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The Bernice Garden: An Urban Oasis in Little Rock

Discover Little Rock's hidden gem: a vibrant community garden showcasing local art, hosting lively events, and promoting sustainability in the SoMa district.

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The Bernice Garden, nestled in Little Rock's SoMa district, is a vibrant community space and sculpture garden. Created with recycled materials, it hosts events like farmers' markets and weddings, fostering a sense of neighborliness and celebrating local art.

A brief summary to The Bernice Garden

Local tips

  • Visit on Sundays during the summer for the farmers' market to support local vendors and enjoy fresh produce.
  • Check the garden's calendar for upcoming events like art exhibits, plant swaps, and live music.
  • Explore the sculptures and identify the native plants to appreciate the garden's reflection of Arkansas' spirit and nature.
  • Enjoy a meal at one of the nearby SoMa restaurants before or after your visit to experience the neighborhood's culinary scene.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Bernice Garden is located in the SoMa district and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions and restaurants. From the intersection of South Main Street and East 14th Street, walk south on South Main Street for a block. The garden will be on your right. There is no gate, and the entrance is clearly visible from the street. This is a free activity.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region METRO provides bus service to the area surrounding The Bernice Garden. Check the Rock Region METRO website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop on Main Street, walk a short distance to the garden. A one-way fare is $1.35, with a $0.05 charge for a transfer.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. Request a ride to 1401 S Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202. A short trip from downtown Little Rock will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on the distance and demand.

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Discover more about The Bernice Garden

The Bernice Garden, located at the southeast corner of Daisy Bates Avenue and South Main Street in downtown Little Rock, is a unique and inviting space that embodies community spirit and artistic expression. This privately owned garden, created by Anita Davis, serves as a gathering place, event venue, and a celebration of local artists. The garden's design incorporates recycled and reclaimed materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The sculptures within the garden represent the spirit, nature, and history of Arkansas, offering visitors a chance to connect with the local culture. A large wooden canopy, constructed in 2011 from reclaimed wood, provides shade and collects rainwater, which is then used to water the plants in the garden. The Bernice Garden hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a popular Sunday farmers' market from May to July, art shows, and live music performances. It also serves as a sought-after venue for weddings, receptions, and other private celebrations. The garden is open to the public during normal hours, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Its location in the SoMa district places it amidst a revitalized neighborhood with restaurants, shops, and markets, making it a central hub for community activity. The garden is named after the Bernice Building and Anita Davis' grandmother, both named Bernice. The Bernice Building, built in 1923 by Bernice Wynne, houses businesses and renters, and it inspired Davis to create the garden as a way to celebrate the community and foster a sense of pride in the area.

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