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Historic Arkansas Museum: A Journey Through Arkansas History

Step back in time at Little Rock's Historic Arkansas Museum, exploring the state's rich heritage through historic buildings, art, and living history.

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The Historic Arkansas Museum in downtown Little Rock brings the state's rich history to life. Explore preserved frontier buildings, galleries showcasing Arkansas-made crafts and art, and living history demonstrations that offer a glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Historic Arkansas Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for upcoming events and living history demonstrations to enhance your visit.
  • Explore the museum's store for unique, Arkansas-made items and support local artists.
  • Take a guided tour of the historic buildings to learn more about life in frontier Arkansas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Historic Arkansas Museum is located in downtown Little Rock, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions and hotels. From the River Market District, walk south on Main Street, then turn east onto 3rd Street. The museum will be on your right. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    The Little Rock River Rail trolley has a stop at the Historic Arkansas Museum (2nd at Scott). A single ride fare is $1, and a day pass is $2. Several bus routes also serve the area. Check the Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA) website for routes and schedules. A single bus fare is $1.25.

  • Driving

    If driving, the Historic Arkansas Museum is located at 200 E 3rd St, Little Rock, AR 72201. Several parking options are available nearby. The Convention District Garage at 201 Main St is a short walk away. Street parking is also available, with payment via the ParkMobile app. Parking costs vary, with garage parking typically costing $10-15 per day.

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Discover more about Historic Arkansas Museum

The Historic Arkansas Museum (HAM), formerly known as the Arkansas Territorial Restoration, immerses visitors in the early history of Arkansas. Located in downtown Little Rock, the museum encompasses a city block with historic buildings, galleries, and interactive exhibits. The museum's grounds feature several meticulously preserved buildings from the frontier era, including the oldest building in Little Rock, the Hinderliter Grog Shop. Other historic structures include the McVicar and Brownlee Houses from the 1840s and the reconstructed Arkansas Gazette print shop from the 1820s. These buildings offer a glimpse into life in Arkansas during the 19th century. Inside the museum center, visitors can explore galleries filled with Arkansas-made decorative, mechanical, and fine art objects. Exhibits showcase the work of Arkansas artists and artisans from prehistoric times to the present. The Knife Gallery is a standout, being the first in the country dedicated to the history of the Bowie knife. The "We Walk in Two Worlds" exhibit tells the story of Arkansas's first people, the Caddo, Osage and Quapaw tribes. The Historic Arkansas Museum offers a variety of programs and events, including living history demonstrations, workshops, and art nights. These activities provide an engaging way to learn about Arkansas's heritage and experience the skills and crafts of the past.

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