MacArthur Park: Little Rock's Historic Heart
Explore Little Rock's oldest park: where military history meets art, gardens, and outdoor fun in the heart of the city.
MacArthur Park, Little Rock's oldest municipal park, blends history and recreation on 36 acres. Originally the Little Rock Arsenal in the 1830s, it transformed into a public park in 1892 and was later named after General Douglas MacArthur. Today, it houses museums, gardens, and memorials, offering a rich experience for visitors.
A brief summary to MacArthur Park
- 1000 McMath Ave, Little Rock, Macarthur Park, Arkansas, 72202, US
- +1501-375-0121
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History to learn about the state's military past.
- Stroll through the Contemplation Gardens for a peaceful escape.
- Check out the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts for a dose of culture.
Getting There
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Walking
From the River Market District, head south on Main Street. Turn left onto 9th Street and continue until you see MacArthur Park on your right. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.
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Public Transport
From downtown Little Rock, several buses run along Main Street towards MacArthur Park. Check the Rock Region METRO schedule for the most up-to-date routes and times. A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Driving
From I-30, take the 9th Street exit and head west. MacArthur Park will be on your left. There are multiple parking lots around the park, with free parking available. Street parking is also available, with rates around $0.50-$1 per hour.
Discover more about MacArthur Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hanger House
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Mt. Holly Cemetery
1.2 km
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Little Rock Guest Guide
1.3 km
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Catlett Prien Tower Building
1.3 km
Discover the Catlett Prien Tower, a modern business center and architectural gem in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, showcasing the city's vibrant economic spirit.
Site of Historic Fort Steele
1.4 km
Explore Historic Fort Steele in Little Rock, Arkansas - a captivating journey into the past with rich stories and stunning architecture.
Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture and history of Little Rock at the Convention & Visitors Bureau, your essential guide to Arkansas's best attractions and experiences.
Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail
1.6 km
Walk the path of courage and change on Little Rock's Civil Rights Heritage Trail, honoring those who fought for equality and justice in Arkansas.
Celebrity Attractions
1.7 km
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Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum
1.8 km
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USS Razorback
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Chester E. Bush House
1.9 km
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Beacon of Peace and Hope
1.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Firehouse Museum & Hostel
0.2 km
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Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
0.3 km
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MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History
0.3 km
Explore Arkansas' military past at the MacArthur Museum, located in the historic Little Rock Arsenal, the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur.
Arkansas Korean War Veterans Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn and beautiful memorial in Little Rock's MacArthur Park, honoring the brave Arkansans who served in the Korean War.
Rock Town Distillery
0.7 km
Experience Arkansas's first legal distillery since Prohibition. Tours, tastings, and award-winning spirits await in the heart of Little Rock.
The Bernice Garden
0.7 km
A vibrant sculpture garden and community event space in Little Rock's SoMa district, celebrating local art, sustainability, and neighborly gatherings.
The Escape Little Rock
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Experience immersive escape room adventures with diverse themes and intricate puzzles at The Escape Little Rock, a perfect spot for group fun.
Curran Hall
0.8 km
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Esse Purse Museum & Store
0.8 km
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Museum of Black Arkansans and Performing Arts
0.9 km
Discover the rich heritage and artistic contributions of Black Arkansans at this cultural gem in Little Rock.
Historic Arkansas Museum
1.2 km
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Lorax Tree Carving
1.2 km
A whimsical and inspiring tribute to Dr. Seuss's Lorax, promoting environmental stewardship in the heart of Little Rock's Pettaway neighborhood.
Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
1.2 km
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Arkansas Made
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“City Dreamers” Mural
1.2 km
A vibrant mural in downtown Little Rock, the "City Dreamers" embodies the city's artistic spirit and invites all to dream and explore.
Essential places to dine
Park Grill - Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
0.2 km
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Raduno | Brick Oven & Barroom
0.8 km
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The Root Cafe
0.8 km
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Fassler Hall
0.9 km
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Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co.
0.9 km
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Agasi 7: Rooftop Bar + Kitchen
1.0 km
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Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro
1.1 km
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Copper Grill
1.2 km
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Allsopp & Chapple Restaurant + Bar
1.2 km
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Samantha's Tap Room & Wood Grill
1.2 km
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Bruno's Little Italy
1.2 km
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Stickyz Rock'n'Roll Chicken Shack
1.3 km
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Flying Fish
1.3 km
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Cache Restaurant
1.3 km
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Maryam's Grill Mediterranean Restaurant
1.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Punchbowl
0.7 km
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Moxy Modern Mercantile
0.7 km
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The Green Corner Store
0.7 km
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Sweet Home
0.7 km
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Pink Olive SoMa
0.7 km
Explore Pink Olive SoMa in Little Rock - a charming gift shop offering unique treasures, home goods, and baby items for every occasion.
South Main Creative
0.8 km
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Oak Forest Vintage
1.0 km
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Bella Vita Jewelry & Gifts
1.0 km
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Luv Boutique
1.2 km
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Jazzy
1.3 km
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Explore Store
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Barakat Bespoke
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Kilwins
1.3 km
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Gifts of Arkansas (4Square Cafe & Gifts)
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River Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Busker
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Lucky Lou's
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Dugan's Pub
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Six Ten Center
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The Lobby Bar
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Brewski's Pub & Grub
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PAR BAR
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Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar
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Penthouse Social Club and Cigar Lounge
2.1 km
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Crush Wine Bar
2.3 km
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White Water Tavern
3.5 km
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Town Pump
5.1 km
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Chaps
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The Forge
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Spectators Grill & Pub
5.8 km
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