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MacArthur Park: A Historic Oasis in Little Rock

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

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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

Local tips

  • 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.
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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.

Unlock the Best of MacArthur Park

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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.

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