Little Rock institution blazed the trail for local brewers. It’s a pizza joint with tons of character, edgy live music and brews they’ve been perfecting since they began brewing on-site in 1993. Order a giant slice for lunch or a legendary calzone. 923 W. Seventh St., 501-375-8466.
TAP INTO THIS
6 Bridges Cream Ale This light, golden ale has a slight hop and is very drinkable. Firehouse Pale Ale Order a pint of this medium-bodied amber ale, with a beautiful red color, subtle hops and a lightly fruity finish.
Vino's brew pub
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DINING GUIDE
3 Fold
Sims skinny j's
AMERICAN @THE CORNER Modern diner serving breakfast (we love the “Up and @ ‘Em plate”) and lunch, including soups, salads, sandwiches and some seriously gourmet hot dogs. 201 E. Markham St., 501-400-8458. 4 SQUARE GIFTS Located in the River Market district, this is a small deli featuring vegetarian fare: sandwiches, soups, salads and wraps. 405 President Clinton Ave., 501-244-2622. ALL ABOARD RESTAURANT At this family restaurant, trains serve up breakfast, burgers, sandwiches and salads. Trains run on a small network of tracks near the ceiling. 6813 Cantrell Road, 501-975-7401. ALLEY OOPS Serving comfort food, like homemade soups, quiches, desserts and plate lunches, this neighborhood spot is a must-visit. 11900 Kanis Road, 501-221-9400. ANDINA CAFE AND ROASTERY Serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and snacks, this café is a mainstay in downtown Little Rock. Coffee beans are roasted locally and the food is homemade. 433 E. Third St., 501-376-2326. APPLE SPICE JUNCTION This chain sandwich and salad eatery has a casual eatin space, as well as a box lunch catering service. 2000 S. University Ave., 501-663-7008.
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ARKANSAS BURGER CO. Some of the best burgers and fries in town are served at this locally owned spot. Shakes, salads and other menu items are also available. 7410 Cantrell Road, 501-663-0600. ARTHUR’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE Steak, including dry-aged prime beef and Japanese Kobe, is the main feature here. Seafood and an extensive list of appetizers and desserts are also offered. 27 Rahling Circle, 501-821-1838. ATHLETIC CLUB BAR & GRILL Located inside the Embassy Suites Hotel, this bistro features several big screens showing whatever sport is in season. Food choices include burgers, salads, sandwiches and the like. 11303 Financial Center Parkway, 501-312-9000. B-SIDE BISTRO This cafe offers an extensive breakfast, brunch and lunch menu from pastries to hearty, filing entrees to satisfy serious brunchers. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-7162700. BAR LOUIE This chain features an array of cocktails, appetizers, salads, sandwiches and more. Karoke, sports on big screens, and other events are regular happenings here. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-2280-444; 3929 McCain Blvd., 501-420-1445.
BARK BAR Dog park and bar combine in this off-leash, dogfriendly establishment. With proof of vaccinations, dogs can enter and play, while humans enjoy coffee, local brews, creative cocktails, snacks and more. 1201 S. Spring St., 501-295-3989. BIG ORANGE With locations in Midtown and West Little Rock, this is the go-to spot for burgers, fries and signature milkshakes. Salads, chicken sandwiches and cocktails are also some of the best around. 17809 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-1515; 207 N. University Ave., 501-379-8715. BIG WHISKEY’S AMERICAN BAR & GRILL Located in the River Market district, this is a great after work hangout and tourist stop. Full bar, TVs, burgers, steaks, soups and bar snacks. 225 E. Markham St., 501-3242-449. BLACK ANGUS Burgers and steaks are what this Little Rock institution is known for. 10907 N. Rodney Parham. 501-228-7800 BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Consistently voted one of the best restaurants in town by local customer choice polls, this spot features an assortment of sandwiches, entrees and desserts using the freshest ingredients. Great patio seating when the weather is nice. 2300 Cottondale Lane, 501-663-2677.
BOBBY’S COUNTRY COOKIN’ Plate lunches with chicken fried steak and fried chicken, pie by the slice and other great homecooked dishes. 301 N. Shackleford Road, 501-224-9500. BONEFISH GRILL This Florida-based chain offers several types of fish, along with shrimp, mussels, scallops, meat and chicken. A slice of key lime pie is the perfect finish. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-228-0356. BOOKENDS CAFE Part of the Central Arkansas Library System and located inside the Cox Creative Center, this is a great spot for lunch or coffee while enjoying book or reading the newspaper. Pastries, sandwiches, soups and salads are also available. 120 River Market Ave., 501-918-3091.
Where can you get dinner and a shoW for a great price?
BOULEVARD BREAD CO. Fresh, tasty breads and pastries, and a wide selection of sandwiches, soups, cheeses, meats and side dishes. Good coffee, too. 1417 Main St., 501-375-5100; 1920 N. Grant St., 501-663-5951. BUFFALO GRILL This family friendly spot in Riverdale features cheeseburgers, handcut fries, nachos, chili dogs and lots more. The large back patio is great for when the weather is nice. 1611 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-296-9535.
Serving up fun,food and fabulus live entertainment since 1967. Colonel Glenn & University • murrysdp.com • 501-562-3131
BURGE’S TURKEY AND HAMS Since 1962, they have been serving smoked turkeys and hams. Stop in for a turkey salad sandwich, catfish plates or fried pies. 5620 R St., 501-666-1660. THE BUTCHER SHOP Open since 1981, this steak house is popular among locals. Choose a steak and let the pros cook it. 10825 Hermitage Road, 501-312-2748. CACHE Upscale and modern, this is the place to see and be seen. Lunch offerings include delicious burgers, salads and sandwiches. Dinnertime features inspired meat and fish entrees. 425 President Clinton Ave., 501-850-0265. CAFÉ 201 This west Little Rock restaurant, located inside the Crown Plaza Hotel, offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, including steaks, coffee and more. 201 S. Shackleford Road, 501-223-3000. CAFÉ@HEIFER Located inside Heifer Village, this bright little café serves soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas, using locally sourced ingredients. 1 World Ave., 501-907-8800. CAJUN’S WHARF The home of fresh seafood, steaks, drinks and nightly live music and entertainment. 2400 Cantrell Road, 501-375-5351.
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BAJA GRILL
BOSSA NOVA
CAMP DAVID Inside the Holiday Inn Presidential Conference Center, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and themed buffets in a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Asian, Mexican and Southern. 600 Interstate 30, 501-975-2267. CANVAS The Arkansas Arts Center’s café features lunch, brunch on Saturday and Sunday, and other special events. The menu features a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta and desserts. 501 E. Ninth St., 501-907-5946. CAPERS Open for lunch, dinner and Saturday brunch, this cozy restaurant has a lot to offer: hearty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and more. 14502 Cantrell Road, 501-868 7600. CAPITAL BAR & GRILL Located inside the Capital Hotel, this trendy bar serves up specialty cocktails, daily lunch specials and gourmet, Southern style fare, like pimento cheese and crackers and banana pudding. 111 W. Markham St., 501-370-7013. CHEERS IN THE HEIGHTS This intimate neighborhood spot offers burgers, sandwiches, fish specials, steaks and more. 2010 N. Van Buren St., 501-663-5937. CIAO BACI The focus is on fine dining in this casually elegant Hillcrest bungalow, though excellent tapas are out of this world. The treeshaded, light-strung deck is a popular destination. 605 N. Beechwood St., 501-603-0238. COCK OF THE WALK Catfish, hush puppies and all the fixings are the stars at this downhome family restaurant. Servers even toss cornbread from the skillet right at your table. 7103 Cock of the Walk Lane, 501 758-7182.
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COMMUNITY BAKERY This popular downtown bakery is a great place to sip coffee, sample one of their delicious pastries and read the newspaper. Lunchtime offers an array of sandwiches and daily soups. There is also a small location in the western part of the city. 1200 Main St., 501 375-7105; 270 S. Shackleford Road, 501-224-1656. COPELAND’S The restaurant chain offers large portions of red beans and rice, steaks, crab, shrimp, fish and desserts. 2602 S. Shackleford Road, 501-312-1616. COPPER GRILL Located in one of downtown’s chicest condo towers, this modern restaurant serves up grilled meats and fish, big salads and lots more. The restaurant also features a gorgeous patio. 300 E. Third St., 501 375-3333. CRUSH WINE BAR Wine, beer, snacks and special events are the main attraction. 318 N. Main St., 501-374 9463. (NLR) DAVE & BUSTER’S This arcade and restaurant is fun for all ages. Great food, drinks and arcade games in a sports bar setting. 10900 Bass Pro Parkway, 501-777-3800. DAVE’S PLACE Open for lunch five days a week and dinner on Fridays, this downtown spot serves delicious soups, salads and sandwiches, along with daily specials. Friday nights feature an everchanging menu in a variety of cuisines and live jazz. 210 Center St., 501-372-3283. DAVID’S BURGERS This locally owned family restaurant serves fresh burgers, fries and frozen custard. Its newest location is in Park Plaza Mall. 6000 S. University Ave.; 101 S. Bowman Road, 501-227-8333; 3510 Landers Road (NLR), 501-353-0387. 410 President Clinton Ave., 501-400-8371.
DELICIOUS TEMPTATIONS Serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, including a variety of sandwiches, salads, homemade soups and great desserts. 11220 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-6893. DEMPSEY BAKERY This bakery serves up gluten-free, soy-free, vegan and nut-free breads, pastries and desserts. Daily sandwiches and soups are also available. 323 S. Cross St., 501-375-2257. DISTRICT FARE Dine in or take out at this specialty grocery store and sandwich shop. The deli counter offers quality meats, cheeses and pantry items. The menu offers hearty sandwiches and salads. 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. B, 501-671-6328. DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO This is a downtown favorite for its extensive menu, delicious cheese dip and refreshing cocktails. The patio is a relaxing spot. 200 River Market Ave., 501-375-3500. DOE’S EAT PLACE Huge steaks, tamales and burgers are popular menu items at this downtown staple. 1023 W. Markham St., 501-376-1195. FADED ROSE The Ca jun-inspired menu is well known for its steaks, soaked salads and po’ boys, along with burgers and more. 1619 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-9734. FLYING FISH Fried catfish, oysters and shrimp, as well as crab legs, po’ boys and lots of grilled options. 511 President Clinton Ave., 501-375-3474. FLYWAY BREWING A popular brewery that also serves up quality pub food and snacks. 314 Maple St. (NLR), 501350-8868. FLYING SAUCER A popular River Market hangout thanks to its almost 200 beers (including nearly 75 on tap) and
more-than-decent bar food. It’s nonsmoking, so families are welcome. 323 President Clinton Ave., 501-372-8032.
814 WEST 7TH STREET, LR
FORTY TWO This is the Clinton Presidential Center’s restaurant and has daily specials, salads, entrees, soups and sandwiches. 1200 President Clinton Ave., 501-537-0042.
TATTOO SHOP:
MON - SAT | 1PM - 10PM 501-372-6722
SALON:
FRANKE’S CAFETERIA A Little Rock staple since 1919, Franke’s Cafeteria offers plate lunches, with salads and vegetables, and desserts, like egg custard pie. The downtown location is inside the Regions Bank building. 400 W. Capitol St., 501-372-1919; 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-4487. GADWALL’S GRILL This causal family eatery offers burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, chili and lots more. 7311 North Hills Blvd.(NLR), 501-834-1840.
MON-SAT | 10AM - 8PM 501-374-3544
Vi s i tOurAwar dW i nni ngRe s t aur ant s
GARDEN SQUARE CAFÉ & GROCERY Vegetarian options, along with smoothies, coffee and sweet treats located inside the River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock. A small grocery store features a few basics. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-244-2622. GREEN LEAF GRILL Located in the Blue Cross Blue Shield building, this lunchtime eatery features a salad bar, burgers and lots more. 601 S. Gaines St., 501-378-2521.
5Cent r alAr kans asLoc at i ons Cat er i ngLi ne: ( 501)7652798 t az i ki s c af e. c om
GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN This well-known Memphis joint serves fried chicken as the main attraction, along with sides like greens, baked beans and mac and cheese. 300 President Clinton Ave., Suite D, 501-372 2211. HAWGZ BLUES CAFÉ This live music venue and restaurant serves up delicious barbecue, steak, ribs and a very popular buffet-style Sunday brunch. Find a full bar and live music most nights of the week. 5524 J.F.K. Blvd., 501-478-6300. (NLR) HEIGHTS CORNER MARKET It’s a neighborhood grocery store and bistro carrying local and organic produce, products and meats. Find soups, salads, sandwiches made with fresh ingredients and more on the menu. 5018 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-4152
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HOMER’S Southern homestyle breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as burgers, sandwiches and salads. 9700 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-6637; 2001 E. Roosevelt Road, 501-374-1400. JACOB’S WINGS & GRILL Greek fare and plump, juicy chicken wings are on the menu at this casual café. Lots of sauce choices. 5200 J.F.K. Blvd., 501508-5783. (NLR) JIMMY’S SERIOUS SANDWICHES For more than 30 years, this sandwich shop has been serving some of the
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best in town, along with sides and desserts. Local favorites include the Chicken Salad and the Garden. Open for lunch. 5116 W. Markham St., 501-666-3354.
NEXT BISTRO AND BAR Live music on the outdoor patio in nice weather, bar with specialty drinks like house sangria. No cover. 2611 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-6398.
RENO’S ARGENTA CAFÉ A tasty variety of appetizers, sandwiches, wraps and specialty pizzas. Daily drink and food specials. 312 Main St. (NLR), 501-376 2900.
JOUBERT’S TAVERN This pool hall and bar features beers, snacks and more. 7303 W. 12th St., 501-664-9953.
NORTH BAR Park Hill’s neighborhood bar delivers an exciting menu of creative burgers, salads, sandwiches and more, along with a full bar serving up an eclectic collection of local and regional beer, wine and cocktails. 3812 J.F.K. Blvd., 501-420-1117. (NLR)
RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE Located inside the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little Rock, this restaurant serves several cuts of steak, an assortment of sides and other items such as crab cakes, shrimp, chicken and lobster. 2 Riverfront Place (NLR), 501-375-7825.
OCEANS AT ARTHUR’S Serving fresh seafood, oysters and seafood in Chenal. 27 Rahling Circle, 501-821-1838.
RIVERSHORE EATERY Located in River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock, this eatery features pizza, salad, sandwiches, wings, nachos and ice cream. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501 244-2326.
LAZY PETE’S FISH AND SHRIMP Shrimp, wings, catfish, po’ boys, gumbo and lots more, the choices are tasty, fresh and homemade. 200 Bowman Road, 501-907-6453. LITTLEFIELD’S CAFE The owners of the Starlite Diner have moved their cafe to the Kroger Shopping Center on JFK, where they are still serving breakfast all day, as well as plate lunches, burgers and sandwiches. 6929 J.F.K. Blvd. (NLR), 501-771-2036. LOCA LUNA Gourmet plate lunches, along with pastas, delicious entrees, salads, sandwiches and brickoven pizzas. Serves Sunday brunch. 3519 Old Cantrell Road, 501-663-4666. LOST FORTY BREWING Brewery and brewpub from the folks behind Big Orange, Local Lime and ZAZA. Good food options to accompany the popular craft beers. 501 Byrd St., 501319-7335. LULU’S CRAB BOIL Ca jun and Creole fare from the Chi family. The crab fingers and po’ boys are standouts. 5911 R St., 501-663-2388. MADDIE’S PLACE A broad selection of Ca jun-Creole staples: po’ boys, chickenandouille gumbo, oysters, pulled pork nachos, mac and cheese and other delicious items. 1615 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-660-4040. MARKHAM STREET GRILL & PUB The menu has something for everyone: burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, steaks, fish, shrimp, scallops, daily lunch specials and more. 11321 W. Markham St., 501-224-2010. MASON’S DELI Sandwiches, burgers and desserts. Located inside River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-376 3354. MILFORD TRACK Healthy and tasty are the keywords at this deli and grill, featuring hot entrees, soups, sandwiches, salads and killer desserts. 10809 Executive Center Drive, Plaza 2, 501-223-2257. MUGS CAFÉ This Argenta neighborhood hangout and coffee bar is open for breakfast and lunch: Delicious sandwiches, specials, all-day breakfast foods and $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes are common on Saturday mornings. 515 Main St. (NLR), 501-379 9101.
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OLD MILL BREAD AND FLOUR CO. CAFÉ The popular takeout bakery has an eatin restaurant with simple and good sandwiches, along with soups, salads and cookies. 12111 W. Markham St., 501 228-4677. ONE ELEVEN AT THE CAPITAL Inventive fine dining restaurant helmed by Jöel Attunes, a James Beard award-winning chef. 111 Markham St., 501-370-7011. OYSTER BAR Crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters on the half shell, po’ boys, gumbo, red beans and rice, and lots more. 3003 W. Markham St., 501 666-7100. OZARK COUNTRY RESTAURANT Great biscuits and gravy, bacon, homestyle potatoes, weekend brunch and a daily plate lunch special. 202 Keightley Drive, 501-663-7319. PETIT & KEET BAR & GRILL Atmosphere is thriving at this culinary-driven restaurant. A chef-inspired menu offers creative takes on steak, pasta and seafood as well as burgers, sandwiches and more. Full bar, beer and wine available. 1620 Market St., 501-3197675. PLAZA GRILLE & BAR Heaping breakfast and lunch buffets offer hot, fresh foods at this lobby restaurant at the Doubletree hotel in downtown Little Rock. 424 W. Markham St., 501-372 4371. PROSPECT SPORTS BAR & GRILL Catch the game at this Heights sports bar filled with TVs. They serve up burgers, steaks, salads, BBQ shrimp and more. Find beer, wine and a full bar open late seven days a week. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-603-0080. PURPLE COW Burgers, fries and milkshakes served up ‘50s-style, familyfriendly atmosphere. Be sure to try a signature purple milkshake. 11602 Chenal Parkway, 501-224-4433; 8026 Cantrell Road, 501-221-3555. RED DOOR Open for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner, this neighborhood favorite features sophisticated modern Southern cuisine. 3701 Cantrell Road, 501-666 8482.
THE ROOT CAFÉ The Root serves soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and desserts, mostly using seasonal, local ingredients. It has one of the best burgers in town. 1500 S. Main St., 501 414-0423. SAMANTHA’S TAP ROOM & WOOD GRILL An eclectic, reasonably priced menu has something for just about everyone. Excellent selection of wines on tap and beers on tap. 322 Main St. 501-379-8019. SAY MCINTOSH RESTAURANT AND SWEET POTATO PIE FACTORY This family restaurant serves up barbecue, soul food and lots of pie. 2801 W. Seventh St., 501-812-3911. SCALLIONS This is a solid lunch spot, with great soups, salads and sandwiches, and breakfast has recently been added to the menu. 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-666-6468. SCOOP DOG Drive up or dine on the patio at this North Little Rock hot dog and soda stand. It’s frozen custard instead of ice cream here (the difference being eggs along with the sugar and cream) and the specialty sundaes are all named after dogs. 5508 J.F.K. (NLR), 501-753-5407. SKINNY J’S There is something for everyone on the mind-blowingly large menu—17 appetizers and 15 burger choices. 314 Main St. (NLR), 501-9162645. SLIM CHICKENS This Arkansas-based chain offers chicken strips, chicken sandwiches, chicken salads and other quick bites. 4500 W. Markham St., 501-907-0111; 301 N. Shackleford Road, 501-954-9999; 7514 Cantrell Road, 501246-5791. SO RESTAURANTBAR This bistro serves fresh seafood, meats, salads, sandwiches and an extensive wine list. 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-1464. SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM Steaks, chicken and seafood in a wonderful setting in the River Market. Steaks are top-of-theline, and the wine list is excellent. 500 President Clinton
Ave., 501-324-2999. SOUL FISH CAFÉ This popular Memphis eatery is now serving up southern classics including po’ boys, catfish, crawfish, chicken and tacos in a lively, casual setting. 306 Main St., 501-3969175. SOUTH ON MAIN This gourmet, Southern-style restaurant is a project of the Oxford American and one of the most popular restaurants in Little Rock. The menu changes seasonally, but you’ll always find an assortment of Southern specialties, like fried chicken livers, boiled peanuts and catfish. 1304 Main St., 501-244-9660. SOUTHERN TABLE Pull up a seat at this eatery offering a sharable menu inspired by local ingredients featuring a curated selection of artisan cheeses, cured meats, small plates and shareable items. Craft beer and great wine is available. 323 S. Cross St., 501366-9817. SPORTS PAGE Great burgers, grilled sandwiches and lunch specials. 414 Louisiana St., 501-372-1642. STICKYZ ROCK ’N’ ROLL CHICKEN SHACK Chicken fingers in a variety of flavors with a wide selection of dipping sauces, plus sandwiches and burgers in
a fun setting for happy hour gatherings or live music. 107 River Market Ave., 501-372-7707. SWEET SOUL Southern comfort food with a menu that changes daily. Located in the River Market Hall. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-291-9996. TABLE 28 Featuring new American cuisine, this Little Rock restaurant is located inside the Burgundy Hotel. The menu offers small bites, seafood, venison, lamb and more. 1501 Merrill Drive, 501-215-5209. THE TAVERN SPORTS GRILL Located at the Promenade at Chenal, the Tavern is a great place to enjoy sports and food. 17815 Chenal Parkway, 501-830-2100. TOWN PUMP Daily soup specials at lunch and a dependable burger, plus tasty bar food. 1321 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-9802. TRIO’S This restaurant is open for lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner, and serves favorite recipes from a bygone Little Rock hotel and combines them with experimental fusion cooking and choice ingredients. Standout menu items include the Peck Special salad, Trio’s chicken salad, shrimp enchiladas and voodoo pasta. 8201 Cantrell Road. 501-221-3330.
220 Beautifully Decorated Guest Rooms 13 Luxurious Suites 14,000 Sq Ft of Meeting Space Wireless High Speed Internet Business Center Fitness Center Outdoor Pool Free Airport Shuttle Free On Site Parking
WEST END SMOKEHOUSE & TAVERN Its primary focus is a sports bar with 50-plus TVs, but also features dinner entrees and bar food. 215 N. Shackleford Road, 501-224-7665. WILLY D’S ROCK & ROLL PIANO BAR Serves up a delicious dinner of pastas and salads as a lead-in to its nightly sing-a-long piano show. 322 President Clinton Ave., 501-244-9550. ZIN URBAN WINE & BEER BAR A wide selection of wines from around the globe, as well as snacks like cheeses, meats and other small plates. 300 River Market Ave., 501-246-4876. ASIAN A.W. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE This Chinese and Japanese restaurant at the Promenade at Chenal serves sushi and other classic Asian dishes with a modern twist. 17717 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-5398. BANGKOK THAI CUISINE Get all the staple Thai dishes at this River Market vendor. 400 President Clinton Ave., River Market. 501-374-5105. BENIHANA—THE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Enjoy the cooking show, make sure you get a little filet with
Two Award Winning Restaurants In The Wyndham Riverfront
2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock Arkansas Call 501-371-9000 for reservations www.Wyndham.com Visitors Guide | 2018 71
your meal and do plenty of dunking in that fabulous ginger sauce. All-you-can eat sushi specials. 2 Riverfront Plaza (NLR), 501-374-8081. BIG ON TOKYO Japanese rice bowls with vegetables, chicken, beef, pork, egg rolls and other choices. 400 President Clinton Ave., River Market, 501-375-6200. CHI’S CHINESE CUISINE Offers a huge menu of Chinese favorites, along with a few twists on the usual local offerings, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum. 17200 Chenal Parkway, 501-821 8000. CHI’S DIM SUM & BISTRO A huge menu, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum. 6 Shackleford Drive, 501-221-7737. CHI’S ASIAN CAFÉ This spot features pan-Asian cuisine, including Thai, Japanese and traditional Chinese family recipes. 3421 Old Cantrell Road, 501-916-9973. FANTASTIC CHINA Fresh and delicious food served in a vibrant atmosphere. 1900 N. Grant St., 501-663-8999. FU LIN A tradition in Little Rock that spans many years, featuring Asian cuisine favorites. 200 N. Bowman Road, 501-225-8989. HANAROO SUSHI BAR One of the few sushi spots in downtown Little Rock, serving an expansive menu. 205 W. Capitol Ave., 501-301-7900. KBIRD Delicious, authentic Thai. Lunch and dinner. 600 N. Tyler, 501-352-3549. KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Hibachi, sushi and lots more. 11401 Financial Center Parkway, 501-225-5999. MIKE’S CAFÉ With an extensive menu of Chinese and Vietnamese favorites, Mike’s also features pool tables. 5501 Asher Ave., 501-562-1515.
SEKISUI Fresh-tasting sushi, Japanese traditional or the fun hibachi-style, and an assortment of entrees. Nice wine selection, sake and specialty drinks. 219 N. Shackleford Road, 501-221-7070. SKY MODERN JAPANESE RESTAURANT Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine at this sushi bar, hibachi bar and drink bar all rolled into one. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-224-4300. THE SOUTHERN GOURMASIAN Delicious Southern-Asian fusion. We crave the pork buns. Made the transition from food truck to brickandmortar in 2015 to rave reviews. 219 W. Capitol, 501-313-5645. SUSHI CAFE Impressive, upscale sushi menu with other delectable house specialties like tuna tataki, Kobe beef and the Toyko cowboy burger. 5823 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-9888; 11211 Cantrell Road, 501-954-7866. THREE FOLD NOODLES AND DUMPLING CO. Authentic Chinese noodles, buns and dumplings. With vegetarian options. 615 Main St., 501-372-1739. TOKYO HOUSE Sushi and seafood buffet, offering a variety of Japanese favorites. 11 Shackleford Drive, 501-219 4286. WASABI Downtown sushi and Japanese cuisine. For lunch, there’s quick and hearty Sushi samplers. 101 Main St., 501-374-0777. BARBECUE CROSSEYED PIG Huge portions of marvelous barbecue, including amazingly tender pulledpork; lean and-meaty, fall-off-the-bone ribs; juicy half-chickens. 1701 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-265-0000.
superb. Don’t forget to grab a fried pie. 5231 E. Broadway St. (NLR), 501-945 5551. WHOLE HOG CAFÉ The pulled pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons and there’s a sixpack of sauces for every taste. A real find is the beef brisket, cooked the way Texans like it. 12111 W. Markham St., 501-907-6124; 2516 Cantrell Road, 501-664-5025; 5107 Warden Road (NLR), 501-753-9227. EUROPEAN/ETHNIC CAFE BOSSA NOVA This café offers a mouth-watering array of traditional Brazilian café house cuisine, including their signature cheese bread, black beans and rice, and beef, fish, chicken and vegan entrees. Great coffee and desserts, too. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-614-6682. CREGEEN’S IRISH PUB Good, hearty Irish fare in a pub setting, along with great burgers and fries. 301 Main St. (NLR), 501-376-7468. DUGAN’S PUB The atmosphere is great, complete with plenty of bar seating and tables. Enjoy delicious traditional American and Irish fare. 401 E. Third St., 501-244-0542. GEORGIA’S GYROS Good gyros, Greek salads and fragrant grilled pita bread highlight a large Mediterranean food selection, plus burgers and the like. 2933 Lakewood Village Drive (NLR), 501-753-5090. HIBERNIA IRISH TAVERN A traditional Irish-style pub serving Irish and Southern food favorites and a broad beverage menu. 9700 Rodney Parham Road, 501-246-4340.
HB’S BBQ Great slabs of meat with a vinegar-based barbecue sauce, but ribs are served on Tuesday only. Other days, try the tasty pork sandwich. 6010 Lancaster, 501-565-1930.
ISTANBUL MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This Turkish eatery offers tasty kebabs and great starters. Possibly the best Turkish coffee in central Arkansas. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-223-9332.
LINDSEY’S HOSPITALITY HOUSE A local headliner, serving melt-in-your-mouth smoked meats, large sides and great fried pies since 1956. 207 Curtis Sykes Drive (NLR), 501-374-5707.
LA MADELEINE COUNTRY FRENCH CAFÉ Quaint French cafe chain serving soup, sandwiches, pastas, traditional French fare, coffee, pastries and bread. 12210 W. Markham St., 501-221-7777.
NEW CHINA RESTAURANT Traditional Chinese fare served up buffet-style. 4617 J.F.K Blvd., 501-753-8988.
SIMS BARBQUE Good spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and an addictive vinegar mustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part of the country. 1307 John Barrow Road, 501-224-2057; 7601 Geyer Springs Road, 501-562-8844; 2415 Broadway St., 501-372-6868.
LAYLA’S GYROS AND PIZZERIA Delicious Mediterranean fare—gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and baba ganoush—that has a devoted following. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227 7272; 8201 Ranch Blvd., 501-868-8226.
NEW FUN REE Reliable staples, plenty of hot and spicy options and dependable delivery. 418 W. Seventh St., 501-664-6657.
TERRILYNN’S BARBQ & DELI High-quality meats served on large sandwiches and lots more. 10102 N. Rodeny Parham Road, 501-227-6371.
PHO THANH MY Vietnamese restaurant serving traditional soups and rolls. 302 N. Shackleford Road, 501-312-7498.
WHITE PIG INN Go for the sliced rather than chopped meats at this barbecue cafe. Side orders—from fries and potato salad to beans and slaw—are all
MR. CHEN’S AUTHENTIC CHINESE RESTAURANT Open for lunch and dinner, this spot features an array of traditional Chinese dishes. Lunch specials are also available. 3901 S. University Ave., 501-562-7900. MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT In business for more than 25 years, this is one of Little Rock’s most popular sushi spots. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-6498.
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LEO’S GREEK CASTLE This Hillcrest institution features the neighborhood favorites: gyros, falafel and tabouleh, along with breakfast, hamburgers, sandwiches and more. Wine and beer are also available. 2925 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-666-7414. LITTLE GREEK Featuring traditional Greek cuisine, including spinach pie, gyros and chicken souvlaki, this chain
recently opened a Little Rock location. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-223-5300. MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Gyros, falafel and souvlaki plates, as well as hummus, tabouleh, eggplant dip and other dishes. Halal meat dishes available. Located in River Market Hall. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-372 1662.
TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE For a taste of the Mediterranean, visit Taziki’s and enjoy a wide variety of gyros, plenty of sides, including pasta, salads and Dolmades (grape leaves with seasoned rice) and more. 12800 Chenal Parkway, 501-225-1829; 8200 Cantrell Road, 501-227-8291; 3929 McCain Blvd. (NLR), 501-218-8822.
THE PANTRY CREST Czech and German comfort food with a great bar menu. 722 N. Palm St., 501-725-4945.
THE TERRACE This Mediterranean inspired restaurant has a huge menu, with a variety of options. 2200 Rodney Parham Road, 501-217-9393.
THE PANTRY RESTAURANT Owner and self-proclaimed “food evangelist” Tomas Bohm does things the right way and the menu stays relatively true to his Czech roots, but there are plenty of choices to suit all tastes. 1401 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-353-1875.
YA YA’S EURO BISTRO The first eatery to open in the Promenade at Chenal is a date-night affair, translating comfort food into beautiful cuisine. Best bet is lunch, where you can explore the menu through soup, salad or half a sandwich. 17711 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-1144.
STAR OF INDIA One of Little Rock’s most highly regarded restaurants— great lamb, curries, chicken tandoori and naan. The daily lunch buffet is a deal. 301 N. Shackleford Road, 501-227 9900.
ITALIAN
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN CUISINE Ta j Mahal has an extensive lunch buffet, where you can try a little of everything. The dinner menu is full of delicious Indian classics. 1520 Market St., 501-520-4900.
AMERICAN PIE PIZZA Handmade thin crust with a variety of tasty toppings, salads, sandwiches and more. Look for nightly specials. 4830 North Hills Blvd. (NLR), 501-753-0081. BRUNO’S LITTLE ITALY This Italian eatery dates back to the late 1940s, though it has changed ownership and locations several times over the years. It has been a hit with locals for traditional dishes like Spaghetti
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WITH A
SOUTHERN ACCENT.
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Carbonara, Manicotti and Linguine with Clam Sauce, along with antipasti, calzones and hand-thrown pizzas. 310 Main St., 501-372-7866. CAFE PREGO Dependable entrées of pasta and the like, plus great sauces, fresh mixed greens and delicious dressings, crispgazpacho and tempting desserts in a comfy bistro setting. 5510 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663 5355. CIAO Casual yet elegant bistro tucked into a downtown storefront. The fine pasta and seafood dishes, ambiance and overall charm combine to make it a relaxing, enjoyable, affordable choice. 405 W. Seventh St., 501-372 0238. DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different pizza place, offering a variety of sauces, toppings and specialty combinations. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-2239; 6706 Cantrell Road, 501 664-2239; 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-664-2239. GRAFFITI’S The casually chic and ever popular Italian-flavored bistro serves daily specials and one of the best martinis in town. 7811 Cantrell Road, 501-224-9079. GUSANO’S They make Chicago-style deepdish pizza the way it’s done in
Like our ride along the Arkansas River Trail, our trip to Little Rock was a delight. Touring its downtown by Segway, and its neighborhoods, barbecue joints and breweries by bike. Riding the METRO Streetcar from our hotel to explore the shops, restaurants and clubs in the River Market. Being mesmerized by the city’s beautiful illuminated bridges at night. We had a wonderful time, and can’t wait to return to Little Rock.
Riverfront Park > To see more visit LittleRock.com
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the Windy City. It takes a little longer, but it’s worth the wait. 313 President Clinton Ave., 501-374-1441. HIDEAWAY PIZZA A lively atmosphere with thick, hearty pizzas, salads and more. 5103 Warden Road, 501-2707777. IRIANA’S Great pizza, salads and sandwiches. Located adjacent to the Statehouse Convention Center. 201 E. Markham St., 501-374-3656. JAY’S PIZZA Pizza by the slice with a variety of toppings, along with salads and daily specials. Located inside the River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501 374-5297. JIM’S RAZORBACK PIZZA Great pizza served up in a family-friendly, sports themed environment. Flatscreen TVs throughout and even a cage for shooting basketballs and playing ping pong. 16101 Cantrell Road, 501-868 3250. LARRY’S PIZZA Get your pizza fix here, offering a variety of unusual toppings. 5933 J.F.K. Blvd. (NLR), 501-812-5353; 801 S. Bowman Road, 501-400-8260; 12th and Center, 501-372-6004; 12911 Cantrell Road, 501-224-8804.
cooking is the draw at this cozy, brick-walled restaurant. Familiar pasta dishes will comfort most diners, but let the chef delight you with some more exotic stuff. 425 Main St., 501-376 3463. SADDLE CREEK WOODFIRED GRILL Pizzas, salads, prime rib and seafood— enough choices to please the entire family. 2703 Lakewood Village Drive (NLR), 501-812-0883. SHOTGUN DAN’S PIZZA Hearty pizzas and sandwiches with a decent salad bar. 4020 E. Broadway St., 501-945 0606; 10923 W. Markham St., 501-224 9519. U.S. PIZZA This is true Little Rock pizza, with thin crust and an array of delicious toppings. Salads are heaping and best when served with creamy, Ranch-style house dressing. An assortment of domestic, imported and craft beer is on tap. 9300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-6300; 3324 Pike Ave. (NLR), 501-758-5997; 4001 McCain Park Blvd. (NLR), 501-753-2900; 3307 Fair Park Blvd., 501-565-6580; 9300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224 6300; 2710 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Hillcrest), 501-663-2198; 5524 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Heights), 501-664-7071.
MELLOW MUSHROOM Hearty pizzas, salads and appetizers. Gluten-free pizza is also available. 16103 Chenal Parkway, 501-379-9157.
VESUVIO BISTRO Gourmet Italian fare, with an assortment of fresh pastas, antipasti, signature entrees and extensive wine and martini offerings. 1315 Breckenridge Drive, 501-246-5442.
NYPD PIZZA The pizza is cheesy, with plenty of impressive toppings. Baked ziti, salads and more are also available. 6015 Chenonceau Blvd., 501-868-3911.
VINO’S Great rock ’n’ roll club is also a fantastic pizzeria with huge calzones and house-brewed beers. 923 W. Seventh St., 501-375-8466.
OLD CHICAGO PASTA & PIZZA This national chain offers lots of pizzas, pastas and beer. 4305 Warden Road (NLR), 501-812-6262.
ZAFFINO’S BY NORI A high-quality Italian dining experience. Pastas, entrees (don’t miss the veal marsala) and salads are all outstanding. With a more affordable lunch menu. 2001 E. Kiehl Ave. (NLR), 501-834-7530.
PIZZA CAFÉ Lots of pizza options, along with big salads and draft beer. Both locations have breezy patios. 1517 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-664-6133; 14710 Cantrell Road, 501-868-2600. PIZZA D’ACTION Some of the best pizza in town, a marriage of thin, crispy crust with a hefty ingredient load. Also, good appetizers and salads, pasta, sandwiches and killer plate lunches. 2919 W. Markham St., 501-666 5403. THE PIZZERIA Tasty Neapolitan-style pizza and calzones, salad and more with specialty cocktails and amazing atmosphere. 4910 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-551-1388. RADUNO BRICK OVEN AND BARROOM An upscale pizza joint that also features sandwiches and unique appetizers and specialty cocktails. 1318 S. Main St., 501-374-7476. RISTORANTE CAPEO Authentic Italian
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ZAZA FINE SALAD + WOOD OVEN PIZZA CO. This contemporary Heights café would be right at home in Naples with the tempting display of smooth and soft gelato in all the required flavors (pistachio, gianduia) and a woodfired pizza oven turning out textbook Italian ’za with gorgeous blistered crusts and a light topping of choice and tempting ingredients. Delicious call-your-own-ingredient salads. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-661-9292.
everything you’d expect from a traditional Mexican restaurant, including ample portions. 4120 E. McCain Blvd. (NLR), 501-945-5888; 11414 W. Markham St., 501-227-7556. CANON GRILL TexMex favorites, along with burgers, sandwiches and salads. 2811 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-2068. CASA MANANA Great guacamole and tacos, superlative chips and salsa (red and green) and a good selection of fresh seafood. 6820 Cantrell Road, 501-280-9888; 18321 Cantrell Road, 501 868-8822; 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-372-6637. CASA MEXICANA Familiar TexMex style items shine, in ample portions, and the steak-centered dishes are uniformly excellent. 7111 J.F.K. Blvd. (NLR), 501-8357876. CILANTRO’S GRILL The guac, made tableside, margaritas and desserts stand out at this affordably priced traditional Mex spot. 2629 Lakewood Village Plaza (NLR) 501-812-0040. COTIJA’S MEXICAN GRILL This authentic Mexican spot has two downtown locations. 406 Louisiana St., 501-224-0733; inside the Legacy Hotel, 625 W. Capitol Ave., 501-371-0733. EL PORTON Very good Mexican and a wide-ranging menu of dinner plates. Tasty cheese dip and great service. 12111 W. Markham St., 501-223-8588; 5021 Warden Road (NLR), 501-7534630. THE FOLD: BOTANAS & BAR One of Little Rock’s hottest local hangouts, serving gourmet tacos, homemade salsa and delicious drinks. 3501 Old Cantrell Road, 501-916-9706. FONDA MEXICAN CUISINE & TEQUILA BAR Authentic, fresh Mexican fare, along with an extensive selection of some of the best margaritas in town. 400 N. Bowman Road, 501-313-4120. HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE CO. Throwback Southern-style tamales, taco plates, enchiladas and more, all doused with a generous helping of cheese and chili. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-313-4848.
MEXICAN
LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrées and traditional favorites, all pain-stakingly prepared in a festive atmosphere. Great taco salad, nachos, and maybe the best fa jitas around. 3024 Cantrell Road, 501-661-0600.
BAJA GRILL Food truck-turned-fullscale restaurant, this TexMex joint offers tacos, burritos and low-carb burrito bowls, along with cheese dip, salsa and guacamole. 5923 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-722-8920.
LA REGIONAL A full-service grocery store and a restaurant offering a whirlwind trip through Latin America, with delicacies from across the Spanish-speaking world. 7414 Baseline Road, 501-565-4440.
CACTUS JACK’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT This restaurant offers
LA REGIONAL 2 Full-service grocery store, bakery and restaurant catering
BRINGING BRINGING THE THE BEST BEST TOTO YOUR YOUR TABLE TABLE : : Creative Creative Cocktails Cocktails Fine Fine Dining Dining Delectable Dining JOIN US FOR EASTER BRUNCH Join Us for Happy Hour Enjoy Regional Brunch Specials, Live Music, Bloody Mary and Mimosa Specials
CacheRestaurant | 425 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock | 501-850-0265 | cachelittlerock.com | CacheLittleRock Brunch served every Saturday and Sunday 10am - 2pm
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forty two
hideaway pizza
faded rose
to the Latino community. A far- reaching menu, from chimichangas and pupusas, regional aguas (horchata, tamarindo) and a large variety of Mexican sodas. 2630 Pike Ave. (NLR), 501-246-4163. LAS PALMAS Authentic Mexican chain with a massive menu of choices. 10402 Stagecoach Road, 501-455-8500; 4154 E. McCain Blvd. (NLR), 501-945-8010. LOCAL LIME Local Lime features craft tacos and other Mexican favorites, along with delicious guacamole and cocktails. Located at the Promenade at Chenal. 17815 Chenal Parkway, 501-448-2226. LUNA MAYA This drive-in eatery features big, stuffed burritos, along with other Mexican specialties. 7706 Cantrell Road, Little Rock; 501-223-9756. MERCADO SAN JOSE BAKERY & GROCERY This combo restaurant bakery-meat market serves authentic Mexican fare. The fresh baked breads— sweet breads and handmade tortillas— are yummy and definitely worth the drive. 7411 Geyer Springs Road, 501 565-4246. MEXICO CHIQUITO Hearty platters of boldly spiced, inexpensive food holds its own with the “authentic” joints.
76 Visitors Guide | 2018
11406 W. Markham St., 501-217-0647; 13924 Cantrell Road, 501-217-0700; 4511 Camp Robinson Road (NLR), 501-7711604. PANADERIA Y TAQUERIA LAS AMERICAS Authentic Mexican food includes mouthwatering homemade tamales. 8622 Chicot Road, 501-565-0266. RIVIERA MAYA Mexican fare with portions on the large side. 801 Fairpark Blvd., 501-663-4800. SANTO COYOTE Offering plenty of fresh Mexican-influenced favorites such as made-at-the-table guacamole, a variety of sopes (corn mesa “cups” spread with beans) and tacos. 2513 McCain Blvd. (NLR), 501-753-9800; 11610 Pleasant Ridge, 501-225-1300. SENOR TEQUILA Authentic dishes with great service and prices, and maybe the nest margarita in town. 1101 S. Bowman Road, 501-954-7780; 10300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-5505; 2000 S. University Ave., 501-660-4413; 14524 Cantrell Road, 501-868-7642; 4304 Camp Robinson Road (NLR), 501791-3888. TACOS 4 LIFE Eat tacos and help feed the hungry t this excellent local bistro that donates a meal each time an order is placed. Choose from an extensive taco menu made with
high-quality ingredients. 2630 S. Shackleford Road, 501-404-0144. TAQUERIA EL PALENQUE Authentic Mexican tacos, filled with chorizo, pork, chicken or beef, right in the heart of west Little Rock. Other Mexican favorites, like ceviche and salsa, are also available. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-312-0045. TAQUERIA KARINA CAFE A real Mexican neighborhood cantina serving freshlybaked pan dulce, firstrate guacamole, Mexican-bottled Cokes, and inexpensive tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Good selection of Mexican-style seafood. 5309 W. 65th St., 501-562-3951. BAKERIES, COFFEE & DESSERT BLUE SAIL COFFEE This Conway-based coffee shop opened a second location in the Technology Park and serves up an extensive gourmet coffee menu along with tea, pastries and desserts. 417 Main St., 501-753-6622. CUPCAKES ON KAVANAUGH Find all sorts of gourmet and classic cupcakes. From Classic Vanilla to Kahlua and Cream, there is a flavor for everyone’s taste buds. 5625 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501 664-2253.
Since 1982, The Butcher Shop has built its powerful reputation by serving the finest hickory charcoaled steaks cut from the highest quality grainfed beef direct from the Midwest. Beef at The Butcher Shop is aged four weeks before being skillfully hand cut by their “in house” butcher. Tremendous steaks, excellent service, fair prices and a comfortable atmosphere make Open for Dinner: M-F M F 5pm, 5pm Sat Satt & Sun 4:30pm The Butcher Shop the West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Rd. prime choice for your 501-312-2748 • thebutchershoplittlerock.com evening out.
Offering one of the most urbane, contemporary dining experiences in Little Rock - Cache is truly unique. With no detail left unattended, the chefs and culinary team create complex, flavorful food and drink that is simply delicious. Inspired by training and empowered with fine ingredients, every meal and every moment at Cache is one to be treasured. Lunch, dinner, or drinks over a good conversation on the patio...gather at Cache and create treasured memories that last a lifetime. Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm Mon-Fri Lunch 11am-2pm Mon-Sat Dinner 5-10pm Downstairs Bar Mon-Sat 4pm-last call Upstairs Bar Mon-Fri 4pm-last call Sat 5pm-last call 425 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock • 501-850-0265 cachelittlerock.com Support your local farmers when you dine at Café@Heifer.
Have a hungry herd? Join us in Café Africa and enjoy a casual dining experience like no other in Little Rock! Grab a bite, take a snack break, and relax by watching the elephants. The café features menu items such as burgers, specialty sandwiches, and salads as well as drinks and frozen treats. The café is open every day of the week from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Café Africa
1 Zoo Drive • Little Rock • 501-666-2406 www.littlerockzoo.com Cajun’s Wharf is famous for its fresh seafood, aged Angus Beef and full-fl avored good times. Come enjoy the great food and atmosphere of our beautiful restaurant and famous deck, both overlooking the Arkansas River. Cajun's Wharf also offers complimentary shuttle service from area hotels.
2400 Cantrell Little Rock • 501-375-5351 www.cajunswharf.com Open for Lunch Mon-Fri, 11-2 Dinner, Mon- Sat 5pm
Café@Heifer serves a variety of lunch specials made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re visiting Heifer Village & Urban Farm for a tour or just looking for a lunch spot in downtown Little Rock, we’re ready to serve. 1 World Ave. Little Rock 501-907-8801
Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Doe’s Eat Place is the go-to for great steaks, buxom burgers and signature homemade tamales and chili. It’s the atmosphere and history of Doe’s that lures visitors from all over the country and locals who fill the nostalgic checkered tables to eat, drink and make a memory or two. 1023 W. Markham St • Little Rock • 501-376-1195 • doeseatplace.com
Visitors Guide | 2018 77
asonal for serve
Southern Table is a boards and bites eatery specializing in a seasonal small plate and shared menu with world cuisine dining options for vegetarians and omnivores. We designed a “shared board” to serve cured meats, cheeses, and pairings. gs. We serve Raimondo Winery wine and local craft beers. m Wed - Sat 11am-8pm 323 S. Cross Street Little Rock • 501-379-9111 111 southerntablefoods.com om
The Tavern Sports Grill is a locally owned sports bar where you can enjoy great food and great sports! Located at The Promenade At Chenal in West Little Rock, the Tavern has an authentic menu, happy hour specials, 2 projection screens, 32 more HD TVs and free Wi-Fi. The Tavern is simply perfect for lunch with co-workers, watching sporting events with friends, or dinner out with family. Our menu has a wide selection from our Tavern Burger, Strawberry Salad, Philly Cheese Steak, Catfish and of course our Famous Wings (Best Wings in Arkansas). If you don’t believe it come out and try them for yourself. Come on out and enjoy some good food, great sports and good fun!
LOBLOLLY T heTaver nSp nS p or tsG r ill.c om om
17815 Chenal Parkway • West Little Rock (501) 830-2100 • www.thetavernsportsgrill.com KILWINS Ice cream, candies, fudge and sweets galore made in-house and packaged for eatitnow while strolling the River Market or eat-it-later. 415 President Clinton Ave., 501-379-9865. LOBLOLLY CREAMERY Loblolly serves its homemade small-batch ice cream, sundaes, shakes and more, often using locally sourced ingredients. Don’t leave without trying an ice cream sandwich made with homemade cookies. 1423 S. Main St., 501-396-9609. LE POPS Delicious, homemade iced lollies. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. Ste. J, 501-313-9558. METEOR CAFÉ This cyclist-friendly café is in a perfect location for bikers and serves up delicious coffee and pastries. 1001 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-7760. MYLO COFFEE CO. Handcrafted sweet and savory pastries, along with sandwiches, soups, ice cream and more. Pour-over coffee is a neighborhood favorite. Visit early for the kouign amann, the only pastry of its kind in Central Arkansas. 2715 Kavanugh Blvd., 501-747-1880.
The Tavern Sports Grill is a locally owned sports bar where you can enjoy great food and great sports! Located at The Promenade At Chenal in West Little Rock, the Tavern has an authentic menu, happy hour specials, 2 projection screens, 32 more HD TVs and free Wi-Fi. The Tavern is simply perfect for lunch with co-workers, watching sporting events with friends, or dinner out with family. Our menu has a wide selection from our Tavern Burger, Strawberry Salad, Philly Cheese Steak, Catfish and of course our Famous Wings (Best Wings in Arkansas). If you don’t believe it come out and try them for yourself. Come on out and enjoy some good food, great sports and good fun!
NEXUS COFFEE AND CREATIVE This coffee shop is the perfect spot for your next business or social meeting. The menu offers high quality, ethically-sourced beans for creative coffee, appetizers, wine and local brews and desserts. 301 President Clinton Ave., Ste. B, 501-295-7515. ORANGE LEAF Self-serve yogurt in a variety of flavors and lots of toppings. 11525 Cantrell Road. 501-227-4522. RED MANGO National yogurt and smoothie chain whose tasty appeal is best described as “all-natural,” “nonfat,” “gluten-free” and “probiotic.” 5621 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501 663-2500. ROSALIA’S FAMILY BAKERY Specialty Brazilian breads as well as just about anything you’d expect to find at a bakery—baguettes, cakes and cookies along with challah, rye, savory, white and whole grain breads. Full coffee bar, with some lunch items. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-319 7035.
T heTaver nSp nS p or tsG r ill.c om om
17815 Chenal Parkway • West Little Rock (501) 830-2100 • www.thetavernsportsgrill.com
78 Visitors Guide | 2018
ZETEO COFFEE This coffee shop and café downtown offers an extensive gourmet coffee and tea list as well as a menu with ample breakfast choices, sandwiches, soup, salad, dessert and kid-friendly options. 610 President Clinton Ave., Ste. 101, 501-386-3227.
See the city from a different view atop the 7th floor, Agasi7 Roof Top Bar & Kitchen, Little Rock’s first open roof top bar and dining. Come in and enjoy Local beer on tap, our signature Wood Smoked Cocktails and creative menus made from our wood fire stone oven while enjoying the beautiful downtown scenery. Private event space available for breakfast, lunch or evening reception. Call our sales team at (501) 244-0044.
Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown 322 Rock Street Benihana is famous for it’s atmosphere, service, food quality, outstanding chefs and overall dining experience. Located just three blocks from Verizon Arena and next door to Dickey Stephen’s Ballpark. Benihana has established itself as Arkansas’ premiere Japanese Steakhouse
Open for Lunch
Located in the Mon - Fri 11-2 Wyndham Hotel Sunday 11:30-2:30 #2 Riverfront Place Dinner Monday - Thursday 5p-9:30p North Little Rock Friday - Saturday 5p-10p 501-374-8081 Sunday - 5p-9p Make reservations online at www.Benihana.com If you’re looking for a great Little Rock restaurant, look no further than Bridges Restaurant & Lounge located at the DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock seamlessly connected to the Robinson Center. Bridges menu offers a top selection of authentic and tasty southern-inspired food. Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ or a few fingers of Bourbon, Bridges will satisfy your culinary craving.
We provide a casual, warm environment, delicious food, and excellent service at a reasonable cost. It is our goal to have every meal be a celebration of food and to always keep an edge of new in our work. The first step towards delicious food is to use the freshest and highest quality ingredients. We may occasionally improvise or even run out of an item, but we will never offer you less than the best. The greatest compliment you can pay us is to return. Come as you are. 2300 Cottondale Lane 501-663-2677 bravenewrestaurant.com Lunch M-F 11-2 Dinner M-S 5-10 Reservations of any size accepted for lunch and dinner.
Buenos Aires Grill and Cafe is a full service restaurant offering authentic Argentinian food to the central Arkansas area. Family owned and operated, Buenos Aires Grill and Café is known for its unique atmosphere, great service, and fresh food. Open Tuesday though Saturday 11am-9pm Happy Hour 4-6pm. Patio seating available!
424 West Markham Street, Little Rock 501-372-4371 • www.doubletreelr.com
614 President Clinton Avenue • Little Rock 501-904-2133 • info@buenosairesgrillcafe.com
Visitors Guide | 2018 79
WELCOME HOME • Friendly Staff • Family Friendly Atmosphere • Down Home Cooking • Open 7 Days a Week Little Rock 1301 Rebsamen Park Rd 501-663-9336 10700 Rodney Parham Rd 501-224-3728 North Little Rock 2724 Lakewood Village 501-758-4777 ... and other locations throughout Arkansas www.DixieCafe.com
New Orleans At Its Best! Award winning for over 35 years for authentic New Orleans cuisine. Steaks, seafood and Creole specialties in a casual, fun atmosphere. Rebsamen Park 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd. 501-663-9734 www.thefadedrose.com
323 president sident clinton cl nton ave., ve ve little e rock, rock r ock o ck ar r 72201 220 beerknurd.com r nu d com om • 501.372.8032 50 72. 0 03 032 32 Our renowned on-site restaurant, Forty Two, offers a variety of dining selections for Center visitors and locals alike. Stop by 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Saturday to enjoy a delicious and affordable lunch featuring seasonal and locally grown ingredients. It’s farm-to-table in a modern museum setting. Admission fees are NOT required to dine at Forty Two.
80 Visitors Guide | 2018
Hideaway Pizza has been making Seriously Great Pizza since 1957. Start with a bowl of crispy, hand-breaded fried mushrooms dipped in ranch dressing or marinara, followed by one of more than 26 specialty pizzas (or build-your-own) and choose from 20 craft beers on tap while listening for your favorite local band on Hideaway Pizza Radio. You’ll want to save room for one of three new Hideaway ‘Sweetza’ Cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean g gelato. Sooooo g good.
5103 Warden d Rd Rd., N North th LLittle ittl R itt ittl Rockk • www.hideawaypizza.com hid i • 501 501-270-7777 Mony-Thur 11am - 9:30pm; Fri & Sat 11am - 10:30pm; Sun 11am - 9:30pm
Catfish Basket The Oyster Bar, open for business since 1975, is located in Little Rock’s Historic Stifft Station/ Hillcrest neighborhood. The Oyster Bar serves shrimp, oysters, Cajun soups, po’boys, catfish, salmon, chef salads and non-seafood items in our family friendly restaurant. Park in back, step inside, order a mug of the coldest beer in town and find out why locals have been dining at The Oyster Bar for over 40 years.
Since 1967, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has been serving up food, fun and fabulous live entertainment. For less than the price of dinner and a movie, you can experience the wonderful world of live theater!
Private party room available.
501-562-3131 • murrysdp.com
3003 West Markham Street Little Rock • 501-666-7100 www.lroysterbar.com
Rebel Kettle is so much more than a brewery. The food begins with a complimentary lightly seasoned popcorn. Critics have pronounced them to have the best burgers and Reubens in town. Rebel Kettle’s menu is wide-ranging including vegetarian and lighter fare. Besides the exceptional food, Rebel Kettle also benefits from a good vibe. The three large garage doors open up to a beautiful patio. They offer not only fresh brewed beer on tap, but wine too. The selections are wide-ranging and creative. 822 E. 6th St. Little Rock • 501-374-2791 rebelkettle.com
Visitors Guide | 2018 81
WHERE TO STAY! LITTLE ROCK HOTELS SOUTHWEST
NAME
WEST
PHONE
PET FRIENDLY
6401 S. University Ave.
501-565-4488
No
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites I-30
7900 Scott Hamilton Drive
501-562-2694
Yes
Arkansas Suites
1 Stonebridge Circle
501-221-7829
Atria Inn & Extended Stay
6100 S. University Ave.
501-414-0168
No
Baymont Inn & Suites
2600 West 65th St.
501-562-1122
No
Best Western Little Rock South
8219 Interstate 30
501-562-4448
No
Cimarron Inn
10200 Interstate 30
501-565-1711
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites
9101 Mabelvale Pike
501-400-8375
No
Heritage House Inn
7500 South University
501-565-2055
No
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
4900 Talley Drive
501-224-2600
No
Motel 6 #1265
7501 Interstate 30
501-568-8888
Quality Inn and Suites
6100 Mitchell Drive
501-562-6667
Yes
Red Roof Inn Little Rock
8115 Frenchman Lane
501-562-9383
Yes
Rest Inn
8217 Interstate 30
501-562-3300
No
Rodeway Inn & Suites
2401 West 65th St.
501-801-0188
Yes
Super 7 Inn
9525 Interstate 30
501-568-9999
Super 8 - Otter Creek
11701 Interstate 30
501-455-2300
Yes
WoodSpring Suites Little Rock
21 Remington Road
501-225-3400
No
NAME
MIDTOWN
ADDRESS
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites
ADDRESS
PHONE
PET FRIENDLY
Best Western Premier Governor’s Suites
1501 Merrill Drive
501-224-8051
The Burgundy Hotel
1501 Merrill Drive
501-224-8051
Candlewood Suites
10520 West Markham
501-975-3800
Yes
Comfort Inn
300 Markham Center Drive
501-227-0120
No
Comfort Suites Little Rock
11 Crossings Court
501-954-9300
No
Courtyard by Marriott
10900 Financial Centre Parkway
501-227-6000
No
Crowne Plaza Little Rock
201 South Shackleford
501-223-3000
No
Eagle Hill Apartments
2A Eagle Hill Drive
501-455-8818
Embassy Suites
11301 Financial Centre Parkway
501-312-9000
Yes
Extended Stay America
600 Hardin Drive
501-954-9199
Yes
Extended Stay America - Little Rock West
10800 Kanis Road
501-227-8689
Yes
Hampton Inn & Suites
1301 South Shackleford
501-537-3000
No
Hilton Garden Inn WLR
10914 Kanis Road
501-227-4800
No
Holiday Inn West - Chenal Pkwy
10920 Financial Centre Parkway
501-225-1075
Yes
Motel 6 West #4529
10524 West Markham
501-224-1321
Yes
Ramada Inn Limited Inns & Suites
#8 Shackleford Drive
501-221-7666
Residence Inn by Marriott - West
1401 South Shackleford
501-312-0200
Yes
Springhill Suites
306 Markham Centre Drive
501-978-6000
No
TownePlace Suites Little Rock West
12 Crossings Court
501-225-6700
Yes
Wingate by Wyndham
1212 South Shackleford
501-712-3618
No
NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE
No
PET FRIENDLY
Budget Inn
5620 South University
501-565-1568
No
Days Inn Little Rock/Medical Center
901 Fair Park Blvd.
501-295-404
Yes
Four Points by Sheraton
925 South University
501-664-5020
Garden Inn & Suites
3801 West 8th St.
501-414-8622
GuestHouse Inn
301 South University Ave.
501-664-6800
The Inn at Baptist Health
1120 Medical Center Drive
501-202-9606
No
Markham House Suites
5120 West Markham St.
501-666-0161
No
Studio 6
1010 Breckenridge Drive
501-225-7007
Yes
82 Visitors Guide | 2018
Yes
DOWNTOWN
NAME
ADDRESS
AIRPORT
PET FRIENDLY
111 West Markham
501-374-7474
No
Comfort Inn Presidential
707 Interstate 30
501-687-7700
Yes
Courtyard by Marriott
521 President Clinton Ave.
501-975-9800
No
DoubleTree Little Rock
424 West Markham
501-372-4371
Empress of Little Rock Bed & Breakfast (The Hornibrook Mansion)
2120 South Louisiana St.
501-374-7966
Yes
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Little Rock
320 River Market Ave.
501-244-0600
No
Hilton Garden Inn
322 Rock Street
501-244-0044
Holiday Inn Presidential
600 Interstate 30
501-375-2100
No
Homewood Suites
400 River Market Ave
501-375-4663
Yes
LaQuinta Inn & Suites Downtown Conf. Ctr.
617 Broadway
501-374-9000
Yes
Hotel Frederica
625 West Capitol Ave.
501-379-8497
No
Marriott Little Rock
#3 Statehouse Plaza
501-906-4000
No
Residence Inn by Marriott
219 River Market Ave.
501-376-7200
Yes
River Market Lofts
423 East 3rd St.
501-252-4746
Robinwood Bed & Breakfast
2021 South Arch St.
501-372-0999
Rosehaven Cottages
1410-1412 South Arch St.
501-766-0355
Rosemont Bed & Breakfast
515 West 15th St.
501-766-0355
NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE
PET FRIENDLY
Comfort Inn and Suites Airport
4301 East Roosevelt Road
501-376-2466
Days Inn and Suites Little Rock Airport
3200 Bankhead Drive
501-490-2010
Holiday Inn - Airport Conference Ctr
3201 Bankhead Drive
501-490-1000
Yes
Holiday Inn Express-Airport
3201 Bankhead Drive
501-490-4000
Yes
Travelodge - Airport
7615 Fluid Drive
501-490-2200
Yes
NAME
NORTH LITTLE ROCK
PHONE
The Capital Hotel
ADDRESS
PHONE
PET FRIENDLY
America’s Best Value Inn North Little Rock
3100 Main St.
501-758-8110
No
Baymont Inn & Suites North Little Rock
110 E. Pershing Blvd.
501-503-5537
No
Best Western Plus JFK Inn & Suites
2500 Main St.
501-246-3300
Yes
Candlewood Suites
3950 Vali Court
501-492-4946
Yes
Comfort Inn & Suites North
3915 McCain Park Drive
501-801-1904
No
Courtyard Little Rock North
4339 Warden Road
501-753-2000
No
Days Inn N. Little Rock East
5800 Pritchard Drive
501-945-4100
Yes
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites
5811 Pritchard Drive
501-945-3700
No
Fairfield Inn Little Rock North
4120 Health Care Drive
501-945-9777
No
Galloway Inn
3124 Highway 391
501-955-0700
Yes
Hilton Garden Inn North Little Rock
4100 Glover Rd
501-945-7444
No
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
4306 E. McCain Blvd.
501-945-4800
No
LaQuinta Inn
4311 Warden Road
501-945-0808
Yes
Motel 6 Little Rock North
400 West 29th St.
501-758-5100
Yes
Quality Inn & Suites I-40 East
5710 Pritchard Dr.
501-955-9453
Yes
Quality Inn & Suites North Little Rock
500 West 29th St.
501-771-2090
Yes
Red Roof Inn North Little Rock
5711 Pritchard
501-945-0080
Yes
Regal Inn
2508 Highway 161
501-353-2008
Yes
Residence Inn Little Rock North
4110 Health Care Drive
501-945-7777
Yes
Rest Inn
5801 Pritchard Drive
501-537-3106
Yes
Super 8 Little Rock/North/Airport
#1 Gray Road
501-945-0141
Yes
Super 8 North Little Rock/McCain
3929 McCain Park Drive
501-791-3200
Yes
Wingate by Wyndham North Little Rock
4801 W. Commercial Dr.
501-725-0491
No
Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock
#2 Riverfront Place
501-371-9000
No
Visitors Guide | 2018 83
SOCIAL SNAPS
Locals love snapping and posting pics of their favorite places, foods, drinks and more around greater Little Rock. Here are a few social snaps from residents in-the-know. Check out their favorites on Instagram!
Pinnacle Mountain by @thejeffwoods
South on Main by @ras328
The Fold by @eliry
Loca Luna by @mdbradshaw27
Rocktown Distillery by @lifhkr 84 Visitors Guide | 2018
LITTLE ROCK AT THE CENTER OF FUN IN ARKANSAS LITTLE ROCK LITTLE LITTLE ROCK ROCK AT THE CENTER OF FUN IN ARKANSAS AT ATTHE THECENTER CENTEROF OFFUN FUNIN INARKANSAS ARKANSAS AT THE CENTER OF FUN IN ARKANSAS
Little Rock was the No. 1 pick for the 10 Best Places to Live (Kiplinger’s 2013], ranks among America’s Happiest Cities (Gallup 2011), and was a Best Town of 2013 (Outside Magazine).
Little Rock was the No. 11pick for the 10 Best Places to Live (Kiplinger’s 2013], Little Little Rock Rock was was the the No. No. 1nature 1pick pick for for the the 10 10 Best Best Places tothe Live Live (Kiplinger’s (Kiplinger’s 2013], 2013], Little Rock was the No. pick for the 10 Best Places toto Live (Kiplinger’s 2013], has From connecting with to soaking up Places culture, City of Little Rock ranks among America’s Happiest Cities (Gallup 2011), and was a Best Town ranks ranks among among America’s America’s Happiest Happiest Cities Cities (Gallup (Gallup 2011), 2011), and and was was a Best a Best Town Town of ranks America’s Cities 2011),6,000 and was a Best Townofof of plentyamong to offer. With 62Happiest City parks and(Gallup more than acres of developed 2013 (Outside Magazine). 2013 2013 (Outside (Outside Magazine). Magazine). 2013 (Outside Magazine).
and undeveloped parkland, there is always a place for recreation and fun to be had. The City offers opportunities for running, fishing, cycling, hiking, has From connecting with nature soaking up culture, the City Little Rock has has From From connecting connecting with with nature nature toto soaking soaking up up culture, culture, the the City City ofof of Little Little Rock Rock has From connecting with nature toto soaking up culture, the City of Little Rock swimming, canoeing, golfing, and much more. plenty offer. With 62 City parks and more than 6,000 acres developed plenty plenty toto to offer. offer. With With 62 62 City City parks parks and and more more than than 6,000 6,000 acres acres ofof of developed developed plenty to offer. With 62 City parks and more than 6,000 acres of developed and undeveloped parkland, there always for recreation and fun and and undeveloped undeveloped parkland, parkland, there there isis always always aa aplace place for for recreation recreation and and fun fun and undeveloped parkland, there isis always aplace place for recreation and fun Little Rock Parks & Recreation. Creating fun in the capital city. be had. The City offers opportunities for running, fishing, cycling, hiking, toto to be be had. had. The The City City offers offers opportunities opportunities for for running, running, fishing, fishing, cycling, cycling, hiking, hiking, to be had. The City offers opportunities for running, fishing, cycling, hiking, swimming, canoeing, golfing, and much more. swimming, swimming, canoeing, canoeing, golfing, golfing, and and much much more. more. swimming, canoeing, golfing, and much more.
littlerock.org
Little Rock Parks Recreation. Creating fun the capital city. Little LittleRock RockParks Parks&& Recreation.Creating Creatingfun funinin thecapital capitalcity. city. Little Rock Parks &&Recreation. Recreation. Creating fun ininthe the capital city. CityLittleRock
littlerock.org littlerock.org littlerock.org littlerock.org CityLittleRock CityLittleRock CityLittleRock CityLittleRock PUBLICATION NAME • DATE
Visitors Guide | 2018 85
1
WEEKEND WARRIOR & BEYOND THINGS TO DO
TRAVEL TIME
Malvern Arkadelphia
Brickfest Turtle Point Golf Club, Arkadelphia Aquatic Park Watermelon festival, Birthplace of Bill Clinton Don't you need to meet someone there? Cowboys game and Cowboys cheerleaders! SXSW Festival Bulls, Cubs, Bears oh my! Hollywood, Santa Monica Beverly Hills, Malibu
45 min.
$22
1 hr., 10 min.
$22
1 hr., 59 min.
$30
7 hr., 40 min.
$90
8 hr., 20 min. 15 hr. 12 min. 14 hr., 13 min.
$100 $142 $160
Hope From the Windy City through to St. Louis and on to the prairies and oil fields of Texas, to the modern cosmopolitan skyscrapers of Dallas, to the state capitol at Austin, to the pine forest and immense landscape conjuring images of cowboys and stagecoaches, to the picturesque Hill Country and on to “Remember the Alamo” at San Antonio — there's always something worth seeing in the cities served by the Texas Eagle!
St. Louis Dallas Austin Chicago Los Angeles
1400 WEST MARKHAM STREET • LITTLE ROCK • (800) 872-7245 * Prices shown with 21 day advance booking and subject to availability. Schedule and Route stops are also subject to change.
86 Visitors Guide | 2018
ROUND TRIP AS LOW AS*
STOPS
$518