The Little Rock area has plenty to offer those who wish to save money but still want to have fun. From parks to museums there is something everyone is sure to enjoy. If you want to splash around on a hot summer day or learn more about the history of Little Rock there are free ways to do so. Here are the top 10 free things to do in the Little Rock area. Head out with some friends or family and experience all that the city has to offer. 

Arkansas Arts Center – This is an arts museum in downtown Little Rock in the Quapaw Quarter. The museum features a world class international collection and a theater company that performs children’s literacy works. There is also a museum shop that is loved by many.
Riverfront Park – Riverfront Park has loads to do covering 11 blocks downtown on the south bank of the Arkansas River. There is a splash pad for children, a history pavilion, a civil war marker, the First Security Amphitheater and a playground. Summer 2018 you can even catch movies in the park on certain nights.
Arkansas State Capitol – This historic beauty in downtown Little Rock was built over a century ago as a replica of the U.S. Capitol. Being a replica, it has been in many movies as a stand in, which is cool enough in its own right. The building features Arkansas granite, six bronze doors and three chandeliers crafted by Tiffany & Co. in New York. You can also observe theLittle Rock Nine Monument and the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial on the grounds.
Bernice Garden – Bernice Garden is located in downtown Little Rock in SoMa. There is a farmers market here from April-October from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Sunday. The garden features permanent and temporary sculptures, mosaics and rock formations. This lovely space can be rented out for weddings, receptions, dinner parties and more.
Burns Park and Golf Course – One of the largest municipal parks in the country at 1,700 acres, this North Little Rock park has plenty of activities. There is a log cabin that was built prior to the civil war, camping grounds, two 18-hole golf courses, two 18-hole disc golf courses, a baseball and softball complex and more. There are also hiking trails, seven playgrounds and one dog park.
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Old State House Museum – This historic site was opened in 1836 and was Arkansas’ first state Capitol Building until 1911. Today it houses the Arkansas History Museum. Exhibits include Pillars of Power, Arkansas’ First Families and 30 of Arkansas’ first ladies’ gowns. The Old State House Museum is in downtown Little Rock next to the DoubleTree Hotel.
Two Rivers Park – In West Little Rock, this 1,000 acre tract is at the confluence of the Arkansas River and the Little Maumelle River. There is hiking, biking, gardens and an abundance of wildlife to enjoy. The pedestrian bridge connects to the Arkansas River Trail, which is another free thing to do as well.
Old Mill – This North Little Rock beauty was the location for the opening scene of Gone With The Wind in 1939. It is a 3-acre sight with a waterwheel of concrete made to look like wood and is surrounded by a road resembling an old wagon road. There is also a beautiful rustic foot bridge made of black locust tree limbs.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park – The summit of Pinnacle Mountain rises 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River Valley and the park has more than 40 miles of hiking trails. At Pinnacle there is also the Arkansas Arboretum, a playground, a small field and plenty of picnic tables. This location is perfect for a day with the family.
Historic Arkansas Museum – This museum is in the downtown Little Rock River Market district. The museum is a celebration of Arkansas’ cultural and material heritage. There are six galleries full of Arkansas art and artifacts. Four original dwellings on the the grounds provide an authentic setting for tours. There is much to learn from this hidden gem.
There is plenty to do in Little Rock without breaking the bank. Museums, parks and hiking trails await those looking for something fun to do with friends and family. Explore the area today; the good time awaiting you is priceless.