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Old State House Museum: Arkansas's Historic Heart

Explore Arkansas's history at the Old State House Museum in Little Rock, the oldest state capitol west of the Mississippi River. Free admission!

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Step back in time at the Old State House Museum, the original state capitol of Arkansas and the oldest standing capitol building west of the Mississippi. Explore exhibits showcasing Arkansas's rich history, from its statehood to the present day, within the walls that once housed the state's government.

A brief summary to Old State House Museum

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience and to avoid larger crowds.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibits to enhance your visit.
  • Take your time to admire the building's architecture, both inside and out.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old State House Museum is located in downtown Little Rock, easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and attractions. From the River Market District, walk south on Main Street, then turn right onto W Markham Street. The museum will be on your left, a large white building with columns.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region METRO bus service provides access to the Old State House Museum. Disembark at the Central Arkansas Library System stop or the nearest stop to W Markham Street. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare is approximately $1.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a direct route to the Old State House Museum. Simply provide the address, 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201, as your destination. The fare will vary depending on your starting point, but a typical short trip within the downtown area will likely cost between $10 and $20.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near the Old State House Museum. Metered street parking can be found on surrounding streets, free after 5 PM on weekdays and all weekend. Parking garages are also located nearby, such as the Robinson Center Parking Garage (424 W Markham St). Expect to pay hourly rates of $2-3, with daily maximums around $10-15.

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Discover more about Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum, located in downtown Little Rock, is a portal into Arkansas's past. Completed in 1842, it served as the state capitol until 1911 and witnessed pivotal moments in Arkansas history, including its admission to the Union in 1836 and the secession convention of 1861. Today, the museum's exhibits chronicle Arkansas's journey through restored legislative chambers and displays of historical artifacts. Explore permanent exhibits such as the restored 1836 and 1885 House of Representatives chambers, and the "First Ladies of Arkansas" exhibit, which showcases the lives and contributions of the state's first ladies. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions covering diverse topics like the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. The building itself is an architectural gem, designed in the Greek Revival style. The Old State House Museum offers a welcoming atmosphere for families, school groups, and history enthusiasts. With its central location and free admission, it's an accessible and engaging way to connect with Arkansas's heritage.

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