Background

MacArthur Park: A Historic Oasis in Little Rock

4.4 (932)

Discover history, art, and nature in Little Rock's oldest park, home to museums, gardens, and recreational spaces.

MacArthur Park, Little Rock's oldest municipal park, spans 36 acres and offers a blend of history, culture, and recreation. Originally a military arsenal, it's now home to museums, gardens, and green spaces, providing a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.

A brief summary to MacArthur Park

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring MacArthur Park.

  • Explore the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History to learn about the state's military past.
  • Visit the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts to experience a diverse collection of art.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Contemplation Gardens.
  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other activities.
  • Bring your dog to the MacArthur Unleashed Dog Park for some off-leash fun.

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

Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial

Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial

Rock Town Distillery

Rock Town Distillery: Arkansas's First Legal Moonshine

Museum of Black Arkansans and Performing Arts

Museum of Black Arkansans and Performing Arts: A Cultural Gem

Unlock the Best of MacArthur Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the River Market District, head south on Main Street. Turn left onto 9th Street and continue until you reach MacArthur Park on your right. The park is located at the corner of E. 9th and Commerce Streets. There are several entryways into the park from these streets. This is a free and straightforward way to access the park.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region METRO provides bus service to the area surrounding MacArthur Park. Check the Rock Region METRO website or app for the most up-to-date bus routes and schedules. A one-way fare is $1.35, with a $0.05 charge for a transfer. The METRO Streetcar is fare-free.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. A ride from downtown Little Rock to MacArthur Park typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.

  • Driving

    From I-30, take the 9th Street exit and head west. MacArthur Park will be on your left. There is ample free parking available within MacArthur Park, near the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History.

Discover more about MacArthur Park

MacArthur Park, located in downtown Little Rock, is a 36-acre oasis with a rich history. Established in 1892, the land was initially a horse racetrack in the 1830s before becoming the Little Rock Arsenal in 1836. The arsenal served as a military post until 1890. In 1942, the park was renamed MacArthur Park in honor of General Douglas MacArthur, who was born at the arsenal.The park boasts several attractions, including the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, housed in the arsenal's historic Tower Building. The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is also located within the park. Visitors can explore the park's scenic Contemplation Gardens, a fishing pond, and various memorials, including the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Other outdoor facilities include brick promenades, a pavilion, a bocce court, and bike polo courts. MacArthur Unleashed Dog Park, located on the south side, provides fenced areas for dogs.Throughout its history, MacArthur Park has been a focal point for the community, hosting events such as the Confederate Veterans' Reunion in 1911 and serving as a recreational space for baseball games and picnics. Today, the MacArthur Park Group works to conserve and develop the park, sponsoring events like the MacArthur Park 5K. The park's blend of historical significance and recreational amenities makes it a unique destination in Little Rock.

Explore the best of what MacArthur Park has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Little Rock

Plan Your Visit - Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service)

Explore Little Rock, Arkansas, a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of historic landmarks, vibrant arts, and outdoor adventures.

Tell me more about Little Rock

Discover the rich heritage and artistic achievements of Black Arkansans at this cultural center in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Museum of Black Arkansans and Performing Arts

A solemn and beautiful memorial in Little Rock's MacArthur Park, honoring the brave Arkansans who served in the Korean War.

Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial

Select Currency