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Old State House Museum: Arkansas's Historic Heart

Explore Arkansas's rich history at the Old State House Museum, the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi River, in downtown Little Rock.

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The Old State House Museum in Little Rock is the original state capitol of Arkansas and the oldest standing state capitol building west of the Mississippi River. Built in the Greek Revival style, it now chronicles Arkansas's history through exhibits and events.

A brief summary to Old State House Museum

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience and more in-depth tours.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the free admission to explore the museum's offerings.
  • Note that backpacks and large bags are not allowed in the exhibits and should be left on the bus or in designated cubbies.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Downtown Little Rock, the Old State House Museum is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of W Capitol Ave and S Broadway St, walk west on W Capitol Ave for about 0.2 miles. Turn left onto S Spring St and continue south for one block. The Old State House Museum will be on your right at 300 W Markham St. The museum is a short, approximately 5-minute walk from the heart of Downtown.

  • Public Transport

    The Rock Region Metro bus service operates throughout Downtown Little Rock. Route 5 stops at various points downtown. Board the bus at the nearest stop and ask the driver for the stop closest to the Old State House Museum. A single ride fare is typically $1.00. After getting off, walk east on W Markham St for about 2 minutes to arrive at the museum.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft for a direct route. Input 'Old State House Museum, 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but a ride from various locations within Arkansas Valley typically ranges from $25 to $50.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Little Rock. From most locations in Arkansas Valley, take the I-40 E highway towards Little Rock. Take exit 141B for I-30 S towards Texarkana. Continue on I-30 S for about 2 miles and take exit 141A for 6th St. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for 6th St, and merge onto 6th St. Turn right onto W Markham St, and you will find the Old State House Museum at 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201. Parking is available on the street and in nearby parking lots, but be mindful that some may have fees. Metered street parking is available. Parking garages are located near the museum. The Robinson Center Parking Garage is located at 424 W Markham St. The S Center St Lot is located at 216 Center St.

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Discover more about Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum, located in downtown Little Rock, is a portal to Arkansas's captivating past. Constructed between 1833 and 1842, it served as the state's original capitol building from 1842 to 1912. Designed in the Greek Revival style by architect Gideon Shryock, with modifications by George Weigart, the building has witnessed many pivotal events in Arkansas history. Inside, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase Arkansas's political, cultural, and social development. These include collections of First Ladies' gowns, Civil War battle flags, Arkansas art pottery, and African-American quilts. The museum also features the restored House of Representatives chamber, reflecting its appearance in the 1840s. The Old State House Museum has played many roles throughout its history. It was the site of Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836 and the secession convention in 1861. For a time, it housed a medical school and served as an Arkansas War Memorial. In 1997, it was designated a National Historic Landmark. Today, the museum hosts events and educational programs, continuing to preserve and share the history of Arkansas and its people.

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