Discover the Charm of the Esse Purse Museum & Store
Explore the unique Esse Purse Museum & Store in Little Rock, a fashion-forward destination showcasing vintage purses and accessories through the ages.
The Esse Purse Museum & Store is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas, dedicated to the art and history of purses and fashion accessories. This unique museum features an extensive collection of vintage handbags that spans over a century, showcasing the evolution of fashion and the stories behind these iconic accessories. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to provide insights into the craftsmanship and cultural significance of purses, making it a fascinating stop for fashion enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors will be captivated by the diverse range of purses on display, from elegant evening bags to everyday carryalls, each reflecting the styles and trends of its time. The museum also highlights the role of purses in women's history, celebrating the empowerment and individuality they represent. In addition to the museum exhibits, the on-site store offers a curated selection of modern accessories and unique items, allowing guests to take a piece of the experience home with them. The Esse Purse Museum & Store operates on a limited schedule, typically open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. It's advisable to check current operating hours before planning your visit. Whether you're an avid collector, a fashion lover, or simply curious about the cultural significance of accessories, the Esse Purse Museum & Store promises an unforgettable experience that beautifully intertwines history, art, and fashion.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the weekend for special exhibitions and events.
- Take your time to read the stories behind each purse; they add depth to your experience.
- Don't forget to check out the store for unique fashion accessories that you won't find anywhere else.
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
Getting There
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Car
From Pinnacle Mountain State Park, exit the park and turn left onto Pinnacle Valley Road. Continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach Highway 10. Turn right onto Highway 10 and continue for approximately 5 miles. Merge onto I-430 S toward Little Rock. After about 6 miles, take exit 1A for I-30 E toward Memphis. Continue on I-30 E for about 3 miles, then 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. Look for street parking or nearby lots; costs may vary.
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Public Transportation
From Pinnacle Mountain State Park, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the nearest public transportation hub, which is the Little Rock Transit System. Once there, take the Route 2 bus towards the Downtown area. The bus will take you approximately 30 minutes to reach the stop near Main St. (check the current schedule for exact timings). After disembarking, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Esse Purse Museum & Store located at 1510 Main St. Be sure to have exact change or a bus pass, as fares apply.
Attractions Nearby to Esse Purse Museum & Store
- The Bernice Garden
- The Escape Little Rock
- Rock Town Distillery
- Museum of Black Arkansans and Performing Arts
- Firehouse Museum & Hostel
- MacArthur Park
- Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
- Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
- Mystery Mansion Escape Room
- MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History
- Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial
- Lorax Tree Carving
- “City Dreamers” Mural
- Downtown Little Rock, Arkansas
- Historic Arkansas Museum
Landmarks nearby to Esse Purse Museum & Store
- Hanger House
- Mt. Holly Cemetery
- Site of Historic Fort Steele
- Curran Hall
- Catlett Prien Tower Building
- Federal Reserve Bank Building (Little Rock, Arkansas)
- Little Rock Guest Guide
- Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Seven Zones Zombie Run
- Celebrity Attractions
- Monument to Confederate Women
- Daisy Bates House National Historic Place
- Confederate Soldiers Monument (Little Rock, Arkansas)
- Historic Terminal Hotel
- The Monument to the Little Rock Nine