MacArthur Park: A Historic Green Oasis
Discover history and recreation in downtown Little Rock's oldest park, featuring museums, gardens, and accessible playgrounds.
MacArthur Park, located in downtown Little Rock, is a 36-acre oasis with a rich history. Originally a horse racetrack in the 1830s, it became the Little Rock Arsenal in 1836. The park's Tower Building, constructed in 1840, housed the arsenal headquarters and now serves as the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. In 1892, the site was designated a public park, becoming Little Rock's first municipal park. Landscape engineer J.H. Pittman redesigned the property, adding a bandstand and a lake. The park was renamed MacArthur Park in 1942 to honor General Douglas MacArthur, who was born at the arsenal. Today, MacArthur Park offers a variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. Outdoor amenities include brick promenades, a pavilion, a fishing pond, bocce ball and bike polo courts, and the Contemplation Gardens. The MacArthur Unlimited Playground provides an accessible play space for children of all abilities. The park also hosts events such as the MacArthur Park 5K and Movies at MacArthur.
Local tips
- Visit the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History to learn about the park's past as a military arsenal.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Contemplation Gardens.
- Bring the kids to the MacArthur Unlimited Playground, designed for children of all abilities.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and races.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the fishing pond or in one of the park's green spaces.
A brief summary to MacArthur Park
- 1000 McMath Ave, Little Rock, Macarthur Park, Arkansas, 72202, US
- +1501-375-0121
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the River Market District, head south on Main Street. Turn left onto 9th Street and continue for several blocks. MacArthur Park will be on your right. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.
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Public Transport
Several Rock Region METRO bus lines stop near MacArthur Park, including routes 1, 3, 10, 18, and 23. Check the Rock Region METRO website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. Bus fare is $1.25 per ride.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. A ride from the River Market District to MacArthur Park typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
From I-30, take the 9th Street exit and head west. MacArthur Park will be on your left. Free parking is available in the lots surrounding the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. Street parking is also available, with rates around $0.50-$1 per hour.
