Old State House Museum, Lower Delta Travel Guide

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Explore Arkansas's rich history at the Old State House Museum, the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi River, in downtown Little Rock.

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Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum in Little Rock is the original state capitol of Arkansas and the oldest standing capitol building west of the Mississippi River. Explore exhibits showcasing Arkansas history, from its statehood in 1836 to the present day, within the walls that once housed the state's government.

A brief summary to Old State House Museum

300 W Markham St, Little Rock, Downtown, Arkansas, 72201, US
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Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old State House Museum.

Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience and in-depth tours.
Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibits.
Take advantage of the free admission to explore all the museum has to offer.
Don't miss the beautifully restored legislative chambers for a glimpse into the state's political past.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Delta Gateway Museum

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Explore Old State House Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old State House Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the River Market District, head south on President Clinton Avenue towards downtown. Turn left onto Main Street and walk south for two blocks. Turn right onto W Markham Street. The Old State House Museum will be on your right, at the corner of W Markham and Center Street.
Public Transport

Take the Rock Region Metro bus service to the Central Arkansas Library System stop, or the stop nearest to W Markham Street. From there, walk a short distance to the Old State House Museum at 300 W Markham St. A single bus fare is approximately $1.
Taxi/Ride-share

Use a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft for a direct route to the Old State House Museum at 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201. The cost depends on your starting point, but a short trip within the downtown area typically ranges from $10 to $20.
Driving

From I-30, take the Markham/Cantrell Street exit. Veer right onto the 2nd Street exit and stay on 2nd Street until you reach Center Street, then turn right. Center Street dead-ends directly in front of the Old State House Museum. Parking is available in the garage underneath the DoubleTree Hotel or at metered spots on the surrounding streets. Metered parking is free after 5 PM on weekdays and all weekend. Nearby parking garages charge hourly rates, typically around $2-$3 per hour.

Discover more about Old State House Museum

Step back in time at the Old State House Museum, a landmark that has witnessed pivotal moments in Arkansas history. Built in 1833 and serving as the state capitol until 1911, this Greek Revival-style building has been meticulously preserved to offer visitors a glimpse into the state's political, cultural, and social development.Explore the museum's permanent exhibits, including the restored 1836 and 1885 House of Representatives chambers, and the "First Families of Arkansas" exhibit, showcasing political memorabilia and first ladies' gowns. Discover artifacts from significant events, artistic works, and interactive installations that bring Arkansas's story to life. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions covering diverse topics such as Arkansas's role in the Civil War and the impact of the Civil Rights Movement.The Old State House also played a role as the seat of both Confederate and Unionist governments in Arkansas during the Civil War and was the site of the 1861 secession convention. The grounds are also known for being the location where President Bill Clinton gave his election night victory speeches in 1992 and 1996. Today, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it a destination for families, school groups, and history enthusiasts.