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Old State House Museum, Timberlands Travel Guide

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Explore Arkansas's captivating history at the Old State House Museum, the oldest state capitol building west of the Mississippi.

The Old State House Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas, is the original state capitol and the oldest standing capitol building west of the Mississippi River. Built in 1833, it witnessed pivotal moments in Arkansas history and now serves as a museum showcasing the state's past through exhibits and events.

A brief summary to Old State House Museum

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old State House Museum.

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more in-depth tours.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibits that may enhance your visit.
  • Take advantage of the free admission to explore all the museum has to offer without any pressure.
  • Don't forget to capture photos of the beautiful architecture both inside and outside.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old State House Museum is located in downtown Little Rock at 300 W Markham St. From the River Market District, walk west on Markham Street for approximately 5 blocks. The museum will be on your right, a large white building with columns. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    The Rock Region Metro bus service has multiple routes that stop near the Old State House Museum. Check the schedule for the route that serves your location and connects to downtown Little Rock. Disembark at the Central Arkansas Library System or the nearest stop to W Markham St. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare typically costs around $1 - $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Little Rock. Simply enter 'Old State House Museum, 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201' as your destination. The cost will vary depending on your starting point, but a short trip within downtown Little Rock should range from $7 to $15.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 300 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201. Parking is available on the street and in nearby parking lots and garages. Metered street parking is available, and several parking garages are within walking distance, including the Robinson Center Parking Garage. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $2-$3 per hour.

Discover more about Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum, a majestic Greek Revival building in downtown Little Rock, stands as a testament to Arkansas's rich history. Completed in 1842, it served as the state's capitol until 1911, witnessing Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836 and the secession convention in 1861. The building also housed all branches of the new state's government. Over the years, the building has served multiple purposes, including a medical school and home to various patriotic organizations. Saved from demolition in the mid-20th century, it was transformed into a museum of Arkansas history, opening to the public in 1951. Today, the museum's exhibits showcase a wide array of artifacts, from first ladies' gowns to Civil War battle flags and Arkansas art pottery. Visitors can explore the original legislative chambers, wander through period rooms, and learn about the state's political, cultural, and social development. The grounds themselves are historically significant, having hosted President Clinton's election night victory speeches in 1992 and 1996. With free admission and a welcoming atmosphere, the Old State House Museum offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

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