Visitor's Guide 2010

Visitor’s Guide TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK

WHAT TO DO • WHERE TO SHOP WHERE TO STAY • WHAT TO EAT VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

1

full of Play de Do ... draw throngs to Cajun’s Wharf.”

G R E AT TA S T E S

“A riverfront patio, decadent seafood and Mason jars

“A riverfront patio, decadent seafood and Mason jars full of Play de Do ... draw throngs to Cajun’s Wharf.”

FRESH AIR. FRESH FOOD. The perfect combo for a night on the town.

Cajun’s is famous for its fabulously fresh seafood, aged Angus Beef, and full-flavored good times. Come enjoy the great food and fun atmosphere, including our famous deck overlooking the Arkansas River.

– The New York Times

AT YO U R PAC E .

– The New York Times

FRESH AIR. FRESH FOOD.

The perfect combo for a night on the town.

Cajun’s is famous for its fabulously fresh seafood, aged Angus Beef, and full-flavored good times. Come enjoy the great food and fun atmosphere, including our famous deck overlooking the Arkansas River.

complimentary shuttle service from area hotels

Whether you’re on the go or off the clock, Copper Grill and Grocery Is your downtown dining destination. It’s where you can let go in the casual elegance of the grill or just grab a quick bite from our plentiful gourmet-to-go items available in our full-service gourmet market.

Private Party Facilities Available – Call for Details.

complimentary shuttle service from area hotels Gourmet. Your Way. All Day. Hours: Grocery, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Saturday Grill, Lunch & Dinner, Opening at 11 a.m. Monday – Saturday

monday-saturday from 4:30 p.m. www.cajunswharf.com 2400 cantrell road on the arkansas river 501-375-5351

2

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

501.375.3333 • 300 Third Street (Downtown) CopperGrillandGrocery.com

monday-saturday from 4:30 p.m. www.cajunswharf.com 2400 cantrell road on the arkansas river 501-375-5351

H G G

WELCOME TO

THE CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

Featuring 20,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Clinton Library chronicles American history at the turn of the 21st century. Interactive exhibits, including a White House Cabinet Room reconstruction and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, give visitors a first-hand look into the life and work of the 42nd president.

Hours of Operation Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday, 1 - 5 p.m.

Price of Admission $7 Special discounts for children, seniors and others.

Don’t forget to visit the Clinton Museum Store at 610 President Clinton Avenue to purchase unique gifts and collectibles. You can walk or catch a free ride on the shuttle in front of the Clinton Center. (501) 748-0400.

Be sure to dine at Forty Two located on the bottom floor of the Clinton Center. (501) 537-0042. www.clintonpresidentialcenter.org

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

3

do NORTH. Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum Arkansas Queen Riverboat Arkansas River Trail Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame Arkansas Travelers Baseball Arkansas Twisters Arena Football Big Dam Bridge Burns Park (golf, tennis, trails, amusement park, and more) Dickey-Stephens Park North Shore River District Old Mill River Rail Trolleys USS Razorback Submarine Verizon Arena Wild River Country 4

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Welcome to North Little Rock—where southern charm and city fun unite. Whether you’re looking for scenic river trails, a vibrant nightlife in a revitalized and energized downtown, outstanding shopping and dining opportunities, or exciting attractions such as an award-winning ballpark, do yourself a favor—Do North!

North Little Rock Visitors Bureau 800-643-4690 • 501-758-1424 NorthLittleRock.travel

big city shopping... big city shopping... big city shopping... just around the corner!

just around the corner! just around the corner!

11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • www.pleasantridgetowncenter.com 11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • www.pleasantridgetowncenter.com For more information contact Schickel Development at 501-225-7807 11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • www.pleasantridgetowncenter.com For more information contact Schickel Development at 501-225-7807 For more information contact Schickel Development at 501-225-7807 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

5

Historic ArkAnsAs MuseuM Doing great things with Arkansas history!

At Historic Arkansas Museum, we tell Arkansas’s story in many exciting ways. From our four 19th-century historic homes, complete with costumed Living History characters, to our six galleries of Arkansasmade art and artifacts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Step back in time and enter our half-block of restored 19thcentury homes and meet their residents through our awardwinning Living History program.

Ark

ansa

Old Statehouse

MARKHAM

12

Explore our newest exhibit We Walk in Two Worlds: The Caddo, Osage and Quapaw in Arkansas.

Osage Pipe Bag, c. 1880 Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resource Council Purchase s River Riverfront Park

LA HARP - CANTRELL Peabody Hotel

Visitor’s

30 Statehouse Convention Center

LR Chamber of Commerce

24

RiverMarket PRESIDENT CLINTON AVE.

RIVER RAIL Main Library

�

CENTER

SPRING

BROADWAY

SECOND

THIRD Free Museum Parking � COMMERCE

ROCK

CUMBERLAND

SCOTT

MAIN

FOURTH LOUISIANA

Downtown

LITTLE ROCK

On the River Rail line at 200 E. Third St. Downtown Little Rock 501-324-9351 A museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage

www.HistoricArkansas.org

Monday through Saturday: 9 am–5 pm • Sunday: 1 pm–5 pm

Come for the history. Stay for the shopping.

The Museum Store is open seven days a week.

6

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

38 45

Guide

2010

G F N ISH I Y L F

Table Of Contents Welcome . ........................................... 8 exploring our city........................... 9 top ten things to do..................... 10 clinton library............................... 11 heifer village.................................. 12 Nature Center................................. 13 ATTRACTIONS...................................... 14 little rock zoo............................... 24 dickey-stephens park..................... 25 PARKS................................................... 26 Children’s Activities...................... 28 Sports................................................. 29 CITY Nights........................................ 31 little rock tours............................ 36 movie theaters................................ 37 performing arts............................. 38 Shopping............................................ 39 dining................................................. 45 accommodations .......................... 58 Transportation............................... 63 Area Maps......................................... 64 trolley route.................................. 66

For information about Little Rock, call the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau at 501-376-4781 or visit www.littlerock.com. For information about North Little Rock, call the North Little Rock Visitors Bureau at 501-758-1424 or visit www.northlittlerock.org.

PUBLISHED BY

Open Daily 11 - 10 flyingfishinthe.net

Oysters-on-the-Half-Shell!

CATFISH . SHRIMP . CRAB OYSTERS . SALMON . TILAPIA Also Serving:

GUMBO, HAMBURGERS & CHICKEN

375 - FISH

(3474) 511 PRESIDENT CLINTON AVE. in the RIVERMARKET

Finest Selection of Quality

HANDCRAFTED

BEERS LITTLE ROCK IN

75 TAPS 130 BOTTLES OPEN SUNDAY!

201 EAST MARKHAM, STE 200 LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985 www.arktimes.com ALL CONTENTS ©2009 ARKANSAS TIMES VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

7

Welcome to Little Rock W

elcome to Little Rock! Known for its warm Southern Hospitality, Little Rock is uniquely packaged in a metropolitan city offering the ease and comfort of home for visitors. With a vibrant downtown entertainment and convention district, a wealth of unique sightseeing and shopping opportunities, excellent restaurants, plus museums, family fun and one-of-a-kind attractions, Little Rock is an experience waiting to happen. From the 1957 civil rights crisis that attracted world-wide attention to the William J. Clinton Presidential Center & Park — no city more represents a bridge from the treasured past to the exciting 21st century than Little Rock.

While here, don’t miss the “World of the Pharaohs,” the largest exhibition of Egyptian art to come to the state. It is available for viewing at the Arkansas Arts Center from September 25, 2009 through July 5, 2010. Also not to be missed, our River Market entertainment district, arts and culture and music scenes, not to mention our historical landmarks and abundance of outdoor activities. Don’t forget to pick up a treasured souvenir at Shop the Rock.

Dining out in Little Rock is a Capital idea.

Whether you like home style Southern cooking, prime aged steak, fresh seafood, fusion cuisine, or more of a heart-healthy fare, our chefs offer the state’s best selections. Accommodations are as varied as the city’s landscape from modern and historic luxury, to affordable and comfortable name-brand properties.

Frequent visitors to our extraordinary city can take advantage of our Experience Little Rock membership program at www.experiencelittlerock. com. For more information about everything to see and do in our great destination, visit www. littlerock.com. We appreciate your interest in Little Rock. Enjoy your stay and come back soon.

Sincerely,

Daniel E. O’Byrne Chief Executive Officer Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau

8

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Exploring our city I

f you haven’t been to Little Rock lately, Museum focuses on Little Rock’s past as makeover, midtown and west Little Rock’s then you don’t know Little Rock. In the a frontier town, as well as the rest of the shopping options, from locally-owned and last couple of years, the city has spread state. The Old State House Museum is the internationally-known stores to lifestyle out, filled in and now offers visitors a long oldest standing state capitol building west and mega-shopping centers, offer you list activities. There’s a warm presidential of the Mississippi River, and MacArthur the latest. welcome, mummies, some of the finest food Park, home of the MacArthur Museum of Last summer, The Promenade at Chenal in the South, hot bands, award-winning Arkansas Military History, was the birthplace opened, and now provides shoppers with a micro-brewed beers, historic buildings of General Douglas MacArthur. Last Sepunique experience. And after a long day of and baseball, and Little Rock has so much more.

So we invite you to take a good look at our city.

Last year’s holiday season was kicked off with the reopening of the renovated Capital Hotel, a grand historic, luxury hotel, that is just a short trolley ride from the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park.

Across the avenue, we recently celebrated the opening of the Junction Bridge, which connects Little Rock’s downtown with the north shore of the Arkansas River—where the entire family can watch an Arkansas Travelers’ baseball game or climb aboard a real World War II-era submarine, the USS Razorback.

This spring the city welcomed both Heifer Village, part of the internationally renowned Heifer International, and the Arkansas Studies Institute, A nighttime look at the Junction Bridge, the pedestrian bridge that unites Little Rock and a place where political scholars can North Little Rock. come to study or ordinary Arkansans can trace their family’s history. These two institutions now call the downtown tember, the city gave the Mosaic Templars shopping or sightseeing, let one of South’s River Market District home.

Cultural Center a warm reception when it best chefs wait on you.

And this fall, the Arkansas Arts Center opened its doors.

The Heights and Hillcrest districts—the will be showing off mummies and Egyptian Kids remain one of the city’s priorities. state’s oldest planned neighborhoods—are treasurers during its World of the Pharaohs: So whether looking for a tasty pizza, a marked by historic homes and quaint, offTreasures of Egypt Revealed exhibit. wild water ride or a fantastic trip to the beat and high-end shops. Like the other In fact, Little Rock loves the arts—the nearest black hole, we can keep your kids areas of Little Rock, it’s home to some of Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Arkansas Arts busy for days. the city’s finest restaurants.

Center, Arkansas Symphony, Wildwood Park After watching the mallard ducks frolic Looking for a little romance after the for the Performing Arts and the Windsong in their special cement pond in the lobby sun goes down? There are plenty of live Performing Arts Center are just a few of of the Peabody Little Rock hotel, take the bands, big dance floors in our storied bars the city’s cultural attractions. And if you’re kids to the newly-opened Peabody Park located throughout the city. looking for Broadway-quality shows but for a good romp. The Witt Stephens Jr. With all this, it isn’t surprising that the can’t get to New York, Celebrity Attractions Central Arkansas Nature Center is a great Philadelphia Inquirer calls Little Rock, “A brings Broadway to the Rock. stop for children of all ages.

Southern Surprise,” and the New York In addition to the arts, Little Rock has a But there’s more to Little Rock than an Times hails the Clinton center as “A new fascination with its own history—perhaps interesting downtown. Whether looking for bridge in town…to connect Little Rock to because it’s so colorful. The Historic Arkansas a quick fashion update or an entire home the rest of the world.”

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

9

Top ten things to do 1

Explore the arts While anytime is the right time for a visit to the Arkansas Arts Center, this year is proving more exciting than usual with the Sept.

25 opening of their monumental exhibit, the World of the Pharaohs: Treasures of Egypt Revealed.

Spanning more than 3,000 years of history, with more than 200 artifacts (mummies, art, jewelry and much more), the exhibit promises not only to be the center’s largest exhibit to date but its best ever! 501 E. 9th St. 501-372-4000; www.arkarts.com

Living history The Clinton Presidential Center and Park is a must-see for Little Rock visitors. Located in the River Market District, the center offers a look at one of Arkansas’s favorite sons and our former president. 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-374-4242 or www.clintonlibrary.gov.

2 The Big Dam Bridge/Junction

5 A little culture

Bridge It was just a few years ago that central Arkansas celebrated the opening of the Big Dam Bridge—a 14-foot-wide pedestrian bridge crossing the Arkansas River at an elevation of 65 feet and connecting a 17-mile series of foot and bike trails. Now, the world’s longest pedestrian bridge at 3,463 feet, with its spectacular view, is wowing bikers and hikers from around the country.

For those who want a great view a little closer to downtown, take a walk across the Junction Bridge. The Big Dam Bridge can be accessed from Murray Park while the Junction Bridge is located behind the River Market.

501-371-4770; www.rivertrail. org

Tragically in 2005, the Mosaic Templars of America’s headquarters burned to the ground. Stunned motorists mourned the loss as they drove into downtown Little Rock the morning after the fire. But like the legendary Phoenix rising from the ashes, a new building was built in its place and was dedicated last year as the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, a state-funded museum dedicated to the Templars and the state’s black history. Ninth and Broadway streets. 501-683–3593; www. mosaictemplars.com/

3

Take a hike Just a few minutes west of downtown Little Rock, Pinnacle Mountain State Park offers a great view from the top—but you

10

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

have to hike to get there! The park’s information center is located at 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd. 501 868-5806; www.arkansasstateparks. com/pinnaclemountain

cast of actors from around the world, many with an impressive resumes that include Broadway, film and television. 601 Main St. 501-378-0405; www.therep.org

4

7 Go wild

6 See a show The Arkansas Repertory Theatre got its start in 1976 and has been offering its audiences diverse and entertaining theatrical performances ever since.

The Rep, as hometown folks proudly say, is one 75 theaters nationally recognized by the League of Resident Theaters for its professional performances. The Rep draws guest directors and a

The Little Rock Zoo is the perfect place to unleash your inner beast. During the summer, be sure to catch any number of their fun, educational events or special exhibits. 1 Jonesboro Dr. 501-666-2406; www.littlerockzoo.com

8

Get back to nature One of downtown Little Rock’s newest attractions, the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center offers visitors a chance to see some of Arkansas’ local wildlife without leaving the city. In addition to focusing on wildlife conservation, the center highlights the state’s wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. 500 Clinton Ave. 501-907-0636; www.centralarkansasnaturecenter.com/

9

A salute to the military For many visitors, the sight of a World War II submarine docked on the north shore of the Arkansas River is truly a marvel. The submarine, the U.S.S. Razorback, is part of the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum (AIMM) and dedicated to celebrating America’s rich naval history. 120 Riverfront Park Dr., North Little Rock. 501-371-8320; www.aimm.museum

10 A moment in time Visit Central High School and the restored Mobil Service Station (now the Little Rock Central High School Museum and Visitor’s Center) across the street, and learn more about how Little Rock received international attention during the Civil Rights Movement.

Hear the story of the nine black students who changed American history when they entered Central High School for the first time in September 1957. 2120 Daisy L. Gatson Bates Dr. 501-374-1957; www. nps.gov/chsc/

Mummy mask from World of the Pharaohs exhibit at the Arkansas Arts Center

The Clinton Presidential Center I

t was a cold November night in 1992 when thousands gathered in downtown Little Rock to wait on election night results that would put a young upstart, then Arkansas’s Governor Bill Clinton, into the White House. Clinton, already a beloved Arkansas leader, would soon become one of the world’s favorite sons.

Now, walking through the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, it’s not unusual to hear any number of foreign languages spoken by visitors. People who travel from around the world to visit the center are not only a testament to the attraction of the library but to the prestige and respect President Clinton garners throughout the world.

So it’s little wonder two years ago—long before anyone predicted—the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park welcomed its one-millionth visitor. And five years after opening its doors, the presidential center remains one of the city’s biggest attractions.

While in the Rock, we recommend spending at least one day in the River Market—home of the presidential park, Heifer (International) Village and more.

Start the day with breakfast at any number of River Market venues, set up in kiosk fashion for easy access. From there, it takes just a few minutes to stroll up President Clinton Avenue to the presidential center.

The beautiful landscaping and scenic view of the Arkansas River make it a great way to start any morning.

The presidential library building is a must-see. On the first floor are the admission and information desks with personnel who greet guests with all the Southern charm and hospitality one would expect from Arkansans. Also, located on the first

The third floor contains an exhibit of documents from President Clinton’s early political career. The entire center contains more than 76.8 million official documents, 1.85 million photographs, and 75,000 museum artifacts.

When it’s time for lunch, a stop at Forty Two is a must. The restaurant is located in the museum’s basement and provides a breathtaking view of the Arkansas River.

People who travel from around the world The center plays host to a number of to visit the center are not only a testament free festivals, musical to the attraction of the library but to the performances and special prestige and respect President events throughout the year, providing entertainClinton garners throughout the world. ment the whole family can enjoy! It also offers floor is the Presidential Limousine used by several free admission days each year to President Clinton while in office. commemorate President Clinton’s birthUp the escalator is the main floor with day, the Fourth of July, and other notable a timeline display spanning each of the occasions. president’s years in office including the Admission to the museum is $7 for adults highlights and world events that occurred and a range of varying prices for seniors, during that time. Located on the second college students, children and military floor: an orientation theater, which shows personnel. With free parking and plenty a 12-minute movie narrated by President of space for tour buses and recreational Clinton; the Great Hall dining room for vehicles, a visit is convenient. The William special events; and a life-sized re-creation J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park is of the President’s White House cabinet located at 1200 President Clinton Ave. Call room with touch-screen displays detailing 501-374-4242 for more information or go all the positions of the cabinet. to www.clintonlibrary.gov.

GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010 1 1 WilliamVISITOR’S J. Clinton Presidential Center

little rock’s newest destination

Discover, explore and learn at Heifer Village A

lready a favorite and source of pride throughout the Little Rock community, Heifer International, with its award-winning downtown headquarters and nearby Perryville farm, is expanding.

The newly opened 16,000-square-foot Heifer Village, sandwiched between Heifer and the Clinton Presidential Center, gives locals and visitors more to love.

Heifer Village’s exhibits (spread over about 6,000-square-feet) are unique and deal with the serious subject of ending hunger and

Heifer Village is part museum, part discovery center and part classroom, and is designed to inspire, and includes “Dreaming Cows,” a series of 31 murals created by Oregon artist Betty LaDuke. Because these exhibits point to practical, in-our-lifetime solutions to these age-old problems, visitors come away feeling uplifted with an understanding of workable solutions.

Like Heifer International’s headquarters next door, Heifer Village is an example of responsible building practices. The environmentally-green building, surrounding wetlands and reclaimed brownfield, are Heifer Village’s exhibits (spread architectural teaching tools and worth a look. over about 6,000-square-feet) are unique In 2007, Heifer’s Little Rock and deal with the serious subject of headquarters received the Ameriending hunger and poverty. can Institute of Architects’ Honor Award for Architecture—the highest honor the AIA awards poverty. The exhibits are interactive, and to buildings around the world and one of there are videos, hands-on experiences, all only 13 projects recognized. In addition to designed to inspire action. For example, a half-dozen national honors, Heifer has “Myths of Poverty” engages visitors to received a number of state and regional learn that hunger can be ended and why awards for its green-building practices. immediate action is needed.

Heifer International’s founder Dan West

12

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

established the nonprofit organization in 1944 on the principle, “Not a cup, but a cow.” This came from his experience as a relief worker during the Spanish Civil War. While lading cups of milk to hungry children, he realized that the act, although kind and selfless, was a short-term solution. After the milk was gone, the children would be hungry again. West knew these children needed a long-term answer.

West began Heifer International, providing people around the world with livestock, including cows, goats, chickens, sheep, ducks and more, allowing them to reap the benefits of improved nutrition and an income source.

In other words, West began changing the world one family at a time, and since its establishment, Heifer International has helped approximately 10.5 million families in more than 125 countries move toward greater self-reliance.

Heifer Village is located at 1 World Ave., and admission is free. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon – 5 p.m. For more information 501-907-8800 or go to www.heifer.org.

Little Rock’s wildlife

Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center W

ithout a doubt, the greatest concentration of wildlife downtown is at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center.

The 16,232-square-foot Game and Fish Commission facility is located on a 3.4 acres inside the Julius Breckling Riverfront Park, and downtown residents aren’t the only ones who have been curious about the newly-opened nature center that is sandwiched in between President Clinton Avenue and the Arkansas River. Staff are seeing possums, pelicans, beavers, gray fox, rabbits and more.

The focus of center is wildlife conservation, learning from the past and looking at what can be done in the future to keep Arkansas beautiful. It also highlights the wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities the state’s fish and wildlife resources provide and the role of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Bear exhibit at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center

After viewing a 10-minute multimedia, high-definition presentation, the center’s visitors can walk through an old trapper’s cabin, which appears to be nestled in the woods. From there, they pass through a series of living habitat exhibits, from a mountain spring into a cypress swamp to delta marshlands and a bottomland hardwood forest.

The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center is located at 602 President Clinton Ave., and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from 1 - 4:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call (501) 907-0636 or go to www.centralarkansasnaturecenter.com.

www.heifer.org/heifervillage

Now Open!

1 World Avenue | Little Rock AR | (Located next to the Clinton Center)

H eifer Village, a unique, hands-on experience on the campus of Heifer International, will introduce visitors to the possibility of a world without hunger and poverty. Through interactive exhibits, visitors will see the sustainable solutions that Heifer uses in its work providing livestock and training to families and communities worldwide.

So come, and see how you can take action in your own community to help us build a better world.

Visit www.heifer.org/heifervillage for more information.

Hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. | Sun Noon — 5:00 p.m.

To book a group tour, contact HeiferVillage-registration@heifer.org or call 501.907.COWS (2697).

Little Rock Visitor’s Guide 7” x 4.875”

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

13

Attractions M

There are enough Little Rock attractions to keep you busy for days

any of Little Rock’s visitors are pleasantly surprised when they discover our city’s rich and diverse culture. We have museums, art galleries, celebrated landmarks and historic homes, not to mention the Clinton Presidential Center and the Central High National Historic Site. From the oldest building in Little Rock to the oldest standing capitol building west of the Mississippi, our history surrounds us, with offerings ranging from national politics

Old State House

14

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

to military, from civil rights to Arkansas’ early heritage and the latest space technology.

Discovering Little Rock isn’t hard. An appetite for the arts is easily satisfied as well with the latest movies and concerts. The city boasts a first-rate facility for the visual and performing arts and a number of top-notch galleries, featuring works from local, national and international artists.

Arkansas Studies Institute

Aerospace Education Center Whether celebrating your sixth or 60th birthday, the Aerospace Education Center offers an exciting lineup designed to capture and inspire the imagination. Located near the Little Rock National Airport, it is home to Arkansas’s first IMAX theater and the world’s first “EpiSphere Digital Planetarium.” The AEC offers aviation and aerospace exhibits, including an original Sopwith Camel and a replica of the Wright Flyer. The IMAX Theater offers a wide variety of science-related films—call or visit them online to find out what’s showing. The theater has a six-story-high screen with a six-channel, 16,500-watt sound system.

After a movie, shop at The Right Stuff Gift Store or visit their library, a part of the Central Arkansas Library System. The library has more than 35,000 aerospace-related books and is home to the Jay Miller Collection, one of the most complete gatherings of aviation information and memorabilia outside the Smithsonian Institution. The EpiSphere, a state of the art digital dome theater with 150 seats, offers the latest full-motion, a 360 full dome video with 20,000 watts of digital sound. Part planetarium and part digital theater, visitors can explore tour the universe, dive into a black hole or unlock the secrets of an Egyptian mummy—all while remaining in (or on the edge of) their seats. 3301 E. Roosevelt Rd. Hours: Closed Sunday and Monday. Tuesday - Friday 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Friday night 6:30 – 9 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m.–8:15p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Museum: Adults $5; discount with IMAX or EpiSprhere ticket; children 17 & under are free with paying adult. IMAX shows: adults $7.50; children 12 & under $5.50; seniors $6.50.

501-376-IMAX (4629); www.aerospaced.org

will find plenty to appreciate at the Arkansas Arts Center, the state’s largest cultural institution with more than a dozen galleries to browse.

This year, the Arts Center is hosting its largest show, World of the Pharaohs: Treasures of Egypt Revealed. This exhibit explores the long-vanished world of ancient Egypt through art and artifacts that span over 3,000 years of dynastic history, with more than 200 magnificent objects, including mummies, a majestic colossus of Ramses the Great, Egyptian art, jewelry, statues, sculptures and funerary artifacts, illustrate the life and art of ancient Egypt.

These pieces are on loan from Museum of Fine

Arts in Boston, Mass.

The Arkansas Arts Center will extend its hours September 25, 2009, to July 5, 2010, to accommodate visitors. The show will be on view Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. - 8:30p.m., Wednesday - Friday from 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Admission to World of the Pharaohs is $22 adults; $20 seniors (60+); $18 college students with ID; $15 military with ID; $14 youth; and free for children 5 and under.

In addition to this show, the Arts Center offers visitors a glimpse at its unique works that include American and European artists, from the Renais-

Arkansas Arts Center

Arkansas Arts Center Whether hoping for a glimpse of the classics, cutting-edge or points in-between, art lovers VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

15

An exhibit at the Historic Arkansas Museum sance to the present. Among the most recognizable works in the collection are the drawings of Cézanne, Van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, Georgia O’Keeffe, Rembrandt and Rubens. The collection also features 135 drawings and watercolors by the Post-Impressionist Paul Signac, more than 100 Post-Minimalist drawings, Arthur Dove’s Sketchbook “E”, and nearly 80 works by Will Barnet. Masterworks in the collection include paintings by Diego Rivera, Odilon Redon and Francesco Bassano; sculpture by Henry Moore, Louise Nevelson and Roy Lichtenstein; and prints

by Rembrandt, Whistler and Dürer. The second major area of the collection is contemporary objects in craft media, including teapots by contemporary artists, contemporary baskets, turned wood objects, studio glass, ceramics, metalwork and toys designed by artists. Among the highlights are works by Dale Chihuly, Albert Paley, Peter Voulkos and Dorothy Gill Barnes. In addition to the collection and prominent exhibitions throughout the year, the Arkansas Arts Center is host to other cultural venues. Children’s Theatre is a professional theater company that presents children’s classics for the stage from September to May. Best Impressions Restaurant, which serves a progressive global cuisine, offers a delicious lunch experience. The Museum Shop features unique gifts and interesting works by regional artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum prides itself on attracting quality exhibitions to the state. Other upcoming exhibits include: Jun Kaneko, June 5 – August 2, 2009 and Ben Whitehouse: “Observation,” June 5 - August 2, 2009. Visit them on the web for an updated exhibit listing. 501 E. 9th St. Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. –5 p.m. Closed Monday and major holidays.

Free; donations welcome. 501-372-4000; www. arkarts.com

16

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum Home of the USS Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the world, the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is fun for both young and old.

Centered around the submarine and the historic tug USS Hoga (YT 146), AIMM is more than just a military museum, offering feature displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River, and even aquaculture. The submarine tour is not recommended for children under 5. 120 Riverfront Park Dr., North Little Rock. Winter hours: Friday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Summer hours: Wednesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 6 p.m.

Tours: adults $6; active duty/retired military, children and seniors $4. 501-371-8320; www. aimm.museum Arkansas National Guard Museum This museum tells two stories: the history of the Arkansas National Guard from its formation in 1804 as the Arkansaw Militia to the present; and the history of Camp Robinson, from its origins as Camp Pike in 1917. The exhibits depict the National Guard’s involvement in every American conflict from the war with Mexico to the Gulf War (except the Vietnam War) and the use of Camp Robinson as an Army training facility in various conflicts. There are new exhibits that include two new camp models and a weapons’ collection.

The museum site, Lloyd England Hall, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Camp Robinson, Building 6400, Sixth and Missouri streets, North Little Rock. Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., and JFHQ weekends 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. It’s best to call ahead when planning a weekend visit. Free. 501-212-5215; www. arngmuseum.com

Arkansas State Capitol It’s hard to venture to the center of the city and not catch a glimpse of the capitol’s bright dome and its 24-carat gold-leaf cupola. An upward view from beneath the rotunda—it’s surprisingly expansive—can weaken the knees. Construction on the imposing structure began in 1899, and it took 16 years and $2.2 million (now valued at $320 million) to complete the Capitol, which resembles a scaled-down version of the U.S. Capitol. The price and effort were well worth it. The bronze front entrance doors, which were purchased at Tiffany’s, are 10 feet tall and four inches thick. The Capitol’s halls are lined with changing displays devoted to Arkansas history and works by Arkansas artists. There’s a handy souvenir shop, too. Outside, the grounds, some 40 acres, include nine historical monuments and markers, plus hundreds of plants, flowers and trees maintained by volunteers. The best way to see and learn it all is to dedicate a couple of hours and tour the building. Personally guided tours may be scheduled with the Capitol’s tour director or a free audio tour may be checked out at the Capitol Police Desk on the first floor.

500 Woodlane (between Markham and Seventh streets). Hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., weekends and holidays 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tours between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on weekdays. 501682.5080; www.sos.arkansas.gov Arkansas Studies Institute The Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) was one of the first institutions to have faith in an idea that a few of Little Rock’s movers and shakers dubbed the future River Market District. A decade or so later, it’s apparent the gamble paid off, but it wasn’t so clear when the library system built a new branch at 100 Rock St. It wasn’t long before the library renovated the Cox Creative Center, a

few steps away. Now, it draws more than 450,000 visitors each year to downtown.

Not quite satisfied with their hand, the library system again decided to invest in downtown. This time they would partner with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), rehabbing a couple of old buildings on President Clinton Ave. These buildings would become known as the Arkansas Studies Institute, which is dedicated to the study of Arkansas, and houses UALR archives, old photographs, letters, maps and more.

A special manuscript storage facility was built to hold important historical documents, including the papers of Arkansas governors Dale Bumpers, Winthrop Rockefeller, Jim Guy Tucker and Frank White and the gubernatorial papers of Bill Clinton—his presidential papers are a few blocks away at the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park. In all, it’s home to about 10 million artifacts. The two old buildings, which make up the institute complex, are historic. One, originally named Concordia Hall, but now called the Budget office building, was built by Little Rock’s Jewish community for meetings and social activities. The other, the Geyer and Adams building, was built as a wholesale grocery business. Geyer was a German immigrant who came to Little Rock in the 19th century. One of the goals of the complex is to give Arkansas a sense of its own history, identity and importance. The Arkansas Studies Institute is located at the corner of President Clinton Avenue and Rock Street, and is open Monday – Thursday from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1- 5 p.m. Summer hours: Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 – 5 p.m. 501-320-5700; http:// www.cals.lib.ar.us.

Bring your flock to

THE ROCK

Arkansas Queen Riverboat See the beautiful Arkansas River from the decks of the elegant Arkansas Queen. The view from the river shows off Little Rock and North Little Rock in an entirely new light. See the Presidential Library, the Little Rock metropolitan skyline, the Old State House and the beautiful parks along the shore. The Captain’s commentary tells of the river’s fascinating history. The Arkansas Queen sails from the North Shore Maritime Center, located next to the USS Razorback, on the banks of the Arkansas River. The Arkansas Queen offers sightseeing, lunch, dinner/dance and special occasion cruises. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner cruises. 100 Riverfront Park Dr., North Little Rock. 501-3725777; www.arkansasqueen.com Central High School National Historic Site Nearly three years ago people gathered from around the nation to commemorate the 50th anniversary of what became known throughout the world as the “Central High Crisis.” In 1957, nine African American students were denied entrance to the all-white Little Rock Central High School, and following the failure of talks with Gov. Orval Faubus, President Eisenhower called out the U. S. Army to escort the students into the school. Little Rock later came to be known as the city where the federal government took a stand on ending segregation. As a way to mark the historic anniversary, a new Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center was

The Peabody Little Rock is more than just a place to stay; with the summertime RiverTop parties and Peabody Park, it’s a place to play. And with Mallards and Capriccio Grill Italian Steakhouse, it’s also a place to dine and unwind. All neatly packaged in a downtown location.

Three Statehouse Plaza • Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 • 501-906-4000 • peabodylittlerock.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

17

The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center

opened. The center’s All the World is Watching Us: Little Rock and the 1957 Crisis exhibit tells the tale. There’s also a gift shop with books, educational materials and souvenirs. 2120 Daisy L. Gatson Bates Dr. Hours: Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 4:30 p.m. Free.

501-374-1957; www.nps.gov/chsc

It’s Your World…

Discover It!

Downtown Little Rock, In the River Market District

MUSEUMofDISCOVERY.org • 501.396.7050 18

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Clinton Presidential Center and Park To describe this nationally-renown facility on the bank of the Arkansas River as a “must-see” for anyone visiting Little Rock is an understatement. Explore the 20,000-square-feet of museum exhibit space, including a 110-foot-long timeline detailing the history of President Clinton and his administration. The timeline utilizes photographs, videos and interactive stations, and is flanked by thematic alcoves highlighting specific achievements during his time in office. Enjoy a power trip while standing in the full-scale replica of the Oval Office, or play the role of a cabinet member by using interactive media stations in a replica of the Cabinet Room. The upstairs alcoves contain displays about life in the White House, including personal artifacts from the former First Family.

Surrounded by a 30-acre city park, the building’s design symbolizes President Clinton’s theme of “Building a Bridge to the 21st Century.” In addition to the museum, the center houses the largest archival collection in American Presidential history as well as educational, research, and reception facilities. Forty Two, located inside the library, serves lunch Monday through Saturday and brunch on Sundays. 1200 President Clinton Ave. Museum hours are Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 –5 p.m. Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. For more information, call 501-374-4242 or www. clintonlibrary.gov.

Cox Creative Center Part of the Central Arkansas Library System, the Cox Creative Center is located in a 1907 vintage, renovated warehouse in the River Market. The

Union

&

Tapas Cocktails 501-661-8311 3421 Old Cantrell

Hornibrook Mansion Experience the opulence and luxury of the 1880s.

Now known as The Empress of Little Rock Bed & Breakfast Inn, this ornate 7,200-square-foot mansion is a spectacular example of Queen Anne architecture; the gardens that surround

Mummy mask

Historic Arkansas Museum Restoration has been a major theme in the recent history of the Historic Arkansas Museum, whose grounds display some of Little Rock’s oldest homes. The newest batch of updates includes an expanded interpretation of the 1830s Plum Bayou Log House site and a River Rail stop on Second Street, making it easier for visitors to access the city’s frontier past. The museum’s permanent and traveling exhibits are showcased in its five galleries, including Gallery II, Trinity Gallery, Horace C. Cabe, Study and Knife galleries. A sixth exhibit hall, the Sturgis Children’s Gallery offers interactive fun for the young and young-at-heart.

The museum’s five pre-Civil War buildings, including the 1826 Hinderliter Grog Shop, offers visitors a unique way to learn about the early history of the state. Take a tour and you’ll encounter actors who portray Arkansans from various periods and predicaments. There’s also an impressive gift shop and a living-history theater. HAM is open late the second Friday of each month as a part of “2nd Friday Art Night,” when downtown galleries stay open late with drinks, food, live music and art demonstrations. 200 E. Third St. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Free for museum center, but the Tour of Homes is $2.50 adults, $1.50 seniors over 65, $1 children under 18. Free for members.

501-324-9351; www.historicarkansas.org

PhotograPh © aPril 2009 MuseuM of fine arts, Boston

18,000-square-foot building houses Rivermarket Books & Gifts, Cox Creative Gallery, Sufficient Grounds and a 75-person meeting room. 120 Commerce St. Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Sunday.

Free. 501-918-3093; www.cals.org

World of the Pharaohs: Treasures of Egypt Revealed explores the long-vanished world of ancient Egypt. More than 200 magnificent objects, including mummies, a majestic colossus of Ramses the Great, Egyptian art, jewelry, statues, sculptures and funerary artifacts, tell the story of not just how the Egyptians died, but how they lived!

Presented by the Arkansas Arts Center in cooperation with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

TickeTs On sale nOw. www.arkarts.com Advance tickets recommended.

arkansas arts center

9th and Commerce Streets • Little Rock • 501-372-4000 • www.arkarts.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

19

The Arkansas Studies Institute

The largest free-standing facility dedicated to the study of Arkansas.

Visit our art galleries and museum.

Experience the unique architecture of the building.

Learn about the history and culture of the Natural State.

Arkansas Studies Institute 401 President Clinton Ave. www.arstudies.org

A History Lesson In Courage You Will Never Forget.

Hours: Open Daily 9 am to 4:30 pm.

Closed Thanksgiving Day, December 25, & January 1

Daisy Bates Drive & Park Streets, Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 374-1957 20

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History

the house are equally spectacular. The mansion is considered one of the best small luxury hotels in the country. 2120 S. Louisiana St. Public tours are available Monday - Friday at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., and by appointment only on the weekend. 501-374-7966; 877-374-7966; www. theempress.com The Governor’s Mansion One of the newer structures in the neighborhood, this Georgian Colonial-style home was completed in 1950 during Gov. Sidney McMath’s term. The mansion incorporated brick from the old Arkansas School for the Blind, which originally occupied the site on which the house now sits. While open to the public for tours on Tuesday and Thursday, you must call ahead for an appointment. 1800 Center St. 501-324-9805; www.arkansasgovernorsmansion.com MacArthur Park Historic District and MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History The MacArthur Park Historic District is Little Rock’s oldest surviving neighborhood. Named for World War II commander Gen. Douglas MacArthur, the museum was created to interpret the state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present. The centerpiece is the 36-acre MacArthur Park, the site of the U.S. arsenal founded in 1837.

The existing Tower Building is the only surviving building; it was the first structure built at the site in 1840. During the Civil War, the arsenal served the Confederacy until Federal troops occupied Little Rock in 1863. During the late 1800s, Capt.

Arthur MacArthur was stationed at the arsenal; his son (and future World War II hero), Douglas, was born in the Tower Building on Jan. 26, 1880. Today, MacArthur Park is home to both the Arkansas Arts Center and the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. Located in the historic Arsenal Building, the museum honors the contributions of Arkansas’s servicemen and women at home and abroad whose bravery helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. The massive edifice originally served as a munitions warehouse (its exterior walls are almost three feet thick) and witnessed pivotal exchanges during the Civil War. As part of a trade with the federal government,

YOUR ULTIMATE FLY FISHING RESOURCE YOU'll FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED AND MORE AT OZARK ANGLER • Complete Fly Fishing Outfitter and Guide Service • Largest Selection of Fly Tying Materials in Central Arkansas • Great Selection of Royal Robbins, Orvis Clothing and Exofficio • Unique Gifts for Outdoor Enthusiasts • Fine Fly Tackle and Equipment From Orvis, Abel, Sage, Winston, Bauer, Scientific Anglers, Simms, Umpqua and More • Guaranteed Quality and Service

The Ozark Angler

the City of Little Rock received the property in 1892 when it became the city’s first public park.

Today the museum offers a look back at our military history through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents, uniforms and other military items. The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History ensures that “old soldiers never die.” Instead their sacrifice and service are preserved for future generations. 503 E. 9th St. Summer hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 4 p.m. Closed Monday and major holidays. Free; donations welcome. Call 501-376-4602; www.arkmilitaryheritage.com

12305 Chenal Parkway • Little Rock, AR 72211 (501) 225-6504 659 Wilburn Road • Heber Springs, AR 72543 (501) 362-3597

tle Lit

r

ive

dR

Re

Stop in today at our location in west Little Rock or in Heber Springs near the Little Red River. www.ozarkangler.com • email: info@ozarkangler.com

Mount Holly Cemetery This cemetery is the final resting-place for some of the state’s most prominent people. Established in 1843, Mount Holly is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Buried here are Pulitzer Prize-winning poet John Gould Fletcher and executed Confederate spy David O. Dodd, as well as five Confederate generals, 10 former Arkansas governors and six U.S. senators. 1200 Broadway St. 501-376-1843 Museum of Discovery Proving that you’re never too old to learn something new, the Museum of Discovery is not just for kids. Dedicated to exploring the sciences, social sciences and technology, it’s as entertaining as it is educational. Interactive and hands-on exhibits cover a broad range of topics: you can create crafts at the Imagination Station, explore the major parts of the body in the Health Hall or learn about Arkansas’s rich Native American heritage.

Meanwhile, Passport to the World explores the cultures of other countries and Energy allows kids to explore the energy—oil, solar, nuclear, gas, coal, wind, hydroelectric and hydrogen—that powers our world. Saturday Discoveries is a new program offered by the museum and a great way to explore science through hands-on activities and experiments. A different science topic is covered the second Saturday of each month. As you’re discovering the museum’s exhibits, remember to leave plenty of time to check out the Explore Store, a fascinating gift shop geared to young and old alike. 500 President Clinton Ave. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 1 – 5 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

21

p.m. Admission: $8 adults; $7 for kids 1-12 and seniors 65+. Children under one year admitted free. 501-396-7050; www.amod.org The Old Mill One of North Little Rock’s most popular attractions, the Old Mill is a re-creation of a water-powered gristmill. Also known as Pugh Mill, you’ll recognize it as the spot featured in the opening credits of “Gone With the Wind” (it’s believed to be the only structure from the film still standing).

But that’s not the only reason so many people come here to loll around, enjoy a picnic lunch, have a photo shoot or get married. It’s just an undeniably scenic setting and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mill was built in 1933 by Justin Matthews, and Dionico Rodriguez, a Mexico City artist, created concrete sculptures of toadstools, tree stumps and a tree branch-entwined bridge that connects the mill to the rest of the park. Rodriguez’s original work was renovated by his grandson, Carlos Cortes, in 1991. Lakeshore Drive and Fairway Avenue. Hours: Sunrise-Sunset. Free. Group tours are available.

501-758-1424; www.nlroldmill.org Old State House Museum Recently renovated and located in the oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi River, the Old State House Museum is designated as a

National Historic Landmark—although to many, it’s best known as the backdrop of President Bill Clinton’s 1992 and 1996 election-night celebrations. The magnificent Greek Revival building, overlooking the Arkansas River, houses a multimedia museum of Arkansas history with a special emphasis on Arkansas’s history from statehood until the present. In addition, it has educational programming for school children, and is home to nationally-recognized collections of Civil War battle flags, the inaugural gowns of governors’ wives (included in the First Families Exhibit), Arkansas art pottery featuring pieces from Camark and Niloak, African-American quilts, and artifacts from Arkansas’ rich musical heritage. Exhibits are rotated, so you’ll want to plan more than one visit, and don’t miss the Museum Shop, with its hard-to-find books, historical souvenirs, crafts and vintage-style jewelry. 300 W. Markham St. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. Free. 501-324-9685; www. oldstatehouse.com The Arkansas Arts Center Community Gallery The Terry House (formerly known as the PikeFletcher-Terry Mansion) was built in 1840 for Albert Pike, noted poet, soldier and lawyer. After Pike left Little Rock in 1868, the house became the Arkansas Female College. Then, in 1889 it

Little Rock Nine statue located on the state capitol grounds

22

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

became the home of Col. John G. Fletcher, a successful cotton broker, and his family—which included his son, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet John Gould Fletcher and daughter Adolphine.

A devoted civic leader, Adolphine in the fall of 1958, convened the “Women’s Emergency Committee to Open Our Schools,” a group of women who successfully worked to reopen the city’s public high schools after they were closed to avoid integration. When Aldophine died, she deeded the house to the city to be used by the Arkansas Arts Center, which is utilizing the space in a new venture, conceived as a showcase for the creativity of the entire community. This beautiful historic home provides a unique opportunity for children, artists, creative groups, and community groups to display their works in a professionally hung exhibition. Open only for scheduled art shows, so visit the Arkansas Arts Center Website for a current schedule. Seventh and Rock streets.

501-372-4000; www.arkarts.com The Pulaski County Courthouse This municipal structure was built in 1889 by Max A. Orlopp (who then moved to Dallas and designed “Old Red,” the famous Dallas County Courthouse). The eye-catching red brick Romanesque Revival structure features a 1914 Classical Revival addition with a richly ornamented rotunda topped by a stained-glass dome. In

1979, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. 401 W. Markham St. Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 501-340-8500; www.pulaskiclerk.com Trapnall Hall One of only a few remaining antebellum homes in the city, this stately neoclassical home was built in 1843 for Frederic Trapnall and his wife, Martha.

After serving as a boarding house in the 1920s, it became the Junior League of Little Rock’s headquarters. In 1963, it underwent extensive renovation. Today, the building is owned by the Department of Arkansas Heritage and is open to the public. 423 E. Capitol Ave. 501-324-9716; www.trapnallhall.com

pj

River Market Located in the heart of downtown Little Rock, the River Market is a collection of owner-operated shops, stalls and market-style retailers that offer everything from fresh veggies to ornate jewelry.

The River Market consists of a Farmer’s Market,

Market Hall, pavilions and plazas. The Market Hall houses permanent merchants who offer a growing list of year-round specialties, from freshly baked pastries and breads, hand-roasted gourmet coffee and specialty drinks, mouth-watering barbecue and more, not to mention the international array of cuisine available. In the spring and summer, don’t miss the Farmer’s Market, where farmers gather to sell fresh produce on Tuesdays and Saturdays until 3 p.m. The River Market District, once a derelict warehouse area, was transformed in 1996 with the debut of the River Market. It’s a hip place to hangout with hot nightspots, including Sticky Fingerz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, Underground Pub, Flying Saucer, Bosco’s and Gusano’s Pizzeria. A number of art galleries and shops—River Market Artspace, Ten Thousand Villages and The Clinton Museum Store—are great for collectors and window shoppers alike. 400 President Clinton Ave. 501-375-2552; www.rivermarket.info

vg

Villa Marre This home, combining the features of the Italianate

and Second Empire styles, was built in 1881 for saloonkeeper Angelo Marre. It become famous, however, when the home featured in the TV show Designing Women. In 1980, the Quapaw Quarter Association, a local preservation group, bought the home and provided tours, but in 2002, it was purchased and is now a private residence.

1321 S. Scott St. Walters-Curran-Bell House Now known as Curran Hall, just east of Trapnall Hall, the house was built by Col. Ebenezer Walters as a wedding present for his bride.

Unfortunately, she died before its completion in 1843. James Curran bought the house in 1849, and then in 1884, Mary Woodruff Bell purchased it. It remained in her family until 1997, when the Little Rock Advertising and Promotion Commission saved the house from demolition. It is now the home of the Little Rock Visitor Information Center. 615 E. Capitol Ave. 501-371-0076; www.littlerock. com/curran-hall/

09

When only the “Best of the Best” will do.

Come dine on our porch and experience our freshly grilled entrees and award-winning catfish.

7103 Cock of the Walk Lane • Overlooking Pinnacle Pond Maumelle exit off I-430, 1.5 miles west 501.758.7182 • North Little Rock Mon-Thur 5-9pm • Fri-Sat 5-10pm • Sunday 11:30am-9pm VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

23

Take a walk on the wild side W

A young tiger at the Little Rock Zoo

hile the Little Rock Zoo had humble beginnings with a single circus bear and timber wolf, it has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception. Now, the 33-acre zoo is home to more than 200 different animal species (and more than 750 animals calling the zoo home), including one of Little Rock’s most popular youngsters—a three-year-old gorilla named Mosi, meaning “firstborn” in Swahili. This spring, the zoo proudly announced the birth of a baby spot-necked otter.

More than 80 years old, the zoo continues to grow its animal family and add new exhibits. A good example of one of their innovative exhibits is the recently established African Veldt that is home to several species, including zebra, kudu and ostrich.

Next year, the Little Rock Zoo is slated to open the Laura P. Nichols Penguin Pointe African Penguin Exhibit, featuring underand above-water viewing—better to see the half-dozen or so penguins that are destined to become Little Rock celebrities.

The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is home to the fully-restored, antique “Over the Jumps Carousel”—the only fully-operational carousel of it’s kind in the country. Both young and old will enjoy taking a ride down memory lane.

More than 80 years old, the zoo continues to grow its animal family and add new exhibits.

If you get hungry, check out Café Africa, a full-service restaurant and catering facility on zoo grounds.

The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 1-12. Discounted admission available the day after Labor Day thru March 31. It is located at the Interstate 630 Fair Park exit. For more information, call 501-666-2406; www. littlerockzoo.com.

24

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Baseball fans flock to Dickey-Stephens Park W

hether a Tuesday night or Sunday afternoon, hanging out with friends or making memories with the kids, DickeyStephens Park offers Little Rock visitors a chance to kickback in comfort and enjoy America’s favorite pastime.

Dickey-Stephens Park, the new home of the Arkansas Travelers, is now in its third season and has consistently broken its own attendance records each year since opening.

This summer, the Arkansas Travelers expect to break the millionth visitor mark!

It’s not surprising that the 5,600-seat home of the Texas League’s Arkansas Travelers

Baseball Club, Inc. has attracted a recordbreaking number of fans. It was designed to be reminiscent of an old railroad station enclosed by a wrought iron fence, while its signature two-story clock tower marks time at the main gate. There’s a playground area for kids, as well as an on-site Travelers Baseball Museum for those who might want to take a look back.

The rise in attendance may also have to do with the stadium’s downtown location.

By placing the ballpark smack-dab in the middle of downtown with its panoramic view of the Little Rock skyline, it’s a whole

different experience for fans. The location offers plenty to do before and after a game, whether it’s a ride on the trolley, a tour of the U.S.S. Razorback submarine with the grandkids, or a quick bite at a local restaurant with that special someone and a romantic walk along the river. After the game, catch the trolley to the River Market for a cold beer and hot band.

The Arkansas Travelers baseball season runs from April to August or September.

For ticket information, call 501-664-7559 or purchase tickets online go to www. travs.com.

Dickey-Stephens Park

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

25

Parks L

PHOTO COURTESY ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

ittle Rock and the surrounding area offer a number of great outdoor activity options for visitors. Visit the Little Rock Parks Department website at www.lrpr.org. To find out more about about Arkansas state parks, visit www.arkansas.com.

Eden Falls at Petit Jean State Park

26

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Parks guide PARK

LOCATION DESCRIPTION

PHONE/WEBSITE

Arkansas River Trail (also known as Millennium Trail)

Little Rock and Already a popular biking/walking trail, the Arkansas River trail is a great way to see North Little the city—from both sides of the river!

Rock side of the Arkansas River

(501) 371-4770 www.rivertrail.org

Burns Park

North side of interstate 40, Exit 150, North Little Rock

One of the most popular parks in central Arkansas as well as one of the largest municipal parks in America. Visitors will find playgrounds, two golf courses (disc and miniature), a water slide, an amusement park, softball fields, tennis and racquetball courts and even a camping area.

(501) 791-8537 www.northlittlerock.org

Julius Breckling Riverfront Park

South bank of the Arkansas River in downtown Little Rock

Covering eleven blocks on the river, Riverfront Park is home to Riverfest, the city’s largest annual festival that draws about 250,000 people to the river each May, and now, the recently opened children’s Peabody Park. Riverfront Park also has a number of walkways and paths that wind along the scenic Arkansas River, and even a history area so visitors can learn more about Little Rock’s colorful past.

(501) 371-4770 www.littlerock.org

Hot Springs National Park

Downtown Hot Springs, about an hour southwest of Little Rock

Today, Hot Springs National Park protects eight historic bathhouses, called “Bathhouse Row” in the heart of downtown Hot Springs. The entire “Bathhouse Row” is designated as a National Historic Landmark District and contains the grandest collection of bathhouses in North America.

(501) 624-2701 www.hotsprings.org

Macarthur Park

9th Street and Interstate 30

Home to the Arkansas Arts Center and the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military (501) 376-4602 History, MacArthur Park is the city’s first park. In 1892, the federal government traded www.arkmilitaryheritage.com the property to the city of Little Rock – all the structures except the tower building were removed, and the federal government transferred ownership of the site on the condition that the grounds be “forever exclusively devoted to the uses and purposes of a public park.” A great place to watch ducks or fish with the kids.

Murray Park

Rebsamen Park Road

Located on the Arkansas River, Murray Park is a great place to try some fishing. With eight pavilions, two soccer fields, two playgrounds, six volleyball courts, and a boat dock, the entertainment options are practically limitless. Known for its bike and jogging paths along the banks of the Arkansas River, Murray Park is a great place to run, ride or walk.

North Shore Riverwalk

Downtown North Shore Riverwalk includes a picturesque promenade featuring the Arkansas North Little River and the Little Rock skyline. It also provides the entry to a seven-mile pedesRock side of the trian/bicycle trail that connects to the Arkansas River Trail.

Arkansas River

(501) 758-1424 www.northlittlerock.com

Paws Park

Located in Little Offering two shaded acres for your tail-wagging family members, Little Rock’s first Rock’s Murray fenced, off-leash park has several amenities your pooch will enjoy. Paws Park’s conPark venient parking and restrooms for humans are nearby and the park provides “mutt mitts” for cleaning up after your dog.

(501) 371-4770 www.littlerock.org

Petit Jean State Park

Near Morrilton on Hwy. 154

(501) 371-4770 www.littlerock.org

Arkansas’s first state park, it is less than an hour from Little Rock. Established in 1923, (501) 727-5441 Petit Jean State Park is a special place with beautiful vistas. The park’s focal point www.petitjeanstatepark.com is Mather Lodge on the bluff overlooking scenic Cedar Creek Canyon. Petit Jean Mountain is also home to the Museum of Automobiles, a showcase of antique and classic cars.

Located in Pinnacle Mountain State Roland (about 30 minutes west Park of Little Rock)

Pinnacle Mountain is a great place for hiking and picnicking. It is a day-use park, (501) 868-5806 dedicated to environmental education, recreation and preservation. Two trails – one www.arkansasstateparks.com easier and one more difficult – lead hikers to the top. Park interpreters and volunteers help visitors understand man’s relationship to the environment, and special interpretive programs may be scheduled by contacting the park.

War Memorial Park

As one of the city’s oldest and most popular parks, War Memorial Park offers visitors an excellent golf course, as well as convenient picnic spots, pond fishing and playground equipment for the kids. It’s right next door to the Little Rock Zoo and War Memorial Fitness Center and is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.

I-630 and Fair Park

(501) 371-4770 www.littlerock.org

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

27

Children’s activities

W

ith a strong emphasis on family in Little Rock, it isn’t surprising that much of its recent growth is designed to entertain, educate and amuse the city’s youngest visitors.

Aerospace Education Center The perfect place for budding pilots or astronauts. The museum’s exhibits include replicas of historic airplanes and other flying machines.

There’s an aerospace library, the popular IMAX Theater and the “EpiSphere” Digital Planetarium.

501-376-4232 or 501-376-IMAX (4629); www. aerospaced.org

grounds, an archery range, BMX track, hiking trails, picnic areas, camping and even an amusement park. 501-791-8537; www.northlittlerock.org

Arkansas Arts Center’s Children’s Theatre Designed to tickle a child’s imagination, AAC’s Children’s Theatre presents traditional, as well as a number of original productions for children, teens and their families. 501-372-4000; www. arkarts.com

Gator Park With a number of activities for kids and adults, Gator Park offers miniature golf, bumper boats, go-karts, batting cages, video games and a snack bar. Just down the road is Gator Golf, with two 18-hole miniature golf courses. 501-455-3750; www.gatorparkfun.com/

Arkansas Skatium This west Little Rock hot spot offers roller- and iceskating and “broomball” for active youngsters and teens. 501-227-4333; www.arkansasskatium.com

Historic Arkansas Museum Practically every museum in Little Rock offers something—be it an exhibit or activity—for kids.

Of particular interest is the Historic Arkansas Museum, offering exhibits designed to educate children about Little Rock and frontier life. 501324-9351; www.arkansashistory.com

Arkansas Travelers Baseball For most Arkansas baseball fans, few things in life top the words “Play Ball.” Dickey-Stephens Park, home of the Arkansas Travs, recently opened in downtown North Little Rock. 501-664-7559; www.travs.com.

Burns Park North Little Rock’s 1,575-acre park (one of the nation’s largest city parks) has a 36-hole championship golf course, disc and miniature golf courses, a tennis complex, softball and soccer fields, play-

Chuck E. Cheese’s It’s loud but loaded with pint-sized diversions and specializes in a kid’s favorite foods. Kids just love it. 501-227-8363; www.chuckecheese.com

Jack Stephens Youth Golf Academy/ The First Tee of Central Arkansas This first-rate facility includes a championship 9-hole course, a 9-hole par-three pitch-and-putt course, a 15-acre driving range, a short game area and a putting course. 501-562-GOLF (4653); www.thefirsttee.org Little Rock Zoo No trip to Little Rock is complete without a stop at the zoo to see the city’s most celebrated residents. The Little Rock Zoo is home to more than 750 mammals, birds and reptiles. 501-666-2406; www.littlerockzoo.com Museum of Discovery Located in the River Market District, the Museum of Discovery’s hands-on and interactive exhibits cover a wide range of topics and are as fun as they are educational. 501-396-7050; www.amod.org

Pinnacle Mountain State Park It’s just a few minutes from the city, but offers a vastly different view of the world from the top of Pinnacle Mountain. You’ll find a variety of options, from paved loops to the challenging trails. Plan extra time for a picnic and encourage the kids check out the playground equipment. 501-868-5806; www. arkansasstateparks.com/pinnaclemountain River Rail Streetcar (AKA The Trolley) For the younger crowd, it’s a whole new experience, while for others, it’s a trip down memory.

Also, the trolley is a unique way to tour the River Market, which includes a peek at the President Clinton Library, Heifer International’s world headquarters and Heifer Village, Dickey-Stephens Park, U.S.S. Razorback submarine and so much more. See page 66 for more about streetcar routes. 501-374-5354; www.cat.org/rrail/ Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park Arkansas’s tallest prehistoric Native American mounds are preserved at this National Historic Landmark. The mounds and an earthen embankment are all that remains of a large ceremonial and governmental complex inhabited by native Americans from A.D. 600 to 1050. 501-961-9442; www.arkansasstateparks.com/toltecmounds Two Rivers Park It features picturesque gardens and scenic trails with diverse landscapes designed for walking and horseback riding. The perfect outing for young explorers, and the entire trail is paved and suitable for wheelchair-viewing. 501-371-4770; www.littlerock.org/ParksRecreation/ Wild River Country North Little Rock’s popular water park offers almost a dozen different water attractions. It’s open from May thru August. 501-753-8600; www. wildrivercountry.com

Peabody Hotel Ducks Nearly as famous as Little Rock’s former US President, the ducks make a daily appearance via a red carpet at the hotel lobby’s marble fountain, where they frolic all day before returning to the Royal Peabody Duck Palace at 5 p.m. 501-9064000; www.peabodylittlerock.com

Willow Springs Water Park Little Rock’s original water park, Willow Springs was built in 1928, but continues to develop and improve. The park features picnic tables and grills, a large kiddy pool, lifeguards on duty, a 400-foot waterslide and much more! Open weekends beginning in May and then seven days a week from the end of May through August. 501-8884148; www.willowsprings.net

Peabody Park After visiting the ducks, follow it up with a trip to the city’s new park dedicated exclusively to kids. Located in the River Market’s Riverfront Park, it features tunnels, a tube slide, climbing wall, splash fountain, spacenet and the tree room. 501-371-4770; www. littlerock.org

Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center One of Little Rock’s newest attractions, Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center encourages children to explore their natural surroundings through educational and interactive exhibits. 501-907-0636; www.centralarkansasnaturecenter.com/

An interactive exhibit at the Museum of Discovery

28

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

City sports W

hen it comes to professional sports, Little Rock is no lightweight. The city grabbed national spotlight when it hosted a portion of the NCAA tournament last year, and then again this year with the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament. Both events drew thousands of fans from around the country. Not a basketball fan? We have professional baseball and football teams, wrestling and bull riding at Verzion Arena.

Even the Harlem Globetrotters find Little Rock a great place to strut their stuff.

But Little Rock is more than just a place to watch the professionals play—there’s plenty of opportunity for you to get out and find your own game.

nonstop excitement is making the sport increasingly popular across the country, and Central Arkansas is no exception.

Since entering the Arena 2 Football League in 2000, the Arkansas Twisters have set league attendance records at Verzion Arena and has seen its players drafted to every major professional football league in the world. The season runs from early April until July. For tickets, call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745.3000 or go to www. ticketmaster.com.

Burns Park—Two 18-hole courses located near the Arkansas River. 30 Championship Dr., North Little Rock 501-791-8587 Camp Robinson—9 holes, good course for novice golfers. Camp Robinson, North Little Rock 501-753-8877 Country Club of Arkansas—18 holes, tight fairways lined with trees and water. 3 Country Club Circle, Maumelle 501-851-0095 Hindman Park—18-hole course on very challenging terrain. 60 Brookview Dr. 501-565-6450.

Baseball When the hot summer sun has your mouth watering for a cold beer, juicy hot dog and baseball game, look no further than the new Arkansas Travelers’ baseball stadium, Dickey-Stephens Park, for the cure. The Travs are affiliated with the Anaheim Angels and have won five league titles since 1966. The season usually runs from April to September.

For ticket information, call 501-664-7559, or visit them on the web at www.travs.com.

Basketball The new Stephens Center on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock is home The Arkansas Twisters Arena 2 Football team play their home games at Verzion Arena. of the Trojans, NCAA Division I basketball team. UALR’s Lady Trojans also play there (the women’s The Arkansas Rhinos, a member of the Pine Valley—18 holes, tight fairways lined basketball program is part of the Sun Belt semi-professional North American Football with trees. 9311 Tom Box Rd., North Little Conference). Although the University of League, play their games at Jacksonville Rock 501-835-3424 Arkansas’ men’s and women’s basketball Middle School in Jacksonville. They begin Rebsamen Park—18 holes, plus a 9-hole teams play most of their home games in their season in June and play through course and driving range, located near the Fayetteville, they do schedule a game or September. For ticket and schedule inforArkansas River. 3400 Rebsamen Park Rd. two each season in Little Rock. For schedule mation, call 501-350-7843 or visit www.

501-666-7965 or ticket information, call 501-565-UALR thearkansasrhinos.com.

Stone Links—Scottish-style course with 18 (8257) or visit them on the web at www. holes. 110 Hwy 391 N., North Little Rock ualrtrojans.com.

Golf 501-945-0945 With a number of public golf courses in War Memorial—Hilly 18-hole course in the Football Central Arkansas, an afternoon on the links heart of Little Rock. 5511 W. Markham St. Arena football’s lightning-fast pace and is just a short drive away.

501-663-0854 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

29

Introducing the NEW MGD 64 from Everything you want in a light beer...and less!

30

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

F

or a different view of the city, try a little of the nightlife Little Rock has to offer. Whether you’re looking for live music and dancing, or a quiet corner to enjoy a drink with a couple of friends—we’ve got you covered!

City Nights

Sticky Fingerz Rock ’N’ Roll Chicken Shack VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

31

City nights CLUB

LOCATION

DESCRIPTION

HOURS

PHONE/WEBSITE

Afterthought

2721 Kavanaugh Blvd.

One of the best places in town to hear live music especially well known for its jazz and blues. Enjoy live jazz on Monday nights and the blues on Tuesdays.

Mon.-Thurs. 8 p.m.-close Fri.-Sat. 9 p.m.–close

501-663-1196 www.afterthoughtbar.com

Cajun’s Wharf

2400 Cantrell Rd.

Cajun’s Wharf is a must-do while in Little Rock. In addition to excellent seafood dishes, its musical diversity may be its strongest point. Bands of all genres play at the wharf on the Arkansas River, and there’s a roomy dance floor. The atmosphere and view of the sunset, especially from the desk overlooking the river, is one of the best in central Arkansas.

Mon.-Thurs. 4:30 p.m.-close; weekends 5 p.m.-close

501-375-5351 www.cajunswharf.com

Capital Bar & Grill

111 W. Markham St.

A longtime favorite watering hole for the state’s political movers and shakers. Cocktails are handmade, and lunch and dinner are served daily.

Mon.-Sat. 11a.m.-11p.m.

Sun. 11a.m.-10p.m.

501-374-7474 www.capitalhotel.com

Ciao Baci

605 N. Beechwood St. A great place to have a quiet bottle of wine or an unbelievable dessert (appetizers and entrees are fantastic as well). Peruse the great wine list or choose from a vast selection of mixed drinks. The patio is especially nice in warm weather.

Mon.-Sat. 5p.m.-close

501-603-0238 www.ciaobaci.org

Coffee Beanery Café 17200 Chenal Pkwy.

Tasty desserts and live music on some nights with no cover charge.

7 a.m.- 8 p.m.

501-821-7747 www.coffeebeanery.com

Cornerstone Deli & Pub

314 Main St., North Little Rock

Cornerstone’s wide beer selection and regular live music make this a fine stopping-off spot. It succeeds on the food end as well, with the usual and not-so-usual pub selections and sandwiches.

Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

501-374-1782 www.cstonepub.com

Discovery

1021 Jessie Road

A private club for night owls about town, Discovery boasts a huge Sat. 9 p.m.-5 a.m. dance floor and a massive theater where you can sit and enjoy a variety of entertaining shows.

501-664-4784 www.latenightdisco.com

Double Tree Plaza Bar & Grille

Corner of Markham and Broadway streets

Located inside the DoubleTree Hotel, the restaurant offers guests a quiet place to grab a nightcap and unwind before heading up to their room.

Mon.-Sun. 5-10 p.m.

501-372-4371 www.doubletreelr.com

Downtown Music and Records

211 W. Capitol Ave.

Local and regional heavy rock acts.

Fri.-Sun 8 p.m.-close

501-376-1819 www.downtownmetal.com

Elevations

7200 Colonel Glenn Rd.

A great dance club with music served up by a live DJ. Club also features a buffet for those who want to dine. Music includes R & B, rap and blues.

Mon. & Thurs. 8 p.m. - 5 a.m.; 501-562-3317 Wed., Fri. & Sat. 9 p.m. - 5 a.m.; Sun. 9 p.m. - midnight

Electric Cowboy

9515 Interstate 30

For the boot-and-hat crowd. They even offer dance classes for those who might be in need. You never know who you might catch playing live.

Wed.-Sun. 7:30 p.m.-5 a.m.

501-562-6000 www.electriccowboy.com

Ernie Biggs

307 President Clinton Ave.

A private club that offers dueling pianos as entertainment. Two piano men, well-practiced at getting the crowd worked up, perform all those songs you never thought you knew all the words to. The only River Market club that stays open until 2 a.m. on Saturday nights.

Mon.-Sun. 7 p.m.–2 a.m.

501-372-4782 littlerock.erniebiggs.com

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

323 President Clinton Ave.

With more than 200 beers to choose from, guests can spend all night just making up their mind which one to try next. And if you’re hungry, the menu offers a great choice of tasty selections from meaty burgers and bratwurst to healthy salads and wraps. The beer cheese soup, served in a bread bowl, is a lunchtime favorite. Monday is Pint Night, Wednesday is Brewery Night (you keep the glass) and Thursday is Live Music Night.

Mon.-Thurs.11 p.m.-1 a.m.; Fri. 11 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 11 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

501-372-7468 www.beerknurd.com

Fox and Hound

2800 Lakewood Village Dr.

A North Little Rock sports hot spot with pool tables and live music on the weekends.

Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

501-753-8300 www.fhrg.com

Grumpy’s Too

1801 Green Mountain Drive

Live music (mostly rock) is served up Monday through Saturday with no Mon.-Fri. 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 4 501-225-3768 cover charge. This neighborhood pub has scrumptious sandwiches and p.m.-1 a.m. chicken wings, plus a comfortable deck.

Gusano’s Pizzeria

313 President Clinton Ave.

This popular sports bar quickly became a hot spot after joining the downtown scene three years ago. Gusano’s offers fantastic Chicagostyle pizza, nightly drink specials, live music, billiards and 21 televisions that carry every major sporting event.

Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m. to close; Sat. until 1 a.m.

501-374-1441 www.gusanospizza.com

Hillcrest Fountain

2809 Kavanaugh Blvd.

The first pool hall/games/sports bar-type club to open in Hillcrest in years. Large selection of wine and beers, and occasional live music.

Mon.-Sun. 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

501-614-9818

Juanita’s Cantina Ballroom

1300 S. Main St.

Juanita’s is the city’s granddaddy of live-music venues, hosting a variety of local, regional and national acts. While half of Juanita’s is devoted to music (you’ll hear everything from rock and country to funk and reggae), the other half of the space offers terrific TexMex food and a loaded bar.

Restaurant: lunch 11 a.m.-2 501-372-1228 p.m.; dinner 5-9 p.m. Bar: Mon. www.juanitas.com 11 a.m.-9p.m.; Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.–2 a.m.; Sat. 11 p.m.-1 a.m.

32

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

City nights CLUB

LOCATION

DESCRIPTION

HOURS

The Lobby Bar

3 Statehouse Plaza

Inside the Peabody Hotel, the Lobby Bar is the perfect place for a café au lait and croissant, a lunchtime aperitif, afternoon tea, pre-dinner cocktails or after-dinner brandies and liqueurs. This is the place to see and be seen.

Mon.-Fri. 2 p.m.-10 p.m.; 501-906-4000 Sat. 1-11 p.m.; Sun. 1-10 p.m. www.peabodylittlerock.com

PHONE/WEBSITE

The Loony Bin Comedy Club

10301 N. Rodney Parha.m. Rd.

They don’t have much in the way of live music, but the laughs are Showtimes: Wed.-Thurs. 8 plentiful. You can catch up-and-coming comedians Wednesday through p.m.; Fri. 8 p.m. and 10:30 Saturday, with low cover charges. p.m.; Sat. 7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.

501-228-5555 www.loonybincomedy.com

Mallard’s Bar

3 Statehouse Plaza

Located in the Peabody Hotel, it is the perfect place for an informal, relaxing drink. The club-like atmosphere is enhanced by the antique duck decoys and rich décor.

501-906-4000 www.peabodylittlerock.com

Midtown Billiards

1316 Main St.

A downtown private club/pool hall that draws a large after-hours crowd Mon.-Sun. 3 p.m.-5 a.m. (and serves one of the best burgers in town). Enjoy late night live music on the weekends.

501-372-9990 www.midtownar.com

On the Rocks

107 E. Markham St.

A new addition to the downtown club mix. Enjoy live or deejay music every weekend. Poker tournaments and games weekly. Check out their menu, which includes burgers, wings, cheese dip and other items.

Tuesday night is karaoke night.

Tues.-Fri. 5:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 5:30 p.m.-1 a.m.

501-374-7625 www.clubontherocks.com

The Oyster Bar

3003 W. Markham St.

A local favorite for catfish po’boys and oysters on the half shell. Grab a cold beer and feast on great seafood in a casual atmosphere.

Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat. noon-10 p.m.

501-666-7100 www.lroysterbar.com

Pizza D’Action

2919 W. Markham St.

This is the place for a tasty slice of pizza, a cold brew, a dark corner and a good dart game. Known by locals as “Pizza D’s,” it’s a little off the beaten path for visiting bar-hoppers, but it is a great local hangout.

You’ll meet a number of notorious Little Rock characters who can recommend where to go when Pizza D’s calls it a night.

Mon-Fri. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-midnight; Sat. 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

501-666-5403

Rumba/ Revolution

300 President Clinton Ave.

Enjoy great “Mexi-Cuban” food and live music at this restaurant/club combo. Rumba! (the restaurant) is open for dinner Monday through Saturday. Also enjoy a variety of specialty drinks, the largest rum selection in the state and a lot of great tequilas, too. The Revolution Music Room is a visually enticing multi-purpose facility that hosts larger national touring acts and provides a unique “dance club” experience on certain nights.

Kitchen: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Rev Room: Thurs.-Sat, hours vary

501-823-0090 www.rumbarevolution.com

Sticky Fingerz Rock ’n’ Roll Chicken Shack

107 S. Commerce St.

Stinky Fingerz has become one of the city’s most popular live-music venues. With good reason—the bands it draws (mostly a mix of rock, blues and funk) are first-rate; the food’s good, the drinks are cool, the dance floor is usually hoppin’ and the decor—dripping with funky folk art—is high-octane. The cover charge usually isn’t much, either. For those who’d like a cozier escape, there’s Sticky Fingerz Lyric Lounge next door. Designed to have the feel of a big living room, the lounge has the same menu as the Shack but offers a larger selection of wines and mixed drinks. And although the lounge shares a common entrance with the Shack, it has no cover charge.

Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; dinner 4:30 p.m.-midnight.; Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight Live music Tues.-Sat.

501-372-7707 www.stickyfingerz.com

U-B-U

824 W. Capitol Ave.

A club geared toward alternative lifestyles, mostly focusing on female clientele.

Open on weekends.

501-375-8580

Underground Pub

500 President Clinton Ave.

The Underground offers a little something for everyone. For the sporty Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. sort, this English-style pub boasts pool and darts. Hungry? Try the fish and chips. Thursday night features karaoke; Friday and Saturday, there’s live music. Best of all, there’s generally no cover charge.

501-707-2537

Vino’s Brew Pub

923 W. 7th St.

Another Little Rock bar staple. Just about everyone from politicos to punkers is drawn to the city’s original brewpub, which serves up some of the best pizza, salads and calzones in town. As for its music, Vino’s is known for its slate of up-and-coming, cutting-edge bands.

Mon.-Wed. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs.11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun. noon-9 p.m.

501-375-8466 www.vinosbrewpub.com

West End Smokehouse and Tavern

215 N. Shackleford Road

A private club that caters to sports enthusiasts. Watch your favorite team on televisions located throughout the bar and munch on great food—burgers, catfish, steak and more.

Mon.-Thurs. 3 p.m.-2 a.m.; Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

501-224-7665 www.westendsmokehouse.net

White Water Tavern

2500 W. 7th St.

WWT has been in the live-music business for years and leans to rock and country sounds. Hear local bands and touring groups, too.

Mon.-Fri. noon-2 a.m.; Sat. 6 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.midnight

501-375-8400 www.myspace.com/whitewatertavern

Willy D’s Dueling Piano Bar

322 President Clinton Ave.

Doubling as a restaurant and piano bar, Willy D’s has dueling pianos upstairs every night and a DJ on Wed., Fri. & Sat. downstairs in DEEP Lounge. Food served till midnight each night.

Mon.-Fri. 7p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 7p.m.-1 a.m

501-244-9550 willydspianobar.com

Mon.-Sat. 5 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sun. 5-10 p.m.

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

33

34

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

35

Experience the city with Little Rock Tours W

ith all the activities and new attractions in the Little Rock area, it promises to be a busy year for the city’s visitors. In response, Little Rock Tours has revamped its buses, even adding a little sizzle of its own to the city’s outstanding lineup.

Heifer Village recently opened and is proving to be of international interest and is expected to be a big draw. Little Rock Tours President Cary Martin says, “People from around the world want to take a look inside.”

He’s also excited about the Arkansas Arts Center’s upcoming fall exhibit, “World of the Pharaohs: Treasures of Egypt Revealed.” So much so that Little Rock Tours decided to get into the action by including it on their murder mystery dinner tour. Basically, after touring the exhibit, guests are invited to be dine on authentic Egyptian fare with Lady Middleton, whose archeologist husband helped discover the lost treasures of Egypt.

Of course, her husband never shows…at

Little Rock Tours tour bus least alive anyway.

As Little Rock continues to grow, the list of attractions continues to grow, and if you find yourself overwhelmed by the long list of “must-sees” in the city, you might give Little Rock Tours a call. They offer a two-hour-plus sightseeing jaunt around the capitol city that we can’t recommend highly enough! In fact, we’re not the only one recommending the

Incredible Sightseeing Tours!

We look forward to serving you!

“Your tour was a lot of fun. It will receive many recommendations from the Clinton Presidential Center.”

—William J. Clinton Foundation “With this tour, ‘Little Rock is on a Roll!’”

— Group Travel Leader National Magazine

Little Rock Tours offers an extensive list of sightseeing tours; charter service featuring late model motorcoaches, vans, and limousines; plus a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Supper Club, and group travel planning services.

LITTLE ROCK A N D 36

T R A V E L

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Call 501-TOURBUS (501-868-7287) For Reservations littlerocktours.com

tour—national publications, such as the New York Times, Washington Post, Southern Living and Denver Post tell their readers, it’s one of the best ways to see the city.

Whether a visitor on vacation, in town for a family reunion or a conference, Little Rock Tours offers a unique look at the city with friendly, knowledgeable guides. Their expertise is supplemented with on-board flat-screen DVD technology that features footage from Hollywood as well as from the national and local media.

This adds a historical and cultural context to what visitors see from their panoramic windows. The timing couldn’t be more perfect, either; listen to Bill Clinton’s first speech as President-elect as you drive past the Old State House, where he stood that night and addressed the nation, and then relive the crisis at Central High, through the often graphic yet effective footage, as the bus approaches the Little Rock high school.

While some travelers may only have time for the convenient guided tour, Little Rock Tours offers a rewarding experience for everyone.

Little Rock Tours has also added the Little Rockin’ Supper Club for groups of 100 or more. Groups can customize an evening that includes dinner, dancing and entertainment—anything from an Elvis impersonator, jazz to ballroom dancing.

And if you’re looking for a designated driver, Little Rock Tours offers packages to out-of-town Razorback games. The ride is half the fun.

Little Rock Tours starts at the River Market and offers hotel pick-up for those staying in the downtown area. The tour runs once a day at 1 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors and students and $10 for children 6 – 12.

Special tours and large group reservations are available. For more information or reservations, call 501-868-7287 or 800-9333836; www.littlerocktours.com.

On the silver screen UA Breckenridge Village 12: Interstate 430 at the Rodney Parham exit. 501-224-0990 Market Street Cinema: 1521 Merrill Dr. 501-312-8900; www.marketstreetcinema.net

Little Rock offers a number of places to catch a movie.

Riverdale 10: 2600 Cantrell Rd. 501-296-9955; www.riverdale10.com IMAX Theater: Aerospace Education Center, 3301 E. Roosevelt Rd. 501-376-4629; www.aerospaced.org Cinemark Tandy 10: 4188 E. McCain Blvd., North Little Rock. 1-800-326-3264www.cinemark.com Lakewood 8: 2939 Lakewood Village Dr., North Little Rock. 501-758-5354 Rave Motion Pictures: 18 Colonel Glenn Plaza Dr. 501-687-0499; www.ravemotionpictures.com Chenal 9 Theatres with IMAX: 17825 Chenal Pky. 501-821-2616; www.chenal9@dtmovies.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

37

On Stage

I

f you’re looking for a play, comedy, classical music or dance performance while in Little Rock, this rundown will come in handy.

Come aboard Amtrak® with your friends and family.

With over 500 destinations, both large and small, it’s easy to see just how big and beautiful America is. Watch the country unfold from the comfort of your roomy seat. Come aboard. The world is waiting.

Call 1-800-USA-RAIL, your travel agent or visit Amtrak.com.

Celebrity Attractions is bringing The Wizard of Oz to the Little Rock stage.

Fares, rules, and schedules are subject to change. Amtrak is a registered service mark of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

Arkansas Repertory Theatre Now in its 2009/2010 season, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre is again offering patrons and Little Rock visitors a lineup of professional productions. Affectionately called “The Rep” by locals, it has received national recognition for its performances that include drama, original pieces, comedy and musicals. Visit their website for a complete list of upcoming performances. 601 Main St. 501-378-0405; www.therep.org Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Indoors and outdoors, this group performs seasonal celebrations, such as Christmas and the Fourth of July, and with internationally known entertainers from September through May. The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra calls Robinson Center Music Hall home. President Clinton Avenue and Broadway Street. 501-666-1761; www.arkansassymphony.org Ballet Arkansas School for the Performing Arts The only professional ballet company in the state, Ballet Arkansas is a popular Little Rock attraction staging four major productions annually, including the holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker Suite.”

501-223-5150; www.balletarkansas.org Celebrity Attractions Bringing a steady stream of nationally touring plays, musicals and other performances to Robinson Center Music Hall. 300 S. Spring St. 501-2448800; www.celebrityattractions.com Community Theatre of Little Rock Founded in 1956, the Community Theatre of Little Rock is central Arkansas’ oldest theater tradition.

It is a nonprofit, volunteer organization but the professional theater strives to enlighten, educate

38

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

and entertain the community. 616 Center St. 6639494; www.communitytheatreoflittlerock.com/ Murry’s Dinner Playhouse Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has been dishing up supper and live performances for more than 30 years. From Broadway to comedic relief, entertainment is served with buffet choices of roast beef, poultry, fish, pasta, vegetables, salads and desserts. Reservations recommended. 6323 Colonel Glenn Rd. 501-562-3131; www.murrysdinnerplayhouse.com PUBLIC Theatre This downtown 66-seat performing-arts space focuses on improv and other stage productions. As its name suggests, The PUBLIC Theatre is a place where creative artists can develop and express their ideas in an open-spirited, collaborative environment, while at the same time, offering quality entertainment. 616 Center St. 374-PLAY (7529); www.thepublictheatre.com Weekend Theater This community group stages high-quality productions, ranging from avant-garde and experimental theater to more mainstream plays.

The season runs all year with shows on, well, the weekend, with modestly priced tickets. Seventh and Chester streets. 501-374-3761; www.weekendtheater.org Wildwood Park for the Arts This west Little Rock venue in a scenic setting brings big names and local performers to its intimate, state-of-the-art performance hall.

There’s also the Blooms Festival in the spring, as well as other events scheduled throughout the year. 20919 Denny Rd. 501-821-7275; www. wildwoodpark.org

Shopping S

hoppers will have no trouble finding a favorite shopping spot in Little Rock, with its vast number of retailers offering endless variety. With shops located in the heart of downtown to the western edges of the city and all points in between, there’s bound to be something just around the corner. To make your expedition more efficient, we’ve compiled a partial list of stores, organized by neighborhood. While this is by no means a complete listing of all the city’s shops, we’re sure it will give you a great start on your shopping excursion.

River Market District & Downtown The River Market District is known for its hot nightspots and Farmers’ Market, but there’s much more along President Clinton Avenue than that. An emerging arts area, the River Market’s galleries and participating shops stay open late the second Friday of each month. In addition to original art at the downtown galleries, there are novelty gifts, records, presidential memorabilia, bath products, old stamps and more. Plus, there’s fresh produce when in season, and a number of food vendors inside the River Market. So, grab a coffee at Boulevard Bread Company, and shop ‘til you drop.

Arkansas Flag & Banner—Shop for patriotic items as well as garden ornaments and other seasonal items. 800 W. 9th St.; 501-375-7633 Art Outfitters—A one-stop shop for everything an artist needs—easels, canvases, paints, brushes and other supplies. 917 W. 7th St.; 501-374-4323 Bath Junkie—Choose from nearly 200 fragrances to create your own bath and body products, including bubble bath, lotions, salt scrubs, shower gels, body mists and more. 322 President Clinton Ave.; 501-372-0500 Bennett’s Military Supplies—From leather jackets and Army boots to camping tents and other outdoor gear, a great place for the guys.

302 Main St.; 501-372-2944 Clinton Museum Store—Offering a fair share of Clinton memorabilia, you can also shop for books, artwork, jewelry and more. 610 President Clinton Ave.; 501-748-0400 Closet Factory—Browse a variety of custombuilt closet systems and products that are certain to help you organize your life. 900 W. 7th St.; 501-907-7105 Coin & Stamp Shop—A coin and stamp collector’s haven. 107 Main St. 501-375-2113 Downtown News Mart—A hole-in-the-wall convenience store offering magazines, newspapers, tobacco, beer, wine and liquor. 304 Main St.; 501-375-8322 Downtown Wig & Fashion—A selection of wigs, women’s urban fashions, shoes and other accessories. 305 Main St.; 501-374-3478 Explore Store—Part of the Museum of Discovery, the Explore Store has great gifts, puzzles, games, books and more-for kids of all ages! Museum Center, 500 Clinton Ave.; 501-396-7050

B. Barnett located on Cantrell Road offers visitors high fashion options along with a facial salon.

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

39

River Market Books & Gifts—Part of the Central Arkansas Library System, offering inexpensive new and used books, and toys, seasonal items and gifts. Cox Creative Center, 120 Commerce St.; 501-918-3093 Shop the Rock—Get your Little Rock souvenirs and find out what’s going on around town with one stop. As part of the Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau, visitors can get maps and useful information on tours and things to do.

Located outside the Ottenheimer Market Hall, 400 President Clinton Ave.; 501-537-7058 Ten Thousand Villages—Browse unique ethnic-inspired goods, including folk art, jewelry, toys and games, tableware, rugs and more at this store, which provides fair trade income to Third-World people. 305 President Clinton Ave.; 501-374-2776 Twisted Entertainment—An adult novelty shop. 1007 W. 7th St.; 501-376-7723

Riverdale Often referred to by locals as Little Rock’s own “Design District” because of the large number of home-related and interior design shops—from art and floral designs to antiques and fabrics.

Riverdale is located at the bottom of Cantrell Hill at Rebsamen Park Road, and whether your budget is large or small, you’ll find just what you need to turn your house into a home.

Box Turtle in Hillcrest has unique clothing and funky gifts.

Farmers’ Market—Shop for fresh produce, flowers, herbs, crafts and other interesting items from May to October on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Ottenheimer Market Hall Pavilion, 500 Clinton Ave. Frances Flower Shop—From custom arrangements to casual bouquets, order by phone or stop by this downtown full-service florist. 1222 W. Capitol Ave.; 501-372-2203 Hearne Fine Art—A fine art gallery specializing in African American art from nationally recognized artists. Will reopen late October 2009 in their new downtown location. 1001 Wright Ave.; 501-244-0422 Historic Arkansas Museum Store— Located in the museum’s atrium, the Museum Store offers the best of contemporary, Arkansasmade arts and crafts as well as merchandise related to frontier Arkansas. Shop for pottery, quilts, baskets, books and more. 200 E. 3rd St.; 501-324-9351 I Like It All—From ironwork to pottery containers, this hidden treasure-trove has everything you need to accessorize your outdoor living space.

40

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

2420 Bragg St. (Interstate 30 at the Roosevelt Exit); 501-372-9900 Mr. Cool—Offering a selection of urban clothing, including suits, active-wear, shoes and accessories. 301 Main St.; 501-378-0107 The Museum Store—Choose from books, jewelry, toys and items by artists and artisans from around the state and region. Arkansas Arts Center, 9th and Commerce streets; 501-372-4000 Old State House Museum Store—The store features a wide variety of items that enhance and interpret the museum’s exhibits, including historic collectibles and notable books relating to all aspects of Arkansas history. Also, browse antique jewelry, unusual artwork and traditional souvenirs. 300 W. Markham St.; 501- 324.9685 Piano Kraft—Pianos, keyboards, organs and sheet music available. 1222 Main St.; 501372-1446 Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing—A sister business to Hearne Fine Art offering prints, books and customized framing. Reopening in late October 2009. 1001 Wright Ave.; 501372-5824

About Vase—Browse a variety of flowers or have them make you a one-of-a-kind arrangement.

3400 Old Cantrell Rd.; 501-603-9200 The Antique Co.—Offering fine European antiques, lighting, furniture and home accessories.

1408 Rebsamen Park Rd.; 501-666-0339 Bear-Hill Interiors—Offers upscale design services as well as furniture, lamps, home accessories.

1420 Rebsamen Park Rd.; 501-907-9272 Botanica Gardens—From houseplants and planters to nursery items and gardening tools, this is a must-stop shop. 1601 Rebsamen Park Rd.; 501-614-3000 Cynthia East Fabrics—Select from a variety of upholstery, decorator and drapery fabrics as well as decorative accessories. 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd.; 501-663-0460 C & F Flooring and Rug Gallery—This shop offers unique tiles, carpets and other floor coverings. 2206 Cantrell Rd.; 501-399-9909 Elements of Design—A literal warehouse full of furniture, art and decorative accessories.

2400 Cantrell Rd.; 501-375-4520 Fabulous Finds Antique Mall—A fleamarket-style antique store where you never know what you’ll find. 2905 Cantrell Rd.; 501614-8181 Loft By Cobblestone & Vine—An expanded version of Cobblestone & Vine, the original home furnishing and accessory store. 2314 Cantrell Rd.; 501-372-1966 Louie’s Unique Framing & Gallery— Offers custom framing, original artwork and prints. 1509 A Mart Dr.; 501-907-6240 Marshall Clements—An interior design firm with European antiques, artwork and accessories.

1509 Rebsamen Park Rd.; 501-663-1828 Massimo—An interior design firm with modern/ transitional furniture, original artwork and other accessories. 3513 Old Cantrell Rd.; 501-664-0355

mertinsdykehome—A furniture and home accessories store with its own unique flair. Also offers books and gifts. 1500 Rebsamen Park Rd., 501-280.3200 New Orleans Antiques and Jewelry— Featuring a large selection of fine European antiques, furniture, art and jewelry. 2226 Cantrell Rd.; 501-374-3130 SOHO Modern Furnishings—A furniture and home décor shop specializing in both mid-20th century period pieces and contemporary designs, as well as home accessories, rugs, jewelry and lamps. 2200 Cantrell Rd.; 501-372-4884 The Showroom—Offers custom framing options and a wide selection of prints, frames and original artwork. 2313 Cantrell Rd.; 501372-7373.

� 221 Beautifully Decorated Guest Rooms � 13 Oversized Luxurious Suites � Free Airport Shuttle � Free On-Site Parking � Wireless High Speed Internet � Business Center � Indoor Fitness Center � Outdoor Pool

Hillcrest This area of town is one of the prettiest and just minutes from downtown Little Rock. Stroll along Kavanaugh Boulevard and choose from a variety of quaint retail options, including clothing, gifts, antiques, art, home décor and so much more.

Box Turtle—Shop for hand-made jewelry, local designer clothing and one-of-a-kind gift items as well as home accessories, including linens, candles and lighting. 2616 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-661-1167 Clement—Located inside Sweet Home Furnishings, this shop features artwork, furniture and accessories that have caught the eye of owner Chris Clement. 2909 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-539-1473 The Full Moon—Fun and whimsical gifts, home accessories, baby items, personal care products and much more. 3625 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-663-4367 Gallery 26—Featuring pieces by local artists, including glasswork, prints, original works and jewelry, also offers framing services. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-8996 Handworks Gallery—A knitter’s paradise offering a vast array of designer yarns and knitting supplies. 2911 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-6300 Haus Werk—A fun collection of clothing, housewares, accessories, furniture, jewelry and gifts. 2923 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-663-5251 Hillcrest Junk Co.—Shop for vintage furniture and accessories in this eclectic store. 623 Beechwood St.; 501-681-7999 Private Collections Consignment Gallery—A consignment shop featuring quality home furniture and accessories. Browse through the furnishings that range from traditional, transitional and contemporary styles. 2017 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-372-3270 River City Gift Co.—Offering a wonderful selection of handmade candies, gourmet coffees, teas, and related items. 2715 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-661-1496 The Shoppes at Woodlawn—A collection of antique, home décor and art-related shops, all under one roof. 4523 Woodlawn Dr.; 501-666-3600 Sweet Home Furnishings—A favorite design resource offering antique and vintage furniture and other accessories. 2909 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-296-9198

Two Award Winning Restaurants Located In The Wyndham Riverfront Where a meal is not just a meal, it’s a performance. #

Featuring prime steaks & seafood.

2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock, Ar (501) 371-9000 for reservations

Hours: 9 am-5 pm, Monday-Saturday; 1 pm-5 pm, Sunday The Old State House Museum is a museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage.

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

41

The Heights Best known as Little Rock’s oldest plannedresidential development, this area is renowned for its antiques, interior products, art and clothing.

Similar to nearby Hillcrest, this neighborhood is a charming spot to spend the morning. And when you need a little refreshment after your bargain hunting, stop and have a bite to eat at any one of the neighborhood’s eateries. ellen golden french antiques—An antique store specializing in French furniture, artwork, lamps and other home accessories.

5701 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-7746 Bella Boutique—A great girly store with jewelry, beauty and bath accessories and more.

5623 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-603-5373 Cabbage Rose Florist—A florist specializing in custom-designed fresh, dried and silk floral arrangements. 5701 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-4042 Caracalla Day Spa—A full-service day spa offering massage and more, also a hair salon with a wide selection of hair and personal care products and accessories. 5715 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-280-0866 Cobblestone and Vine—Fine furniture, linens, decorative gifts and accessories with a European flair. 5100 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-4988 Dauphine—A great selection of fine linens, antiques and gifts as well as custom-designed lamps and shades. 5819 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-6007 Feinstein’s—A women’s clothing boutique offering fine apparel and accessories from such names as Basler and Lafayette 148. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-7330 Foster Cochran—A gift shop with a wide selection of silver pieces, fine jewelry, gifts and other personal care items and home accessories.

5020 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-3925 Heights Fine Wines and Spirits—Offering an excellent selection of wines, beers and other spirits. 5012 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-9463 Heights Gallery—An art gallery featuring

works by regional and local artists, as well as offering custom-framing services. 5801 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-2772 Heights Toy Center—A must-see toy store for the young and young-at-heart. Offering lots of hard-to-find toys as well as hand-crafted playthings. 5918 R St. 501-663-8383 Kristin Chase—A women’s clothing store.

5008 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-663-1665 Mary Healey’s Fine Jewelry—Offering fine jewelry and custom design services. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-661-1314 Mr. Wicks Men’s Clothing—A men’s clothing store offering fine men’s business apparel and weekend wear. 5924 R St.; 501-664-3062 New Traditions—A women’s designer clothing store, also offering a great selection of shoes, purses and other accessories. 1920 N. Grant St.; 501-663-2388 Ozark Outdoor Supply—For the outdoor enthusiast, get your camping gear, clothing and other supplies here. 5514 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-664-4832 Pflugrad’s Antiques—Specializing in fine European antiques and old leather books. 5624 R St.; 501-661-0188 Terry’s Finer Foods—Gourmet food market and grocery. 5018 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-663-4152 Tipton Hurst—Little Rock’s oldest florist offering books, candles, gifts, seasonal and decorative items. 1801 N. Grant St.; 501-666-3333 The Accessory—Fine home furnishings, designer lamps, accessories and botanicals.

5608 R St.; 501-664-5363 The Painted Pig—This Heights hot spot is a ceramic studio where kids can select an unfired piece of pottery and paint it. 5622 R St.; 501-280-0553 The Toggery—A children’s clothing store.

5919 R St.; 501-663-8662 Trianon Antiques—Offers a wide selection of fine antique furniture and accessories imported from Europe. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-663-5502 Tulips—A hip clothing boutique offering fun

designers and styles for women of all ages. 5817 Kavanaugh Blvd.; 501-614-7343 Wordsworth Books—An independent bookstore offering a vast selection of books.

5920 R St.; 501-663-9198

Cantrell Road A major thoroughfare in Little Rock, Cantrell Road runs from downtown to West Little Rock and there are an unbelievable number of stores along the way. Take the day and shop Cantrell Road—you’ll find clothing, art, flowers, furniture, gift shops… the list continues to grow.

B. Barnett—A women’s clothing store that includes designs by Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani and Rena Lange, and cosmetics by Trish McEvoy, Laura Mercier and Nars (check out their day spa!).

8201 Cantrell Rd.; 501-223-2514 Barbara/Jean Ltd—One of the city’s premier women’s boutiques offering clothes by Roberto Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana and others, as well as top-name shoes and handbags. Their cosmetic counter is stocked with Yves St. Laurent and other designer cosmetics and skincare products. 7811 Cantrell Rd.; 501-227-0054 Bauman’s Men’s Shop—A men’s fine apparel store offering styles by Zegna, Brioni and Ferragamo. 8201 Cantrell Rd.; 501-227-8797 Beyond Cotton—Definitely not the run-ofthe-mill designs. The original location on Rodney Parham Road offers fun, funky and traditional styles, while their second location caters to a younger crowd. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-221-9195 Cantrell Gardens Nursery—A great nursery for green-thumbed visitors. 7800 Cantrell Rd.; 501-225-1030 Cantrell Design Center—Offering furniture, carpets and rugs, lighting and other home-related items. 7619 Cantrell Rd.; 501-225-0002 Cantrell Gallery—The oldest gallery in the city, find works by local and regional artists.

8206 Cantrell Rd.; 501-224-1335

Bolts and bolts of fabrics and fun home accessories can be found at Cynthia East Fabrics in Riverdale's Design District.

42

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Catering To You—In addition to wonderful gourmet foods, shop their collection of fun gifts.

8121 Cantrell Rd.; 501-614-9030 Companions—Women’s and contemporary clothing from names such as Trina, Turk, Parameter, Velvet and Puella. 14810 Cantrell Rd. 501-868-8484 Easy Runner—Offering shoes and clothing for runners and joggers. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-221-0017 Forsythe’s Ladies Apparel—A women’s apparel store with the latest fashions and accessories. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-225-4743 Hadidi Oriental Rugs—Fine antique and new Oriental rugs and other floor coverings.

8116 Cantrell Rd.; 501-225-8999 Highway 10 Wine & Spirits—Offers an excellent selection of wines, beer and other spirits.

14309 Cantrell Rd.; 501-225-6879 Ken Rash’s of Arkansas—An outdoor living one-stop shop, featuring grills, furniture and other outdoor living accessories. 7214 Cantrell Rd.; 501-663-1818 Kitchen Co.—For the novice cook or experienced gourmand, get all your kitchen items here.

Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-663-3338 Kristin Todd Accessories—An all-around great accessories store with jewelry, handbags, belts, scarves, hats and junior-sized tops. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-223-9191 Pazzaz Interiors—From traditional to modern furniture, lighting and accessories, this store is a must-shop. 14300 Cantrell Rd.; 501-868-8090 Powder & Smoke—Carries a large selection of perfumes and gifts including fine jewelry, handbags, picture frames and more. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501225-5353 Roberson’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts—A fine jewelry and watch store. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-664-9000 Scarlet—A hip clothing store featuring celebrity-favored fashions, shoes and accessories.

Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-223-8585 Solemates—Browse a fantastic selection of women’s shoes in a wide price range. Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501716-2960 Thread—Women’s contemporary clothing.

Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501- 223-8188 Vesta’s—Offering unique gifts, one-of-a-kind jewelry, fun and funky clothing, and luxurious bedding. They also have pet accessories, handbags, bath and body products and home decor.

Pleasant Ridge Town Center, 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 11525 Cantrell Rd.; 501-375-7820

West Little Rock Known for its endless shopping options, west Little Rock offers so many shopping centers and individual stores, that you might just spend the entire day browsing in one area. Some of the newest shops and major chain stores can be found in this area located at the west end of Little Rock.

All the Rage—Formalwear and special occasion attire for women. The Market Place, 11121 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-225-7666 Barbara Graves Intimate Fashions—A wonderfully large lingerie store with an excellent selection of bathing suits, cover-ups, jewelry and the finest women’s “unmentionables” in town.

Breckenridge Village, 10301 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-227-5537 Bedford Camera & Video—Everything the shutterbug could ever desire. 11400 Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-224-2020 Beyond Cotton—Definitely not the runof-the-mill designs. Offering fun, funky and traditional styles at this store, while their second location on Cantrell Road caters to a younger crowd. The Village at Pleasant Valley, 10700 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-221-1539

1521 Macon Dr.; 501-224-0313 Oreck Clean Home—A retail location stocking vacuum cleaners, air-purifers and other Oreck products. Perris Plaza, 12310 Chenal Pkwy.; 501-954-7300 Ozark Angler—Specializes in clothing, equipment and other gear for fly-fishermen and women. Chenal Place, Chenal Parkway at Markham Street; 501-225-6504 Pinky Punky—A trendy clothing store for the hip-minded female. Breckenridge Village, 10301 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-227-7303 Rejuvenation Clinic and Day Spa— Combining time-honored traditions and techniques with the advantages of modern science and high-quality products. Rejuvenation offers some of the best skin and body treatments available.

11125 Arcade Dr.; 501-228-0666

Babara Jean Ltd. offers designer, European and contemporary clothing along with a shoe salon, skincare and cosmetics.

Blind Ambition—Specializes in window treatments. Bowman Curve Shopping Center, 400 Bowman Rd.; 501-221-3350 Cecil’s Fine Jewelry—A fine store offering men’s and women’s distinctive jewelry. Trellis Square, 10720 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-225-5068 Ethan Allen—A trendy furniture store. 12301 Chenal Pkwy. 501-219-8400 Fifth Season—From crystal and silver to china and fine collectibles, find the perfect gift for someone or treat yourself. 10020 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-225-0544 Greenhaw’s Men’s Wear—Fine menswear store offering business apparel and weekend wear. Breckenridge Village, 10301 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-227-8703 J. Oliver’s Fine Jewelry—A fine jewelry store offering men’s and women’s jewelry.

Bowman Curve Shopping Center, 400 Bowman Rd.; 501-954-9400 Luxe Home Interiors—From contemporary to traditional, shop the finest in furniture, tables, lamps and accessories. Perris Plaza, 12310 Chenal Pkwy.; 501-224-7272 Martinous Oriental Rugs—Fine antique and new Oriental rugs and other floor coverings.

RK Collections—Hip clothing and denim for both men and women featuring names such as Seven, MEK, Rich & Skinny. 11715 Rainwood Rd.; 501-225-8532 T. Lamarr Fine Art—Featuring an excellent collection of fine art by local and regionally known artists. Dogwood Crossing, 5501 Ranch Dr.; 501-868-9882 T. Lamarr Interiors—An interior design firm retailing fine linens, furniture and other home décor essentials. Dogwood Crossing, 5501 Ranch Dr.; 501-868-9882 The Crown Shop—A Hallmark store with a wonderful gift shop and a wide card selection.

The Village at Pleasant Valley, 10700 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-227-8442 The Toggery—A children’s clothing store with the latest styles for your little fashionistas.

Pleasant Valley Plaza, 11220 Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-227-8492 Whole Foods—For the organically inclined, a food market with a deli, excellent vitamins and herbal supplement selection, books and more.

The Village at Pleasant Valley, 10700 N. Rodney Parham Rd.; 501-221-2331 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

43

One-stop shopping Park Plaza This shopping mecca recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation and is anchored by a Dillard’s store at each end. It’s also home to an additional 85 stores, including names such as Coldwater Creek, Hollister, Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap, Ann Taylor, The Limited, Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer, Victoria’s Secret, Sephora and many more names you would expect to find. Visit the updated food court if you’re feeling a little hungry. Park Plaza is open daily. 6000 W. Markham St. 501-664-4956; www.ParkPlazaMall.com/shop/parkplaza.nsf/index Midtowne Little Rock One of Little Rock’s newer shopping destinations, Midtowne Little Rock is home to White House|Black Market, Pottery Barn, WilliamsSonoma, The Container Store, Ann Taylor LOFT, Chico’s, Evolve, The Children’s Place, Francesca’s Collections, J. Jill, JoS A. Bank Clothier and Pei Wei Asian Diner. The center is located at the corner of University and Markham, across from St. Vincent’s. While retailers are free to set their own hours, most are open daily. www.midtownelittlerock.com The Promenade at Chenal Designed in a French Gothic style, Little Rock’s newest shopping experience—The Promenade at Chenal—offers shoppers an open-air design that replicates a nostalgic Main Street. The Promenade, a 340,000-square-foot lifestyle center located in Chenal Valley, is home to a delightful array of upscale national, regional and local retailers, restaurants and entertainment venues, such as Chenal 9 Theatres with IMAX. The merchandise mix includes Coldwater Creek, Aeropostale, Justice, Sunglass Station, Claire’s, American Eagle Outfitters,

44

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

V

isitors on a schedule will find all the shopping they want at the area’s malls and shopping centers.

Kay Jewelers, Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro, Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream Treatery and Chenal 9 Theatres with IMAX. The Promenade at Chenal is open daily. Located at the corner of Chenal Parkway and Rahling Road.

501.821.5552; www.chenalshopping.com Pleasant Ridge Town Center Pleasant Ridge Town Center is one of Little Rock’s newest upscale, next generation shopping centers, with stores like Belk, Fresh Market, Strasburg Children, Solemates, Glo Limited, Beyond Cotton, M2 Gallery, Vesta’s, Minx, Scarlet, Jeante’, Thread, Hallmark and Warren’s Shoes. There are great dining choices, too, including Cheeburger Cheeburger, Bonefish, Capi’s Res-

McCain Mall Covering almost 60 acres on two levels, McCain Mall is anchored

by Dillard’s, JC Penney and Sears.

With more than 80 stores, practically every area of retail shopping is covered. Shops include The Buckle, rue21, Gymboree, Charlotte Russe, Aeropostale and more. Food options include Chick-Fil-A and the Great American Cookie Company. McCain Mall is open daily. 3929 McCain Blvd.

501-758-6340; www.simon.com/mall Lakewood Village Home to more than 40 shops and restaurants, this open-air shopping center is one of North Little Rock’s favorites. It is home to Pier 1 Imports, Ellis Jewelry, Steinmart, Books-a-Million, Shoe Carnival and more. Lakewood Village also

Pleasant Ridge Town Center offers an array of shopping options. taurant, Istanbul and Panera Bread.

While retailers are free to set their own hours, most are open daily.

11525 Cantrell Rd. 501-225-7807; www.schickels.com

includes a movie theatre, TGI Friday’s, Dixie Cafe, Crazy Hibachi, Corky’s BBQ and Saddle Creek Woodfired Grill.

While retailers are free to set their own hours, most are open daily. 2851 Lakewood Village Dr. 501-758-7745

Dining in Little Rock L

ittle Rock’s restaurant scene is as varied as it is vibrant. You’ll find familiar national chains, but also a host of locally-owned places offering everything from the humblest home cooking to the finest of European dining. Whatever you’re in the mood for barbecue, seafood, upscale fusion, ethnic or some of the best pizza in the country, Little Rock has a restaurant for you.

Downtown

hole, serving up huge steaks, great tamales, broiled shrimp and killer burgers at lunch.

AMERICAN DOUBLETREE PLAZA BAR & GRILL Markham ASHLEY’S 111 W. Markham St. (inside Capital and Broadway. 372-4371. Heaping breakfast and Hotel). 374-7474. The premier restaurant in the lunch buffets in the elegant lobby restaurant. refurbished Capital Hotel is best experienced by DOWNTOWN DELI 323 Center St. 372-3696. ordering the $75 five-course dinner, each course A locally owned eatery, with bigger sandwiches is accompanied by an interesting wine. Perfect and lower prices than most downtown chain seafood, unusual ingredients, careful cooking and competitors. Also, huge, loaded baked potatoes, gorgeous presentation make it a feast for eyes, soups and salads. mind and stomach. The power breakfast crowd EJ’S EATS AND DRINKS 523 Center St. 666can go for chocolate French toast or buckwheat 3700. This hoagie shop serves generous burgers, sourdough pancakes, among other upscale takes sandwiches, homemade soups potato chips and on humble morning foods. Lunch is a $25 prix salads. Vegetarians can craft any number of fixe affair from a shorter, but interesting menu acceptable meals from the flexible menu. full of interesting ideas (smoky sweet potato FLYING FISH 511 President Clinton Ave. 375soup with rock shrimp and porcini mushrooms, 3474. The fried seafood is fresh and crunchy, to name one.) Incredible wine list. and there are plenty of raw, boiled and grilled BEST IMPRESSIONS 501 E. Ninth St. (inside offerings, too. The hamburgers are a hit.

Arkansas Arts Center). 907-5946. Soup, salads FLYING SAUCER 323 President Clinton Ave. and sandwiches are always on the menu at the 372-7468. Beer, with dozens on tap, is the big Arkansas Arts Center’s café, and we’ve never had draw at this popular River Market venue, but a bad soup of the day. There are also excellent the food’s good, too. The sandwiches, includentrees like a salmon fillet served with pasta and ing a great Rueben, salads, quesadillas and the bell peppers. Desserts include vanilla cheesecake bratwurst are dependable. with Southern butter pecan caramel glaze and FORTY TWO 1200 President Clinton Ave. 537chantilly crème.

0042. This is the Clinton Presidential Center’s BIG WHISKEY’S AMERICAN BAR & GRILL 225 restaurant and has a great Sunday brunch. It’s a E. Markham St. 324-2449. A modern grill pub in solid choice for a weekday lunch with innovative the River Market with all the bells and whistles—a sandwiches, soups and salads. large number of flat screen TVs, whiskey on tap, Red Door 3700 Cantrell Rd. 663-4666. Nationplus boneless wings, burgers, steaks, ally recognized Chef Mark Abernathy soups and salads. teams up with rising star Chef John BOSCOS 500 President Clinton Leonardis to create an exciting and Ave. 907-1881.This River Market vibrant new restaurant opening this microbrewery does food well, too. fall. An eclectic, moderately priced, Along with the tried and true, like lively American bistro featuring an sandwiches, burgers, steaks, big all-star menu with the best recipes salads, they have black bean and from Abernathy’s acclaimed Blue tamale entrées, open hearth pizza Mesa Grill and Bene Vita, along with and muffalettas. dazzling new offerings, all in a fun and BOULEVARD BREAD CO. 400 modern atmosphere with a happening President Clinton Ave. 374-1232. bar scene.

Fresh, tasty breads and pastries, and SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM a wide selection of cheeses, meats 500 President Clinton Ave. 324-2999. and side dishes—all superb. Good Steaks, chicken and seafood in a woncoffee, too. derful setting in the River Market. Steak CAJUN’S WHARF 2400 Cantrell Rd. gets pricy, but the lump crabmeat au Full bar. 375-5351. The city’s venergratin appetizer is outstanding. Give able seafood restaurant. Go with the turtle soup a try. great gumbo and oysters Bienville, SPORTS PAGE 414 Louisiana St. 372and other options like fine steaks. All 1642. Perhaps the largest, juiciest, most served with some of the best nightly flavorful burger in town. Grilled turkey entertainment in town. and hot cheese on sourdough gets Crab claws and other seafood favorites are served up CAMP DAVID Interstate 30 and 6th praise, too. Lunch specials.

Street. 975-2267. Inside the Holiday with nightly entertainment at Cajun’s Wharf.

STICKY FINGERZ ROCK N’ ROLL Inn Presidential Conference Center, Camp David pleases with its breakfast and themed buffets each day of the week. Wonderful Sunday brunch.

CAPITAL BAR & GRILL 111 W. Markham St. (inside Capital Hotel) 370-7013. A watering hole with mouth-watering food, swished-up Southern style pork confit, smoky gumbo, root vegetable potpie and homemade Moon Pies. Capital idea: Sit by the big windows that look out on Markham with an organic martini and maybe some country pate and pumpkin jam.

COAST CAFE 400 President Clinton Ave. 371-0164.

A variety of salads, smoothies, sandwiches and pizzas, and there’s breakfast and coffee, too.

COMMUNITY BAKERY 1200 Main St. 375-7105.

This sunny downtown bakery is the place to linger over a latte, bagel and the New York Times. A lunchtime dash for sandwiches is good, too, although it’s often packed.

COPPER GRILL 300 E. Third St. 375-3333. A sunny and ultra-modern restaurant in downtown’s most chic condo tower offering comfort food (fried mac-and-cheese), burgers, sophisticated appetizers and entrees geared solidly for the middle of the dining spectrum. Grilled meats and fish, hearty side dishes and big salads— everything served with a generous hand. Fresh fish, grilled expertly, is a top choice. Desserts are made from scratch.

DOE’S EAT PLACE 1023 W. Markham St. 376-1195.

A skid-row dive turned power brokers’ watering

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

45

CHICKEN SHACK 107 Commerce St. 372-7707.

Fingers anyway you want, plus sandwiches and burgers, all served up in a fun setting. The joint is famous for its live music and happy hour.

THE HOP DINER 201 E. Markham St. 244-0975.

The downtown incarnation of the old dairy bar, with excellent burgers, onion rings, shakes and breakfast. Plus, daily specials, homemade pie and quiche.

WILLY D’S DUELING PIANO BAR 322 President Clinton Ave. 244-9550. Willy D’s serves up a decent dinner of pastas and salads as a lead-in to its nightly sing-along piano show.

YOUR MAMA’S GOOD FOOD 220 W. Fourth St. 372-1811. Now in more spacious quarters, but still offering simple and satisfying cafeteria food, with burgers and more hot off the grill.

ASIAN

charm combine to make it a relaxing, enjoyable, affordable choice.

GUSANO’S 313 President Clinton Ave. 3741441. They make a tomatoey, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza the way it’s done in the Windy City. It takes a little longer to come out of the oven, but it’s worth the wait.

IRIANA’S 201 E. Markham St. 374-3656. Unbelievably generous thick-crust pizza with unmatched zest. Good salads and the grinders are great—we recommend Italian sausage.

LARRY’S PIZZA 12th and Center streets. 3726004. The buffet is the way to go—fresh, hot pizza, fully loaded with ingredients, brought hot to your table, all for a low price.

OW PIZZA 1706 W. Third St. 374-5504. This pizza joint serves up good pizzas in a variety of ways, as well as sandwiches, big salads and a various pastas and appetizer breads.

HANAROO SUSHI BAR 205 W. Capitol Ave. 301-7900. It’s one of the few spots in downtown Little Rock that serves sushi. With an expansive menu, featuring largely Japanese fare with a bit of Korean mixed in.

WASABI 101 Main St. 374-0777. Downtown sushi and Japanese cuisine. For lunch, there’s quick and hearty Sushi samplers.

BARBECUE SIMS BAR-B-QUE 2415 Broadway St. 372-6868. Good spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and an addictive vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce unique in this part of the country.

EUROPEAN/ETHNIC LULAV 220 W. 6th St. 374-5100. A small, intimate restaurant in downtown Little Rock that serves excellent fish, veal, daring salads and much more.

MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE 400 President Clinton Ave. 372-1662. Gyros, falafel and souvlaki plates, as well as hummus, tabouleh, eggplant dip and other dishes—wonderful food at wonderful prices.

RUMBA/REVOLUTION 300 President Clinton Ave. 823-0090. Enjoy great For a sophisticated bite, try the burger sliders at “Mexi-Cuban” food and live music at Copper Grill. this restaurant/club combo. Rumba is US PIZZA AND SALAD EXPRESS 402 S. Louisiopen for lunch and dinner. Enjoy a variety of ana St. 374-5561. A downtown offshoot off the specialty drinks or choose from the largest rum original with a menu that includes pizza, salad selection in the state. and sandwiches. Call in pizza orders early.

UNDERGROUND PUB 500 President Clinton VINO’S 923 W. Seventh St. 375-8466. Great Ave. 707-2537. Hearty, tasty British pub-style fare, rock ’n’ roll club is also a fantastic pizzeria with including exceptional custom-made sausages, huge calzones and always improving homecrunchy fish and chips and a decent Reuben. brewed beers.

Inviting bar with an impressive draft beer and single-malt whiskey selection.

ITALIAN CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE 3 Statehouse Plaza (inside Peabody Hotel). 3998000. Large portions are the rule here, though the menu is not, as the name might suggest, it’s exclusively Italian. Steaks, soups and seafood are good choices.

CIAO 405 W. Seventh St. 372-0238. Don’t forget about this casual yet elegant bistro tucked into a downtown storefront. The fine pasta and seafood dishes, ambiance and overall

46

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

MEXICAN CASA MANANA TAQUERIA 400 President Clinton Ave. 372-6637. Great guacamole and garlic beans, superlative chips and salsa (red and green) and a good selection of fresh seafood, plus a deck out back.

FLYING BURRITO 300 President Clinton Ave. 372-7272. A trendy-looking walk-up-and-order spot in the River Market district offering tacos, burritos and the like, with various styles of tortillas and add-ons. The bar is impressive.

JUANITA’S 1300 Main St. 372-1228. Menu

includes a variety of combination entrée choices— enchiladas, tacos, flautas, shrimp burritos and such—plus creative salads and other dishes. And of course the “Blue Mesa” cheese dip.

Midtown AMERICAN

ACADIA 3000 Kavanaugh Blvd. 603-9630. A jewel of a restaurant in Hillcrest. Wonderful soups and fish dishes. Extensive wine list.

ARKANSAS BURGER CO. 7410 Cantrell Rd. 663-0600. Really good burgers, fries and shakes, plus a great Greek salad and other entrées.

BOULEVARD BREAD CO. 1920 N. Grant St., 663-5951; and 4301 W. Markham St. at UAMS, 526-6661. Fresh bread and pastries, wide selection of cheeses, meats, side dishes—all superb.

Good coffee, too.

BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT 2300 Cottondale Lane. 663-2677. The food’s great, portions huge and the prices reasonable.

Diners can look into the open kitchen and watch the culinary geniuses at work slicing, dicing and sauteeing. It’s great fun, and the fish is special.

BUFFALO GRILL 1611 Rebsamen Park Rd. 296-9535. The great, crispy-off-thegriddle cheeseburger and hand-cut fries star at this family-friendly stop. The original is back in full force in Riverdale with a spacious deck.

BURGE’S TURKEYS AND HAMS 5620 R St. 666-1660. Famous for its smoked turkey and hams, but also offers tasty catfish and homemade fried pies.

CATFISH CITY AND BBQ GRILL 1817 S. University Ave. 663-7224. Fried fish and sides, including green tomato pickle relish and tasty beef, pork and sausage sandwiches.

CHEERS IN THE HEIGHTS 2010 N. Van Buren St. 663-5937. Offers good burgers and sandwiches, with vegetarian choices and salads at lunch, and fish specials and good steaks in the evening.

The Heights location is intimate and the wine list is emphasized.

CRAZEE’S COOL CAFÉ 7626 Cantrell Rd. 221-9696. Good burgers, daily plate specials and bar food amid pool tables and TVs. DIXIE CAFE 1301 Rebsamen Park Rd. 663-9336.

Abundant and inexpensive vegetable choices that are wholesome and satisfying, with meats and fresh rolls to match.

FADED ROSE 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd. 663-9734.

The Cajun-inspired menu seldom disappoints.

Steaks and soaked salads are legendary.

FERNEAU 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. 603-9208.

Great seafood, among other things, is served at the Ice House Revival in Hillcrest.

JIMMY’S SERIOUS SANDWICHES 5116 W. Markham St. 666-3354. Consistently fine sandwiches, side orders and desserts. The chicken salad’s among the best in town. Get there early for lunch.

LOCA LUNA 3519 Old Cantrell Rd. 663-4666.

Grilled meats, seafood and pasta dishes that never stray far from its country roots, whether Italian, Spanish or Arkie. “Gourmet plate lunches” are good, as is Sunday brunch.

McALISTERS DELI 9700 N. Rodney Parham Rd.

537-4848. Hefty deli sandwiches with good, nononsense cold cuts, quality breads and a large selection of meats and cheeses.

OYSTER BAR 3003 W. Markham St. 666-7100.

Gumbo, red beans and rice (all you can eat Mondays), peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters on the half shell. Good po’ boys.

OZARK COUNTRY RESTAURANT 202 Keightley Dr. 663-7319. Football-sized omelets filled with the same marvelous smoked meats and cheeses that are heaped on sandwiches at lunch. Great biscuits and gravy, bacon, home-style potatoes and a daily plate lunch special to boot.

PURPLE COW DINER 8026 Cantrell Rd. 2213555. Great for kids and adults alike. 1950s fare—cheeseburgers, chili dogs and thick milk shakes—outdoor patio dining, too.

RED LOBSTER 8407 W. Markham St. 224-0940.

Top-grossing restaurant in Central Arkansas, a crowd favorite with fried and sautéed shrimp and other seafood.

SALUT! 1501 N. University Ave. 660-4200. Pleasantly quirky menu here—rosemary barbecued shrimp on seared polenta, gnocchi in a cream sauce with asparagus and red onion, short ribs ravioli, shrimp and grits. Patio dining.

SATELLITE COFFEE CO. AND CAFÉ Kavanaugh and University. 663-6336. This Heights technopop shop offers fresh breads and fruits all day.

The sandwiches are extremely good.

SCALLION’S 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd. 666-6468.

Always great service, food and desserts in a pleasant setting. A solid lunch spot, too.

SO RESTAURANT BAR 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd.

Kids of all ages love the purple milkshake at the Purple Cow. 663-1464. Call it a French brasserie with a sleek, but not fussy American finish—stonewalls, handsome furniture and apron-clad waiters anxious to please. Good ingredients are prepared simply— everything from salads and sandwiches to a four-course prix fixe menu starring a buttery filet mounded with lump crab and choice fish. The wine selection is broad and choice. It simply feels

good to eat there. And tastes good, too.

SUFFICIENT GROUNDS 124 W. Capitol Ave. 372-1009. A neighborhood café with comfy chairs and an all-are-welcome attitude. It serves pizza, wraps, quiches, bagels, pastries, and of course, coffee.

TOWN PUMP 1321 Rebsamen Park Rd. 663-9802.

Daily soup specials at lunch and a dependable burger, plus basic bar food.

TRIO’S 8201 Cantrell Rd. 221-3330. One of Little Rock’s best restaurants—a consistent award winner. The enchiladas and voodoo pasta at dinner and the rich list of tempting desserts are worth every penny.

UNION 3421 Cantrell Rd. 661-8311. Enjoy tapas and cocktails in this friendly, casual Riverdale setting.

VIEUX CARRE 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. 663-1196.

A pleasant spot in Hillcrest with specialty salads, steak and seafood. The soup of the day is a good bet. At lunch, the menu includes an all-vegetable sandwich and a half-pound cheeseburger.

ZACK’S PLACE 1400 S. University Ave. 6646444. Expertly prepared home cooking and huge, smoky burgers.

ASIAN CHI’S TOO 5110 W. Markham St. 604-7777. A huge menu spans the Chinese provinces and offers a few twists on the usual local offerings, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum.

FANTASTIC CHINA 1900 N. Grant St. 663-8999.

The food is fresh and delicious, the presentation beautiful, the menu distinctive and the

Lively, Casual, Fun, Reasonably Priced and Drop-Dead Delicious!

3519 Old Cantrell

663-4666 www.localuna.com

… Bon Appetit

RedDoorestaurant.net

next door to Loca Luna

3700 Cantrell Rd. ✦ 666-8482

Opening October, 2009

Gourmet Magazine New York Times Washington Post Atlanta Journal USA Today Food Arts

y’s

a el R a h ac s in R Travel d e tur Tasty Fea

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

47

appealing on the open-air deck. the back ribs are worthy of their many blue service perfect.

PIZZA D’ACTION 2919 W. Markham St. 666ribbons, all served with a six-pack of sauces for FORBIDDEN CITY inside Park Plaza. 663-9099.

5403. Some of the best pizza in town, a marall tastes. The beef brisket is fine and cooked This Park Plaza stable has fast and friendly service, riage of thin crispy crust with a hefty ingredient the way Texans like it. World and state barbecue offering up good lo mein and other Cantonese load. Also, good appetizers and salads, pasta, cook-off champion. and Hunan dishes. sandwiches and killer plate lunches.

NEW CHINA BUFFET 9210 N. Rodney Parham U.S. PIZZA 2710 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-2198; Rd. 223-0888. This West Little Rock restaurant EUROPEAN/ETHNIC 5524 Kavanaugh Blvd., 664-7071. Crispy thinoffers a wide selection of traditional Chinese CAFE BOSSA NOVA 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. 614crust pizzas, frosty beers and heaping salads fare from its large buffet.

6682. A South American approach to sandwiches, drowned in creamy dressing.

NEW STAR’S CHINESE FOOD 2817 Cantrell salads and desserts, all quite good, as well as an ZAZA 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. 661-9292. This Rd. 280-0022. Traditional and tasty Chinese fare, array of refreshing teas and coffees. contemporary Heights café would be right at offering a variety of meat, rice and noodle dishes.

CIAO BACI 605 N. Beechwood St. 603-0238. home in Naples with its espresso machine, Try the beef and broccoli with brown sauce.

The focus is on fine dining at this casually tempting display of smooth and soft gelato in PEI WEI Markham and University. 280-9423. Sort elegant Hillcrest bungalow. Many come for the all the required flavors (pistachio, gianduia) and of a miniature P.F. Chang’s, but it’s fun and offers comfortable lounge that serves specialty drinks a wood-fired pizza oven turning out textbook all the Chang favorites we like, such as the crisp until 2 a.m. nightly.

Italian ‘za with gorgeous blistered crusts and a honey shrimp, Dan Dan noodles and Pad Thai.

LEO’S GREEK CASTLE 2925 Kavanaugh Blvd. light topping of choice and tempting ingredients.

You order from the cashier, get your own tea, 666-7414. Wonderful Mediterranean food— Family-styled grilled steaks and shrimps, paired silver ware and fortune cookies, and they bring gyros or platters, falafel and tabouleh—plus with the call-your-own-ingredient salads. Don’t you piping hot food to your cozy table. dependable hamburgers, ham sandwiches, steak miss the fabulously rich dessert bar, presuming PHILAM GOURMET 2924 S. University Ave. platters and BLTs. you can resist the gelato.

568-7776. A restaurant serving up Filipino food, with daily specials to choose from and a MEXICAN buffet on Friday.

BROWNING’S 5805 Kavanaugh SAIGON CUISINE 6805 Cantrell Blvd. 663-9956. They’re still Rd. 663-4000. Traditional Vietserving up old-style Tex-Mex namese entrées with Thai and and nostalgia at one of Little Chinese selections. Be sure to Rock’s oldest restaurants. Contry the authentic and delicious sistency counts for something. If pho soups and an extra thumbs the Mexican isn’t to your taste, up for the spring rolls. they have American dishes too, SHOGUN JAPANESE STEAKincluding steaks. A chicken-fried HOUSE AND SUSHI BAR 2815 steak made from pork is better Cantrell Rd. 666-7070. The chefs than you might expect. Catering will dazzle you, as will the variety specialties from the old Cordell’s of tasty stir-fry combinations and deli can be ordered here. the sushi bar. Usually crowded CANON GRILL 2811 Kavanaugh at night.

Blvd. 664-2068. Creative appetizers SUSHI CAFE 5823 Kavanaugh come in huge quantities, and the Blvd. 663-9888. Impressive, varied main-course menu rarely upscale sushi menu with other disappoints. delectable house specialties like CASA MANANA ROCK 6820 tuna tataki, fried soft shell crab, Fantastic China in the Heights serves up award-winning Chinese Cantrell Rd. 280-9888. Great Kobe beef and, believe it or not, cuisine. guacamole and garlic beans, the Toyko cowboy burger. superlative chips and salsa (red and green), and ITALIAN VAN LANG CUISINE 3600 S. University Ave. 570a good selection of fresh seafood.

CAFE PREGO 5510 Kavanaugh Blvd. 663-5355.

7700. Terrific Vietnamese cuisine, particularly the EL CHICO 1315 Breckenridge Dr. 224-2550. Hearty, Dependable entrées of pasta, pork and the like, way the pork dishes and the assortment of rolls standard Tex-Mex served in huge portions. plus great sauces, fresh mixed greens and deliare presented. Great prices, too. Massive menu, LA HACIENDA 3024 Cantrell Rd. 661-0600. cious dressings, crisp-crunchy-cold gazpacho and but it’s user-friendly for locals with full English Creative, fresh-tasting entrées and traditional tempting desserts in a comfy bistro setting. descriptions and numbers for easy ordering. favorites, all painstakingly prepared in a festive DAMGOODE PIES 6706 Cantrell Rd., and atmosphere. Great taco salad, nachos, and 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. 664-2239. A somewhat maybe the best fajitas around.

BARBECUE different pizza place, largely because of a spicy SENOR TEQUILA 10300 N. Rodney Parham Rd., CROSS-EYED PIG 1701 Rebsamen Park Rd. garlic white sauce that’s offered as an alternative 224-5505; and 2000 S. University Ave. 660-4413.

265-0000. Huge portions of marvelous barbecue, to the traditional red sauce. Good bread, too.

Authentic dishes with great service and prices, including amazingly tender pulled-pork; lean-andDelivery available. and maybe the best margarita in town. meaty, fall-off-the-bone ribs; and crusty-brown, GRADY’S PIZZAS AND SUBS 6801 W. 12th juicy half-chickens.

St. 663-1918. Pizza features a pleasing blend SIMS BAR-B-QUE 1307 John Barrow Rd. 224of cheeses rather than straight mozzarella.

2057. Good spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half The grinder is a classic, the chef’s salad huge and whole chicken and an addictive vinegarAMERICAN and tasty. mustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part ALLEY OOPS 11900 Kanis Rd. 221-9400 The GRAFFITI’S 7811 Cantrell Rd. 224-9079. The of the country. restaurant at Creekwood Plaza (near the Kaniscasually chic and ever-popular Italian-flavored TERRI-LYNN’S BAR-B-Q AND DELI 10102 N. Bowman intersection) is a real neighborhood bistro avoids the rut with daily specials and Rodney Parham Rd. 227-6371. High-quality hangout serving delicious plate lunches, burgers careful menu tinkering. meats served on large sandwiches and good and homemade desserts.

PIZZA CAFÉ 1517 Rebsamen Park Rd. 664-6133. tamales served with chili or without (the better APPLEBEE’S 12110 Chenal Pkwy. 954-8444. A Thin, crunchy pizza with just a dab of tomato bargain). vast menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, pastas sauce but plenty of toppings covered with gooey WHOLE HOG CAFE 2516 Cantrell Rd. 664and appetizers, served in a pleasant setting. cheese. Draft beer—frosty and generous—is 5025. The pulled-pork shoulder is a classic and ARTHUR’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE 27 Rahling

West

48

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

ARTIST:________

Circle. 821-1848. The main event is prime beef, or even more expensive Australian wagyu beef.

The steak’s crusty on the outside, just right on the inside. There’s a wide choice of seafood, too. The truffle fries are spectacular. Good wine list.

ATHLETIC CLUB 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy. (inside Embassy Suites Hotel) 312-9000. What Best Steakhouse could be mundane fare gets delightful twists 2004, 2005, 2004, 2005 and embellishments here.

2006, 2007, and 2006 BONEFISH GRILL 11525 Cantrell Rd. 228-0356.

2008 This Florida-based chain offers the deep-sea version of the Outback experience in a dressier setting with a convivial bar. A half-dozen or more Since 2001 types of fresh fish filets are offered daily, grilled over a wood fire. Several sauces are available, but the fish is good enough on its own. Shrimp, mussels and scallops star on the appetizer list and there’s plenty of meat and chicken for those who resist seafood. Key lime pie is the perfect sweet/tart finish.

BUFFALO GRILL 400 N. Bowman Rd. 224-0012.

Best Steak 2005, 2006 & 2007 The great, crispy-off-the-griddle cheeseburger and hand-cut fries star at this family-friendly stop.

BUTCHER SHOP 10825 Hermitage Rd. 3122748. A lot has changed since 1981, when the Little Rock location debuted. The menu has expanded, but choose a steak and let the pros cook it. You’ll be glad you did.

CAFÉ 201 Markham and Shackleford. 223-3000.

This West Little Rock restaurant, located inside the Crowne Plaza Hotel, offers classic American Inquire about our private corporate lunches. cuisine that includes excellent steaks. Locals and 500 President Clinton Avenue (In the River Market District) guests alike will enjoy the friendly service in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Reservations: 501-324-2999 • sonnywilliamssteakroom.com CAPERS 14502 Cantrell Rd. 868-7600. It’s never been better, with as good a wine list as any in the area, and a menu that covers a lot of ground— seafood, steaks, pasta—and does it all well.

CAPI’S 11525 Cantrell Rd. 225-9600. Sophisticated and friendly, the latest offering from the folks who created Trio’s, features easy to share small bites in larger than expected portions.

Selections range from roasted potatoes and stuffed mushrooms to Tuna Tataki and crab cakes. Don’t skip one of the four fresh desserts offered each day.

THIS AD HAS INCURRED PRODUCTION CHARGES CHEEBURGER CHEEBURGER 11525 Cantrell Rd. understand that this proof is provided so that correct PRODUCTION any typographical errors. I have read and auth THIS AD HASI may INCURRED CHARGES 490-2433. Premium black AngusI cheeseburgers, publication.

The Arkansas Times bears no liability.

Production charges will be billed toI me on read my advertising I understand that this proof is provided so that I may correct any typographical errors. have and autho in five different sizes, ranging from the Classic The Arkansas Times bears no liability. Production charges will be billed to me on my advertising in (5.5 ounces) to the Pounderpublication.

(20 ounces), and nine cheese options. For sides,Signature_______________________________________________________________Date_____________ milkshakes and PLEASE RETURN THIS SIGNED PROOF PROMPTLY! golden-fried onion rings are Signature_______________________________________________________________Date______________ the way to go.

PLEASE RETURNARKANSAS THIS SIGNEDTIMES PROOF PROMPTLY! COFFEE BEANERY CAFE 17200 Chenal Pkwy.

821-7747. Come for the coffee, but the sandP.O. Box 34010, Little Rock ARKANSAS TIMESAR 72203 wiches and desserts are good, too.

P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock AR 72203 COMMUNITY BAKERY 270 S. Shackleford Rd. 224-6167. This sunny bakery is a great place to linger over a latte, bagels and the New York Times. But a lunchtime dash for sandwiches is OK, too, though it’s often packed.

DELICIOUS TEMPTATIONS 11220 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 225-6893. A great variety of sandwiches, meal-sized salads and homemade soups, many of the items are heart-smart. Great desserts, too.

DIXIE CAFE 10700 Rodney Parham Rd. 224-3728.

Abundant vegetable choices that are inexpensive, wholesome, satisfying and dependable, with meats and fresh rolls to match.

FADED ROSE 400 N. Bowman Rd. 224-3377.

The Cajun-inspired menu seldom disappoints.

Steaks and soaked salads are legendary.

2009 2007

™

2001 - 2009

World Champion Barbeque

2516 Cantrell Road Little Rock 664-5025

5107 Warden Rd North Little Rock 753-9227

12111 W. Markham Little Rock 907-6124

www.wholehogcafe.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

49

Cajun and atomic, as well as specialty flavors But they’re much more than a bakery, they GRUMPY’S TOO 1801 Green Mountain Dr. 225like lemon pepper and teriyaki. offer a full menu of sandwiches made with their 3768. Try the Wednesday night bonanza: large, signature breads, and hand-tossed salads and fresh oysters on the half-shell and hefty shrimp hearty soups.

ASIAN for a quarter-a-pop. Rib special on Mondays.

PURPLE COW DINER 11602 Chenal Pkwy. 224CHI’S DIM SUM & BISTRO #6 Shackleford IZZY’S 5601 Ranch Dr. 868-4311. It’s bright, 4433. 1950s fare—cheeseburgers, chili dogs, Dr. 221-7737. A huge menu spans the Chinese clean and casual, with a snappy team serving up thick milk shakes. provinces and offers a few delightful twists on sandwiches and fries, fresh salads, pasta about RESTAURANT 1620 1620 Market St. 221-1620. the usual local offerings, plus there’s authentic a dozen ways, hand-rolled tamales and (dinner Steaks, chops, choice of fresh seafood and Hong Kong dim sum. only) brick oven pizzas. meal-sized salads are just a few of the choices CHI’S CHINESE EXPRESS 17200 Chenal Pkwy.

JASON’S DELI 301 N. Shackleford Rd. 954-8700. on the menu at this popular, upscale bistro. It’s 821-8000. A huge menu offers a few twists on the A huge selection of sandwiches (wraps, subs, a romantic, candlelit restaurant, elegant without usual and spans the Chinese provinces. There’s po’ boys and pitas), fresh salads and spuds, as being fussy or overly formal. authentic Hong Kong dim sum. well as red beans and rice and chicken pot pie.

SAN FRANCISCO BREAD CO. 101 S. Bowman FULIN 200 N. Bowman Rd. 225-8989. Quality Plus a large selection of heart-healthy dishes Rd. 537-0200. Breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, of the made-to-order entrées is high, as is the and organic vegetables. soups and a hot cup of Joe or iced tea. quantity.

JAVA ROASTING CAFÉ COMPANY 10221 N. SHORTY SMALL’S 1100 N. Rodney Parham Rd. GINA’S CHINESE KITCHEN AND SUSHI BAR Rodney Parham Rd., 225-5282; and 12800 Chenal 14524 Cantrell Rd. 868-7775. A broad Pkwy., 228-5383. Serving it up hot, flavored, and strong sushi menu with a manageiced or frozen, and if that’s not enough, able and delectable selection of Chinese there are original coffee creations like Tiger’s standards.

Brew, made with dark chocolate and a touch HUNAN ORIENTAL CUISINE 11600 of orange, or Snowberry, white chocolate Pleasant Ridge Dr. 223-9966. Old favorites and raspberry. For non-coffee drinkers, such as orange beef or chicken and Hunan try a fresh smoothie or juice. Snuggle up green beans are still prepared with care to the Internet Bar while munching on a in very nice surroundings. sandwich, salad or pastry.

IGIBON 11121 N. Rodney Parham Rd. LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE AND SALOON 217-8888. It’s a complex place, where 10901 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 227-8898. the food is always good and the ambiThink western roadhouse, with cowboy ance and service never fail to please. The paraphernalia lit up by the soft glow of beer sushi is good, while the Bento box with signs. Cowboys will feel at home with the tempura shrimp and California rolls and beef, which is good but more like range other delights stand out. beef than the high-dollar steakhouses.

KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE AND Big salads, too.

SUSHI 11401 Financial Centre Pkwy. 225MAGGIE MOOS 17821 Chenal Pkwy. 8215999. Though answering the need for more 7609. Looking for a cold and rich dessert, hibachis in Little Rock, Kobe stands taller this ice cream parlor offers a smorgasbord for its sushi offerings. of flavors and toppings, cupcakes, shakes, KOTO 17200 Chenal Pkwy. 821-7200. Sushi dreamcakes and much more. and upscale Japanese cuisine.

MARKHAM STREET GRILL AND PUB LILLY’S DIM SUM THEN SOME 11121 11321 W. Markham St. 224-2010. The Rodney Parham Rd. 716-2700. Delectable menu at this West Little Rock restaurant has Asian comfort food—fried or steamed something for everyone. Try the burgers, dumplings and more in a variety of which are juicy, big and fine. presentations. Thai ginger noodles and McALISTERS DELI 12019 Westhaven Dr., panang and pad Thai are just a few of 228-7727; 5507 Ranch Dr., 367-5050; and the highlights.

9700 Rodney Parham Rd., 537-4848. Hefty MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT deli sandwiches with good, no-nonsense 10301 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 227-6498. cold cuts, quality breads and a large selecThe dean of Little Rock sushi bars with a tion of meats and cheeses. fabulous lunch special.

MIMI’S CAFE 11725 Chenal Pkwy. 221Whole Hog Café features award-winning barbeque OSAKA JAPANESE RESTAURANT 5501 3883. Breakfast is our meal of choice at along with a six-pack of sauces.

Ranch Dr. 868-3688. Fine-dining Japanese this upscale West Coast chain. Portions dishes and a well-stocked sushi bar. are big enough to last you through the 224-3344. Land of big, juicy burgers, massive P. F. CHANG’S 317 S. Shackleford Rd. 225-4424. afternoon, especially if you get a muffin on the cheese logs, smoky barbecue platters and the Make a reservation to get seated immediately and side. Also, other middle-America comfort-style signature onion loaf. enjoy some terrific flavors and presentations. entrées from pot roast to pasta dishes.

THE PANTRY 11401 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 353SAMURAI JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 2604 S. OLD MILL BREAD AND FLOUR CO. CAFE 1875. For something off the well-beaten restaurant Shackleford Rd. 224-5533. A hibachi grill that Markham and Bowman. 228-4677. The popular path, this west Little Rock restaurant is offering transcends typical fare. With sushi menu, too. take-out bakery has an eat-in restaurant and what they call rustic European fare, including SEKISUI 219 N. Shackleford Rd. 221-7070. friendly operators. It’s self-service, simple and bratwurst, potato dumping, red cabbage soup Fresh-tasting sushi, Japanese traditional or the good—11 types of sandwiches built with a changand more. But for those who want something a fun hibachi-style, and an overwhelming assorting lineup of the bakery’s 40 different breads, little closer to home, try their hamburger mad ment of entrées. Nice wine selection, sake and along with soups, salads and cookies. with freshly ground meat. specialty drinks.

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE 105 Markham Park WEST END SMOKEHOUSE AND TAVERN 215 Dr. 221-7655. Huge portions of well-grilled meats N. Shackleford Rd. 224-7665. Its primary focus BARBECUE at decent prices, perfectly roasted rack of lamb is a sports bar with 50-plus TVs, but the dinner BARE BONES PIT BAR-B-Q 5501 Ranch Dr. and massive, succulent salmon. entrées (grilled chicken and steaks) are plentiful 868-7427. A carefully controlled gas oven, with PANERA BREAD 11525 Cantrell Rd. 227-0222. and the bar food is top quality. wood chips added for flavor, guarantees moist This west Little Rock bakery/café, serves freshly WINGSTOP 11321 W. Markham St. 224-9464. and sweet pork—both pulled from the shoulder baked breads, bagels and pastries every morning.

It’s all about wings. The joint features eight and back ribs. The side orders, particularly the Chose from a full line of espresso beverages. flavors of chicken flappers, including mild, hot,

50

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

baked potato salad, are excellent.

CHIP’S BARBECUE 9801 W. Markham St. 2254346. Tasty barbecue piled high on sandwiches generously doused with tangy sauce. Pie is tall and tasty.

CROSS-EYED PIG WEST 6015 Chenonceau Blvd. 868-8991. Huge portions of marvelous barbecue, including amazingly tender pulledpork; lean-and-meaty, fall-off-the-bone ribs; and crusty-brown, juicy half-chickens.

fantasticindeed

EUROPEAN/ETHNIC AMRUTH AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE 11121 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 224-4567. Nice spicy Indian dishes in a small but shiny storefront and at a price you can afford. The chicken biryani is loaded with saffron; the samosas are delicious.

Lunch specials, available weekdays, are about $6.50. Lamb and shrimp dishes accompany any number of vegetarian delights.

GAUCHO’S GRILL 11 Shackleford Dr. 954-8787.

A real flesh-fest dining experience, introducing the area to upscale South American cuisine. Stick with the chicken or red meat choices, pace yourself, and laugh when they suggest a rich dessert after partaking in this all-you-can-eat feast.

LAYLA’S HALAL 9501 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 227-7272 Delicious Mediterranean fare— gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and babaganush—that has a devoted following.

All meat is slaughtered according to Islamic dietary law.

STAR OF INDIA 301 N. Shackleford Rd. 227-9900.

People who don’t know if they like Indian food discover here that they do. It’s always one of Little Rock’s most highly regarded restaurants—great lamb, great curries, great chicken tandoori, great naan. The daily lunch buffet is a real deal. Don’t forget to try the Indian beer.

TERRACE ON THE GREEN 2200 Rodney Parham Rd. 217-9393. This Greek-Italian-Thaiand-whatever restaurant has a huge menu, and you can rely on each dish to be good, some to be excellent. Portions are ample.

YA YA’S EUROBISTRO 17711 Chenal Pkwy.

821-1144. The first eatery to open in the new Promenade at Chenal is a date-night affair, transforming comfort food into beautiful cuisine. Best bet is lunch, where you can explore the menu through soup, salad or half a sandwich.

1900 N. GraNt • (501) 663-8999 • OpeN SeveN DayS a Week

New Orleans food at its best!

Area’s best steaks, seafood & Creole/ Cajun dishes

ITALIAN AMALFI 27 Rahling Rd. 821-1814. Traditional Northern Italian from veteran restauranteur Jerry Barakat, with impressive fresh fish and pasta options, a nice Italian wine selection and culinary flourishes that separate dishes from the norm.

BRUNO’S LITTLE ITALY 315 N. Bowman Rd. 224-4700. This more-than-half-century-old establishment artfully balances innovation with its delicious traditional fare. The pizza is outstanding and service impeccable.

CARINO’S COUNTRY ITALIAN 11600 Pleasant Ridge Rd. 225-3434. A homey-chain joint, from the same people who brought you Macaroni Grill, offering irresistible Italian bread and affordable, tasty, substantial lunches and dinners.

DAMGOODE PIES 10720 Rodney Parham Rd. 664-2239. A somewhat different pizza place, largely because of a spicy garlic white sauce

“Little Rock’s World Famous Restaurant”

“It’s one of my best finds ever!”

– Rachel Ray’s Tasty Travels

The Faded Rose ®

SteAkS - SeAFood - CReoLe SpeCiALtieS

400 N. Bowman Road • 501-224-3377 1619 Rebsamen Road • 501-663-9734 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

51

that’s offered as an alternative to the traditional red sauce. Good bread, too. Pick-up only at this location.

JIM’S RAZORBACK PIZZA 16101 Cantrell Rd. 868-3250. Great pizza served up in a family-friendly, sports-themed environment. Special Saturday and Sunday brunch served from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Flat-screen TVs throughout and even a cage for shooting basketballs and playing ping pong.

LARRY’S PIZZA 12911 Cantrell Rd. 224-8804.

The buffet is the way to go—fresh, hot pizza, fully loaded with ingredients, brought hot to your table, all for a low price.

NYPD PIZZA 6015 Chenonceau Blvd. 868-3911.

Plenty of tasty choices in the obvious New York police-like setting, but it’s fun. Only the pizza is cheesy, and personal pizzas come in impressive combinations. Baked ziti, salads and more are also available.

MEXICAN CHILI’S GRILL AND BAR 10700 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 224-0455. You can put some Mexican flair into your meal or go for an all-American platter at this chain spot with a huge menu.

COZYMEL’S 10 Shackleford Dr. 954-7100. A trendy Dallas-chain cantina with flaming cheese dip, cilantro pesto, mole, lamb and more.

EL PORTON 12111 W. Markham St. 223-8588.

Very good Mexican for the price and a wideranging menu of dinner plates. Tasty cheese dip and great service.

LA HACIENDA 12315 Chenal Pkwy. 223-2716.

Creative, fresh-tasting entrées and traditional favorites, all painstakingly prepared in a festive atmosphere. Great taco salad, nachos, and maybe the best fajitas around.

LA PALAPA 18321 Cantrell Rd. 868-8822.

Seafood is the focus at this Mexican restaurant,

The soaked salad and Cajun-inspired menu at the Faded Rose in Riverdale are legendary.

OLIVE GARDEN 10715 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 225-7673. Chain restaurant with lots of basic favorites, and a great eat-til-you’re-stuffed salad deal, if the pasta doesn’t stuff you first.

OW Pizza 8201 Ranch Blvd. 868-1100. Formerly part of the “Olde World” trio of restaurants, this pizza joint serve up good pizzas in a variety of ways, sandwiches, big salads and a various pastas and appetizer breads.

ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL 11100 W. Markham St. 221-3150. A chain restaurant with a large menu of pasta, chicken, beef, fish and specialty dishes with a corporate bent. Don’t forget to try their breads.

U.S. PIZZA 9300 N. Rodney Parham Rd. 2246300. Crispy thin-crust pizzas, frosty beers and heaping salads drowned in creamy dressing.

VESUVIO BISTRO 1501 Merrill Dr. (inside BW Governor’s Suites) 225-0500. If you’re looking for real Italian food, this four-star restaurant is the place for you. The swordfish is excellent as is the fillet of sole. Don’t forget to sample the pasta with shrimp.

VILLA ITALIAN RESTAURANT Markham and Bowman. 219-2244. Hearty, inexpensive, classic southern Italian dishes.

52

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

but the overly huge menu includes land-based items such as a great chile verde. Pan-fried fish topped with cheese and tomato-based sauce is a nightly special.

MI RANCHITO 1520 Market St. 223-5414. This growing Arkansas-owned chain offers great variety and super-sized Tex-Mex meals, only spicier and more flavor than the regular fare.

Good white cheese dip.

MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL 12312 Chenal Pkwy.

223-3378. This West Little Rock restaurant could be described as a “build-your-own-burrito” joint, with several tacos and nachos to chose from as well. Wash it down with a beer from their large selection.

ON THE BORDER 11721 Chenal Pkwy. 217-9275.

Great Tex-Mex food, with guacamole made to order, and a menu that offers some specialty chicken, shrimp and fish dishes. The salsa is so good and they sell it separately. We heartily recommend the Mercedes margarita.

SOUTHWEST AMERICAN

APPLEBEE’S #6 Mabelvale Plaza Lane. 565-3004.

A vast menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, pastas and appetizers, served in a pleasant setting.

DIXIE CAFE 10011 I-30, 568-6444. Abundant

vegetable choices that are inexpensive, wholesome, satisfying and dependable, with meats and fresh rolls to match.

FRONTIER DINER 10424 Interstate 30. 5656414. Order at the counter for home-cooked plate lunches, burgers and delicious pies.

GRAMPA’S CATFISH HOUSE 9219 Stagecoach Rd. 407-0000. The newest location of a longtime local favorite focuses on doing one thing well— fried catfish, hush puppies and good sides.

SPORTS AND BEYOND BAR & GRILL 2809 W. 12th St. 529-0790. An all-American bar and grill serving burgers, barbecue, chicken wings and Philly cheese steaks. Watch the game on a big-screen TV or enjoy a little intimate conversation on the deck.

BARBECUE CHATZ SMOKED MEATS 8801 Colonel Glenn Rd. 562-4949. While maybe a little out of the way, but this take-out-only eatery offers delicious ribs, chopped beef, pulled pork and all the finger-lickin’ trimmings.

FATBOY’S KILLER BAR-B-Q 14611 Arch St. 888-4998. This landmark community stripcenter restaurant in the far southern reaches of Pulaski County features tender ribs and pork by a contest pitmaster.

HB’S DRIVE IN 6010 Lancaster Rd. 565-1930.

Great slabs of meat with fiery barbecue sauce.

Ribs are served on Tuesday only. Other days, try the tasty pork sandwich on an onion roll.

SIMS BAR-B-QUE 1307 John Barrow Rd., 224-2057, and 7601 Geyer Springs Rd., 5628844. Good spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chickens and an addictive vinegarmustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part of the country.

THE PIT BAR-B-Q AND GRILL 13219 Interstate 30 (Exit 126). 455-9852. While the menu offers a wide array of foods, this restaurant specializes in barbecue, with pork, beef and rib offerings. Also, nice selection of sandwiches and salads.

ITALIAN D’CARLO PIZZERIA RISTORANTE 12325 Stagecoach Rd. 407-0400. Solid Italian standards and a few daring originals in a pleasant atmosphere served by even more pleasant people.

JIM’S RAZORBACK PIZZA 10900 Stagecoach Rd. 407-9800. Great pizza served up in a familyfriendly, sports-themed environment. Special Saturday and Sunday brunch served from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

MEXICAN PANADERIA Y TAQUERIA LAS AMERICAS 8622 Chicot Rd. 565-0266. Authentic Mexican food includes mouth-watering homemade tamales.

SAN JOSE GROCERY STORE AND BAKERY 7411 Geyer Springs Rd. 565-4246. This Mercadoplus restaurant smells and tastes like Mexico, and for good reason: fresh flour tortillas, overstuffed burritos, sopes (moist corncakes made with masa harina), and chilli poblano. It’s the real deal.

TAQUERIA AGUASCALIENTES 5412 Baseline Rd. 565-3433. Imagine grabbing a great taco, torta or burritos in the heart of Southwest Little Rock. No Spanish, not a problem, almost everyone there speaks English.

TAQUERIA KARINA CAFE 5309 W. 65th St. 562-3951. A real Mexican neighborhood cantina

serving freshly-baked pan dulce, first-rate guacamole, Mexican-bottled Cokes, and inexpensive tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Good selection of Mexican-style seafood.

PC

a

AIRPORT

AMERICAN BOSTON’S 3201 Bankhead Dr. 235-2000. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches and salads—located inside the Holiday Inn Express near the airport.

FLIGHT DECK 2301 Crisp Dr. (Central Flying Service at Adams Field). 375-3245. Hearty favorites like mom used to make. Offers daily lunch specials along with creative sandwiches, salads and a popular burger.

HOMER’S 2001 E. Roosevelt Rd. 374-1400. Great vegetables, huge yeast rolls and killer cobblers.

Follow the crowd.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK

Patio Dining Cold

Beer

AMERICAN

COCK OF THE WALK 7103 Cock of the Walk Lane, Maumelle exit 12 at Interstate 430. 7587182. A longstanding favorite known for its homemade cornbread prepared from scratch flipped in the pan right before your very eyes.

The chicken and shrimp are great, or go for the unbeatable catfish. The slaw is some of the world’s best.

RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE 2 Riverfront Place.

375-7825. The steaks, delivered fresh from Chicago twice a week, are salted, peppered, seared in an infrared oven, and then buttered for a meateater’s dream chow-down. There’s more to like, including the crab cakes, shrimp bisque, chops, chicken and lobster tail.

SADDLE CREEK WOODFIRED GRILL 2703 Lakewood Village. 812-0883. Upscale chain dining in Lakewood, with a menu full of appetizers, burgers, chicken, fish and other fare. It’s the smoke-kissed steaks, however, that make this joint a winner.

The

Pizza Café Old School, slow-cooked in a real oven with the best ingredients.

FREE:

Salt & Pepper

1517 Rebsamen Park Road • 664-6133 • 11-10 7 Days a Week

ASIAN BENIHANA 2 Riverfront Place (inside the Riverfront Hilton). 374-8081. A Japanese steakhouse with a fun cooking show. Make sure you get a little filet with your meal and do plenty of dunking in their fabulous ginger sauce.

CRAZY HIBACHI GRILL 2907 Lakewood Village.

812-9888. The folks that own Chi’s and Sekisui offer their best in a three-in-one: teppanyaki cooking, a sushi bar and sit-down dining with a Mongolian grill.

b

PC

d

PC

EUROPEAN/ETHNIC CREGEEN’S IRISH PUB 301 Main St. 376-7468.

Just a short trolley ride across the Arkansas River to this popular spot. Enjoy a great Sunday brunch or the all-day Irish breakfast. Their dinner menu is filled with many traditional favorites like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash and Harp battered fish and chips.

c

ITALIAN RISTORANTE CAPEO 425 Main St. 376-3463.

Authentic cooking from the boot of Italy is the main draw of this cozy, brick-walled restaurant.

Familiar pasta dishes will comfort most diners, but let the chef, who works in an open kitchen, entertain you with some more exotic dishes like the crispy veal sweetbreads. They make their own mozzarella daily

Buffet PC PC e

Great Food • Great Service • Great Experience

Buffet & Lunch Mon-Sat 11-3:30 Adults $6.95 Children (3-5) $3 (6-10) $4

Dinner Mon-Sat 4-9:30 Adults $10.95 Children (3-5) $4 (6-10) $5

Sunday All Day $10.95 • Seniors 60+ 10% Discount Party Room Available Shackleford Crossing Center • Interstate 430 • 2604 South Shackleford • Suite G Little Rock, AR 72205 • (501) 224-8100 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

53

Good Eats

MAKE YOUR STAY IN LITTLE ROCK MORE ENJOYABLE BY DINING AT SOME OF OUR FINEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S SOME OF OUR FAVORITES.

Benihana, Arkansas’ premier Japanese Steakhouse, where a meal is much more than a meal, it’s a performance.

Enjoy live entertainment in the lounge every Friday and Saturday.

Open for Lunch Mon. - Fri. 11am-2 pm.

Dinner Mon. -Thur. 5-9:30pm Fri. & Sat. 5-10pm.

Sun. 4:30-8:30pm

#2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock 501-374-8081 Located in The Wyndham Hotel

A local favorite since 1982, The Butcher Shop has built its powerful reputation by serving the finest hickory charcoaled steaks cut from the highest quality grain-fed beef direct from the Midwest.

Excellent service, fair prices and a comfortable atmosphere make The Butcher Shop the prime choice for your evening out.

Shackleford & Hermitage Road Little Rock • 501-312-2748 www.thebutchershop.com

Little Rock’s original gourmet experience, Capers regularly enjoys accolades for its fine, eclectic cuisine and award-winning wine list. Beautiful outdoor dining in a casual atmosphere makes Capers the preferred dining destination.

A favorite lunch destination, Best Impressions Restaurant offers unique American Fusion cuisine served in a fine dining, relaxed atmosphere – perfect for entertaining clients or a business lunch. The menu features soups, salads, sandwiches, hot entrees, daily specials and homemade desserts.

Free parking, patio dining, private dining room for events.

Tuesday - Sunday 11 am - 2 pm Located in the Arkansas Arts Center • 9th & Commerce Streets, Little Rock 501-907-5946 www.bestimpressionsrestaurant.com

Cajun’s Wharf is famous for its fresh seafood, aged Angus Beef and full-flavored good times. Come enjoy the great food and atmosphere of our beautiful restaurant and famous deck, both overlooking the Arkansas River.

Cajun's Wharf also offers complimentary shuttle service from area hotels.

2400 Cantrell Little Rock • 501-375-5351 www.cajunswharf.com

Tapas, small plates, bites, appetizers, hors d’oeuvres, snacks...grazing, nibbling, noshing…dining and sharing...so many words that describe the Capi’s experience. Fresh ingredients, local when possible, come together perfectly. Sandwich plates, big salads, excellent wine list, creative cocktails, and live music on the weekends.

Make the Capi’s experience part of your Little Rock experience!

14502 Cantrell Road Little Rock • 501-868-7600 www.capersrestaurant.com Pleasant Ridge Town Center •11525 Cantrell, Ste 917 • (501) 225-9600

5544 VISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDETO TOGREATER GREATERLITTLE LITTLEROCK ROCK••2010 2010

Good Eats

MAKE YOUR STAY IN LITTLE ROCK MORE ENJOYABLE BY DINING AT SOME OF OUR FINEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S SOME OF OUR FAVORITES.

A great urban restaurant and corner grocery store.

Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner, a gourmet experience, the perfect business lunch, a wine and cheese cocktail hour or a morning coffee before the rush, Copper grill & grocery offers gourmet your way.

Nestled on the ground floor of the 300 Third Tower, this casual, comfortable restaurant invites Little Rock’s food enthusiasts.

Stop in the grocery for artisan cheeses, baked goods, prepared meals and other grocery items.

Catfish restaurants come and go, but Arkansans know quality when it comes to catfish and Cock of the Walk Restaurant in Maumelle is one of Central Arkansas’s favorites. Set back in a stand of piney woods by a manmade pond, beautiful water features and roaming peacocks, the Cock of the Walk features the country look with a flair. From the moment you step into the entrance with its glossy wood floors, you can smell the homemade cornbread prepared from scratch.

300 Third Tower Little Rock • 501-375-3333 coppergrillandgrocery.com

Mon-Thur 5-9pm • Fri-Sat 5-10pm • Sunday 11:30am-9pm 7103 Cock of the Walk Lane • Overlooking Pinnacle Pond Maumelle exit off I-430, 1.5 miles west 501.758.7182 • North Little Rock

Authentic New Orleans at its very best!

For over 27 years recognized as one of Little Rock’s best steak places along with great seafood and other Creole/Cajun dishes in a casual fun atmosphere.

Comfort Inn & Suites Lobby Café/Bar, features soups, salads, pizza, hoagies, wings and more.

Closest Hotel to the Little Rock National Airport.

Open MondaySaturday 4 –10pm.

See our display ad on page 70.

4301 East Roosevelt • Little Rock From I-30, take I-440 East to Exit #3 From I-40, take I-440 West to Exit #3 (501) 376-2466 choicehotels.com/hotel/ar099

West Little Rock • 400 N. Bowman Rd. • 501-224-3377 Rebsamen Park • 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd. • 501-663-9734 AIRPORT

One of the Heights most reliable and satisfying restaurants, Fantastic China is a local’s favorite and offers more than the average Asian Food Restaurant. The chefs always use the freshest ingredients and prepare the food made to order, meaning your food is piping hot, steaming and guaranteed delicious.

1900 N. Grant • In the Heights 501-663.8999

AFTER EATINg AT THE FADED ROSE, RACHAEL RAy SAID “IT'S SO gOOD... THIS IS ONE OF My BEST FINDS EvER.”

Irresistible Stone Oven-Baked Pizza, Cold Beer, Salads and Sandwiches served at this downtown favorite in an uptown atmosphere. Iriana’s has been in business for 20+ years for good reason and is conveniently located at the mouth of the River Market.

IrIana’s

201 East Markham Heritage West Bldg.

Downtown 501-374-3656

VISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDETO TOGREATER GREATERLITTLE LITTLEROCK ROCK••2010 2010

5555

Good Eats

MAKE YOUR STAY IN LITTLE ROCK MORE ENJOYABLE BY DINING AT SOME OF OUR FINEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S SOME OF OUR FAVORITES.

Juanita’s is a legend in Little Rock. Since opening over 20 years ago the food is better than it’s ever been – they offer the highest quality Tex-Mex cuisine, fast and friendly service. The music lineup is the finest entertainment in town, any night is sure to be an unparalleled experience.

1300 S. Main St Downtown • 501-372-1228 www.juanitas.com

Picked as one of the “Best Neighborhood restaurants in America!” by Bon Appetit magazine. This is where the locals hang out!

A fun, casual American bistro with a little bit of everything on the moderately priced menu. Great bar and dynamite plate lunches!

3519 Old Cantrell Rd. Riverdale • 501-663-4666

This isn’t your average pizza!

Pizza Café is a local favorite featuring extra-cold mug beer, thin crispy crust and more. Don’t miss dipping your pizza bones (crust) in honey – a pizza café tradition. A year round deck, friendly staff and “quaint digs” promise a great pizza experience!

Fresh, flavorful, all-you-can-eat sushi lunch & dinner. Seafood buffet, fresh fruit buffet, seafood buffet and dessert buffet. With fresh and authentic Chinese dishes, nice décor, great dessert choices and excellent sushi. Panda Garden raises the bar.

11-9:30 Mon-Thurs, Fri & Sat 11-10.

PC Pizza Café 1517 Rebsamen Pak Rd 501-664-6133

2604 S. Shackleford Road, Suite G 501-224-8100

The Riverfront Steakhouse features USDA Prime steaks and seafood including whole lobster tail. Most customers agree our steak is the best they have ever tasted. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed and the service is second to none.

Open for Dinner Mon-Thur 5-9:30pm Fri & Sat evenings 5-10pm. #2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock 501-375-7825

The new place everyoneís talking about. Nationally recognized Chef Mark Abernathy teams up with rising star Chef John Leonardis to create an exciting and vibrant new restaurant opening Fall 2009. An eclectic, lively American bistro featuring an all-star menu with the best recipes from Abernathyís acclaimed Blue Mesa Grill and Bene Vita, along with dazzling new offerings featuring fresh local products. Fun and modern with a happening bar scene.

Moderate prices & bargain priced wine list.

Located in The Wyndham Hotel 3700 Cantrell • 666-8482 reddoorrestaurant.net VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDETO TOGREATER GREATERLITTLE LITTLEROCK ROCK••2010 2010 5566 VISITOR’S

Good Eats

MAKE YOUR STAY IN LITTLE ROCK MORE ENJOYABLE BY DINING AT SOME OF OUR FINEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S SOME OF OUR FAVORITES.

Located in hip downtown Little Rock’s River Market District, Sonny Williams’ Steak Room serves only the finest steaks and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. Their classy piano bar enriches your fine dining experience, and their renowned chef creates nothing but the finest. See you at Sonny’s!

500 President Clinton Ave., Suite 100 River Market District 501-324-2999 www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com

The Hop Diner

Just 2 blocks west of the River Market • 201 E. Markham • 501-244-0975 Monday - Saturday 11am-5pm • Closed Sundays Breakfast served 7am-10am

Unwind, dine and socialize at this tapas style eatery.

The Spanish “small plate” is served with big flavors from around the world.

Experience Southern Style Creole Meatloaf to Asian Tuna Poke and your palate will be pleased with any selection. Soothing candles, cozy couches and eclectic music provides the perfect backdrop for this hidden jewel.

Come discover eclectic cuisine on the cutting edge of the Little Rock independent restaurant scene. Enjoy your meal in Trio’s casually elegant dining room or relax on the patio in the spring or fall. If you’re planning a party, the Pavilion Room is available for your next event.

Pavilion in the Park 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 100 Little Rock • 501-221-3330 www.triosrestaurant.com Cell phone and smoke free

Welcome to U.S. Pizza. We pride ourselves in offering our guests the very best pizza, salads and sandwiches, and we value your patronage. We use old-fashioned stone hearth ovens that we bought in 1972, which is one of the reasons our unique pizzas are worth the wait. From our Salad Supreme to our spicy Trey’s Chloroplast Blast pizza, you won’t find our award winning original creations anywhere else.

U.S. Pizza Little Rock-Heights 5524 Kavanaugh 501.664.7071 Little Rock-Hillcrest 2710 Kavanaugh 501.663.2198 Little Rock 9300 Rodney Parham 501.224.6300

Looking for a REAL old fashioned diner?

Specializing in hot off the grill hamburgers and cheeseburgers.

Also offering chef salads, hot dogs, gourmet sandwiches, homemade tuna and chicken salad, onion rings and the BEST shakes in town. Plus a wide selection of bottled beverages. For a treat, Hop on In.

Maumelle 650 Edgewood 501.851.0880 N. Little Rock 3324 Pike Avenue 501.758.5997 N. Little Rock 4001 McCain Park 501.753.2900

www.uspizzaco.net

N. Little Rock 5524 JFK OPEN NOW! Conway 710 Front St. 501.450.9700 Fayetteville 202 W. Dickson St. 479.582.4808

Union RestaURant 501-661-8311 • 3421 Old Cantrell Mon - Fri 4 pm-2 am, Sat 4 pm-1 am, Sun 4 pm-12 am Must be 21 to enter; smoking allowed after 9 pm

Winner 2001-2009

Listed in the prestigious Fodor’s travel guide, Whole Hog Café is a must for anyone visiting the Little Rock area. From winning first place in the World Championship Barbeque Cook-Off to consistently winning numerous Reader’s Choice Awards, Whole Hog is a local favorite not to be missed!

Open until 8pm Monday through Saturday.

World Champion Barbecue 2516 Cantrell Rd. • Riverdale • 501-664-5025 VISITOR’S VISITOR’SGUIDE GUIDETO TOGREATER GREATERLITTLE LITTLEROCK ROCK••2010 2010

5577

Where to stay W

ith more than 8,000 rooms in Central Arkansas, from luxury suites to economy inns, business and leisure travelers alike will have no trouble finding suitable accommodations. High-quality lodgings are abundant in downtown Little Rock, as well as in the bustling commercial and financial districts at the western end of

Airport Airport Travelodge 7615 Fluid Dr. (501) 490-2200 www.travelodge.com Comfort Inn & Suites Airport 4301 E. Roosevelt Rd. (501) 376-2466 www.comfortsuites.com

Days Inn and Suites 3200 Bankhead Dr. (501) 490-2010 www.daysinn.com Holiday Inn Airport 3201 Bankhead Dr. (501) 490-1000 www.holiday-inn.com

The Peabody Little Rock lobby

58

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Interstate 630. Some visitors may want to look north, toward the junction of Interstates 30 and 40, with easy access to downtown and the airport, and the rest of the city just minutes away. There are also a number of comfortable options near the Little Rock National Airport. See the list for information about area hotels.

Holiday Inn Express 3121 Bankhead Dr. (501) 490-4000 www.holiday-inn.com

Downtown Little Rock Capital Hotel 111 W. Markham St. (501) 374-7474; 800-766-7666 www.capitalhotel.com

Comfort Inn & Suites Downtown 707 Interstate 30 (501) 687-7700; 800-4-CHOICE www.comfortinnlittlerock.com Courtyard by Marriott Downtown 521 President Clinton Ave. (501) 975-9800; 800-321-2211 www.courtyard.com

Doubletree Hotel 424 W. Markham St. (501) 372-4371; 800-222-8733 www.doubletree.com

Legacy Hotel 625 W. Capitol Ave. (501) 374-0100 www.legacyhotel.com

Empress of Little Rock 2120 S. Louisiana St. (501) 374-7966 www.theempress.com

Peabody Little Rock 200 W. Markham St. (501) 906-4000; 800-PEABODY www.peabodyhotelgroup.com

Hampton Inn 320 S. Commerce St. (501) 244-0600 www.HamptonInn.com

River Market Lofts 423 E. Third St. (501) 375-9990 www.rivermarketlofts.com

Holiday Inn Presidential Conference Center 600 Interstate 30 (501) 375-2100; 866-900-7625 www.holiday-inn.com

Rosemont Bed and Breakfast 515 W. 15th St. (501) 374-7456 www.rosemontoflittlerock.com

La Quinta Inns & Suites 617 S. Broadway St. (501) 374-9000 www.laquinta.com

Guesthouse Inn 301 S. University Ave. (501) 664-6800 www.littlerockguesthouseinn.com

Midtown

The Capital Hotel

Crowne Yourself.

The new Crowne Plaza Hotel is designed to be a luxurious and modern option for elite business and leisure travelers – with state-of-the-art amenities that let guests feel like royalty.

With over 7,500 square feet of meeting space, the new Crowne With over 7,500 square feet of meeting space, theand new Crowne Plaza is Plaza is also a square convenient venue formeeting meetings conventions With over With 7,500 over 7,500 square feet of feet meeting of space, space, the new the Crowne Crowne Plaza Plaza r 7,500 square feet of tomeeting space, the new Plazaof up new a convenient venue for meetings andCrowne conventions to 300 people. of up 300 people.

300 people. is a convenient is a convenient venue venue for meetings for meetings and conventions and conventions of up to of 300 up topeople.

ient venue for meetings and conventions of up to 300 people.

• 2 Hour Response

• 244 Upscale

With aWith a 2response 2-hour -hour response to RFPs, to RFPs, Priority Priority Club Meeting Club Meeting Rewards Rewards and a and host aofhost other of oth To RFPsPriority Club Meeting Rewards and a host of other Guest Rooms ponsemeeting-planner to RFPs, meeting-planner benefi thets, newtheCrowne new Crowne Plaza Plaza Hotel Hotel is a luxurious is a •luxurious and modern and modern option,op • Priority Club benefits, Exemplary Service efits, the Meeting new Crowne Plaza Hotel is aamenities luxurious and modern option, Rewards More with state-of-the-art with state-of-the-art amenities that letthat guests let guests – and –groups and groups – feel like –&feel royalty. like royalt

-of-the-art amenities that let guests – and groups – feel like royalty.

201 Shackleford / Little Rock, Arkansas / Telephone: 501-223 3000 Sales Fax: 501-537-2334 Email:Arkansas sales@crowneplazalittlerock.com 201 Shackleford / Little/Rock, / Telephone: 501-223-3000 Sales Fax: 501-537-2334 / Email: sales@crowneplazalittlerock.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

201 Shackleford 201 Shackleford / Little / Rock, Little Arkansas Rock, Arkansas / Telephone: / Telephone: 501-223-3000 501-223-3000

59

Hilton Inn Little Rock Metro Center 925 S. University Ave. (501) 664-5020 www.hilton.com

Crowne Plaza 201 S. Shackleford Rd. (501) 223-3000; 866-276-6648 www.crowneplazalittlerock.com

Jameson Suites 10920 Financial Centre Pkwy.

(501) 225-1075; 800-Jameson www.jamesoninns.com

La Quinta Medical Center 901 Fair Park Blvd.

(501) 664-7000 www.laquinta.com

Embassy Suites 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy.

(501) 312-9000 www.embassysuiteslittlerock.com

La Quinta Inn 1010 Breckenridge Dr. 501-225-7007 www.laquinta.com

Markham House Suites 5120 W. Markham St. (501) 666-0161 www.markhamhousesuites.com

Extended Stay America 600 Hardin Rd. (501) 954-9199; 800-398-7829 www.extendedstayamerica.com

La Quinta West 200 S. Shackleford Rd. (501) 224-0900 www.laquinta.com

West Little Rock ARKANSAS

TIMES PRODUCTION Extended Stay AmericaFAX

BW Governors Suites TO: 1501 Merrill Dr. CO.: (501) 224-8051; 800-422-8051 www.bestlittlerockhotel.com

FAX: Candlewood Suites

10800 Kanis Rd. FROM: (501) 954-9199 Arkansas Times CO.: www.extendedstayamerica.com

PH: (501) 375-2985 ext.

Hampton Inn375-9565 and Suites (501) FAX:

1301 S. Shackleford Rd. 10520 W. Markham St. (501) 537-4600 (501) 975-3800 PUBLICATION:______________________ ISSUE DATE:____________ vg 08 www.hampton-inn.com www.candlewoodsuites.com

ARTIST:pj_____ cg

Comfort Inn West 300 Markham Centre Dr. (501) 227-0120 www.comfortsuites.com

Holiday Inn Express and Suites 4900 Talley Rd. (501)-224-2600 www.holiday-inn.com

Closest Hotel to The Little Rock National Airport • Deluxe Complimentary Breakfast • Spacious Suites • Free Wireless Internet Access • 24-Hour Convenience Store • Free Shuttle To The Airport • Free Local Phone Calls • Lobby Cafe / Bar

Execustay TMarriott O

3200 S. Shackleford Rd. (501) 221-7356; 800-735-7356 Nwww.execustay.com P Marriot Residence Inn 1401 S. Shackleford Rd. (501) 312-0200 www.marriott.com Marriott Springhill Suites 306 Markham Centre Dr. (501) 978-6000 www.marriott.com Marriott West Courtyard 10900 Financial Centre Pkwy.

(501) 227-6000; 800-264-0382 www.marriott.com Motel 6 West 10524 W. Markham St. (501) 225-7366 www.motel6.com Premier Suites 11601 W. Markham St., Suite D (501) 221-7378; 800-735-2955 www.premiersuites.com Ramada Limited and Suites 8 Shackleford Dr. (501) 221-7666 www.ramada.com

4301 East Roosevelt Little Rock, AR 72206 From I-30, take I-440 East to Exit #3 From I-40, take I-440 West to Exit #3 (501) 376-2466

www.choicehotels.com/hotel/ar099 60

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Studio Plus 10800 Kanis Rd. (501) 227-8689 www.studioplus.com Value Place 21 Remington Dr. (501) 225-3400 www.thevalueplace.com

Warren House 2000 Reservoir Rd. (501) 227-7316 www.warrenproperties.com Wingate Inn Little Rock 1212 S. Shackleford Rd. (501) 227-6800 www.wingateinns.com

Southwest Little Rock Acme Motel 3301 W. Roosevelt Rd. (501) 663-6361

Embassy Suites

America’s Best Value Inn & Suites 7900 Scott Hamilton Dr. (501) 562-2694 www.bestvalueinn.com America’s Best Value Inn & Suites 6401 S. University Ave. (501) 565-4488 www.bestvalueinn.com Baymont Inn & Suites 6100 Mitchell Dr. (501) 562-6667 www.windam.com

Best Western Inn and Suites 8219 Interstate 30 (501) 562-4448 www.bestwesternarkansas.com Budget Inn 5620 S. University Ave. (501) 565-1568 www.budgetinn.com Cimarron Inn 10200 Interstate 30 (501) 565-1171

Comfort Inn 8115 Frenchman Lane (501) 562-9383 www.comfortinn.com

Knights Inn 9709 Interstate 30 (501) 568-6800 www.knightsinn.com

Executive Inn 2600 W. 65th St. (501) 562-1122

La Quinta Otter Creek 11701 Interstate 30 (501) 455-2300 www.laquinta.com

Heritage House Inn 7500 S. University Ave. (501) 565-2055

Motel 6 7501 Interstate 30 (501) 568-8888 www.motel6.com

(R e) treat you rs el f.

Welcome to the All-New DoubleTree Little Rock, the Premier Destination for Business. And Pleasure.

Big or small, we’re the perfect destination for your next meeting, corporate retreat or personal getaway.

Our attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in our deluxe amenities – all the way down to our world-famous chocolate chip cookies.

424 West Markham • Reservations: 1-800-222-TREE • www.doubletreelr.com VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

61

Rest Inn 8217 Interstate 30 (501) 537-4646 www.restinnlr.com

Country Inn and Suites 110 E. Pershing Blvd.

(501) 758-2002 www.countryinns.com

Ritz Motel 5301 Asher Ave. (501) 565-7501

Days Inn 7200 Bicentennial Rd. (501) 851-3297 www.daysinn.com

Rodeway Inn & Suites 2401 W. 65th St. (501) 801-0188 www.rodewayinn.com Super 7 Inn 9525 Interstate 30 (501) 568-9999

North Little Rock Baker House Bed and Breakfast 109 W. 5th St. (501) 372-9930 www.bakerhousenlr.com Comfort Inn 5710 Pritchard Dr. (501) 955-9453 www.comfortinn.com/ar116 Comfort Inn North 3915 McCain Park Dr. (501) 753.5533 www.comfortinn.com

Days Inn 5800 Pritchard Dr. (501) 945-4100 www.daysinn.com Fairfield Inn by Marriott 4120 Health Care Dr. (501) 945-9777 www.fairfield.com Galloway Inn 3124 Highway 391 (501) 955-0700 Hampton Inn McCain Mall 4801 W. Commercial Dr. (501) 753-8660 www.hampton-inn.com Hampton Inn North 500 W. 29th St. (501) 771-2090 www.hampton-inn.com

Crowne Plaza

62

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

Holiday Inn Express and Suites 4306 McCain Blvd.

(501) 945-4800 www.holiday-inn.com Holiday Inn North 120 W. Pershing Blvd.

(501) 758-1851 www.holiday-inn.com Howard Johnson 111 W. Pershing Blvd.

(501) 758-1440; 800-IGOHOJO www.hojo.com La Quinta 4100 E. McCain Blvd.

(501) 758.8888 www.laquinta.com La Quinta 4311 Warren Rd. (501) 945-0808 www.laquinta.com Marriott North Residence Inn 4110 Health Care Dr. (501) 945-7777 www.residenceinn.com

Motel 6 400 W. 29th St. (501) 758- 1932 www.motel6.com Red Roof Inn 5711 Pritchard Dr. (501) 945-0080 www.redroof.com Super 8 1 Grey Rd. (501) 945-0141 www.super8.com Super 8 3925 McCain Park Dr. (501) 791-3200 www.super8.com Travelodge I-40 3100 N. Main St. (501) 758-8110 www.travelodge.com Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock 2 Riverfront Place (501) 371-9000; 800-465-4329 www.wyndham.com

A city on the go M

any of Little Rock’s local attractions, entertainment, shopping and convention destinations are within walking distance or just a short drive away. The city also offers visitors easy airport access along with a public transportation system that features an efficient city bus line and memorable trolley ride.

River Rail Streetcar Project AKA “The trolley” What’s old is new again as mass transit in the metropolitan area draws inspiration from the Birney streetcars that ran here from the 1920s until 1947. The new trolley replicas make a loop through the downtown River Market area to the Clinton Presidential Center and Park, Heifer International’s headquarters and across the Arkansas River to North Little Rock, giving riders a quick link to any downtown hotspot.

Don’t be fooled by their retro looks, either— these modernized trolleys are outfitted with air-conditioning and wheelchair lifts. River Rail Day Passes are $2 each (it’s a dollar a ride) and are available at these locations: In Little Rock •Courtyard by Marriott Downtown—521 President Clinton Ave. •Historic Arkansas Museum—200 E. Third St. •River Cities Travel Center—310 E. Capitol Ave. In North Little Rock •City Services Building—120 Main St. •Argenta Bead Company—703 Main St. For additional fare and route information, contact Central Arkansas Transit at 501-375-6717 or visit www.cat.org/rrail/.

Central Arkansas Transit Authority AKA CAT The metro-area bus line, called CAT by locals, is fast, efficient and cheap (regular one-way fare is $1.35; discounts are available). The River Cities Travel Center is the hub for 28 bus and express routes. Call 501-375-6717, or visit www.cat.org for more information.

Additional Ground Transportation •Yellow Cab: 501-570-9999 •Little Rock Limousine: 501-224-5466; www. littlerocklimo.com •Signature Transportation: 501-907-2277 Little Rock National Airport While big enough to meet any traveler’s needs, with amenities like car rental, major hotels and parking nearby, the Little Rock National Airport’s friendly welcome to the city is more like that of a small-town facility.

In fact, customer service is so important to the airport, they spent $180 million on updates, including an expanded car rental plaza, atrium, larger entrances and a multi-level parking deck.

Currently, they’re upgrading Taxiway D.

For better service, the airport recently expanded its passenger screening area, upgraded its second-level concourse, and completed a $3 million revamp in its baggage claim wing. The airport is now home to a number of restaurants, including the Quachita Landing. For those in a hurry, you can now grab a coffee at Starbucks or check out the quick food court options.

The changes at Little Rock National Airport are not limited to its facilities—its jet service is also reaching new horizons.

With progress like this, it’s no wonder that the airport has been praised for having the best air service for its size in the country. Airport staff welcome more than 2.2 million passengers annually and handle 125 flights daily. The airport is served by American Eagle, Continental Express, Delta, Delta Connection, Southwest and US Airways Express.

The airport offers nonstop jet service to 16 national and international gateway cities, including national and international hubs at Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Memphis, Phoenix and St. Louis. Call 501-372-3439 or visit www.fly-lit.com for more information.

Amtrak’s Texas Eagle Maybe you’re reliving a childhood experience or looking for something new—Amtrak’s Texas Eagle, with its route running from Chicago and Los Angeles, offers passengers a truly unique look at America’s landscape. Stretch out on a coach seat or snuggle into a sleeping compartment, and when you wake up, enjoy a meal in the dining car or head to the lounge for scenery by day and movies by night.

In addition to the direct service to 41 cities, the Texas Eagle offers connections to another 30 cities via other train lines, and prices vary depending on the length of a trip and the accommodations selected, including coach or sleeping cars.

Whether starting your trip in Little Rock or planning to spend a few days in our city, you might want to check out the Little Rock Union Depot, located in Union Station Square at 1400 W. Markham St. The depot was built in 1921, after a fire destroyed the original station, and Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” declared it, “The largest train station in the nation served by only one railroad.”

For more information about Amtrak’s Texas Eagle daily service, call 501-372-6841 or 1-800-USA-RAIL; www.amtrak.com.

Nationally Famous Juanita’s has long been known in Little Rock as “the” place for live music, good times and great food!

(501) 372-1228

Entertainment Hotline: (501) 374-3271 1300 South MainOpen Mon-Sat www.juanitas.com Just 5 minutes from The Clinton Library

Airport

Newly Remodeled • New modeRN Rooms New PillowtoP Beds • 1/4 Mile form Little Rock National Airport • Free Airport Shuttle Service for Guests Flying in/out • Free Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Business Center in Lobby • Pool Courtyard • Guest Laundry

3200 Bankhead drive & i-440 • little Rock

(501) 490-2010 1 (866) 963-2194 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

63

64

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

65

River Rail Streetcar Route

66

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

. o c a z z i P U.S.

EVEN BETTER THAN YOU THINK

YOU DESERVE ARKANSAS’ PLACE FOR PIZZA SINCE 1972 HILLCREST LOCATION: PRIVATE EVENTS ROOM NOW OPEN, PERFECT FOR BUSINESS FUNCTIONS, CALL FOR DETAILS! Little Rock-Heights

Little Rock-Hillcrest

Little Rock-Rodney Parham

501.664.7071

501.663.2198

501.224.6300

N. Little Rock-Levy

N. Little Rock-McCain

N. Little Rock-JFK

501.758.5997

501.753.2900

OPEN NOW!

5524 Kavanaugh Blvd.

3324 Pike Avenue

2710 Kavanaugh Blvd.

4001 McCain Park

9300 Rodney Parham Rd.

5524 JFK

Maumelle

650 Edgewood

501.851.0880 Fayetteville

202 W. Dickson St.

479.582.4808 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010

67

Located in west Little Rock just west of the intersection of I-630 and I-430, Embassy Suites Hotel is Little Rock’s only full-service, all-suite hotel. Over 14,000 square feet of flexible meeting space provide the perfect setting for any event, and two-room suites offer comfortable luxury for one person or a family of six.

• Hilton HHonors points and miles • Complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast daily • Manager’s reception each evening • Free parking, covered parking also available for a small fee • Indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool and fitness center • The Athletic Club Sports Bar and Grill • Refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, two televisions, two dual-line phones and data ports in every suite

• High speed internet access in every suite and meeting space

email:LITCP@jqh.com

For Reservations, Call

1-800-EMBASSY • www.littlerock.embassysuites.com 68

VISITOR’S GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2010