ESSE Purse Museum & Store: A Stitch in Time
Explore a century of women's history through handbags at Little Rock's unique ESSE Purse Museum & Store. Discover fashion, art, and feminine culture.
The ESSE Purse Museum & Store in Little Rock, Arkansas, is one of only a few purse museums worldwide. It showcases the evolution of the 20th-century American woman through her handbags and their contents, offering a unique glimpse into history, fashion, and feminine culture.
A brief summary to Esse Purse Museum & Store
- 1510 Main St, Little Rock, East of Broadway, Arkansas, 72202, US
- +1501-916-9022
- Visit website
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Check the museum's website for information on current and upcoming temporary exhibits.
- Explore the museum store for unique, handcrafted handbags, jewelry, and accessories.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Old State House Museum, head east on Markham Street toward Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street and walk south for approximately 0.8 miles. The Esse Purse Museum will be on your left at 1510 Main Street. Look for the black and white building with red accents.
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Public Transport
From the North Little Rock Public Library, take the Metro Streetcar towards the River Market. Ride for about 20 minutes and get off at the 12th St & Main St stop. Walk north on Main St for about 0.2 miles. The Esse Purse Museum & Store will be at 1510 Main St on your right. A single ride on the streetcar costs $1.
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Driving
From I-30 E, take exit 141B for Broadway St toward US-70 W. Continue on Broadway St for about 1.5 miles until you reach Main St. Turn left onto Main St. The Esse Purse Museum & Store will be on your right at 1510 Main St. Metered street parking is available from 12th to Daisy Gatson Bates (14th) streets and is free after 6 p.m. and on weekends. Street parking is always free from Daisy Gatson Bates south. Several businesses have complimentary parking lots as well.
Discover more about Esse Purse Museum & Store
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