Arkansas State Capitol: A Glimpse into Arkansas History

4.7 (171)

Explore Arkansas history and architecture at the State Capitol in Little Rock, a landmark of government and culture.

Home
Arkansas
Central Arkansas
Arkansas State Capitol

The Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock is a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture and serves as the seat of Arkansas state government. Visitors can explore its grand halls, learn about the state's history, and admire the monuments on the Capitol grounds.

A brief summary to Arkansas State Capitol

500 Woodlane St, Little Rock, Downtown, Arkansas, 72201, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 7 am-5 pm
Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
Thursday 7 am-5 pm
Friday 7 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-3 pm
Sunday 10 am-3 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arkansas State Capitol.

Take a guided tour for an in-depth understanding of the Capitol's history and architecture. Tours are free and offered on the hour.
Explore the Capitol grounds to discover the various monuments and memorials.
Check out the exhibits and displays throughout the Capitol to learn about Arkansas's unique state symbols and history.
Visit the Capitol Gift Shop for souvenirs and mementos of your visit.
The 500 Grill, located in the lower level, is open for lunch on weekdays.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center: A Celebration of Black History

Central High National Historic Site - Commemorative Garden

Central High Commemorative Garden: A Space for Reflection

Getting There

Walking

From the River Market District, head west on Markham Street, then turn left onto Woodlane Street. Walk south for several blocks until you reach the Capitol. The Capitol will be on your left. This walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Several bus routes serve the Capitol area. Check the Rock Region Metro website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. From the River Cities Travel Center, several bus lines will get you within a few blocks of the Capitol. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. A ride from the Little Rock Airport (LIT) to the Capitol is approximately 9 minutes and costs between $15 and $18. From the River Market area, expect to pay around $8-$12 for a ride to the Capitol.
Driving

From I-30, take the 3rd St exit and head west. Turn left onto Woodlane Street and proceed south to the Capitol. Limited metered parking is available along Capitol Avenue and 4th Street, as well as 'Reserved Capitol Parking' spaces. Additional parking is available at the Department of Finance and Administration building on 7th Street. Expect to pay around $1-$2 per hour for metered parking. Several parking garages are also located within walking distance.

Discover more about Arkansas State Capitol

The Arkansas State Capitol, located in Little Rock, is more than just a government building; it's a living museum of Arkansas history and architectural grandeur. Constructed between 1899 and 1915 on the site of a former state penitentiary, the Capitol stands as a testament to the state's progress and resilience. The building's design, a blend of Neo-Classical Revival styles, was initially conceived by architect George Mann and later refined by Cass Gilbert. The exterior is clad in Batesville limestone, while the interior features marble from Vermont, columns from Colorado, and grand staircases from Alabama. The intricate bronze doors at the main entrance were crafted by Tiffany & Company of New York. Crowning the Capitol is a stunning cupola covered in 24-karat gold leaf. Inside, visitors can explore the Rotunda, Governor's Reception Room, Old Supreme Court Room, and the Senate and House Galleries. The Capitol grounds feature numerous monuments and memorials, including tributes to Confederate soldiers, war veterans, fallen firefighters, and the Little Rock Nine, offering a comprehensive look at the state's diverse past. The Arkansas State Capitol remains a vibrant center of government, housing the offices of the Governor and other state officials, as well as the chambers of the House and Senate. Visitors are welcome to observe the legislative process in action.