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Old State House Museum: Witness to Arkansas History
Explore Arkansas's past at the Old State House Museum, the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi, in downtown Little Rock.
The Old State House Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas, is the original state capitol building and the oldest standing capitol west of the Mississippi River. From its construction in 1833, it has been a witness to pivotal events in Arkansas history and now serves as a museum of Arkansas history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Old State House Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
Discover more about Old State House Museum
The Old State House Museum, located in downtown Little Rock, is a treasure trove of Arkansas history. Constructed in 1833, it stands as the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi. The building served as the state's capitol until 1911 and later housed the Arkansas School of Medicine before becoming a museum in 1951. The museum's exhibits showcase Arkansas's political, cultural, and social development from statehood to the present. Visitors can explore restored legislative chambers and view artifacts such as first ladies' gowns, Civil War battle flags, and Arkansas art pottery. The grounds are also notable as the site of President Bill Clinton's election night victory speeches in 1992 and 1996.The Old State House has witnessed many significant events, including Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836 and the secession convention of 1861. The building has Greek Revival architecture, with majestic columns and an elegant façade.
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Getting There
Walking
From the River Market District, walk west on Markham Street for approximately six blocks. The Old State House Museum is on the north side of Markham Street, between the DoubleTree and Marriott Hotels, at the intersection of Markham and Center streets. No cost.
Public Transport
Take the Rock Region Metro bus service to the Central Arkansas Library System stop or the nearest stop to W Markham St. From there, it's a short walk to the Old State House Museum at 300 W Markham St. A single ride fare is typically around $1.35.
Taxi/Ride-share
Use a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft and input 'Old State House Museum, 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201' as the destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but it typically ranges from $25 to $50 for a ride from various locations within the Arkansas Valley.
Driving
From I-30 (toward downtown Little Rock), take the Markham/Cantrell Street exit. Veer to the right on the 2nd Street exit; stay on 2nd Street until you reach Center Street, then turn right. Center Street dead ends directly in front of the Old State House Museum. Parking is available in the garage underneath the DoubleTree Hotel or at metered spots on the surrounding streets. Metered parking is not checked after 5 pm weekdays or on weekends. Nearby parking garages include Robinson Center Parking Garage (424 W Markham St).
A brief summary to Old State House Museum
Use Old State House Museum as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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