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Central High Museum: A Civil Rights Landmark

Explore the pivotal story of the Little Rock Nine and the desegregation of Central High School at this historic museum.

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Located opposite the historic Little Rock Central High School, the Central High Museum chronicles the 1957 desegregation crisis and the courageous Little Rock Nine. Through multimedia exhibits, the museum provides a powerful and engaging educational experience about this pivotal moment in American history.

A brief summary to Central High Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekday for a quieter, more personal experience.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Central High Museum is located at 2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, AR 72202, in the Central High Historic District. If you are already in the vicinity, such as downtown Little Rock, walking is a viable option. Head west on W 7th St, turn right onto Broadway St, and then left onto W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr. The museum will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region Metro provides bus service to the area. Check their website for the latest schedules and routes. Take a bus that heads towards downtown Little Rock. From the nearest bus stop, a 15-20 minute walk may be required. Bus fares vary, so check Rock Region Metro for current pricing.

  • Rideshare

    Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. Simply enter 'Central High Museum, 2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, AR 72202' as your destination. Fares depend on your location and the time of day, so check the estimate before confirming your ride.

  • Driving

    If driving, take I-30 N to I-630 W, then exit 2A for Broadway St. Turn right onto Broadway St, then left onto W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr. The museum is on the left at 2120 W Daisy L Gatson Bates Dr, Little Rock, AR 72202. Free parking is available at the visitor center. Traffic can be congested on school days between 8:30-9:00 AM and 3:30-4:00 PM.

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Discover more about Central High Museum

The Central High Museum stands as a poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights in America. Situated directly across from Little Rock Central High School, the museum explores the events surrounding the school's integration in 1957. This was a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement, when nine African-American students, known as the Little Rock Nine, attempted to attend the previously all-white Central High School. The museum's exhibits feature photographs, documents, and personal stories that highlight the resilience of those who fought for equality and justice. Multimedia displays and interactive oral history stations engage visitors of all ages, providing a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to and following this monumental moment in history. Visitors can also learn about the role President Dwight D. Eisenhower played when he sent in federal troops to escort the students into the school. Located within the Central High School National Historic Site, the museum serves as an educational resource and a place for reflection on the past, present, and future of civil rights in America.

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