Central High Museum: A Pivotal Civil Rights Landmark

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Explore the pivotal story of the Little Rock Nine and the Civil Rights Movement at this National Historic Site.

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Central High Museum

Located in Little Rock, Arkansas, the Central High Museum stands as a powerful reminder of the 1957 desegregation crisis. Situated across the street from the still-functioning Little Rock Central High School, the museum chronicles the courageous story of the Little Rock Nine and their fight for equality in education.

A brief summary to Central High Museum

2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, Central High Historic District, Arkansas, 72202, US
Click to display
Click to display

Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on hours, ranger-led programs, and any COVID-related restrictions.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum exhibits and the surrounding historic site.
Consider booking a ranger-led tour in advance to gain deeper insights into the events and significance of Central High.
Park in the free Visitor Center parking lot, as Central High School is a functioning school with limited public access.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

The Magnolia/Mobil Service Station-Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Magnolia/Mobil Service Station: Echoes of the Civil Rights Struggle

Central High National Historic Site - Commemorative Garden

Central High Commemorative Garden: A Space for Reflection

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of W 14th St and S Park St, walk west on W 14th St/Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr towards S Park St. The Visitor Center will be on the right, at the corner of W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr and Little Rock Nine Way. Walking is free
Public Transport

Rock Region METRO provides bus service throughout the Little Rock area. Several routes stop near Central High School. Check the Rock Region METRO website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. 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 downtown Little Rock to Central High Museum will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

Discover more about Central High Museum

The Central High Museum, part of the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, offers an immersive journey into one of the most significant events in the American Civil Rights Movement. In 1957, Little Rock Central High School became the epicenter of the fight for desegregation when nine African-American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, attempted to integrate into the all-white school. The museum, located in the visitor center, uses exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations to tell the story of the crisis. Visitors can explore the events leading up to the integration attempt, the intense opposition faced by the students, and the role of President Dwight D. Eisenhower in sending federal troops to ensure their safety. The museum also highlights the personal stories of the Little Rock Nine, showcasing their bravery and resilience in the face of adversity. Beyond the exhibits, the site offers a chance to reflect on the broader implications of the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for equality. Visitors can walk the grounds, see the Commemorative Garden, and visit the Elizabeth Eckford Commemorative Bench. The adjacent Little Rock Central High School, still in operation, stands as a testament to the progress made and the work that remains.