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MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History: A Tribute to Arkansas's Military Heritage

Explore Arkansas's military past at the MacArthur Museum, located in General Douglas MacArthur's birthplace in historic MacArthur Park.

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Housed in the historic Little Rock Arsenal, the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur, this museum showcases Arkansas's military history from its territorial period to the present day. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, weapons, and personal stories of Arkansan men and women who served in the armed forces.

A brief summary to MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a more personal experience with the exhibits and staff.
  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to find out about any special events or temporary exhibits during your visit.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and appreciate their historical significance.
  • Consider exploring MacArthur Park, which surrounds the museum, for a relaxing stroll after your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the River Market District, head south on Main Street. Turn left onto 9th Street and continue until you reach MacArthur Park on your right. The museum is located within the park. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region Metro provides public transportation in Little Rock. From downtown North Little Rock, take Rock Region Metro Bus #5 towards Little Rock and get off at 9th St. and Main St. Walk east on 9th St for about 0.1 miles. The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History will be on your left at 503 E 9th St. A single ride fare is about $1.35.

  • Driving

    From I-30, take the 9th Street exit and travel west until you come to MacArthur Park, which will be on your left. The museum offers ample free parking in the parking lot to the east of the building, or along the circle drive in front of the museum coming off 9th Street.

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Discover more about MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, located in the historic Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, stands as a tribute to the military heritage of Arkansas. The museum's location is significant as it is the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur. The museum's exhibits feature a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents, and uniforms. These items vividly portray Arkansas's military history, both at home and abroad. Permanent exhibits include Civil War artifacts, a room dedicated to the Camden Expedition, and items related to Confederate spy David O. Dodd. A 1943 Jeep from World War II is also a prominent display. One room is dedicated to World War I, while another showcases a portion of the museum's collection of 4,600 photographs taken during World War II. Known as the Allison Collection, these photos offer a personal look into the global conflict. Other exhibits document the Korean War experiences of General Douglas MacArthur, the 1911 United Confederate Veterans Reunion, and the history of the Aesthetic Club. The Little Rock Arsenal building itself has a rich history. Erected in 1840, it was once part of a major military installation. In February 1861, Arkansas citizens seized the arsenal, holding it for the Confederacy for two years before Federal troops reclaimed it in 1863. The property was later given to the City of Little Rock in 1892 and converted into a city park. After serving as home to the Museum of Natural History and Antiquities (later the Museum of Discovery), the building was renovated and reopened in 2001 as the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History.

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