Visitor Guide 2017

VISITORS GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK AND NORTH LITTLE ROCK 2017

DISCOVER WHERE THE LOCALS EAT, SHOP AND PLAY BARBECUE • BREWERIES • ANTIQUES • ATTRACTIONS

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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DOUBLETREE SUITES BY HILTON – BENTONVILLE OUBLETREE SUITES BY HILTON – BENTONVILLE Invites you to stay with us while visiting Invites you to stay with us while visiting all the wonders of Northwest Arkansas! all the wonders of Northwest Arkansas!

OUR FAMILY FUN PACKAGE INCLUDES OUR FAMILY FUN PACKAGE INCLUDES

free Breakfast for up to four guests and free Wi-Fi. free Breakfast for up to four guests and free Wi-Fi. each morning of your trip with a big breakfast, and after the each morning of your trip with a big breakfast, and after the dventures are done, take advantage of your internet access to dventures are done, take advantage of your internet access to share photos with friends at home. share photos with friends at home.

479-845-7770 479-845-7770

Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712 • doubletree.hilton.com/Bentonville Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712 • doubletree.hilton.com/Bentonville 2

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

BRINGING THE BEST TO YOUR TABLE : Fine BRUNCH Creative Cocktails JOIN US FOR EASTER Join Us for HappyDining Hour Enjoy Regional Brunch Specials, Live Music, Bloody Mary and Mimosa Specials

CacheRestaurant | 425 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock | 501-850-0265 | cachelittlerock.com | CacheLittleRock Brunch served every Saturday and Sunday 10am - 2pm VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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NOW PRE-LEASING OPENING SUMMER 2016 • 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments • Wifi, water & trash included • Tenant pays electricity & cable • Gated, secured parking • Pet friendly

• Pool • Washer & dryer in all units • Fob accessible building • 1 bedrooms starting at $810 • 2 bedrooms starting at $1,200

Contact Rachael Scott • (501) 376-6555 • rscott@mosestucker.com 4

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

TWO GREAT DESTINATIONS ONE AWESOME EXPERIENCE Visit one of our learning centers today!

Enjoy hands-on, interactive exhibits that provide fun and challenging educational experiences at our Arkansas learning centers. Make reservations for your group or drop in with friends and family to explore our programs and events throughout the year.

HEIFER VILLAGE

Downtown Little Rock www.heifer.org/village

HEIFER RANCH

Perryville, AR www.heifer.org/ranch

For reservations, call 855.3HEIFER (855.343.4337).

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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VISITORS Beautifully Immersed in Little Rock!

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The Crowne Plaza is one of Little Rock’s most exceptional properties that offers an inviting place to work and relax.

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Going above and beyond with our Exemplary Service All guestrooms have:

• 32” Flat Screen Television • Custom Lighted Desk with Closet • Pillow Top Mattress • Cordless Telephone • Voice Mail • CD/Clock Radio with MP3 Plug • Hair Dryer • Iron/Ironing Board • Lighted Magnifying Mirror

Our Club Floor offers all the amenities of the Traditional rooms plus:

• Private Keyed Floor • Turn Down Service • 2 Plush Terry Robes • Bottled Water • Additional Bathroom Amenities • Complimentary Breakfast and Hors D’oeuvres and Discounted Cocktails

The Place To Meet In Little Rock

The Crowne Plaza Little Rock venue offers 11 meeting rooms for a total of 7600 square feet. Our meeting facilities can accommodate those needing a small workshop or seminar, as well as those looking to host a large banquet venue. Our eleven meeting rooms can be arranged to meet your business objectives.

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS AT 501.223.3000 201 SOUTH SHACKLEFORD, LIT TLE ROCK, AR 72211 WWW.CROWNEPLAZALIT TLEROCK.COM

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

72 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 501758-1424 or visit www.northlittlerock.org.

ON THE COVER: THE LITTLE ROCK SKYLINE AND PRESIDENTIAL PARK WETLANDS. PHOTO BY BRIAN CHILSON

GUIDE CONTENTS 8 Welcome to Little Rock 10 Welcome to North Little Rock

12 Eventful Cities 15 East Village 16 River Market District 20 South Main 22 The Heights 23 Hillcrest 25 Midtown 26 Riverdale 28 West Little Rock 30 Argenta 32 Park Hill & Lakewood 34 Museums 38 Historic Buildings 40 On Stage 44 Great Outdoors 46 Family Fun 48 Live Entertainment 50 Discover Antiques 56 Shopping Guide 63 Dining Guide 72 Foodie Flair 74 Crafty Developments 82 Pit Stop PUBLISHED BY

201 EAST MARKHAM, STE 200 LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985 www.arktimes.com ALL CONTENTS ©2017 ARKANSAS TIMES VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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Welcome to Little Rock!

LITTLE ROCK IS RENOWNED FOR ITS CHARMING HOSPITALITY, history and culture. As Arkansas’s capital city, it continues to garner national and international acclaim for its cultural attractions and museums, great restaurants, and burgeoning artisanal food scene. Over the past three years, the media has taken note: in 2014, Forbes Travel Guide named Little Rock one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities” in the U.S.; in 2015, USA Today readers ranked it No. 3 on their “Most Travel-worthy State Capitals” in the U.S.; and, in 2015 and 2016, Trivago. com named Little Rock among the Top Ten “U.S. Best Value Cities for Travel.”

OVER THE PAST 20 YEARS, Little Rock has undergone a tremendous renewal.

In 2004, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center opened, and it has served as a major catalyst for the city’s incredible renaissance. Since then, a bevy of new attractions, hotels, award-winning restaurants and a number of new shopping and entertainment venues have opened throughout the city.

ONE OF THE PROJECTS WE’RE MOST EXCITED ABOUT FOR THE COMING YEAR IS THE RE-OPENING OF THE ROBINSON CENTER. This historic $70 million project features a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose performance hall and brand new conference center addition with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Arkansas River. It will be the performance home to the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Arkansas and Celebrity Attractions’ Broadway Theater Series.

DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK OFFERS A WIDE ARRAY of restaurants, shopping and entertainment options, several free museums and attractions, breweries, a distillery and even the nation’s only purse museum—one of only three in the world. A great way to experience it is to take a free walking/streetcar trolley tour. With a little more time, one can easily explore our city’s distinctive neighborhoods like the Heights, Hillcrest, Riverdale, and West Little Rock to enjoy some of our city’s great locally-owned shops and restaurants.

OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS ARE SURE TO ENJOY THE ARKANSAS RIVER TRAIL, a 17-mile loop connecting downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock via four pedestrian and bike-intended bridges, including the Big Dam Bridge, the longest in North America built for that purpose. River Lights in the Rock, three LEDilluminated downtown bridges, are also located along the trail, and each night they put on light shows that illuminate the city and magnify its beauty. The trail also provides visitors with lots of outdoor options, including walking, running, renting a bike, or taking a guided bike or Segway tour, and in 2016, the city received a “Bicycle Friendly Community” bronze designation from the League of American Bicyclists.

I INVITE YOU TO DISCOVER THE PLEASANT SURPRISE OF LITTLE ROCK, and see why we say, “Life is better with a Southern accent.”

Gretchen Hall President & CEO Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

CO N V E N T I O N A N D V I S I TO R S B U R E A U

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Little Rock’s dining and craft food and beverage scene is on the rise. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner for two, using our Locally Labeled Passport program to sample our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits, or savoring any of the amazing products our artisan food producers are making, there’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock.

• Little Rock named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities” Forbes Travel Guide, 2014 • Loblolly Creamery’s ice cream named a “Superior Scoop,” Saveur, 2014 • One Eleven at the Capital Semifinalist, Best New Restaurant, James Beard Awards, 2015 • Rock Town Distillery “2015 U.S. Micro Whisky of the Year,” The Whisky Bible, 2015 Edition • Big Orange Midtown “Great American Beer Bars” CraftBeer.com, 2016 • Trio’s Restaurant named “Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant in Arkansas,” Travel + Leisure, May 2016

IN GREATER LITTLE ROCK

Lost Forty Brewing > To see more, visit LittleRock.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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Welcome to North Little Rock!

WELCOME TO CENTRAL ARKANSAS! North Little Rock is a destination for all seasons—there’s something for everyone, no matter when you visit. Use the Metro streetcar to browse shops, eat, try local breweries and explore both North Little Rock and Little Rock’s thriving downtown districts. The Argenta Arts and Entertainment District in North Little Rock hosts monthly art walks and annual food, music and art festivals.

VISIT THE ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM, the only place other than Honolulu, Hawaii, to have two Naval vessels from the beginning and end of World War II. Experience firsthand how men lived aboard the longestserving submarine in the world, USS Razorback (SS-394) and see the National Historic Landmark USS Hoga, a tugboat that fought fires on Battleship Row for 72 continuous hours in Pearl Harbor.

BURNS PARK, a 1,700-acre park with 18-hole golf courses and tennis courts, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The south side of the park lines the Arkansas River and connects to the Arkansas River Trail, a scenic 15-mile loop for cyclists and pedestrians.

THE JOINT COMEDY THEATER & COFFEEHOUSE hosts improvisation groups and local musicians every week, and the comedic group The Main Thing performs original comedies on weekends. Down the street, local talent brings to life theater favorites at the Argenta Community Theater.

FILM FANATICS WILL APPRECIATE THE OLD MILL, a 1930s replica of a 1800s gristmill presumed to be the last standing structure from Gone with the Wind. Free to the public, the park is full of natural beauty and the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle.

SPEND A SUN-FILLED DAY WITH THE KIDS AT ARKANSAS’S LARGEST WATER PARK, WILD RIVER COUNTRY. The 26-acre park offers non-stop fun with a variety of slides and water attractions. Enjoy baseball by minor league team the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. Every year Verizon Arena brings in big name musicians, such as Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles, Tim McGraw and many others.

CENTRAL ARKANSAS’S LARGEST INDOOR SHOPPING CENTER, MCCAIN MALL, and its neighbor Lakewood Village are perfect for shoppers. Including several dining options and a movie theater, the mall has more than 80 specialty shops anchored by Dillard’s, JCPenney and Sears.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN NORTH LITTLE ROCK, visit NorthLittleRock.org or call 501-758-1424 and we will be happy to help.

We hope you enjoy your stay and come back soon!

Bob Major Executive Director North Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

A destination for all seasons!

The Old Mill at T.R. Pugh Park Enjoy the outdoors at The Old Mill from

Gone with the Wind or watch baseball at Dickey-Stephens Park. Shop and dine in the McCain Mall area or Argenta Arts District, stay cool at Wild River Country or climb into

#ExploreNLR

a real World War II submarine and tugboat.

Call 501-758-1424 or visit www.NorthLittleRock.org to plan your trip.

WWII Submarine USS Razorback & WWII Tugboat USS Hoga!

Mention the Visitor Guide Ad for BUY 1, GET 1 tour tickets.

The tugboat USS Hoga is known for her heroic actions in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and the submarine USS Razorback was present in Tokyo Bay during the formal surrender of Japan.

Experience these vessels firsthand along with artifacts from two other Naval vessels and the Arkansas River.

Where history comes alive!

Admission: Adults $7.50; Child (5-12) $5; Seniors $5; Military $5 Arkansas Inland Martime Museum 120 Riverfront Park Drive North Little Rock, AR 72114 501-371-8320 Info@AIMMuseum.org www.AIMMuseum.org VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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EVENTFULCITIES FEBRUARY

MARDI GRAS PARADE Get in the Mardi Gras spirit at this fun parade on Feb. 25 in the South Main neighborhood. Floats, bands, costumes, performers and more will parade down the street at this family-friendly event.

Stay afterward for the annual Beard Judging Contest hosted by the Root Café.

MARCH

LITTLE ROCK MARATHON The 15th annual Little Rock Marathon and companion races will take place March 4-5 in downtown Little Rock.

The fast-growing marathon in terms of attendance is a favorite of runners the world over for its combination of flat-road running and hilly climbs and descents through some of Little Rock’s most scenic neighborhoods. Runners can try the full marathon, a half-marathon, a 10K or a 5K.

JUNE

APRIL

ARGENTA FARMERS MARKET Find locally grown fruits and vegetables along with meats, cheeses and more just five blocks north of the Arkansas River, at Sixth and Main streets in North Little Rock. The market is open on Saturdays from late March until October.

ARKANSAS LITERARY FESTIVAL This annual event is the state’s premiere gathering of readers and authors. On April 27-30, central Arkansas will welcome well-known national and international authors as well as Arkansas favorites for lectures, workshops, book-signings, cooking demonstrations and more. And

the kids aren’t forgotten; several events feature children’s book authors.

BERNICE GARDEN FARMERS MARKET The South on Main neighborhood has gotten into the farmers market trend with a Sunday market on 14th Street from late April until October. Fresh produce, food trucks and entertainment are offered.

FOAM FEST This fundraiser taps more than 75 kegs from regional brewers for tasting.

Sample beers, enjoy live music and more at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. Look for a typical early Saturday date in this month for an event that draws a huge crowd.

JEWISH FOOD FESTIVAL Don’t miss this one-day event of food at War Memorial Stadium’s concourse and parking lot on April 30. Sample foods like matzoh ball soup, blintzes, kugel and more.

Live music acts will have you kicking your legs for hours, and you’ll appreciate yet another cultural experience that makes the city special.

BRIAN CHILSON

RIVERFEST Riverfest in its new format will be held June 2-4 and deliver world class musical acts, food, beer, wine, rides, fireworks and more. Look for an eclectic mix of music including popular classic acts, new and old-style country, new hip-hop and rock, with a little funk, jazz and gospel thrown in.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE The Irish Cultural Society of Arkansas puts on this annual event that begins at 3rd and Rock streets in Little Rock, and winds through the River Market with a big finish at 5th and Main streets in Argenta. Look for parade floats, the Irish wolfhounds, bagpipes, clowns, dancing, beads and more on March 11.

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

LITTLE ROCK FARMERS MARKET The market has already seen 40 years come and go as a destination for folks wanting to find anything from fresh strawberries or vegetables to Arkansas-style trinkets, all while entertained by street performers and other characters. The market starts in early April and runs every Saturday through October inside the River Market pavilions.

Market is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. though late August.

SPRINGFEST On April 8, take the whole family to the shore of the Arkansas River for an all day kid-friendly festival. Look for arts and crafts, activities, food trucks, local craft beer, live music and tons of vendors and activities to keep everyone busy for hours.

MAY

INTERNATIONAL GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL If you love baklava and other Greek delights, this annual festival, held the third weekend of May on Napa Valley Road at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, is for you.

Just follow the signs to the ample parking outside the festival perimeter and ride the shuttle to the church. Besides the great food, you’ll find music, dancing and plenty of other entertainment.

JUNE

MOVIES IN THE PARK Bring a blanket, a cooler and the whole family to this free event at Riverfront Park.

Movies in the Park presents a popular feature film every Wednesday night starting early June through August at the First Security Amphitheater, with the projector kicking on at dusk. River Market vendors typically stay open late to offer food and drinks.

JULY

POPS ON THE RIVER Music and fireworks join forces in this annual Fourth of July event. Enjoy a memorable fireworks display over the Arkansas River that is synchronized to a live performance by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

SEPTEMBER

BIG DAM BRIDGE 100 Founded in 2006, the Big Dam Bridge Cycling Tour is the largest cycling event in Arkansas with several routes ranging in distances from 10 to 100 miles, with beautiful mountain and river views, as well as more challenging hills VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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ARGENTA ART WALK Every third Friday of each month, North Little Rock welcomes art lovers and everyone else to its galleries, restaurants and other businesses just north of the Arkansas River. Hours are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with special refreshments and other sidewalk entertainment available.

HILLCREST FARMERS MARKET Some of the local markets only run from mid-spring to fall, but the Hillcrest market, held every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pulaski Heights Baptist Church (22 Kavanaugh Blvd.) runs yearround. Granted, more Arkansas produce (strawberries, tomatoes, peaches, etc.) will be available in the warmer months, but look for meats, honey, jams, baked goods and more for sale at any time.

SECOND FRIDAY ART NIGHT Little Rock’s downtown museums and galleries are open from 5 to 8 p.m. for a gallery walk, with restaurants and other businesses open with extended hours. Check the Arkansas Times for the most current gallery information and shows during the gallery walks.

SHOP N SIP Hillcrest’s Kavanaugh Boulevard and neighboring streets in the Beechwood area are rocking until dark and sometimes later every first Thursday of the month for, yes, shopping and sipping (and eating and enjoying live music acts). Galleries, shops (such as the Shoppes on Woodlawn) and other businesses welcome visitors starting at 5 p.m. for the fun, and many of the shops offer wine and other refreshments to their guests.

THIRD THURSDAY IN THE HEIGHTS Hillcrest’s neighbor to the northwest saw how much fun was being had at Shop N Sip and started its own party with live music, food vendors, open shops until well past usual close, and more. Lots of restaurant choices beckon when the shopping slows.

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OCTOBER

ARKANSAS STATE FAIR Each October the Arkansas State Fair sets up this family-friendly event on the fairgrounds in Little Rock. On Oct. 14-23, enjoy live music, livestock shows, rides, food, drinks and more for the whole family.

BRIAN CHILSON

YEAR-ROUND

on longer routes. The 4,226-foot bridge is the longest bridge built for pedestrian and bicycle traffic in North America. Sign up now for the Sept. 24 event.

MAIN STREET FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL Find more than 50 food trucks and food carts, artists at work, juried craft selections, children’s activities and well-stocked beer gardens at this food festival. Main Street will be blocked off from Third to Eighth streets, and from Main to Center streets on Capitol Avenue. The 2016 event is schedule for Sept. 24.

OCTOBER

ARKANSAS CORNBREAD FESTIVAL Arkansans love the Cornbread Festival, which started in 2011. Look for 2016’s event on Oct. 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the South Main neighborhood. You’ll find great cornbread, food, great music and great conversation with friends.

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Arkansas Times and the Argenta Arts District know how to party. On Oct. 28, look for the annual Craft Beer Festival in which the Times and AAD share with you the celebration of the fine art of craft brewing in America by showcasing more than 150 beers at the Argenta Farmers Market lot. Local food and local music also highlight the night.

HARVESTFEST Kavanaugh Boulevard is blocked from the promenade area to Spruce Street on a Saturday in October every year for Hillcrest’s annual fall celebration, with food, art sellers, clothing for sale, local music, a fashion show and more, running from the morning until night. The 2016 event will be held Oct. 22.

HERITAGE HOG ROAST Bring your bib and dancing shoes to the Argenta Farmers Market lot near Sixth and

Main streets in North Little Rock on Oct. 23.

There will be plenty of live music and pork as local chefs roast 16 whole hogs from Scott Heritage Farm in a cooking competition sponsored by the Arkansas Times and benefits the Argenta Arts District.

LITTLE ROCK PRIDE FEST Celebrate LGBT pride at this festival including a parade in downtown Little Rock, vendors, food trucks and entertainment and events around the Clinton President Park. The date is typically the first Saturday in October, which coincides with LGBT History Month.

The 2016 event will be held Oct. 16, from 1 to 6 p.m.

WORLD CHEESE DIP CHAMPIONSHIP Arkansas is believed to be the birthplace of cheese dip, and we celebrate each year by choosing the very best at the World Cheese Dip Championship. The 2016 event will be hosted at the River Market pavilion in downtown Little Rock on Oct. 22. Look for cheese dip tastings, live music and more.

NOVEMBER

HOLIDAY HOUSE This annual four-day shopping event brings more than 180 of the top regional vendors and artists together at the Statehouse Convention Center. Look for holiday gifts of jewelry, clothing, accessories, home décor, food and more Nov. 10-12 to raise money for Junior League of Little Rock.

DECEMBER

BIG JINGLE JUBILEE PARADE AND STATE CAPITOL LIGHTING CEREMONY Usually on the first Saturday of the month, the Capitol dome is adorned in lights and fireworks add to the excitement as the city of Little Rock’s Christmas Parade culminates there. Look for the complete route closer to the date.

VG

DOWNTOWN Downtown is the heart of most cities, and Little Rock is no different. The Arkansas River winds by the city creating the perfect picturesque setting for shops and restaurants. The River Rail streetcar makes a continual loop through its major thoroughfares making public transportation a cinch. The business district draws tons of people to a buzzing lunchtime and happy hour, and high-rise lofts, apartments and housing keep the pedestrian traffic constantly flowing. Little Rock’s downtown can be broken up into a few noteworthy districts. The newest neighborhood is the budding East Village, which is home to two breweries, a distillery and top tourist attractions. The River Market District on President Clinton Avenue and extending several blocks south is highly walkable with tons of restaurants, museums and nightlife. South Main, also known as SoMa, is a fun, creative community that begins on Main Street just south of Interstate 630. Each neighborhood carries its own uniqueness, but all have the thriving heart of downtown at their cores.

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f a visitor understood the overall nothingness that existed in the early 1990s where all the hustle and bustle now is taking place in Little Rock’s River Market district—what with its fancy restaurants, music clubs, bars and shopping—he or she might imagine the vision that is seen for Little Rock’s newest destination: East Village. n Today, it’s already home to two craft breweries, an award-winning distillery (don’t leave without some Rock Town bourbon) and, of course, great destinations for tourists in the Clinton Presidential Center and Heifer International. Jimmy Moses and Rett Tucker, whose Moses Tucker Real Estate company led the River Market resurgence almost two decades ago, are hoping for the same in working with the Cromwell architecture and design firm in conceiving the trendy, “edgier” neighborhood of East Village. The neighborhood’s borders are envisioned to be the Arkansas River to the north, Ninth Street to the south, Interstate 30 to the west

SHOP

The Clinton Museum Store is situated in the lobby of the Clinton Presidential Center. Shop for fair trade items at Shop@Heifer while you tour the Heifer International headquarters. Much more in the way of shopping is on the way to East Village as it develops.

SEE

Did you know a highly acclaimed, awardwinning bourbon is distilled not in the

and the Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport to the east, but Moses says that boundaries are best left unstated “so that creativity can help establish the boundaries eventually.” n The area, even where the Clinton Center and Heifer now sit, has been one of industrial buildings, many of them vacant in recent years, that can be envisioned as becoming loft apartments, restaurants and shops, office buildings, a charter school and more, in the way that Lost Forty and Rebel Kettle breweries took over spots just off Sixth Street to turn them into happening destinations.

The former Sterling Paint building that has sat unused for some time will be a mixeduse space that’s bustling by summer 2017.

As the River Market showed, and with the anchors of the neighborhood already in place, East Village is sure to bloom. The fact that the River Rail Trolley has a route to the Clinton Center and Heifer makes it easy for visitors downtown to get to the attractions. hills and bluegrass of Kentucky, but rather right here in downtown Little Rock?

Rock Town Distillery is located in East Village and offers tours of its distillery and its bourbon-making process, not to mention a look at and taste of its other popular distillations.

The Clinton Presidential Center honors the 42nd president of the United States with a replica of the Oval Office, a museum that takes the visitors through the 1990s and Bill Clinton’s two terms as commander

BRIAN CHILSON

EAST VILLAGE

in chief, and much more. Also, regular chamber music performances and other events are staged at the Great Hall inside the center. If that’s not enough, nationally renowned speakers are regular guests at the Clinton School of Public Service throughout the year; you just might want to catch one (look for what’s scheduled there in the Arkansas Times’ AfterDark calendar). One of the most ecofriendly, 21st century buildings around serves as the headquarters for Heifer VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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EAT

Terrific chefs operate at Café Forty Two, the restaurant inside the Clinton Presidential Center, with outstanding lunch and dinner offerings. Occasionally, you might land on the wait list for the spectacular monthly

BRIAN CHILSON

DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK

International, just east of the Clinton Center, and is worth a visit. Take a tour of the green headquarters and restored wetlands while learning more about the great things Heifer does worldwide. Built on the site of a long-abandoned railroad yard, Heifer’s headquarters uses 52 percent less energy than a conventional office building of similar size and use. Check out how they do it.

Lost Forty

“world tour” dinners that are held at Café Forty Two. If your travels take you to the Heifer International headquarters, good food awaits at Café@Heifer. Lost Forty and Rebel Kettle may be craft breweries, but like the rest of Little Rock’s burgeoning craft brewery scene, they both understood even

before opening that better-than-average bar food would be a must to accompany better-than-average beer. Anything from appetizers to sandwiches and much more await, though you really want to try the brews too. Don’t miss the boiled peanuts at Rebel Kettle.

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RIVER MARKET T

he River Market District is one of Little Rock’s truly great development success stories of the past 20 years—maybe THE success story. An old train station, unused bridges, vacant stores and buildings, all became transformed into a destination for both residents and visitors of the Capital City. It benefited in the early 2000s from the building of the Clinton Presidential Center east of I-30 (see “East Village”) and the revitalization of hotels to the west on Markham Street (The Capital Hotel is truly a gem, as many visitors from around the world attest). n The

SHOP

In the heart of the River Market’s Oppenheimer Hall is Shop the Rock for all your local souvenirs, a store operated by the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau.

River Market Books and Gifts in the Cox Creative Center has inexpensive books and toys, seasonal items and more.

River Market district is home to not one but TWO dueling piano bars (we love our dueling pianos, as well as cheese dip), beer halls, sports bars, music venues, a theater that houses all kinds of events, two high-dollar and great restaurants, smaller eateries, a Memphis-created Gus’s Fried Chicken, and much more. n Hotels, apartment buildings and parking decks have followed, and so has 21st century metered parking on President Clinton Avenue. That’s all a great sign that the River Market district is the place to be if you’re a visitor in Little Rock and North Little Rock.

The 10,000 Villages store has unique items, including folk art, jewelry, toys and games, tableware, rugs and more.

Fringe Clothing has trendy women’s wear. The Freckled Frog has artisan and locally made goodies. Also, you’re a short walk west to the Old State House Museum Store on Markham.

DOE’S KNOWS LUNCH & DINNER Lunch: Mon- Fri 11am-2pm Dinner: Mon-Thur 5:30-9:30pm • Fri & Sat 5:30-10pm FULL BAR & PRIVATE PARTY ROOM 1023 West Markham • Downtown Little Rock 501-376-1195 • www.doeseatplace.net

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

SEE

Make sure to check the local club schedules to see who is playing at Revolution Room (or “the Rev Room,” as the locals call it) and Stickyz Rock ’n’ Roll Chicken Shack (or “Sticky’s,” as the locals call it)—it’s not unusual to find popular national acts regularly rolling into those venues. It’s a mini-Austin Sixth Street in the neighborhood with some of the music and activity we see. Also, occasional concerts pop up at the First Security Amphitheater, particularly in early June with Riverfest, or from the neighborhood you can walk across the pedestrian bridges to catch a major show at Verizon Arena. Classic movies are regularly screened and some music acts and comedy shows are booked at the Ron Robinson Theater in the Arcade Building. If you just want somewhere to sing along, both Willy D’s and Ernie Biggs have dueling pianos.

Discover the state’s fascinating history with a visit to the Old State House Museum on Markham, or the Historic

• REFRESHING & FUN with a funky atmosphere offering unique

from scratch international and southern comfort food.

• Enjoy a SHADED PATIO, FULL BAR & local CRAFT BEER on tap.

• LIVE LOCAL MUSIC TOO! Great Food, Fun Atmosphere & Full Bar, LOCAL BEERS ON TAP 200 S. RIVER •12 LOCAL DRAFTS DAILY• MARKET AVE CORE, STONE’S THROW, - and friendly bartenders!!!

STE. 150 • 501.375.3500 FLYWAY, LOST FORTY ...WITH NEW BREWS ON THE WAY!

OPEN TUES-SAT 11-9 WEEKDAYS 11-10 WEEKENDS ARKANSAS PROUD

Seafood • Pasta • Steak • Soup Salads • Grill • Sandwiches • Specialty full bar •

ARKANSAS TIMES

Home of

bike

LOCAL

LIVE MUSIC!

G Y P SY B I ST R O 501.375.3500

2011/2012/2013/2014

200 S. RIVER MARKET AVE, STE. 150 OPEN TUES-SAT 11-9 WEEKDAYS 11-10 WEEKENDS

Grounds Open Daily

For information (501) 372-6429

Ask about our free cell phone tour sponsored in part by a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the Endowment for the Humanities.

2101 Barber St. · Little Rock VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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CENTRAL ARKANSAS LIBRARY SYSTEM

DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK

Ron Robinson Theater

Capital Bar Capital Bar

throughout the season. On Seventh and Chester streets you’ll find The Weekend Theater, a nonprofit theatrical community that produces plays and musicals

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

nearly year-round. Satisfy your craving for the arts at the Arkansas Arts Center in MacArthur Park, which hosts national exhibits and has quite an impressive permanent collection.

EAT

Cache (pronounced “cash,” and a river in East Arkansas) is an acclaimed, upscale restaurant in the Arcade Building. Also on the upscale end of the restaurant scene is Sonny Williams’ Steak Room, with its “Rat Pack, Sinatra in Vegas” feel.

You won’t be disappointed at either place.

There’s plenty of craft beer, snacks, burgers and more to find in the neighborhood, too—try Revolution, Stickyz, Damgoode Pies, the Flying Fish (best gumbo in Arkansas, we believe), Flying Saucer, Gus’s Fried Chicken, Gusano’s and Big Whiskey’s. Or if you just want to drink your dinner, check out Prost, behind Willy D’s. If you’re trying to eat quickly, the wide range of little BRIAN CHILSON

Arkansas Museum on Third Street.

For theater you’ll need to take a short jaunt west down Markham to the newly renovated Robinson Center scheduled to re-open November 2016, or travel a few blocks south on Main Street to the Arkansas Repertory Theater, which hosts thrilling plays, musicals and more

kitchens in the River Market will do you right, and there is also a David’s Burgers that is set to open there soon—as good a burger as you’ll find anywhere. Just a few short blocks from the River Market, in the 400 block of Main Street are two terrific spots and EXTREMELY hot these days (they have valet parking to boot): Bruno’s, which will make a diner feel like he or she is eating in Chicago at some classic Italian spot, and Samantha’s Tap Room next door, with a wide-ranging menu and some great beers and wines.

Samantha’s takes reservations and saves space for walk-ins as well. Further west from the River Market is the Capital Hotel, and its Capital Bar is a must-visit for any out-of-towner. The hotel is also home to the upscale One Eleven, if you are in the mood for a total dining experience.

You’ll need transportation to get to a few other noteworthy spots just west of Broadway. Scoot over to Kent Walker Artisan Cheese at 323 Cross St. to see how great cheese is made here in Little Rock. Nearby is Dempsy Bakery, a delicious gluten-free bakery, and landmark restaurant Doe’s Eat Place where everyone who is anyone who’s visited the Natural State has stopped in for a steak or their signature tamales. Enjoy your meal and peruse the walls lined with celebrity photographs.

VG

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK

SOUTH MAIN S

outh Main, or SoMa, is yet another amazing success story of neighborhood revitalization and activity in Little Rock, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing. Restaurants keep popping up along South Main all the way to Roosevelt Road, with the amazing and award-winning Root Cafe leading the way. South on Main, the relatively new anchor and perfectly named, is both a restaurant and the home base for the acclaimed Oxford American magazine. It seems to reflect this neighborhood’s strong heartbeat.

At South on Main, you’ll often find great shows sponsored by the Oxford American (such as 2015’s double bill of Patterson Hood with Indigo Girls) that go hand-in-hand with a must-read

SHOP

For the music lover, a stop into Piano Kraft (1222 S. Main) starts your shopping on the north end of SoMa. Sweet Home Furnishings & Clement (1324 S. Main) is a vintage housewares shop. Then you come across Moxy Modern Mercantile (1419 S. Main) with its eclectic array of

magazine for anyone who loves or wants to know more about Southern culture from brilliant writers. Another foundation for this developing section of Little Rock is a weekly farmers market, which often hosts festivals and serves as a base for such events as an annual Mardi Gras parade. It’s all made South Main yet another Capital City destination for locals and visitors. SoMa has also found its groove like other neighborhoods with its own monthly party night; its 4th Fridays of each month provide a great chance to hit all the hot spots well into the evening. n Plus, SoMa’s proximity puts tourists just a few blocks away from the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion.

modern and vintage records, housewares, accessories, food items, locally made products and more. South Main Creative (16th and Main) is a new showcase for art, antiques, vintage and estate jewelry and handmade items. New to the neighborhood is Electric Ghost Screen Printing, a custom screen-printing shop with a

retail space full of T-shirts, home goods, plants and more. Stop in Green Corner Store (1423 S. Main) for its Arkansas-made and environmentally conscious products, and Loblolly Creamery, a local ice cream maker, situated inside Green Corner Store.

How can you beat an old-fashioned soda fountain with drinks, sundaes, floats and more? Well, you can’t.

Electric Ghost Screen Printing

BRIAN CHILSON

SEE

You don’t want to miss the offbeat, fun Esse Purse Museum (1510 S. Main) with its collection of 20th century handbags, accessories and other items. It’s organized by era. Enjoy a thrilling adventure at The Escape Little Rock (1214 S. Main), a new live escape game designed for small groups where you're given 60 minutes to use your wits to solve a series of puzzles in a room.

Often, there are organized tours scheduled for the Quapaw Quarter neighborhood that is just to the west of Main Street, and the focal point of the neighborhood is the Governor’s Mansion at the dead-end of Center and

Frances Flower Shop In downtown Little Rock two blocks from the State Capitol.

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1222 WEST CAPITOL LITTLE ROCK • 501.372.2203 FRANCESFLOWERSHOP.COM

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

18th streets. But even if a planned tour isn’t ongoing, it’s worth a drive through the neighborhood to check out a bit of Little Rock history. Also in that neighborhood is the architectural splendor and stained glass windows of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral; stop in and take a look.

Root Cafe (1500 S. Main) has won an array of awards, including a major monetary prize in a national contest, in its short existence. Its cool, hippy vibe on the outside belies what really awaits inside in terms of flavors and preparation of outstanding dishes, from breakfast to dinner, though you can also have a cheeseburger there if that suits your fancy. A longtime favorite in Little Rock, especially on a quiet weekend morning but also hopping during weekday lunchtime, is Community Bakery (great breakfast, baked goods and sweets to terrific sandwiches and a rack of major

BRIAN CHILSON

EAT

South on Main

international newspapers). We mentioned it in the introduction, but South on Main has turned into one of the city’s best restaurants with its take on Southern cuisine by its spectacular kitchen (it’s also open for lunch). Also on Main is Raduno, a cool restaurant with

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WITH A

SOUTHERN ACCENT.

SM

brick-oven baked pizzas, sandwiches, craft beers and more. If you’re elsewhere in town and still want something to do/somewhere to eat after midnight, join everyone else at Midtown Billards (1316 S. Main) for a burger and a beer (or something stronger). VG

Like our ride along the Arkansas River Trail, our trip to Little Rock was a delight. Touring its downtown by Segway, and its neighborhoods, barbecue joints and breweries by bike. Riding the METRO Streetcar from our hotel to explore the shops, restaurants and clubs in the River Market.

Being mesmerized by the city’s beautiful illuminated bridges at night. We had a wonderful time, and can’t wait to return to Little Rock.

Riverfront Park > To see more visit LittleRock.com

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MIDTOWN Midtown Little Rock is filled with in-demand residential neighborhoods, a thriving restaurant scene, great boutique shopping and much more. Grab cocktails, catch a live music show and fulfill your home decorating needs in Riverdale. Head over to Hillcrest, which is always bustling with neighbors coming and going to nearby shops, restaurants, galleries, parks and coffee shops.

Where Cantrell meets Kavanaugh, you’ll find the beginning of The Heights, which is home to some of Little Rock’s most jaw-dropping mansions, upscale boutiques, noteworthy restaurants and more. Then the Midtown Shopping Center draws favorite chains like Pottery Barn, WilliamsSonoma, James Avery and more with endless restaurant choices. The neighborhood vibe throughout this part of the city will make any visitor feel right at home!

THE HEIGHTS T

he Heights is Little Rock’s original ritzy neighborhood, created beginning with the building of The Country Club of Little Rock in 1903—now, of course, Little Rock has other rich enclaves much farther west of town.

Still, The Heights remains the most expensive real estate in Pulaski County, and some of the city’s best

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restaurants at times have called the Heights home.

Today, Kavanaugh Boulevard and the neighboring streets are great for shopping, eating, getting a Starbucks or a health juice, for getting a pedicure or manicure or massage, for picking up a fine wine or a great steak from Terry’s, or just getting out for a stroll.

have found outstanding suits, blazers, slacks and more at Mr. Wick’s. Domestic Domestic focuses on American-made men’s clothing, shoes and accessories.

Children’s wear and more is available at The Toggery. Runners flock to Go! Running for all their running needs, and the outdoors types head to Ozark Outdoor Supply. Pet owners are taken care of at Doggy Daddy.

And for booklovers, a must-stop is Little Rock’s best bookstore, WordsWorth Books & Co. For pampering, Caracalla Day Spa or the Beauty Geek Lash and Skincare Lounge are destinations. Cabbage Rose is a florist specializing in fresh-cut European floral designs, while the florist Tipton & Hurst has been a Little Rock institution for decades. If you just happen to be in the need of a Rolex or something else Eggshells Kitchen Co. special, head on over to Sissy’s Log Cabin.

LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Many of Little Rock’s best clothiers are in The Heights, but there are also some trendy boutiques like Steamroller Blues, Tulips and Bella Boutique. For top home décor and kitchen accessories, check out White Goat, Eggshells Kitchen Co., and Cobblestone & Vine.

For years, Little Rock’s businessmen

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Heights Fine Wines and Spirits offers an excellent selection of wines, beer and other spirits. Big names to rare fines can be found at Yancey’s Wines and Spirits.

SEE

Maybe it’s not the same as peoplewatching while on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills or New York’s Fifth Avenue, but it’s still impressive for these parts. People simply don’t dress up like this to shop the other boutiques beyond the Heights.

Kavanaugh shoppers seem to know they’re being watched and obviously plan for it.

So pick a spot at, say, Starbucks, or the outside patio of the new Heights Taco & Tamale Co., and enjoy the view. If you’re wanting fine art, The Heights has some terrific retail art galleries, such as Boswell Mourot Fine Art and Chroma Gallery.

Both have works by both Arkansas artists as well as those from around the world.

Louis Beck displays his artwork at L&L Beck Gallery, while Stephano’s Fine Art Gallery features a wide range of modern and contemporary work by Arkansas and national artists.

EAT

There’s something for everyone and every mood, going dressy or casual.

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Heights Taco & Tamale Co.

Our new favorite place is Lulu’s Crab Boil, which seems like you suddenly walked in to a crab shack off the Gulf Coast. They know how to steam up shrimp, crab legs and more to suit any taste, whether you like it with no kick or blowing-out-your-sinus-cavity hot.

Plus there are other Cajun-style dishes and po-boys at great prices. Heights Taco & Tamale Co. is another great destination, putting a gourmet spin on Ark-Mex and spectacular drink concoctions while offering al fresco seating for those seeking people-watching and fresh air. HTT’s sister restaurant, ZaZa Fine Salad + Wood-Oven Pizza is located in an old movie theater. For great pizza, try U.S. Pizza. For Asian, longtime favorite Fantastic China always lives up to the name, while Sushi Café tops many folks’ lists for best sushi in these parts. On the corner of University and Kavanaugh, is

the popular former food truck turned brick-and-mortar Mexican restaurant Baja Grill, noted for its gourmet tacos and burritos. Want Italian bistro style?

Café Prego is a longtime favorite. For fancy dining, there is Terry’s Restaurant (behind Terry’s Finer Foods grocery). Great food and bread is to be had at Boulevard Bistro, while Cheers in the Heights and Scallions have been mainstays for casual fun dining for years.

Just want wine? Don’t miss By the Glass. All of this on Kavaunaugh or just off, making it easy to find.

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2016

PHOTO BY LANCE JOHNSTON

HILLCREST H

illcrest is one of Little Rock’s cherished old neighborhoods with a lovely blend of Craftsman homes and manses crammed into smaller lots. They don’t make them like this anymore—the streets don’t even match up in some places. Hillcrest has about anything a Little Rock resident could want: great public schools, large city park, easy access to downtown or to the major east-west freeway, a big grocery store, wonderful restaurants and eclectic shops, banks, vets, dog groomers, pool hall, promenade with an annual Christ-

5924 R STREET • LITTLE ROCK 501.664.3062

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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MIDTOWN LITTLE ROCK

HILLCREST mas tree lighting ceremony, huge fall festival, First Thursday block parties, proximity to the big sports stadium, and so forth. n Kavanaugh Boulevard cuts up off West Markham and

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Eclectic and cool is the best way to describe the Box Turtle, where there may not be any open space in the tiny store occupying an old, typicalHillcrest house; kids find toys and games downstairs, while mom will love the accessories, clothes and other gifts that greet you as soon as you walk through the front door. Other trendy shopping spots include E. Leigh’s and HausWerk. Rhea Drug is the classic old-fashioned drug store.

The Shoppes at Woodlawn are under new ownership and continue to be as popular as ever with a variety of stores all under one roof, a 1911 Dutch Colonial-style house. Izard Chocolate is a new bean-to-bar chocolatier on the block. Hillcrest shopping is especially popular each

defines Hillcrest up to a point, before heading to the ritzier Heights, and along Kavanaugh you’ll find the business hustle and bustle and some places to stop for eats or drinks.

first Thursday of the month with its Shop N Sip event where there’s great shopping, music and food.

bike these sidewalks and hills than maybe anywhere in town.

SEE

One of Little Rock’s best restaurants is Jerry Barakat’s phenomenal Kemuri, which took over a vacated Ice House Revival space at the eastern edge of the Kavanaugh Hillcrest business district. You’ll find everything from amazing Asian fusion cooking to expertly crafted sushi at the new eatery. But what’s cool about Kavanaugh is how so many different palates can enjoy a lunch or dinner (or breakfast) out. The Brazilian style of Café Bossa Nova and its companion bakery, Rosalia’s, is terrific. Cañon Grill puts its own

Renee Williams and her Gallery 26 feature an impressive array of Arkansas artists, including glasswork by James Hayes and brilliant paintings by the likes of Stephen Cefalo and Katherine Strause. Hillcrest, with such parks as Allsopp and Knoop (which has a spectacular view of downtown Little Rock and is THE place to watch downtown fireworks displays), is colorful beyond description in the fall. It’s easy to understand why more people walk or

EAT

Shoppes at Woodlawn

BRIAN CHILSON

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

MIDTOWN

spin on Mexican, while Leo’s Greek Castle offers more than just gyros, with humongous pancakes and breakfast items, burgers and plenty more all day. A new kid in town is La Terrazza Rum and Lounge, taking over where the beloved Acadia once stood, while the cool set has taken to Ciao Baci on Beechwood with its great bar and tasty tapas, plus more dining delights. U.S. Pizza is a great place for adults and kids with dependable pizza, salads, subs and more. Hillcrest Artisan Meats (HAM) is a local butcher and also has sandwiches and cheese; the meats and cheeses are heavenly. As the restaurant row winds down, there’s The Pantry Crest, in an old two-story Hillcrest house on Palm Street just off Kavanaugh, an outstanding dining experience with German and Czech-inspired dishes as well as American twists on favorites, plus GREAT salads. The chef here is blessed; he also owns The Pantry in West Little Rock.

No stop in Hillcrest is complete without a visit to Mylo Coffee Co. for Loblolly Creamery ice cream, not to mention its coffees. Mylo only aims to get bigger, planning to take over the now vacated, longtime eatery and music venue the Afterthought. By mid-2017, Mylo will have more restaurant seating space, and the business plans to expand the entertainment area that was, frankly, awfully cramped at times in the Afterthought, to feature live entertainment at the corner of Kavanaugh and Beechwood.

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idtown was almost given up for dead just a few years back when Little Rock kept expanding westward. Major shopping centers closed, several other retailers moved out, and another mall was in need of renovation. But, like Little Rock has seen throughout the city in recent years, local developers saw opportunity and chose to restore Midtown to vibrancy. Now, with the Midtowne shopping center serving as the anchor for renewal with such occupants as Pottery Barn, The Container Store, Williams-Sonoma, Joseph A. Bank and popular restaurants Pei Wei, Cantina Laredo and Big Orange, Midtown is back and better than ever. Another shopping center bustles just down University with a major Target outlet and other stores and restaurants, plus apartments. Meanwhile, visitors still flock to such attractions in the neighborhood as the Little Rock Zoo and War Memorial Park.

Big Orange

SHOP

Park Plaza Mall remains Little Rock’s biggest enclosed mall and features Dillard’s as its anchor on either end, with usual popular national brands in between (Ann Taylor, Gap, Coach, Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer, et al.). Midtowne has proven to be a boon with its array of trendy stores and restaurants. Yet another outdoor shopping hub has sprung up in Park Avenue, which also includes apartments as well as such stores as Target and AT&T, and a selection of sandwich shops. The biggest eyesore in the area went away when the southwest corner of University and Market was cleared away to make room for a Chipotle.

SEE

The Little Rock Zoo is one of the biggest tourist attractions annually in the state in terms of attendance. The Zoo has a penguin exhibit as a big draw, but plenty more from gorillas to elephants, reptiles, rhinos, tigers and lions.

When the Razorbacks play in Little Rock on Oct. 14 vs. Alcorn State, it will mark the Hogs’ only trip to Little Rock and War Memorial Stadium this year, with thousands of fans taking over the War Memorial Park golf course for some of the best tailgating around. When the tailgating departs, the course becomes maybe the most-played public course in the state; this year, when it reopens in August, the course will

BRIAN CHILSON

Izard Chocolate

BRIAN CHILSON

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feature rebuilt greens with Ultradwarf Champion Bermudagrass, a premium putting surface. The stadium, meanwhile, serves local high schools as well as a site for a number of events such as the Jewish Food Festival in April, Wild Wines in May, and the World Cheese Dip Championship in October. Yes, Little Rock created cheese dip as you know it back in the 1930s. Don’t argue with us.

EAT

Big Orange, a locally owned restaurant featuring craft beers, gourmet burgers and specialty drinks from an amazing barkeep, is always filled in the Midtowne shopping center. But it’s not Midtowne’s only destination. Cantina Laredo is a high-end Mexican eatery, while Pei Wei is a smaller version P.F. Chang and regularly filled. Chipotle entered the market with a store in the neighborhood, while the Cheddar’s chain found a gold mine near the Park Avenue shopping center. Panera Bread, Pot Belly’s and Newk’s all set up shop within a stone’s throw of each other. Further west but considered “Midtown,” Trio’s in Pavilion in the Park remains one of the top five restaurants in the city with its fine casual dining and weekend brunch, while Casa Mañana on Cantrell Road is a favorite among authentic Mex lovers. Pizza lovers pack Damgoode Pies next door.

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MIDTOWN LITTLE ROCK

RIVERDALE T

his is beginning to sound familiar around Little Rock, but visionaries recognized the potential in this warehouse-heavy district of Riverdale and have turned it into another hot spot for great dining, entertainment and shopping. It’s also a usual destination for bikers taking the Arkansas River Trail to the Big Dam Bridge or biking toward downtown, and good public golf is available at Rebsamen Park.

SHOP

Nearly every business in this neighborhood is connected to interior design. And maybe you’re just passing through Little Rock with no intention of staying long.

But if you are, head down to Riverdale.

About Vase has a wide variety of flowers to create a one-of-a-kind arrangement.

Bear-Hill Interiors has fine furniture, lamps, home accessories and gift items.

From houseplants and planters to nursery items, gardening tools and design advice, Botanica Gardens has it all. C&F Flooring and Rug Gallery has unique tiles, carpets and other flooring options.

Cynthia East Fabrics is the place to go for upholstery, decorator and drapery fabrics and decorative accessories. Debi Davis Interiors works in a broad range depending on clients’ preferences, from transitional modern to Tuscan to Old World. Distinctive Kitchens and Baths is a full-service kitchen and bath design and renovation store. The antique mall

Riverdale has also served for 68 years as the home base for Little Rock’s oldest community baseball organization, Junior Deputy Baseball, home to nearly 1,000 players ages 4-15. With so many design businesses within easy proximity, and with some of the city’s best dining, Riverdale’s business owners dubbed it the Design District. It’s hard to ignore all that’s happening these days in Riverdale.

Fabulous Finds will surprise you. Kaki Hockersmith Interiors has a variety of home accessories and a full line of interior design services. Louie’s Unique Framing & Gallery has original artwork and prints. The interior design firm Marshall Clements offers antiques, imports and artwork. Mertinsdykehome has furniture and home accessories with a modern flair, as well as books, lamps and gifts.

New Orleans Antiques and Jewelry Exchange features a large selection of fine European antiques, including furniture, art and jewelry. Providence Design is where sisters Mona Thompson and Talena Ray focus on traditional design paired with soft, modern and European influences that incorporate strong architectural elements into the mix. Award-winning floral designer Tanarah Haynie designs for any occasion with custom arrangements at Tanarah Luxe Floral. You’ll find European antiques, furniture, lighting and architectural elements, as well as accessories at

the Antique Co. From simple to spectacular and everything in between, the Closet Factory’s organizers combine function and fashion. The Shade Above Lighting Collection features highend custom lampshades and lighting, as well as lamp and chandelier repair. The Showroom/ Sandy Hubler Fine Art Big Dam Bridge offers custom framing and a wide selection of prints, frames and original artwork, operated by acclaimed Arkansas native artist Sandy Hubler. Famed Little Rock interior decorator Tom Chandler has an office that also houses the Chandler School of Decorating. Tuft & Table has stylish high-end planning for any event or venue, as well as retail home furnishings for everyday living. Urban Pad is a modish, affordable lifestyle furnishings, art, lighting and other décor in a store recently opened in the Design District

by John Gibson.

Brave New Restaurant

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

BRIAN CHILSON

SEE

You’ll typically see a soccer game on Riverfront Drive or a baseball game at the Junior Deputy complex going on every day in fall and spring. But not every kid plays soccer or baseball.

The kid of all ages is likely to be found walking or biking Riverfront Drive to Murray Park, which has trails and a dog park. If you’re looking to get in a quick round of golf, Rebsamen Park has an acclaimed par-72 public course with Champion Bermudagrass greens, an outstanding putting surface. Check out the lights

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

at night on the Big Dam Bridge, which are constantly changing.

Samuelsohn Zegna Oxxford Canali Luciano Barbera Peter Millar Byron for Baumans Baumans House brand SIMON Exclusive Made-to-Measure services available

EAT

Ask us our opinion for the best steak in town at the best price, and we’ll always say The Faded Rose in Riverdale. The Faded Rose applies a New Orleans approach to its varied menu, with lots of Louisiana favorites (it’s owned by New Orleans native Ed David).

The Creole and Cajun cooking is abundant in Riverdale, as right next door to the Faded Rose is Maddie’s Place, run by Brian Deloney, who trained and ran restaurants for Emeril Legasse. Cajun’s Wharf also offers a variety of Cajun-inspired dishes and lively nightlife, and happy hour on their patio overlooking the Arkansas River. Get another great view of the water off the balcony of Brave New Restaurant operated by celebrated chef Peter Brave—it’s best to make a reservation at this upscale bistro. Locals swear that the burger at Buffalo Grill can’t be beat, while the Pizza Cafe with its large deck is a relaxing way to spend a late afternoon. Chef Mark Abernathy, who has spent TV time with Rachael Ray, has two terrific restaurants in Riverdale in Loca Luna (which had a renovation this past year and is better than ever) and Red Door, which has a diverse menu from steaks to salmon.

The Fold: Botanas & Bar is a gourmet taco eatery in an old filling station that’s plenty of fun, while the Chi family has opened up a smaller, bistro version of its Chi’s Chinese in the next block over.

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Little Rock, Arkansas 8201 Cantrell Road 501-227-8797 800-231-0086 The Capital Hotel 501-370-7080 www.baumans.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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WEST LITTLE ROCK T

he westernmost reaches of quickly expanding Little Rock now tracks along Highway 10 toward Pinnacle Mountain. Chenal Valley, given a French twist on the name of a prominent mountain (Shinall, where all those TV and radio towers and Doppler weather radars sit), has developed along a four-lane roadway extending from the end of I-630 and Highway 10 near Pinnacle. Together, the Pleasant Ridge area and the subdivisions around Taylor Loop, along with the Chenal development, are said to house the most residents of any neighborhood in Little Rock.

Local Lime They also have great shopping, great dining and myriad offerings for entertainment and activities for the family. The eating is highly eclectic in the area as well, both on Highway 10 and on Chenal Parkway. n The best news of all: The worst

BRIAN CHILSON

intersection of highways in all of America was rebuilt into one of the best, so your travel from Little Rock proper to West Little Rock via I-630 is now a snap.

SHOP

The Promenade at Chenal is the shopping centerpiece in West Little Rock, with its high-end stores and restaurants, and a nine-screen theater (one of which is an Imax screen). However, plenty of shopping options can be found at Pleasant Ridge Town Center off Highway 10, with both locally owned boutiques and chain stores. Fresh Market, for example, is a destination for many shoppers throughout the city. Meanwhile, Whole Foods has moved into a more expansive space off Chenal on Bowman Road, next door to a Best Buy. Rodney Parham still has lots of shopping, as well in the area from I-430 to Green Mountain Drive, along with some popular restaurants.

SEE

¡Gourmet cuisine with south of the border flavor and Arkansas’s largest tequila selection under one roof!

Table side guacamole, fresh made ceviche, seafood, steaks and delicious chicken dishes.

Make time for a short excursion to beautiful Pinnacle Mountain State Park, with climbing that is not too daunting. Throughout the park there is camping, hiking trails, biking, picnic areas, playgrounds and a visitor center. Just off Highway 10 west of I-430 is Two Rivers Park and Two Rivers Park Bridge, which both offer a relatively easy, scenic walk or biking trail as well as plenty of green space.

Three of the best golf courses, both private, are in West Little Rock: Chenal Country Club has two championship 18-hole courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and Pleasant Valley Country Club has a classic layout over 27 holes. Both clubs have hosted major national amateur events. The famed Alotian Club, one of the top 20 courses in the country, according to Golf Digest, and fashioned after Augusta National Golf Course by an 1Augusta member, is farther west outside the city limits. But you’re LR_visitors Guide 7.16.pdf 7/8/16 2:19 PM

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not playing it unless you have an invitation from Warren Stephens or another member.

EAT

If you just happen to be craving Indian food, two of the best around are both in West Little Rock: Taj Mahal and Star of India (go for Taj if you prefer the extra spicy version of curry, vindaloo and the like). Steak options are endless in West Little Rock. Get an unforgettable steak at The Butcher Shop just off the I-430 and I-630 interchange, or grab some surf and turf with a Cajun twist at Copeland's located within the Shackleford Crossing shopping center at 2602 Shackleford Road. Great steaks like those found at a Ruth’s Chris can be had at Arthur’s Prime off Chenal Parkway and Rahling Road, and Ocean’s is a high-end seafood spot that shares space with Arthur’s. The Promenade is home to a plethora of dining, from locally owned Big Orange and Local Lime to Bravo Cucina Italiana and Ya-Ya’s Euro Bistro, and lots more. Also on Chenal is popular Japanese-style restaurant, Kiyens. The Tavern is a favorite sports bar, also in the Promenade, while the national chain Buffalo Wild Wings sets up shop off Highway 10. Table 28, near Rodney Parham Road in the Best Western Inn, may be one of Little Rock’s best fine-dining restaurants, while dimsum lovers will want to try Lilly’s DimSum Then Some. Middle Eastern fare isn’t forgotten either, thanks to Istanbul and Layla’s Gyros and Pizzeria. Yet another eclectic gem in the Market Street area off Rodney Parham is The Pantry, which focuses on Eastern European cuisine and has an extensive beer and wine selection.

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A Locally Owned Sports Bar Where You Can Enjoy Great Food And Great Sports!

Best Wings In Arkansas and we are ranked #6 in the United States for our wings according to USA Today!

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Open for Dinner: Mon-Fri 5pm, Sat & Sun 4:30pm West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Road 501-312-2748 thebutchershoplittlerock.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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NORTH LITTLE ROCK entertainment, shopping and dining options just north of the Arkansas River.

The downtown Argenta Arts District is full of art galleries, restaurants, nightlife and beautiful historic homes for excellent sightseeing. Head north on Main Street to John F. Kennedy Boulevard and the Park Hill Historic District, with sweeping views of Little Rock and the Arkansas River. Park Hill is a quiet neighborhood filled with historic homes and peppered

ARGENTA ARTS & HISTORIC DISTRICT N

orth Little Rock was once known as Argenta, and many locals still to refer to the revitalized downtown near the Arkansas River by that name. Argenta is now an Arts & Historic District of galleries, restaurants and nearby apartments. But it’s also an entertainment corridor from one end of Broadway to the other with the Dickey-Stephens Ballpark, home of the Double-A Texas League Arkansas Travelers minor-league baseball team, on the west, and Verizon Arena, which has featured every major touring act in recent years, to the east, next to Interstate 30. n Argenta hosts an art walk every third Friday of each month, and the Arkansas Times and Argenta partner on a number of fun events throughout the year, including the Heritage Hog Roast. Plus, the River Rail Trolley streetcar line runs from Little Rock down North Little Rock’s Main Street to Seventh Street, passing many of the key destinations.

SHOP

The website Bourbon and Boots has a headquarters situated in Argenta, at 314 Main St., where buyers can find Southernthemed goods such as clothing, jewelry, home accessories and much more. Maddox is a trendy women’s boutique that features dresses, blouses, jeans, jewelry and more, and offers sizes up to 3XL. The Argenta Bead Co. on Main Street has a wide selection of beads and other items for jewelry making, plus classes are offered to teach the uninitiated.

with shops and restaurants. Just east of Park Hill you’ll find the Lakewood neighborhood known for its several lakes, parks and a booming shopping and restaurant scene highlighted by McCain Mall. Tons of your favorite chain dining spots can be found along Interstate 30.

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Maddox

SEE

If the Arkansas Travelers are in town, a night at Dickey-Stephens Park is worthwhile. You can catch future Los Angeles Angels stars (Mike Trout played here, by the way) for just $7 in the cheap seats to $13 for a box seat (look for specials which can discount those prices, too). The ballpark has been voted as one of the best in the minor leagues and offers a terrific view of Little Rock’s skyline.

Check out the art on display at the Thea Foundation on Main Street. For Gallery Walk or just any time you’re in the area, check in to Greg Thompson Fine Art, featuring modern and contemporary work from Southern artists.

Other close-by attractions are the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, home to the U.S.S. Razorback submarine and the Hoga tugboat, and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, on the west side of Verizon Arena. For an enjoyable stroll, take in the North Shore Riverwalk along the Arkansas River.

Verizon Arena, which brought Paul McCartney to town in 2016, may feature a top-name draw on the schedule while you’re here.

For live productions, BRIAN CHILSON

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is for Irish, the often boisterous Cregeen’s Irish Pub, which was built in Ireland and shipped over in pieces, has all the Emerald Isle specialties as well as a full bar. The Shepherd’s Pie rocks. A new eatery we like is Four Quarter Bar, which may seem merely like a sports bar hangout with a shuffleboard table, but surprises with pretty good burgers and more to match the fun. Also new in 2016 is Skinny J’s, a restaurant and live music venue on Main Street. Look for excellent burgers, steaks, pasta and more, as well as shuffleboard and live entertainment on Saturday nights. Other favorites include Mug’s Cafe, a great, personable coffee shop, plus other haunts like Reno’s Argenta Cafe and, for a little of the grape, Crush Wine Bar, all in the 300 block of Main.

The nearby Wyndham Riverfront can satisfy any appetite with two fine eateries: The Riverfront Steakhouse, which prepares its prime beef like a Morton’s, and Benihana, the Japanese hibachi chain.

VG BRIAN CHILSON

check the calendar at the Argenta Community Theater. This intimate theater puts on several plays, musicals and dance productions as well as film screenings. Comedy can be found at The Joint, which functions as a coffee shop and bar with a 100-seat cabaret theater Skinny J’s attached. The Joint is home to resident professional comedy company The Main Thing and local improv between the Dickey-Stephens stadium and team Joint Venture with open mic, live music, Main Street, is Flyway Brewing, which also stand-up comedy and more peppered in features assorted gourmet pretzels, sliders, each month. nachos and more. Meanwhile, Core Brewing and Distilling of Springdale opened up a EAT taproom in Argenta as well in 2016, at 411 Craft brewing has taken off on both sides N. Main St. of the river, and you can get plenty just on For perhaps as good a dining as you can the Argenta side. On North Broadway in experience in Central Arkansas, Ristorante the 600 block, the elder statesman of the Capeo, at the corner of Fifth and Main northside breweries sits: Diamond Bear, streets, is a great bet. Whether you’re taking which has a great array of brews and food a group or that special someone, the gourto boot in its Arkansas Ale House restaurant met Northern Italian menu will suit you. You next door to the beer vats. New to town and can spend as little as $10 or so or splurge, brewing on site on West Broadway at Maple, and come away happy. If your hankering

Two Award Winning Restaurants In The Wyndham Riverfront

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2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock Arkansas Call 501-371-9000 for reservations www.Wyndham.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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NORTH LITTLE ROCK

PARK HILL/ LAKEWOOD L SEE

Take JFK Boulevard off of I-40 (at the busy I-40/I-30 intersection) and head north and you’ll immediately find yourself in Park Hill. Take the first right and you can spend a few minutes on the spectacular vista of Skyline Drive, with homes that line the rise and look out over the river valley below and downtown Little Rock in the distance. Park Hill is full of historic Craftsman-style houses and 1920s-era English Revivals, as well as homes that came up at the close of World War II. North Little Rock High School is renovating one of the biggest high school football stadiums in the state. You can see it coming together from I-40, and attend home games during the school year on Friday nights.

Of course, in Lakewood make sure to visit the Old Mill. Follow the signs on North Hills Boulevard near Fairway to the lakes that give the neighborhood its name. It’s on Lakeshore Drive and Fairway Avenue. The Old Mill was built in 1933 as a replica of an 1880s-era water-powered grist mill. The gardens surrounding it are beautiful in the spring and summer. Nearby playgrounds, basketball courts and tennis courts provide activity for the whole family.

SHOP

McCain Mall is North Little Rock’s longtime enclosed shopping center, having undergone one massive renovation and serving as home

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Leovena

ike Hillcrest in Little Rock, Park Hill in North Little Rock is a picturesque neighborhood with classic, historic homes. Nearby Lakewood, which developed beginning in the 1960s as the city began to spread out, has one of the most famous structures in all of Arkansas: THE OLD MILL, which was featured in the opening credits of the 1939 classic movie “Gone With the Wind.” But whether it’s old or new, both neighborhoods are destinations for shoppers and diners.

to numerous shops, restaurants and the Regal Cinemas. Nearby Lakewood Village is an outdoor shopping center that takes up a massive amount of acreage for its shops and dining, as well as an LA Fitness. The intersections of North Hills and McCain, Fairway and McCain, U.S. 67-167 and McCain and the corridor of East McCain are awash with major outlets for the likes of Home Depot, Target, T.J. Maxx and other stores.

In Park Hill the shops are more boutique variety. Make sure to take a moment to visit Stanley Jewelers in Park Hill, especially if you want to find something special for someone special. Music lovers, check out Dogtown Sound in the Lakehill Shopping Center for new and used instruments and music equipment. Leovena on JFK Boulevard

Come on Over to Copeland's for Your Next Event ! houses great home items, accessories and Arkansas-themed gifts. Razorback fans, don’t miss Hogman’s Gameday Superstore just north of the intersection of JFK and McCain.

EAT

Lakewood has everything from David’s Burgers off East McCain to the always packed Texas Roadhouse and T.G.I. Friday’s, plus the locally owned Cilantro’s Grill, one of our favorite Mexican stops, and Georgia’s Gyros, a delicious family-owned Greek diner. Also Saddle Creek Woodfired Grill delivers consistent steaks in Lakewood Village. Casa Real offers authentic Mexican cuisine in Park Hill, try the street tacos and the delicious salsa sampler. Ira’s Park Hill Grill, in the Lakehill Shopping Center, also is a favorite on JFK. It’s open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. For a sweet treat, there’s nothing better than The Original Scoop Dog. This frozen custard spot is a hit with the locals and you can see a line at the drive-through on any weekend in the summer. Look for outrageous custard combinations like Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Key Lime Pie or just build your own.

Gourmet hot dogs at a low price are also available.

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Ira’s Park Hill Grill VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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MUSEUMS ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD MUSEUM Sixth St. and Missouri Ave., Building 6400, 501-212-5215 www.arngmuseum.com Located on Camp Robinson, the Arkansas National Guard museum focuses on the history of the Arkansas National Guard from its inception in 1804 as the “Arkansaw Militia” to the present. It also explores the history of Camp Pike (later renamed Camp Robinson) from its founding in 1917. Exhibits feature the National Guard’s involvement in every American conflict from the war with Mexico to the Gulf War (except the Vietnam War) and Camp Robinson’s role as an Army training facility. The museum site, Lloyd England Hall, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors must show driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to enter the camp. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., and one weekend per month. Cost: Free. NLR

ARKANSAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME 3 Verizon Arena Way, 501-663-4328 www.arksportshalloffame.com Established In 1958, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame gives visitors the chance to learn about some of Arkansas’s sports greats. A sample of those enshrined here include Arkansas Razorbacks coaches Frank Broyles and Lou Holtz, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, NBA legend Scottie Pippen, golfer John Daly, baseball great Brooks Robinson, longtime Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and broadcaster Pat Summerall. Hours: Open by appointment only. Cost: Adults, $6; seniors, $4; Ages 6-17, active military, $3; and children 6 and under, free. NLR BUTLER CENTER FOR ARKANSAS STUDIES 401 President Clinton Ave., 501-320-5700 www.butlercenter.org The Butler Center for Arkansas Studies is a partnership of the Central Arkansas Library System and the University of Arkansas at

NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER 501 E. Ninth St., 501-372-4000 www.arkansasartscenter.com The Arkansas Arts Center is Little Rock’s premier art museum and center for the visual and performing arts. The Arts Center offers traveling exhibits and an expansive permanent collection, from American, Renaissance and European artists to modern works, including works by Cezanne, Van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, Georgia O’Keeffe, Rembrandt and Rubens. Throughout the year, the Arts Center brings in special exhibits and its Museum School offers a variety of arts classes for all ages. Its Children’s Theatre is a professional theater company staging new takes on children’s classics. Grab lunch at Best Impressions Restaurant and shop the museum store for unique gifts and interesting works by regional artists. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Admission is free; fees may be charged for special exhibitions. D

ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM 120 Riverfront Park Drive, 501-371-8320, www.aimmuseum.org Home of the U.S.S. Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the world, the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is fun for all ages. The museum focuses on the Razorback (SS 394) and the historic tug U.S.S. Hoga (YT 146). It also features displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River and aquaculture. You can also even experience, with advance reservation, a Submarine Sleepover, spending a night below deck in the refurbished submarine crew’s bunks. (The submarine tour is not recommended for children under 5.) In December 2016, a special event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor is planned. Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 1-6 p.m. (Memorial Day to Labor Day); Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6p.m. and Sunday 1-6 p.m. (winter hours). Tours: Adults, $7.50; active duty/retired military, children and seniors, $5; and museum only, $2. NLR

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock 34

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Little Rock. More than 10 million documents and photographs related to Arkansas history are available for public viewings. Galleries featuring Arkansas artwork, crafts and more are open to visitors. The Arkansas Sounds music collection provides a treasure trove of recordings, musician interviews, sheet music and other artifacts from Arkansas’s rich musical history. The Butler Center is also home to frequent special exhibits and a lecture series. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Free. D LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 2120 W. Daisy Gaston Bates Drive, 501-374-1957 www.nps.gov/chsc The Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center offers guests a look at the historic events surrounding the Central High Crisis. In 1957, nine AfricanAmerican students attempted to enter the all-white Central High School for the start of classes, only to be blocked by an angry mob and a defiant Gov. Orval Faubus. The event, which resulted in a deployment of National Guard troops to restore order, garnered international attention and is considered an important flashpoint for the Civil Rights movement in the United States.

The visitor center takes visitors through the history of race relations in Arkansas and provides interactive exhibits detailing the tense days of the crisis. Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; closed on major holidays. Cost: Free. D WILLIAM J. CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER AND PARK 1200 President Clinton Ave., 501-374-4242 www.clintonfoundation.org/clinton-presidential-center Attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center houses thousands of artifacts, photographs and interactive exhibits telling the story of the Clinton presidency from the campaign trail to the end of his tenure.

Inside, find a replica of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, as well as one of the largest archival collections in American presidential history. The center also includes Forty Two Restaurant, the Clinton Museum Store and educational, research and reception facilities. The compound is also home to the internationally acclaimed Clinton School of Public Service and Clinton Foundation.

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.;

COME EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF ARKANSAS, ITS NATIONAL GUARD, CAMP PIKE AND CAMP ROBINSON. The Museum’s exhibits tell the story of the Arkansas National Guard that extends back to the Militia days during the territorial period. In addition, the Museum adds the history of Camp Pike/Robinson, which was originally constructed in 1917 to train American soldiers for World War I. Camp Robinson was federalized in 1941 to prepare soldiers for World War II. Memorabilia covering many of the conflicts in which the Arkansas National Guard has participated are included.

Military Identification or driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to get a day pass.

Monday - Friday 8am-3pm • Also open one weekend a month.

Free Admission • Free Audio Tour Available

ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD MUSEUM Located on Camp Robinson, North Little Rock Take exit 150 off I-40 and follow the signs to Camp Robinson 501-212-5215 • www.arngmuseum.com

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ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

those serving on the home front through special and permanent exhibits, along with a media presentation, research facilities and gift shop. The 15,000-square-foot complex is built on the site of what was the Arkansas Ordnance Plant during World War II. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $3, adults; $2, senior citizens and military families; $1, students.

OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM 300 W. Markham St., 501-324-9685, www.oldstatehouse.com Arkansas’s original state Capitol, the Old Statehouse has witnessed many important and footnote historical events. Among these, Arkansas’s admission into the Union, a fatal Bowie knife fight between two sitting legislators, Arkansas’s vote to secede and join the Confederacy as well as two acceptance speeches by a president of the United States. As the oldest surviving state Capitol west of the Mississippi River, the Old State House Museum is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Throughout the year, the museum hosts special exhibits and events in addition to its permanent collections, among which is its nationally recognized collection of Civil War battle flags. Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 1–5 p.m. Cost: Free. D

Sunday, 1-5 p.m.; closed on major holidays Cost: $10, adults (18-61); $8, senior citizens (62+), college students (with valid ID), and retired U.S. military; $6, children ages 6-17; and free for children under 6 and active U.S. military. D HEIFER VILLAGE 1 World Ave., 501-907-8800 www.heifer.org/heifervillage Heifer Village offers interactive exhibits, galleries and more focusing on global issues, including ending hunger and poverty, and the work of Heifer International, which has helped more than 25 million families worldwide. Heifer Village offers programs and events throughout the year for families and adults in its sustainable and environmentally sensitive building. Guests can also enjoy Café@Heifer, which serves an array of soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas, and the Shop@Heifer offering ethically sourced, artisan-friendly products from around the world. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Cost: Free. D HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM 200 E. Third St., 501-324-9351 www.historicarkansas.org Step back in time and learn about Arkansas’s frontier history at the Historic Arkansas Museum. The museum grounds include

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

a pre-Civil War neighborhood, the oldest home still standing in Little Rock, and the site where William Woodruff once printed the Arkansas Gazette. Living-history characters are on hand to demonstrate the lives of early Arkansans. The museum has four galleries featuring Arkansas-made art and artifacts, contemporary Arkansas art and interactive children’s activities. The museum shop offers quilts and other contemporary crafts. Through February 2017 join in the celebration as the museum observes its 75th anniversary. Hours: Museum is open Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.; historic grounds are open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Cost: The museum is free, but the tour of historic buildings (guided Monday and Tuesday on the hour; self-guided Wednesday through Sunday) is $2.50 for adults, $1.50 for seniors over 65, $1 for children under 18. D JACKSONVILLE MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY 100 Veterans Circle, 501-241-1943 www.jaxmilitarymuseum.org Located in Jacksonville, north of Little Rock, this museum strives to educate the public about the men and women who serve our country in uniform. The museum focuses on the role of both military personnel and

MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER 501 W. Ninth St., 501-683-3593 www.mosaictemplarscenter.com The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and celebrating African-American history, culture and community in Arkansas from 1870 to the present. The museum informs and educates the public about black achievements, especially in business, politics and the arts. Learn about the legacy of the Mosaic Templars of America and listen to firsthand accounts of life in the segregated South from the people who lived through these challenging times. Visit the third floor auditorium and explore the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame. The center features permanent collections and rotating exhibits. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Free. D MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-396-7050 www.museumofdiscovery.org The Museum of Discovery offers exciting educational and entertaining exhibits on science, social sciences and technology for the whole family to explore. Interactive exhibits offer hands-on experiences that allow kids to learn and discover all sorts of things. Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of special events and exhibits.

Ranked the 6th best U.S. science museum

by MENSA, the Museum of Discovery traces its origins to 1927 and moved to its current location in the bustling River Market District In 1998. Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 1–5 p.m. Cost: $10, adults; $8, kids 12 and younger, teachers, Little Rock city employees, active and retired military, seniors 60+; free, children under 1. D WITT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS NATURE CENTER 602 President Clinton Ave., 501-907-0636 www.centralarkansasnaturecenter.com The Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center focuses on wildlife conservation and all that the Natural State has to offer. Located in downtown Little Rock, this 16,000-square-foot Arkansas Game and Fish Commission facility is located on nearly 3.5 acres near the riverfront.

The center offers ongoing programming for the whole family on activities such as geocaching, archery and fishing and also

BRIAN CHILSON

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MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY 503 E. Ninth St., 501-376-4602 www.arkmilitaryheritage.com Named for World War II commander and Arkansas native Gen. Douglas MacArthur, the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History honors the state’s military heritage through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, weapons, documents, uniforms and other items. The museum is located in the city’s oldest surviving neighborhood, and the original Tower Building—where Douglas MacArthur was born in January 1880—is the centerpiece of the 36-acre MacArthur Park, which is also home to the Arkansas Arts Center.

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, 1–4 p.m. Cost: Free. D

highlights the wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities and the state’s fish and wildlife resources. An expansive aquarium demonstrates the state’s five aquatic habitats and outside, the center connects to the Arkansas River Trail, a 24-mile pedestrian and bike trail running parallel to the Arkansas River, offering watchable wildlife in an urban setting.

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. Cost: Free. D VG

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HISTORIC BUILDINGS the dome. Guided tours are available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Or, take a self-guided tour during regular Capitol hours, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. weekends. Cost: Free. D CAPITAL HOTEL 111 W. Markham St., 501-374-7474 www.capitalhotel.com One of the state’s most luxurious hotels, the Capital Hotel is a grand tribute to a bygone era. Located in the very heart of downtown Little Rock, the Capital Hotel was completed in 1872, originally to be used for offices, shops and “bachelor’s quarters.” After the city’s other luxury hotel burned to the ground, the Capital was retooled into a hotel, opening in 1877.

Among the generations of famous and

infamous guests was Ulysses S. Grant for whom, as legend goes, the hotel installed an unusually large elevator to allow the general to take his horse to his room. Also home to One Eleven at the Capital, one of the best restaurants in the region. D CATHEDRAL OF ST. ANDREW 617 Louisiana St., 501-374-2794 www.cathedralsaintandrew.org The “Mother Church of Arkansas,” the Cathedral of St. Andrew, is the oldest continuously operating house of worship in the city. Measuring 140 feet in length and 86 feet across the transept made of wood from around the state, the walls are 36 feet high, the style is English Gothic, and the material is native gray granite,

BRIAN CHILSON

ARKANSAS STATE CAPITOL 500 Woodlane Ave., 501-682-5080 www.sos.arkansas.gov Resembling a smaller version of the U.S. Capitol with a 24-carat gold-leaf cupola, the Arkansas State Capitol makes a bold statement in downtown Little Rock. Built on the site of an old penitentiary using prison labor, State Capitol construction began in 1899 and took 16 years and $2.2 million (now valued at more than $300 million) to complete. The bronze front entrance doors were purchased at Tiffany’s; inside, the floors and walls are Vermont marble; great stone columns are from Colorado; and the grand staircases are from Alabama. The exterior limestone was quarried near Batesville, Ark., while a softer Indiana limestone was used for

ARKANSAS GOVERNOR’S MANSION 1800 Center St., 501-324-9805, www.arkansasgovernorsmansion.com Eleven of Arkansas’s chief executives, their families and pets have resided at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion, a Georgian Colonial-style home completed in 1950, the first such governor’s residence in the state’s history. More than 300,000 bricks from the old Arkansas School for the Blind, which once stood upon the site, went into construction of the mansion. Governors who have called the mansion home include Sidney McMath, Francis Cherry, Orval Faubus, Winthrop Rockefeller, Dale Bumpers, David Pryor, Frank White, Bill Clinton, Jim Guy Tucker, Mike Huckabee, Mike Beebe, and our current chief executive, Asa Hutchinson. Hours: Tours of all public rooms are available on an individual basis and subject to house availability. Cost: Free. S

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock 38

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quarried at nearby Fourche Mountain, south of Little Rock. It was said that this church was one of the first buildings in Arkansas built entirely of native granite. There are two towers, the tallest one reaching 231 feet, completed in 1887. It is also the final resting place for five of Arkansas’s former bishops. Guided tours are available by appointment. Cost: Free. D CURRAN HALL 615 E. Capitol Ave., 501-371-0075 www.quapaw.com The elegant house was built by Col. Ebenezer Walters as a wedding present for his bride, who died before its completion in 1843. This has contributed to the legend that Curran Hall is haunted—ghost-hunting groups claim to have substantiated this through recorded voices and apparitions. The house and garden, now the home of the Little Rock Visitor Information Center, is included on the Haunted Tour of Little Rock and is open for tours. Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Cost: Free. D THE EMPRESS OF LITTLE ROCK BED & BREAKFAST INN 2120 Louisiana St., 501-374-7966 www.theempress.com Formerly known as the Hornibrook Mansion, this ornate 7,200-square-foot mansion is a spectacular example of 1880s Queen Anne architecture and as a AAA Four Diamond property, is considered one of the best

small luxury hotels in the country. It is also on the National Register of Historic Places.

The gardens surrounding the house are equally spectacular. Open for teas, tours or both; keep an eye out for the ghost that is reported to live on-premises. Hours: Public tours are available Monday-Friday at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m., and by appointment only on the weekend. Private, group and bus tours welcome, call for details. Cost: Tours are $10 per person; $12 in December; seniors over 70, military and children under 15 tour price Is $8, $10 in Dec. D PULASKI COUNTY COURTHOUSE 401 W. Markham St., 501-340-8500 www.pulaskiclerk.com This municipal building was built in 1889 by Max A. Orlopp and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 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. Hours: MondayFriday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost: Free. D PYRAMID PLACE 221 W. Second St., 501-375-4700 www.pyramidbldg.com At 10 stories, Pyramid Place was the city’s first modern office building and first skyscraper in 1907. It was originally called the Southern Trust Building and cost $350,000 to build. It has undergone many renovations and redevelopments over the years,

and has been called “Pyramid” since the early 1980s. Hours: Call for availability. D TRAPNALL HALL 423 E. Capitol Ave., 501-324-9716 trapnall.oldstatehouse.com One of only a few remaining antebellum homes in the city, Trapnall Hall is a neoclassical home 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 and today, the building is owned by the Department of Arkansas Heritage. It is open to the public and is often the site of community events. Hours: Call for appointment. D THE VILLA MARRE 1321 Scott St., 501-244-0409 www.thevillamarre.com The Villa Marre rose to fame as the offices of the Sugarbaker Design Firm from the long-running hit television show “Designing Women.” The Villa Marre was built in 1881 as a reminder of the Italian heritage of the owners, Angelo and Jennie Marre. Built in the Second Empire architectural style that also boasts Italian influences, the main feature of the home is its mansard roof, adorned with multi-colored rectangular slates that intertwine to create a decorative fish-scale motif. The Villa Marre often hosts weddings, corporate and social events. Hours: Call for an appointment. D VG VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

OLD MILL 3800 Lakeshore Dr., 501-758-1424 www.northlittlerock.org/attractions Completed in 1933, North Little Rock’s Old Mill is historically significant for its components and for its role in a classic Hollywood film. It’s also a popular tourist attraction and, with its accompanying gardens, provides a lovely backdrop for photographers and weddings alike.

Built as a replica of mills as a tribute to Arkansas’s pioneers, the Old Mill was also shot in the opening scenes of “Gone With the Wind,” and is believed to be the only surviving structure used in the movie.

The Old Mill is open sunrise to sunset and free. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more by advance reservation. NLR

ON STAGE ARGENTA COMMUNITY THEATER 405 Main St., 501-353-1443 www.argentacommunitytheater.com North Little Rock’s Argenta Community Theater hosts a variety of film screenings, theatrical productions, concerts and other special events. It is also available to rent for parties and other occasions. NLR ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER CHILDREN’S THEATRE Ninth & Commerce streets, 501-396-0306 www.arkarts.com/childrenstheatre This professional theater company rivals nearly any in the state with high quality productions that captivate audiences of any age. D ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE 601 Main St., 501-378-0405 www.therep.org This theater on Main Street offers an impressive lineup of professional productions during its season, which runs from fall to early summer. Locals refer to it as “The Rep,” and it has received national recognition for its performances that include drama, original pieces, comedy and musicals. D ARKANSAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 501-666-1761 www.arkansassymphony.org The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra holds regular concerts throughout the year,

including shows celebrating Halloween, Christmas and the Fourth of July. The ASO is sometimes accompanied by special guests. D

dishing up dinner and live performances since 1967. From Broadway to comedic relief, entertainment is served with a buffet of delicious choices: roast beef, chicken, fish, pasta, vegetables, salads and desserts. Reservations are recommended. M

BALLET ARKANSAS 501-223-5150 www.balletarkansas.org The only professional ballet company in the state, Ballet Arkansas is a popular downtown attraction that stages several major productions each year, including “The Nutcracker Suite” and also offers intensive ballet courses. D

PUBLIC THEATRE 616 Center St., 501-374-7529 www.thepublictheatre.com Improv and other productions are the focus of this downtown theater, where artists develop and express their ideas in a collaborative environment. The theater also hosts film screenings and live music. D

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS 501-244-8800 www.celebrityattractions.com This company brings a steady stream of nationally touring plays, musicals and other performances to Little Rock. D

ROBINSON CENTER 426 W. Markham St., 501-376-4781 www.robinsoncentersecondact.com This historic theater and event center has undergone a complete renovation to re-open its doors in November 2016.

Companies including the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Celebrity Attractions and Ballet Arkansas will return. Look for concert bookings as well. D

COMMUNITY THEATRE OF LITTLE ROCK 501-410-2283 www.ctlr-act.org With 60 seasons under its belt, this downtown theater strives to enlighten, educate and entertain through its theatrical performances, which include comedies, musicals and drama. D

THE JOINT 301 Main St., 501-372-0210 www.thejointargenta.com This 100-seat cabaret theater is home of the theatrical comedy company The Main Thing. Look for their performances as well as live music, improv, stand-up comedy and more at this theater/bar/ coffee house. NLR

MURRY’S DINNER PLAYHOUSE 6323 Colonel Glenn Road, 501-562-3131 www.murrysdinnerplayhouse.com Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has been

Arkansas Repertory Theatre

ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE

WEEKEND THEATER 1001 W. Seventh St., 501-374-3761 www.weekendtheater.org This well-known downtown community group stages high-quality productions of all genres. The season runs year round, and shows are on weekends. D WILDWOOD PARK FOR THE ARTS 20919 Denny Road, 501-821-7275 www.wildwoodpark.org Ongoing dance, music and other performances run year round at Wildwood Park for the Arts’ 625-seat theater. The park also features botanical gardens, offers educational programming and hosts cultural events throughout the year. W

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock 40

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Engineered with Passion in Little Rock

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Rock includes the 6,450 nm Falcon 8X, our new flagship destined to become a favorite of world 0LX; ourLittle twin jets,is the nm Falcon 2000LXS and 2000S. andRock London City.4,000 The 8Xthe is more than three longer, with3,350 over 30 cabinFalcon layouts.

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The family of Falcon jets currently in production and completed in Little Rock includes the 6,450 nm Falcon 8X, our new flagship destined to become a favorite of world to life the at Falcon the Little Completion thanks toourthe administration and maintenance travelers; 7X, ourRock 5,950 nm trijet; our 4,750Center, nm trijet Falcon 900LX; twin1,800 jets, the skilled 4,000 nm craftsmen, Falcon 2000LXSengineers, and 3,350 nm Falcon 2000S.

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The family of Falcon jets currently in production and completed in Little Rock includes the 6,450 nm Falcon 8X, our new fla travelers; the Falcon 7X, our 5,950 nm trijet; our 4,750 nm trijet Falcon 900LX; our twin jets, the 4,000 nm Falcon 2000LXS a

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R TE NG – N I CE N NG N OPE TTI 016 O - U 2 NS RE N C 10, I B D R RO RAN IBBO BE G D R VEM O AN N

• $70 million renovation to create a 2,200-seat, state-of-the-art, multi-purpose performance hall • New conference center features a ballroom, flexible meeting space and a 5,800 s.f. outdoor terrace overlooking the Arkansas River • New home to Arkansas Symphony Orchestra (ASO), Ballet Arkansas (BA) and Celebrity Attractions Broadway Theater Series (CABTS)

OPENING EVENTS

RobinsonCenterSecondAct.com

• OPUS BALL, SAT. NOV. 12, 2016 • ASO - MASTERWORKS: PINES OF ROME, NOV. 19-20, 2016 • CABTS - TEN TENORS, NOV. 26, 2016 • ASO - RETURN TO ROBINSON FREE PUBLIC CONCERT, NOV. 30 • CABTS - ELF THE MUSICAL, DEC. 3-4, 2016 • BA - THE NUTCRACKER, DEC. 9-11, 2016 • ASO - POPS: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, DEC. 16-18, 2016 • MOSCOW BALLET: THE GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER, DEC. 22, 2016 • CABTS - ROGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA, JAN. 13-15, 2017 • ASO - MASTERWORKS: RACHMANINOFF’S PIANO CONCERTO #3, JAN. 28-29, 2017 • ASO - POPS: ROCK ON!, FEB. 11-12, 2017 • ASO - MASTERWORKS: MAHLER: RESURRECTION, FEB. 25-26, 2017 • ASO - POPS: IMAGINE: THE MUSIC OF JOHN LENNON, MAR. 4-5, 2017 • CABTS - THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, MAR. 8-19, 2017

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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d r a o f b o r d a A o r f b l o F A U l r N ! ! l F A l U N A the Visit the the Little Little Rock Rock Zoo Zoo and and hop hop Visit Little Rock Zoo and hop on the Diamond Express Express toto take take aa ride ride

Diamond Express

on the the newly opened Arkansas to take a ride around around the newly opened Arkansas Heritage Heritage around the newly opened Arkansas Heritage Farm where guests can feed, groom and Farm where guests can feed, groom and pet pet aa Farm where guests can feed, groom and pet a variety of variety of farm farm animals. animals. Or Or visit visit exotic exotic animals animals varietyfrom of farm animals.

Or visit exotic animals from Africa, Africa, Asia Asia and and South South America.

America. from Africa, Asia and South America.

Photo: Brian Chilson

LittleRockZoo.com LittleRockZoo.com LittleRockZoo.com 42

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

Photo: Brian Chilson Photo: Brian Chilson

Head Headon on

down down HERE! HERE!

Make meals andand Makea full a fulldaydayof ofit itwith with meals snacks Africa. snacksatatthethedelightful delightfulCafé Café Africa.

Take Takea whirl a whirlononthethehistoric historic “Over or or “OverTheTheJumps” Jumps”carousel carousel find thethe finda fun a funsouvenir souvenirin in Safari all all adds SafariTrader TraderGift GiftShop.

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ENJOY THE

GREAT OUTDOORS From hiking to cycling, sports, nature trails and more, central Arkansas is all in for the great outdoors.

BY DWAIN HEBDA

D

on’t let the gleaming city skylines, the bustling urban centers or the charming historical neighborhoods fool you, life in central Arkansas is all about the great outdoors. From the shores of its sparkling lakes to the highest point on Pinnacle Mountain, along miles of biking, hiking and running trails to a lazy summer’s afternoon of golf or tennis, central Arkansas’s green spaces boast attractions and activities for all ages and tastes.

The epitome of outdoor culture is Burns Park, a 1,700-acre emerald on the North Little Rock side of the Arkansas River that’s the largest municipal park in the state. If you can do it outdoors, chances are you can do it in Burns Park, which features soccer, golf, baseball and softball, miles of paved and nature trails, archery, playgrounds, tennis, camping and fishing. Burns Park also offers a

Dickey-Stephens Park ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

helping of out-of-the-ordinary attractions and activities: Tour a pre-Civil War cabin, stroll the covered bridge, launch your boat, ride a horse or chase Fido around the dog park. And when’s the last time you saw a city park with its own amusement park?

Central Arkansas residents on the Little Rock side of the river have their own wealth of green spaces, with more than 60 parks and recreation areas. The attractions are highlighted by Murray Park, home to the Big Dam Bridge spanning the Arkansas River. Soaring 90 feet over the water, at 4,226 feet in length, it’s the longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in North America that has never been used by trains or motor vehicles.

Also, be sure to check out War Memorial Park in Midtown, which offers golf, a splash pad, a recreation center with swimming pool, and is home to both

the Little Rock Zoo and War Memorial Stadium. Two Rivers Park is an unspoiled preserve that’s a haven for bicyclists and nature lovers alike. And MacArthur Park downtown provides a refreshing escape for city dwellers that’s also home to the Arkansas Arts Center and the MacArthur Museum of Military History.

Little Rock and North Little Rock’s parks along the river are part of the Arkansas River Trail system, made up of 88 miles of trails that stretch as far as Conway and Maumelle. One of the more heavily used sections of the trail is a 15.6-mile loop from the Clinton Presidential Bridge to the Big Dam Bridge.

Given the area’s love affair with the outdoors, it’s no surprise to find a thriving biking and running community in central Arkansas. Those who like to lace up will find a local 5K running race

The covered bridge in Burns Park DREW HARRIS

BRIAN CHILSON

nearly every weekend spring through fall.

Runners of every shape, size and point of origin hit town in March for the annual Little Rock Marathon weekend, which features distances from 5K to 26.2 miles and the biggest finisher’s medals anywhere in the nation.

Cycling enthusiasts have their own packed road racing calendar, highlighted by the Big Dam Bridge 100 and Tour de Cure, benefiting the American Diabetes Association. Those who like to take things off-road have their choice of great mountain biking trails, too. Boyle Park in Little Rock and Camp Robinson in North Little Rock are two highly recommended rides.

And what would outdoor activities be without a mountain to climb, as the saying goes, “just because it’s there?” Here too, central Arkansas fits the bill with nearby Pinnacle Mountain. Rising more than 1,000 feet over the valley below, Pinnacle’s cone-shaped peak is a local landmark.

“Climbing Pinnacle” is a rite of passage for every native and transplanted Arkansan

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

and while regulars are split on which of the two rugged summit trails (East Summit or West Summit) offers the best route to the top, there’s no debating the breathtaking views once you get there.

Central Arkansas’s outdoors also host some of the year’s biggest festivals and events.

Riverfest brings national touring music acts to stages with the mighty Arkansas River

as a backdrop. Free movies in the park are shown under the stars in Little Rock from spring to autumn. And nothing is nicer than a spring evening of baseball cheering on the Arkansas Travelers (Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) at North Little Rock’s Dickey-Stephens Park as the lights of the city twinkle off the river beyond the outfield wall.

VG

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FAMILY Greater Little Rock is brimming with activities designed for the little ones in your family to enjoy. There are many playgrounds, museums, amusement parks and more to insure you never hear the dreaded words “I’m bored.”

ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK 157078 Chenal Pkwy., 501-353-1281 altitudetrampolineparklr.com Altitude Trampoline Park offers more than 200 interconnected trampolines as well as a foam pit, slam dunk area, dodge ball and kids’ zone just for kids who weigh 80 pounds or less. W ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER CHILDREN’S THEATRE 501 E. Ninth St., 501-372-4000 arkarts.com The Children’s Theatre presents stage

FUN

versions of classic stories, often with a modern spin. Costumes are colorful, acting is superb, and the shows are geared to captivate the attention of children. Each season runs from September through May and features six productions. Shows are live on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with a meet-and-greet with the cast on each show’s opening night. D

is home to the U.S.S. Razorback, the longest-serving submarine in the world.

Other attractions include the historic tug U.S.S. Hoga (YT 146), displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River and aquaculture. This museum is recommended for children over the age of 5. NLR

ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM 120 Riverfront Park Drive, 501-371-8320 aimmuseum.org The north shore of the Arkansas River

ARKANSAS SKATIUM 1311 S. Bowman Road, 501-227-4333 arkansasskatium.com This hot spot is a cool place to roller skate and ice skate—all in one building. Also find skating lessons and snack bar. W

BRIAN CHILSON

ARKANSAS TRAVELERS BASEBALL 400 W. Broadway St., 501-664-1555 travs.com April through September enjoy a night at the ballpark with the whole family watching The Arkansas Travelers, the minor-league baseball team that makes its home at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. An array of snacks and a Kids Korner playground are available. NLR

LITTLE ROCK ZOO 1 Zoo Drive, 501-666-2406 littlerockzoo.com There are endless opportunities for fun at the Little Rock Zoo! Spend the day with hundreds of species of animals—penguins, elephants, chimps, tigers and rhinos among them—take a whirl on the historic carousel, a ride on the train or play on the playground. The zoo hosts frequent animal education events, camps and special events such as Boo at the Zoo throughout the year. M

BIG ROCK MINI GOLF & FUN PARK 11411 Baseline Road, 501-455-3750 bigrockfunpark.com Little Rock’s premier family destination, this attraction has go-karts, an arcade, batting cage, bumper boats and mini golf—all in one location. SWLR BURNS PARK I-40, Exit 150, 501-791-8538 nlrpr.org This 1,700-acre park in North Little Rock is one of the nation’s largest. Its list of attractions includes a 36-hole championship golf course, disc and miniature golf courses, tennis complex, softball and soccer fields, playgrounds, archery range, BMX track, hiking trails, picnic areas, camping and an amusement park. NLR

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; EV East Village; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; SWLR Southwest Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock 46

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HEIFER VILLAGE 1 World Ave., 501-907-8800 heifer.org Heifer Village provides a hands-on educational (and entertaining) experience for the whole family. Visitors can learn about global consciousness and ending poverty and hunger worldwide.

With special programs throughout the year, Heifer also has a café and gift shop onsite. EV HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON CHILDREN’S LIBRARY & LEARNING CENTER 4800 W. 10th St., 501-978-3870 cals.org The Central Arkansas Library System’s 30,000-square-foot children’s library is named for the candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in the 2016 election, and former U.S. Secretary of State and first lady of the nation as well as the state of Arkansas. In addition to special guests and programs scheduled throughout the year, the library has a teaching kitchen, activity area, more than 20,000 books, DVDs and CDs, 165-seat theater, greenhouse, teaching garden, walking trails and an amphitheater. M HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM 200 E. Third St., 501-324-9351 historicarkansas.org Visitors of all ages will enjoy learning about frontier life and meeting living history interpreters, experiencing life in a pre-Civil War neighborhood, playing in the interactive children’s gallery and seeing Arkansas-made art and artifacts in the Trinity Gallery. Each spring, the museum hosts a Territorial Fair, and in December it welcomes the Christmas Frolic. D JUMP ZONE 9250 Commerce Cove, 501-907-5867 jumpzoneparty.com Kids can jump for hours in this indoor inflatable park featuring seven enormous, unique inflatable adventures. Find obstacle courses, slides, bouncy carousel and more. NLR

MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY

FUNLAND I-40, Exit 150, 501-753-7307 nlrpr.org/funland Inside North Little Rock’s Burns Park you will find an amusement park that operates from April through September, including a tilt-a-whirl, train, carousel, scrambler, pint-sized helicopters and more. NLR

MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-396-7050 museumofdiscovery.org Learn, play and explore at this science-driven museum with countless exhibits and activities for kids. Look for rotating exhibits and tinkering demonstrations as well as a playroom designed especially for children under 6. D

LITTLE ROCK CLIMBING CENTER 12120 Colonel Glen Road #7000, 501-227-9500 littlerockclimbingcenter.com Burn some energy and build confidence with your kids at this indoor climbing gym. There are auto-belay and partner-belay setups throughout the gym with routes for every skill level. For kids 5 and older. W PINNACLE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, 501-868-5806 arkansasstateparks.com/pinnaclemountain Pinnacle Mountain State Park is central Arkansas’s highest peak and includes a playground, campgrounds, trails, picnic areas and a visitors center with educational activities. Located west of downtown Little Rock, this park gives families a chance to get back to nature without leaving town. W PLAYTIME PIZZA 600 Colonel Glenn Plaza Loop, 501-227-7529 playtimepizza.com Mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars and a huge indoor play area make Playtime Pizza a great place for families to eat and play. Buffet-style menu includes pizza, salad, nachos and dessert. W RIVER RAIL STREETCAR 501-374-5354 rrmetro.org Three replica vintage streetcars take visitors

on a nearly 3.5-mile route through downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock.

Riders travel past the River Market, Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer Village, DickeyStephens Park, the U.S.S. Razorback submarine and more. Day passes are available to hop on and off the streetcar during your visit. D WAR MEMORIAL SPLASH PAD Inside War Memorial Park at 5110 W. Markham St., 501-663-0854 littlerock.com/things-to-do/ detail/war-memorial-park A perfect spot for children and families, the War Memorial Splash Pad features caves, slides, waterfalls and a playground for hours of water fun. Free admission and appropriate for all ages. M

WILD RIVER COUNTRY 6820 Crystal Hill Road, 501-753-8600 wildrivercountry.com North Little Rock’s popular water park offers 26 acres of water activities. Open from May through August, there are activities for all ages to enjoy as well as water slides, wave pools, a lazy river, the Tad Pool for young kids, pavilions and a volleyball court. NLR WITT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS NATURE CENTER 602 President Clinton Ave., 501-907-0636 centralarkansasnaturecenter.com This downtown nature center features a variety of indoor wildlife exhibits and outdoor nature exploration. Survey the nature trails and look for native wildlife, such as turtles and butterflies. There also is ongoing nature programming for the whole family. D WONDER PLACE 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-4050 thewonderplace.com This indoor play space especially designed for kids 8 and younger offers lots of attractions for children to expand their imaginations. Water table, tree house, drama stage, puppet area, art studio, vet clinic and farmers market are just a few of the play stations at this attraction. W VG VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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LATE NIGHT AND

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Little Rock offers many live music and entertainment venues. Some host entertainment several nights a week, while others offer larger concerts throughout the year.

109 & CO. 109 Main St., 501-374-3710 109andcompany.com Inspired by classic speak-easy bars, 109 & Co. serves great cocktails and upscale bar snacks (like a customizable charcuterie board) in a decidedly luxe atmosphere. D

HILLCREST FOUNTAIN 2809 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-614-9818 This late night spot features pool tables, shuffleboard and a full bar. HC

CREGEEN’S IRISH PUB 301 Main St., 501-376-7468 cregeens.com This popular restaurant and bar is located in North Little Rock’s Argenta neighborhood and offers weekly live music. The bar offers an assortment of imported beers, and it’s a great place to get a bite or a drink before or after an Arkansas Travelers baseball game or event at Verizon Arena. NLR

THE JOINT 301 Main St., 501-372-0205 thejointargenta.com Located in Argenta, the Joint features a 105-seat cabaret theater with regular comedy acts and other live entertainment.

On Wednesday nights, the Joint Venture improve comedy company performs, and on Thursday nights, the Artist Series showcases a variety of entertainment acts. Every Friday and Saturday, The Main Thing, the Joint’s resident trio of actors and musicians, perform. Coffee, beer, wine and cocktails are also offered. NLR

BRIAN CHILSON

CAJUN’S WHARF 2400 Cantrell Road, 501-375-5351 cajunswharf.com Nearly every night of the week, Cajun’s Wharf offers live music and entertainment. Weekly events include Wine Down

Saturdays at Club Level. It’s a two-story 10,000-square-foot dance club with two full bars, a kitchen, elevated DJ booth and posh, modern furnishings. D

STICKYZ 107 River Market Ave., 501-372-7707 www.stickyz.com Stickyz Rock ’N’ Roll Chicken Shack combines three great things: live music, drinks and deep-fried chicken. With its two rooms and patio, Stickyz can accommodate live bands while hosting crowds just looking for a drink and some chicken fingers. Touring acts of all musical genres and local bands hit the stage nearly every night of the week. There are also great lunch specials. D

Wednesday, with $5 glasses of wine, and The Big Swinging Deck Party every Thursday, with music on the deck and a $5 cover charge after 8:30 p.m. There is also a full bar and seafood restaurant. R CLUB LEVEL 315 Main St., 501-372-1515 clublevelonline.com Dance through the night Fridays and

DISCOVERY 1021 Jessie Road, 501-666-6900 latenightdisco.com This dance club is only open on Saturday night, and is open until 5 a.m. There are three rooms and a patio, each featuring different styles of music. R ERNIE BIGGS 307 President Clinton Ave., 501372-4782 A speakeasy and dueling piano bar six nights a week, and a dance club three nights a week. Drink specials. D

FOUR QUARTER 415 Main St., 501-313-4704 fourquarterbar.com This new late night bar in historic Argenta serves a full menu, offers craft brews on tap, shuffleboard and live music on the weekends. NLR

LOONY BIN COMEDY CLUB 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-228-5555 loonybincomedy.com This comedy club features shows on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays featuring touring comedians, along with an array of drinks, bar snacks and more. W MIDTOWN BILLIARDS 1316 Main St., 501-372-9990 midtownar.com Esquire magazine voted Midtown one of the best bars in the country. Open until 5 a.m., this is a Little Rock after-hours institution. There are live bands most weekends, a full bar, and menu serving up cheeseburgers and more. S THE REV ROOM 300 President Clinton Ave., 501-823-0091 revroom.com The Rev Room books some of the best live touring bands in Central Arkansas, including indie rock, hip-hop, country, rockabilly and more. D RON ROBINSON THEATER 1 Count Pulaski Way, 501-320-5707 or 501-320-5709 ronrobinsontheater.org One of the newest additions to Little Rock, the Ron Robinson Theater, located inside the Arcade Building, is home to the

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock 48

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Central Arkansas Library System’s ongoing programming. Concerts, films, speakers and other performance art are all staged here. D SOUTH ON MAIN 1304 Main St., 501-244-9660 southonmain.com This upscale, Southern cuisine restaurant doubles as a full-service performance venue.

It is home to the Oxford American Concert Series and hosts an array of other monthly events on their stage. Notable acts include Jay Farrar, Iris Dement, The Indigo Girls and many more. S SWAY 412 S. Louisiana St., 501-907-2582 clubsway.tumblr.com This downtown dance club features live entertainment and more. It is the only gay club downtown and is open to ages 18 and above. D TRINITI NIGHTCLUB 1021 Jessie Road, 501-664-2744 trinitinightclub.com Triniti Nightclub features three bars in the

same club, and is open on Friday nights from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. Every Friday night at 11 p.m., there is a drag show with special guests. Triniti is located next to Discovery nightclub. R VERIZON ARENA 1 Verizon Way, 501-975-9000 verizonarena.com This 18,000-seat stadium in North Little Rock hosts a variety of large-scale shows throughout the year, including concerts, Cirque du Soleil, Disney on Ice and lots more. Be sure to check the calendar to see what’s coming up. NLR VINO’S 923 W. Seventh St., 501-375-8466 vinosbrewpub.com This pizzeria and brewpub hosts a variety of live performance events, including punk and indie rock acts, poetry readings, film screenings and homebrew events. Enjoy freshly brewed beers and homemade pizzas and calzones while enjoying the shows. D

WEST END SMOKEHOUSE 215 N. Shackleford Road, 501-224-7665 westendsmokehouse.net Along with live music throughout the week, this pub also offers pool tables, more than 50 TVs and an extensive bar menu full of food and drink items. W WHITE WATER TAVERN 2500 W. Seventh St., 501-375-8400 whitewatertavern.com The White Water Tavern is a small, two-story dive that has hosted legendary performances over the decades, and shows no sign of slowing down. Expect to hear rock, country, hip-hop, punk and folk, from touring acts and local standouts. D WILLY D’S PIANO BAR 322 President Clinton Ave., 501-244-9550 willydspianobar.com Have a high-energy night at this dueling piano bar in the River Market. It has two full-service bars and a full kitchen that’s open late. Venture downstairs to Deep, a dance club and bar below Willy D’s where DJs spin top 40, hip-hop and electronic dance music. D

Naughty or Nice?

At Cupids you can find something for every mood!

Lingerie | Toys | Games Party Supplies | Adult DVDs Your Pleasure is our Passion! www.ShopCupids.com | | Conway 2585 Donaghey Ave Conway, AR 72032 (501) 764-0404

Little Rock South Little Rock West North Little Rock Jacksonville 3920 W 65th St 9700 N Rodney Parham Rd 5400 John F Kennedy Blvd 6111 John Harden Drive Little Rock, AR 72209 Little Rock, AR 72227 N Little Rock, AR 72116 Jacksonville, AR 72076 (501) 565-2020 (501) 227-8282 (501) 753-3353 (501) 241-2777 Open 24 Hours Open 24 Hours

Hot Springs 1910 Albert Pike Rd Hot Springs, AR 71913 (501) 623-1250

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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DISCOVER

ANTIQUE TREASURES When you combine the hoarding tendencies of the typical Southerner with a dash of “it might be worth something someday,” you’ve got a sure-fire recipe for antiquing gold. Central Arkansas has no shortage of shops for mining this gold.

BY MELISSA TUCKER

Q

uite often, flitting from shop to shop feels like a treasure hunt, and the options here appeal to thrift store sifters, antique resellers and vintage fixer-uppers alike. Here’s a guide to a few of the longstanding antique stores in the area to get you started: BLUE SUEDE SHOES 22460 Interstate 30, Bryant, 501-653-2777 We can’t really argue with Blue Suede Shoes billing itself as central Arkansas’s largest antique mall. It seems to sprawl on and on with booths. The areas up front hold jewelry and other treasures behind glass doors, and the booths are curated and organized by category. The

PAINTED TREE VINTAGE MARKET 24351 Interstate 30 East, Bryant, 501-205-1330 Painted Tree is the place for non-crafty types who like their vintage pieces updated and artistically distressed. Nearly everything here is clean, pretty and covered in a new coat of chalk paint. But a few unexpected pieces, like an oyster shell chandelier can be found. The market is also quite large, and it looks like a second location will open soon in Sherwood.

further back you go, the more jumbled it gets, until you find yourself under the “Purple Cadillac Flea Market” entrance.

Then you better have a snack and fuel up for some next level thrifting.

OLDE TOWNE BENTON ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES 303 S. East St., Benton, 501-776-1398 This is the sort of place where you’ll find good furniture, decor and eclectic pieces for reasonable prices. But you won’t find clothing. Shoppers on a budget will like it here, but easily the most expensive piece is the giant mounted buffalo head for “$2,000 firm.” If you’re a furniture pirate looking for buried treasure, you should visit Olde Towne. Oh, and free popcorn!

MOXY MODERN MERCANTILE 1419 Main St., Little Rock, 501-374-2474 This shop in the South Main neighborhood of Little Rock is part vintage market and part gift shop. They’ve got records, paper goods, sassy socks and jewelry.

Everything is quirky and eye-catching.

MOXY Modern Mercantile

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BRIAN CHILSON

SWEET HOME FURNISHINGS AND CLEMENT 1324 S. Main St., Little Rock, 501-296-9198 If you’re looking for statement pieces, this could be your goldmine, housing classic, authentically distressed pieces that we’re calling “farmhouse European.”

There’s a 10-foot church pew from East Arkansas, an old picnic table, an iron fence, chandeliers, fixtures, globes, dressers, chairs and some modern pieces, too. Everything here feels hand-picked.

CRYSTAL HILL ANTIQUE MALL 5813 Crystal Hill Road, North Little Rock, 501-753-3777 This could be the place you go for source material for DIY projects. It’s a flea market, antique shop hybrid brim-

Galaxy Office Furniture

ming with curios, old furniture, some farm equipment, books, jars, delicate glassware and more. And for even more shopping, Twin City antiques is across the street.

MORRIS ANTIQUES 50 Antique Way, Keo, 501-842-3531 When anyone mentions antiques in central Arkansas, the first thought is Morris Antiques in Keo. The second thought is pie at Charlotte’s in Keo, but that’s a different article. Morris is the place for shoppers who know antiques, and houses rare pieces of American and European descent. Because Morris is like a time capsule for historic design it’s worth a visit for that alone. And did we mention pie is nearby?

GALAXY OFFICE FURNITURE 304 Main St., North Little Rock, 501-375-3375 The first floor of this two-story shop has mostly furniture—desks, tables, chairs and some vintage clothing. Wander upstairs and find even more furniture combined with an assortment of housewares, old lamps, decor, books and more. Galaxy is a longtime fixture in the Argenta Arts District and a longstanding stop for visitors to the neighborhood.

MID-TOWNE ANTIQUE MALL 105 N. Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, 501-223-3600 Another large building with booths on booths, this place is half antique mall, half flea market but ideal for treasure hunters.

Old books, furniture, glassware, clothing, and more can be found by walking a little deeper into the various cubicles. Some booths are more organized than others, but more than a few have something quirky and unexpected inside.

VG

BRIAN CHILSON

Thanks for voting us the best!

BEST ANTIQUES BEST VINTAGE CLOTHING

105 N. Rodney Parham • Little Rock

501.223.3600 www.midtownantiquemall.com

Largest Showroom in Arkansas 8116 Cantrell Road (across from Pavilion in the Park) Little Rock • 501.225.8999

814 WEST 7TH STREET, LR

TATTOO SHOP:

MON - SAT | 1PM - 10PM 501-372-6722

SALON:

MON-SAT | 10AM - 8PM 501-374-3544

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RETAIL SHOPPING FEATURE

Travel Smart. Travel AMTRAK. The Plush P42 Locomotive is a sizeable, soft and snuggly toy that measures approximately 11 inches long by 6 inches tall. It features an embroidered logo and realistic details. This plush toy would make a great first train for any little one, and can double as a neck pillow for adults. It is safety rated for all ages. www.amtrak.com

Since 1919 BAUMANS has been a staple for this region and beyond.

Known in the industry as one of the best specialty men’s stores in the country, Baumans offers not only off the rack clothing, but has an in-house Made-to-Measure department for the ultimate fit.

Setting it apart from most men’s clothing stores is the excellent tailor shop boasting a Master Tailor and experienced personnel. This store is more than a place to shop...it is an experience. Come see for yourselves.

Little Rock, Arkansas, 8201 Cantrell Road 501-227-8797, 800-231-0086 The Capital Hotel 501-370-7080, www.baumans.com

Shop at CUPIDS for lingerie and more!

Stop in at any of our 6 locations: Conway, 2585 Donaghey Ave, (501) 764-0404 Little Rock South, 3920 W 65th St, (501) 565-2020 Open 24 Hours Little Rock West, 9700 N Rodney Parham Rd, (501) 227-8282 North Little Rock, 5400 John F Kennedy Blvd, (501) 753-3353 Jacksonville, 6111 John Harden Drive, (501) 241-2777 Open 24 Hours Hot Springs, 1910 Albert Pike Rd, (501) 623-1250 We offer discreet packaging and shipping through our online store at www.Shopcupids.com.

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CYNTHIA EAST FABRICS has been Little Rock’s ”go-to” fabric source for over 39 years. You will always find designs and materials of every description in stock and they can coordinate any required labor.

They also feature Amy Howard One-Step paints and a showroom of imaginative gifts and home accessories.

Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd • Little Rock 501-663-0460 • www.cynthiaeastfabrics.com

DASSAULT FALCON’S FLAGSHIP, the Falcon 8X, delivers 6,450 nm range, Falcon agility and efficiency, plus a uniquely flexible cabin. Choose from over 30 distinct layouts. Access hundreds more airports. Fly nonstop from Moscow to Los Angeles, London City to New York, Hong Kong to London or Sydney to Mumbai.

RANGE: 6,450 nm (11,945 km) with 8 passengers and NBAA IFR reserves (at .80 Mach) ENGINES: Three Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307D turbofans each rated at 6,722 lb / 29.9 kN thrust (SL ISA+17 degrees C) AVIONICS: Digital Flight Control System. Advanced third-generation EASy flight deck with new optional Head-Up Display, integrating unique Combined Vision System

For over 30 years we’ve been conveniently located in the heart of downtown Little Rock. At KYLE-ROCHELLE JEWELERS, we not only sell diamonds at the best price in town, we now buy diamonds and Rolex watches along with gold and diamond jewelry. Don’t take less from other dealers when we have over 30 years of being the most competitive store in town. Please feel free to walk in any time or call and schedule an appointment M-F from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

523 South Louisiana St., Suite M100 • Little Rock 501-375-3335 • facebook.com/kylerochellesdowntown

www.dassaultfalcon.com

Find all kinds of treasures at the LITTLE ROCK ZOO’S SAFARI TRADER GIFT SHOP. Ranging from stuffed animals and mugs to tote bags and post cards the Safari Trader Gift Shop offers a unique selection of animal-themed toys and gifts for children and adults of all ages.

SAFARI TRADER GIFT SHOP 1 Zoo Dr. Little Rock • 501-666-2406 www.littlerockzoo.com

THE MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY was created to interpret our state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present. Located in the historic Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, the gift shop offers unique items that enhance and interpret the museum’s exhibits. Choose from a variety of books related to Arkansas’s military past, as well as historical collectibles and traditional souvenirs that serve as reminders of your visit. All proceeds from the gift shop go toward the fulfillment of the museum’s mission to preserve the historic Arsenal Building and interpret Arkansas’s military heritage.

Mon-Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 1-4pm 503 E. 9th St. • Little Rock 501-376-4602 • arkmilitaryheritage.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2017 VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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RETAIL SHOPPING FEATURE

MARTINOUS ORIENTAL RUG CO. has been in business since 1923 and offers handmade oriental rugs from around the world at affordable prices. They offer Karastan, Noursion and Oriental Weavers rugs and more. They have traditional, modern rugs with all the updated colors. Martinous introduced rug cleaning to Arkansas in 1939, and has the finest cleaning and drying facilities for all types of area rugs as well as a submersion hand-wash process for rugs with animal stains and odors. Their state-of-theart building is second to none. They also offer padding underlay, Moth Proofing, Fabricoating, and Repairing. For more information: 501-224-0313, www.martinous.com, 1521 Macon Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211

Voted Best of the Best, MID-TOWNE ANTIQUE MALL is packed with 23,000 square feet of new, re-purposed and antique items — crystal, silver, original art, rugs, home decor, vintage clothing, books, estate and new jewelry, and collectibles. You’ll discover rare and unique finds to suit everyone on your gift list! All major credit cards are accepted as well as layaway. Open Monday-Saturday 10:00 - 6:00 and Sunday 1:00 - 5:00.

We are conveniently located at the intersection of Markham and Rodney Parham (between Light Innovations and The Tile Shop). Visit our website MidtownAntiqueMall.com or find us on Facebook. 105 N. Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock, 501-223-3600.

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RHEA DRUG: Take home the "flavor" of Arkansas, with a unique gift from Rhea Drug. Shop from a surprising selection of jewelry, clothing, home goods, and treats.

2801 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, 501-663-4131 www.facebook.com/RheaDrug www.twitter.com/RheaDrug www.instagram.com/RheaDrug

SHOP@HEIFER is the place to find unique, globallythemed gifts, toys, handicrafts, books and Heifer branded merchandise. Products are ethically sourced, fair trade and artisan-friendly. Your purchase helps artisans find success and supports the mission of Heifer International to end hunger and poverty while caring for the Earth.

Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

1 World Avenue • Little Rock, AR 501-907-8805 • www.heifer.org/shop

ART GALLERIES AND ANTIQUE SHOPS CANTRELL GALLERY 8206 Cantrell Road Little Rock, AR 72227 501-224-1335 www.cantrellgallery.com

Cantrell Gallery – Longest running gallery in Central Arkansas, featuring art & gift items by over 30 local/regional artists, plus art by nationally & internationally known artists.

Clarke, Helen and Cindy

GALLERY 26

2601 Kavanaugh Suite #1 501-664-8996 www.gallery26.com Custom and do-it-yourself framing.

Paintings, glass, pottery and jewlery by local and regional artists. Open Tuesday Saturday. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

LOUIE’S UNIQUE FRAMING & GALLERY 1509 Mart Drive Little Rock, AR 72202 501-907-6240

Custom Framing from 24K Gold Leaf to Simple Black Shadowboxes also available International & Local Art

BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART Little Rock • Miami 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd Little Rock, AR 72207 tel. 501-664-0030 www.boswellmourot.com

Fine Art from local, regional and international artists for the emerging and established collector.

“Pails and Buckets” Blown glass and mixed media Kyle Boswell

LOCAL COLOUR GALLERY

Monday-Saturday 11:00am-5:00pm 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd. In the Heights 501-265-0422 www.localcolourgallery.com It's our 14 year anniversary of offering affordable, original art by 28 of Arkansas’ most talented artists. Paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel and mixed media, pottery and one of a kind jewelry.

Commissions and portraits available.

Arkansas’ most successful co-op gallery.

Voted “Best Gallery.”

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SHOPPING GUIDE F

rom big-box stores to trendy boutiques, indoor malls to outdoor shopping centers, Little Rock offers an eclectic mix of shopping destinations. here’s just a sampling of what you’ll find.

ANTIQUES

NLR CRYSTAL HILL ANTIQUE MALL 70 dealers showcase a wide variety of antique books, glassware, furniture, décor, jewelry and more. 5813 Crystal Hill Road, 501-753-3777.

R FABULOUS FINDS ANTIQUE & DECORATIVE MALL A flea-market-style antique store where you never know what you’ll find. 2905 Cantrell Road, 501-614-8181.

NLR GALAXY FURNITURE Offers new and used office furniture as well as an eclectic mix

ART & GALLERIES

NLR ARLINE’S European beauty treatments, including facials, body wraps, massage, cosmetics and more. 4137 JFK Blvd., Ste. B, 501-219-2080.

M CANTRELL GALLERY Find works by local and regional artists. 8206 Cantrell Road, 501224-1335.

H 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.

H CHROMA GALLERY This gallery is filled with original art by proprietor and artist Robert Reep, as well as other local and regional artists. 5707 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-0880.

NLR CLAYTIME POTTERY Claytime Pottery offers classes and studio rental, and features an art gallery.

417 Main St., 501-374-3515.

HC GALLERY 26 Featuring pieces by local artists, including glasswork, prints, original works and jewelry, also offers framing services. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-8996.

D GALLERY 221 Offering original fine art and studio space for local artists, Gallery 221 combines selected art and sculpture. The gallery also has current works by notable Arkansas artists.

221 W. Second St., 501-801-0211.

NLR GREG THOMPSON FINE ART Specializing in important Southern and modern artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. 429 Main St., 501-664-2787.

BRIAN CHILSON

D HEARNE FINE ART Located in the historic Dunbar community, this fine art gallery specializes in AfricanAmerican art by local, regional and nationally-recognized artists. Solo exhibitions and educational art talks monthly. 1001 Wright Ave., 501-372-6822.

Gallery 26 of household antiques and vintage clothing.

304 Main St., (501) 375-3375.

H C KAHLER-PAYNE ANTIQUES An eclectic blend of antiques, vintage goods, and estate items from at home and abroad. 700 N. Van Buren, 501-663-0608.

M MID-TOWNE ANTIQUE MALL 26,000-squarefeet of antique furniture, decor, art, jewelry and more. 105 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-223-3600.

BEAUTY & SPAS

H BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART Works by local, regional as well as national and international artists. 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-0030.

HC HILLCREST GALLERY Custom framing for your art, prints and posters. 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-7900.

H LOCAL COLOUR ART GALLERY This co-op gallery showcases the work of 28 artists from around Arkansas. 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-265-0422.

H STEPHANO’S FINE ART GALLERY This Heights gallery highlights a wide range of work by Arkansas artists. Owner Stephano Sutherlin is a nationally-recognized artist. 1813 N. Grant St., 501-563-4218.

W 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 Drive, 501-228-4545.

CLOTHING

M 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. Be sure to check out their day spa. 8201 Cantrell Road, 501-223-2514.

M 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 Road, 501-227-0054.

M BAUMANS FINE MEN’S CLOTHING A men’s fine apparel store offering styles by Zegna, Brioni and Ferragamo. 8201 Cantrell Road, 501-227-8797.

D BEIGE Contemporary designer clothes, shoes and accessories in a simple and effortless aesthetic. 300 River Market Ave., 501-904-2994.

D BENNETT’S MILITARY SUPPLIES From leather jackets and Army boots to camping tents and other outdoor gear. 608 Main St., 501-372-2944.

W BEYOND COTTON A relaxed clothing store featuring flax linen and other wearable styles.

10700 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-221-9195; 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-221-1539.

NLR BRIDAL COTTAGE A special emphasis on grace, elegance and style. 3305 JFK Blvd., 501-753-4138.

W, NLR, SW CUPIDS LINGERIE Boutique offers lingerie and adult toys. 9700 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-8282; 3920 W. 65th St., 501-565-2020; 5400 JFK Blvd., 501-753-3353.

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock; SWLR South West Little Rock 56

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H DOMESTIC DOMESTIC Purveyor of Americanmade goods, ranging from outdoor and travel gear, clothing, home goods, pet supplies and more.

Great selection of Arkansas-made products, too.

5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. 200, 501-661-1776.

Fine handmade rugs from around the world at affordable prices to meet anyone’s budget

HC E. LEIGH’S This boutique offers trendy women’s fashions and accessories. 2911 Kavanaugh Blvd, 501-265-0448.

D FRINGE CLOTHING Trendy women’s clothing and accessories boutique, located in the River Market District. 112 River Market Ave., 501-376-7000.

H GO! RUNNING This shop is a runner’s paradise.

It offers shoes, clothes and gear. 1819 N. Grant St., 501-663-6800.

W GREENHAW’S MEN’S WEAR Fine menswear store offering business apparel and weekend wear.

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-8703.

H FEINSTEIN’S A women’s clothing boutique offering fine apparel and accessories. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-7330.

NLR MADDOX Trendy, fun and affordable party dresses, T-shirts, jeans, accessories and more.

Accommodates sizes S-3XL. 419 Main St., 501313-4242.

H MR. WICKS MEN’S CLOTHING A men’s clothing store offering fine business apparel and weekend wear. 5924 R St., 501-664-3062.

H OLD HEIGHTS CORNER STORE This boutique shoe store offers classic and high-end footwear styles for men, women and kids, as well as apparel and accessories. 5919 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-313-5700.

H OZARK OUTDOOR SUPPLY For the outdoors enthusiast, get your camping gear, clothing and other supplies here. 5514 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501664-4832.

W ROCK CITY KICKS A one-of-a-kind sneaker boutique. 200 N. Bowman Road, 501-660-7888.

Traditional, transitional or contemporary… we have all the latest styles and colors.

Martinous Oriental Rug Co., Inc. Serving Arkansas Since 1923

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Thousands of fabrics. Tons of fun!

Little Rock’s “go-to” showplace.

H STEAMROLLER BLUES Trendy women’s clothing and accessories boutique. 5915 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-661-4067.

H, W THE TOGGERY A children’s clothing store.

5919 R St., 501-663-8662; 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-227-8492.

H TULIPS A hip clothing boutique offering fun designs and styles for women of all ages, as well as kids. 5817 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-614-7343.

FOOD & MARKETS

M CATERING TO YOU In addition to wonderful gourmet foods, shop their collection of fun gifts.

8121 Cantrell Road, 501-614-9030.

HC HILLCREST ARTISAN MEATS Locally owned meat shop, which also sells local food products and more. 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-671-6328.

H TERRY’S FINER FOODS A gourmet and local food market. 5018 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-4152.

W WHOLE FOODS For the organically inclined, a food market with a deli, excellent vitamins and herbal supplement selection, books and more.

501 Bowman Road, 501-221-2331.

GIFTS & COLLECTIBLES

NLR ARGENTA DRUG STORE A local place to pick up medications, snacks, gifts and more. 324 Main St., 501-374-4851.

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Bolts and bolts of designer fabrics IN STOCK!

•

The most imaginative home decor and gifts.

•

Put us on your “Must Visit” list.

1523 Rebsamen Park Rd | Riverdale Design District | Little Rock Phone 501-663-0460 | 10:00 - 5:30 Mon - Sat | cynthiaeastfabrics.com

Like Us

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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D ARKANSAS FLAG & BANNER Shop for patriotic items as well as garden ornaments and other seasonal items. You can also find a great selection of Razorback merchandise. 800 W. Ninth St., 501-375-7633.

H BELLA BOUTIQUE A great girly store with jewelry, beauty and bath accessories. 5623 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-603-5373 HC BOX TURTLE Shop for handmade jewelry, local designer clothing and one-of-a-kind gift items, as well as home accessories, linens, candles and lighting. 2616 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-661-1167.

D CLINTON MUSEUM STORE Offering Clinton memorabilia, you can also shop for books, artwork and jewelry. 610 President Clinton Ave., 501-748-0400.

D COIN & STAMP SHOP A coin and stamp collector’s haven. 107 Main St., 501-375-2113.

W THE CROWN SHOP A Hallmark store with a wide card selection and wonderful gifts. 10700 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-8442.

S ESSE PURSE MUSEUM STORE Purses, jewelry, accessories and more. 1510 S. Main St., 501-916-9022.

D EXPLORE STORE Part of the Museum of Discovery, the Explore Store has great gifts, puzzles, games, books and more for kids of all ages. 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-396-7050.

D 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.

D THE FRECKLED FROG Arkansas crafted clothing, art, jewelry and gifts. 419 President Clinton Ave., 501-514-2060.

HC THE FULL MOON Fun and whimsical gifts, home accessories, baby items, jewelry and more.

3625 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-4367.

D 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 their jewelry, artwork and souvenirs. 300 W. Markham St., 501-324-8653.

S GREEN CORNER STORE This adorable shop features locally made products and more. There’s also an old-fashioned soda fountain serving ice cream treats. 1423 Main St., 501-374-1111.

HC RHEA DRUG STORE Whether a prescription to fill, personal item or gift for a friend, this Hillcrest institution has you covered. 2801 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-4131.

D HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM STORE Located in the museum’s atrium, the Museum Store offers the best contemporary, Arkansas-made arts and crafts, as well as merchandise related to frontier Arkansas. Shop for pottery, quilts, baskets, books and more. 200 E. Third St., 501-324-9621.

D PYRAMID ART, BOOKS & CUSTOM FRAMING Browse this cozy literary cafe of all genre of African-American literature. Also a large selection of decorative art and quality conservation framing.1001 Wright Ave., 501-372-5824.

NLR LEOVENA Unique home decor, Arkansasthemed shirts and gifts, jewelry and personalized items. 3507 JFK Blvd., 501-225-6282.

D MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER STORE Offers a selection of adult and children’s books on African-American themes, and art, jewelry and more. 501 W. Ninth St., 501-683-3593.

D RIVER MARKET BOOKS & GIFTS Part of the Central Arkansas Library System, offering inexpensive books, as well as toys, seasonal items and gifts. Located in the Cox Creative Center, 120 River Market Ave., 501-918-3093.

S MOXY MODERN MERCANTILE A mix of modern and vintage home décor and gifts, along with gourmet food. 1419 S. Main St., 501-374-2474.

D 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 River Market Hall, 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-320-3515.

D THE MUSEUM STORE Choose from books, jewelry, toys and items by artists and artisans from around the state. Inside the Arkansas Arts Center. 501 E. Ninth St., 501-372-4000.

M TANGLEWOOD DRUG STORE Independent drug store serving Little Rock for more than 50 years. Stop in for great gifts and collectibles. 6815 Cantrell Road, 501-664-4444

LITTLE ROCK SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS

APPAREL · BOOKS · MUGS · POST CARDS · FUN STUFF

SHOP THE ROCK · MON - SAT · 8 am - 6 pm

400 President Clinton Avenue · 501-320-3515 Order your favorite Little Rock items online at ShopTheRockLR.com 58

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

D TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES Browse unique ethnic-inspired goods, including folk art, jewelry, toys and games, tableware, rugs and more at this store that provides fair trade income to people in third-world countries. 301 President Clinton Ave., 501-374-2776.

H TIPTON HURST A floral store offering books, candles, gifts, seasonal and decorative items. 1801 N. Grant St., 501-666-3333.

H WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED Bird feeders, fountains, bat houses, field guides and more. 1818 N. Taylor St., 501-666-4210.

H WORDSWORTH BOOKS An independent bookstore offering a good selection of books. 5920 R St., 501-663-9198.

H YARN MART All your knitting and needlepoint supplies under one roof. 5711 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-666-6505.

H YVES DELORME Fine European linens, soaps and accessories for the home. 5717 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-7344.

HOME & FURNITURE

R ABOUT VASE Browse a variety of flowers or get a one-of-a-kind arrangement. 3400 Old Cantrell Road, 501-603-9200.

R BOTANICA GARDENS From houseplants and planters to nursery items and gardening tools, this is a must-stop shop. 1601 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-614-3000.

R C & F FLOORING AND RUG GALLERY This shop offers unique tiles, carpets and other floor coverings. 2206 Cantrell Road, 501-399-9909.

M CANTRELL FURNITURE AND DESIGN CENTER Offering furniture, carpets and rugs, lighting and other home-related items. 7619 Cantrell Road, 501-225-0002.

S CLEMENT Located inside Sweet Home Furnishings, this shop features artwork, furniture and accessories that have caught the eye of owner Chris Clement. 1324 Main St., 501-539-1473.

H, W COBBLESTONE & VINE Fine furniture, linens, decorative gifts and accessories with a European flair. 5100 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-4988; 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-219-3676.

R CYNTHIA EAST FABRICS Select from a variety of upholstery, decorator and drapery fabrics and decorative accessories. 1523 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-0460.

R DISTINCTIVE KITCHENS AND BATHS Offering custom-made kitchen and bath cabinets. 1414

Rebsamen Park Road, 501-666-7756.

H EGGSHELLS KITCHEN CO. Gourmet accessories and gadgets, cooking classes and gift baskets.

5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-6900.

NLR GALAXY FURNITURE One of the places you don’t want to miss. A mixture of old and new furniture, vintage clothing and more. 304 Main St., 501-375-3375.

W GOOD EARTH GARDEN CENTER A wonderful selection of plant and outdoor accessories. 15601 Cantrell Road, 501-868-4666.

M HADIDI ORIENTAL RUGS Fine antique and new Oriental rugs and other floor coverings. 8116 Cantrell Road, 501-225-8999.

HC HILLCREST INTERIORS Design services as well as fine home furnishings, art and home accessories.

2907 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-3445.

HC HOCOTT’S GARDEN CENTER A big selection of plants and garden accessories. 3612 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-8376.

M KEN RASH’S CASUAL FURNITURE An outdoor living one-stop shop, featuring grills, furniture and other outdoor living accessories. 11220 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-663-1818.

W KITCHEN & BATH CONCEPTS For the latest in kitchen and bath. 9805 W. Markham St., 501225-5221.

BRIAN CHILSON

R BEAR-HILL INTERIORS Upscale design services, furniture, lamps and home accessories. 1420 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-907-9272.

NLR BLAKE’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE A great selection of affordable furniture and more. 321 Main St., 501-375-2417.

Steamroller Blues VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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NLR KREBS BROTHERS Find all kinds of gourmet kitchen supplies, along with small appliances and more. 4310 Landers Road, 501-687-1331.

S SWEET HOME FURNISHINGS A favorite design resource offering antique and vintage furniture and other accessories. 1324 Main St., 501-296-9198.

H SISSY’S LOG CABIN Luxurious jewelry store, featuring new and custom-made pieces. 1825 N. Grant St., 501-663-0066.

R LOUIE’S UNIQUE FRAMING & GALLERY Offering custom framing, original artwork and prints. 1509 Mart Drive, 501-907-6240.

R URBAN PAD Chic, trendy home furnishings and accessories. 3513 Old Cantrell Road, 501-664-4202.

NLR STANLEY JEWELERS Fine jewelry, estate jewelry, full-service repair and restoration. 3422 JFK Blvd., (501) 753-1081.

W, R MARSHALL CLEMENTS An interior design firm with European antiques, artwork and accessories. 1509 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-1828; 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-954-7900.

W MARTINOUS ORIENTAL RUGS Fine antique and new Oriental rugs and other floor coverings.

1521 Macon Drive, 501-224-0313.

H MASSIMO INTERIOR DESIGN An interior design firm with modern/transitional furniture, original artwork and other accessories. 5619 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-0355.

R MERTINS DYKE HOME A furniture and home accessories store with its own unique flair. 1504 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-280-3200.

HC THE SHOPPES ON WOODLAWN A collection of antique, home decor and art-related shops, all under one roof. 4523 Woodlawn Drive, 501-666-3600.

R SHADE ABOVE LIGHTING COLLECTION Lamps, new or custom-made shades, and lamp and chandelier repair. 2208 Cantrell Road, 501-902-4200.

NLR THOMASON’S FURNITURE Classic selections of furniture and more. 315 Main St., 501-374-2560.

H WHITE GOAT Amazing collection of European furniture, accessories and original art. 5624 R St., 501-603-9460.

JEWELRY

D Bella Vita Jewelry Handcrafted jewelry featuring vintage pieces transformed into unique artisan necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more. 523 S. Louisiana St., Ste. 175, 501-396-9146.

W CECIL’S FINE JEWELRY A fine store offering men’s and women’s distinctive jewelry. 10720 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-5068.

NLR ELLIS JEWELERS Specializing in fine jewelry, custom design and remounting. 2927 Lakewood Village Drive, 501-753-7267.

D KYLE-ROCHELLE JEWELERS Fine jewelry and custom designs. 523 S. Louisiana St., 501-375-3335.

OTHER

W BEDFORD CAMERA & VIDEO Everything the shutterbug could ever desire. 11400 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-2020.

H CARNES AUDIO VISUAL Audio/visual installation, design, sales and more. 5914 R St., 501-658-0932.

H DOGGY DADDY Gourmet pet food and treats, along with toys and anything else you pet needs.

5914 R St., 501-664-3649.

NLR JONES BROTHERS POOL TABLES Offering a wide selection of pool tables and accessories.

309 W. Broadway St., 501-372-0168.

W OZARK ANGLER Specializing in clothing, equipment and other gear for fly fishing. 12305 Chenal Parkway, 501-225-6504.

S PIANO KRAFT Pianos, keyboards, organs and sheet music available. 1222 S. Main St., 501-372-1446.

S ROSEN MUSIC A variety of instruments, restorations and private lessons. 1214 Main St., 501-666-0814.

BRIAN CHILSON

R THE SHOWROOM Custom framing and a wide selection of prints, frames and original artwork.

2313 Cantrell Road, 501-372-7373.

M WINDOW WORKS For all your window treatments. Just off Cantrell Road. 2410 Glover St., 501-219-1500.

Sweet Home Furnishings

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PARK PLAZA

6000 W. Markham St. parkplazamall.com Located in the Midtown neighborhood, Park Plaza is Little Rock’s largest indoor mall. The mall offers Dillard’s flagship stores on each end, name-brand shops, a food court and more. Here’s a list of some of Park Plaza’s shops: ABERCROMBIE & FITCH FOOT LOCKER LADY FOOTLOCKER AERIE FOREVER 21 LANE BRYANT AEROPOSTALE GAP THE LIMITED ALDO BABYGAP NEW YORK & COMPANY AMERICAN EAGLE GAPBODY PANDORA OUTFITTERS GAPKIDS PAYLESS BANANA REPUBLIC GEARHEAD OUTFITTERS SEPHORA THE BUCKLE GYMBOREE SPENCER GIFTS CLAIRE’S HOLLISTER CO. SUNGLASS HUT CLARKS HOUNDSTOOTH TALBOTS THE CROWN SHOP CLOTHING TEAVANA DILLARD’S ICING VICTORIA’S SECRET EDDIE BAUER JOURNEYS WET SEAL EXPRESS JUSTICE ZALES FINISH LINE KAY JEWELERS ZUMIEZ

MIDTOWNE LITTLE ROCK

201 University Ave. midtownelittlerock.com Midtowne is an outdoor shopping center, featuring popular national brands, along with some great restaurants. Here’s some of what you’ll find: BRIGHTON COLLECTIBLES J. JILL SOMA INTIMATES CHICO’S JAMES AVERY ULTA THE CHILDREN’S PLACE JOS A. BANK CLOTHIER VERSONA ACCESSORIES THE CONTAINER STORE JUSTICE WHITE HOUSE | BLACK FRANCESCA’S LOFT MARKET COLLECTIONS POTTERY BARN WILLIAMS-SONOMA

PLEASANT RIDGE TOWN CENTER

11525 Cantrell Road pleasantridgetowncenter.com This outdoor shopping center in West Little Rock features nationally known shops as well as locally owned boutiques and great restaurants.

BASSETT HOME FORSYTHE’S LADIES POUT FURNISHINGS APPAREL POWDER & SMOKE BEEHIVE THE FRESH MARKET THE RIDGE WINE & BELK HALLMARK SPIRITS BEYOND COTTON J. DUKE & CO. ROBERSON’S FINE COBBLESTONE & VINE KRISTIN TODD JEWELRY AND GIFTS COMING HOME M2 GALLERY SCARLET INTERIORS MARSHALL CLEMENTS THE TOGGERY THE DOG BOWL MERLE NORMAN VANNESS INC. EMBELLISH INTERIORS NADEAU VESTA’S FLEET FEET EASY RUNNER PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS WARREN SHOES

Fabulous Finds

Antique & Decorative Mall

Selection Changing Daily

40+ Dealers

Voted Best by our customers!

501-614-8181

2905 CANTRELL ROAD TUES.- SAT. 10-6 & SUN. 12-5

Minutes from downtown Little Rock fabulousfindsantiques.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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THE OUTLETS OF LITTLE ROCK

11201 Bass Pro Parkway outletsoflittlerock.com This outlet mall offers a little bit of everything including apparel, shoes, kids clothing, jewelry and more at great prices. Here’s some of what you’ll find: AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS COLE HAAN J. CREW OSH KOSH B’GOSH ASICS CONVERSE JOURNEYS RACK ROOM SHOES BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY CORKY’S FOOTWEAR OUTLET KAY JEWELERS OUTLET RESTORATION HARDWARE STORE DIRECT TOOLS KITCHEN COLLECTION OUTLET BEEF JERKY OUTLET DRESSBARN LANE BRYANT SKETCHERS BOOK WAREHOUSE EXPRESS FACTORY OUTLET LEVI’S OUTLET STORE RUE21 BROOKS BROTHERS FACTORY FAMOUS FOOTWEAR OUTLET LIDS SUNGLASS WAREHOUSE STORE THE FRAGRANCE OUTLET THE LIMITED OUTLET TOMMY HILFIGER CARTER’S FRANCESCAS’S LINDT CHOCOLATE TORRID CHICO’S OUTLET GAP FACTORY STORE LOFT OUTLET TOYS R US THE CHILDREN’S PLACE GEARHEAD OUTFITTER LUCKY BRAND UNDER ARMOUR CHINA MAX G.H. BASS & CO. MAURICES UNIFORM DESTINATION CHRISTOPHER & BANKS | CJ GIRLIE GIRL ORIGINALS NEW BALANCE FACTORY STORE VF OUTLET BANKS GYMBOREE OUTLET NIKE FACTORY STORE WILSON’S LEATHER CLARKS OUTLET HOT TOPIC OLD NAVY OUTLET ZALES OUTLET

MCCAIN MALL

3929 McCain Blvd. www.simon.com/mall/mccain-mall Located in North Little Rock, this indoor mall features department stores, like Dillard’s, Sears and JC Penney, along with clothing and accessories shops and eateries. Here’s a few of the shops you’ll find: AERIE FRANCESCA’S PAYLESS AEROPOSTALE GAMESTOP ROGERS JEWELERS AMERICAN EAGLE GYMBOREE RUE 21 OUTFITTERS GORDON’S JEWELERS SEARS BATH & BODY HALLMARK SHOE DEPT. WORKS HOT TOPIC SPENCER GIFTS THE BUCKLE JC PENNEY SUNGLASS HUT CHAMPS JOURNEYS THINGS CHARLOTTE RUSSE KAY JEWELERS REMEMBERED CLAIRE’S KIDS FOOT LOCKER TORRID CRAZY 8 LADY FOOT LOCKER VICTORIA’S SECRET DILLARD’S LIDS WINDSOR EARTHBOUND THE LIMITED ZALES TRADING CO. MAURICES ZUMIEZ FINISH LINE OLD NAVY FOOT LOCKER PAUL’S SHOES

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THE PROMENADE AT CHENAL

17711 Chenal Parkway chenalshopping.com This outdoor shopping center in the Chenal neighborhood offers name-brand shops, local boutiques, top restaurants and a movie theater. Here’s a list of the shops that visitors will find: ALTAR’D STATE JUST DOGS! GOURMET ANTHROPOLOGIE JUSTICE APPLE STORE KENNETH EDWARDS FINE BELLE & BLUSH JEWELERS CHARMING CHARLIE LILY RAIN THE CHILDREN’S PLACE LOFT CRAZY 8 LULULEMON ATHLETICA DESTINATION MATERNITY NIKE FACTORY STORE DSW PAUL’S SHOES FRANCESCA’S COLLECTIONS RUNWAY SEVEN GEARHEAD OUTFITTERS SAGGIO OLIVE OIL & INDIGO VINEGARS J. CREW WARREN’S SHOES JAMES EYECARE & OPTICS WHITE HOUSE | BLACK GALLERY MARKET

DINING GUIDE I

n central Arkansas, there is an abundance of great restaurants, both casual and upscale. While visiting, be sure to sample Southern comfort foods and our great barbecue joints. But, don’t

forget about all the delicious Mexican, Asian, Italian and other ethnic cuisines available in the capital city. Central Arkansas is also home to some delectable bakeries, so save room for dessert.

AMERICAN

D ANDINA CAFE AND ROASTERY Serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and snacks, this café is a mainstay in downtown Little Rock. Coffee beans are roasted locally and the food is homemade. 433 East 3rd St., 501-376-2326.

M ARKANSAS BURGER CO. Some of the best burgers and fries in town are served at this locally own spot. Shakes, salads and other menu items are also available. 7410 Cantrell Road, 501-663-0600.

urday and Sunday, and other special events.

The menu features a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta and desserts. 501 E. Ninth St., 501-907-5946.

W, M BIG ORANGE With locations in Midtown and west Little Rock, this is the go-to spot for burgers, fries and signature milkshakes.

Salads, chicken sandwiches and cocktails are also some of the best around. 17809 Chenal Pkwy., 501-821-1515; 207 N. University Ave., 501-379-8715.

breads and pastries, and a wide selection of sandwiches, soups, cheeses, meats and side dishes. Good coffee, too. 1417 Main St., 501375-5100; 1920 N. Grant St., 501-663-5951; 4301 W. Markham St., 501-526- 6661 (inside UAMS).

R BUFFALO GRILL This family-friendly spot in Riverdale features cheeseburgers, handcut fries, nachos, chili dogs and lots more.

The large back patio is great for when the weather is nice. 1611 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-296-9535.

H BURGE’S TURKEY AND HAMS Since 1962, they have been serving smoked turkeys and hams. Stop in for a turkey salad sandwich, catfish plates or fried pies.

5620 R St., 501-666-1660.

BRIAN CHILSON

W BUTCHER SHOP Open since 1981, this steak house is popular among locals.

Choose a steak and let the pros cook it.

10825 Hermitage Road, 501-312-2748.

Cache W ARTHUR’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE Steak, including dry aged prime beef and Japanese Kobe, is the main feature here. Seafood and an extensive list of appetizers and desserts are also offered. 27 Rahling Circle, 501-821-1838.

D BIG WHISKEY’S AMERICAN BAR & GRILL Located in the River Market district, this is a great after-work hangout and tourist stop. Full bar, flat-screen TVs, burgers, steaks, soups and bar snacks. 225 E. Markham St., 501-324-2449.

W ATHLETIC CLUB BAR & GRILL Located inside the Embassy Suites Hotel and features several big screens showing whatever sport is in season. Food choices include burgers, salads, sandwiches and the like. 11303 Financial Center Parkway, 501-312-9000.

R BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Consistently voted one of the best restaurants in town by local customer choice polls, this spot features an assortment of sandwiches, entrees and desserts using the freshest ingredients. Great patio seating when the weather is nice. 2300 Cottondale Lane, 501-663-2677.

D AT THE CORNER Modern diner serving breakfast (we love the Up and @ ‘Em plate) and lunch, including soups, salads, sandwiches and some seriously gourmet hot dogs. 201 E. Markham St., 501-400-8458.

W BONEFISH GRILL This Florida-based chain offers several types of fish, along with shrimp, mussels, scallops, meat and chicken. A slice of key lime pie is the perfect finish. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-228-0356.

W, NLR Bar Louie This chain features an array of cocktails, appetizers, salads, sandwiches and more. Karoke, sports on big screens and other events are regular happenings here. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-228-0444; 3929 McCain Blvd., 501-420-1445.

D BOOKENDS CAFE Part of the Central Arkansas Library System and located inside the Cox Creative Center, this is a great spot to enjoy lunch or coffee while enjoying book or reading the newspaper. Pastries, sandwiches, soups and salads are also available. 120 River Market Ave., 501-918-3091.

D BEST IMPRESSIONS The Arkansas Arts Center’s café features lunch, brunch on Sat-

S, H, M BOULEVARD BREAD CO. Fresh, tasty

D CACHE Upscale and modern, this is one of Little Rock’s newest restaurants. This is the place to see and be seen. Lunch offerings include delicious (and inexpensive) burgers, salads and sandwiches. Dinnertime features inspired meat and fish entrees.

425 President Clinton Ave., 501-850-0265.

EV CAFÉ@HEIFER Located inside Heifer Village, this bright little café serves soups, salads, sandwiches and pizzas, using locally sourced ingredients. 1 World Ave., 501-907-8800.

R CAJUN’S WHARF The home of fresh seafood, steaks, drinks and nightly live music and entertainment. 2400 Cantrell Road, 501-375-5351.

W CAPERS Open for lunch, dinner and Saturday brunch, this cozy restaurant has a lot to offer: hearty appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, seafood and more. 14502 Cantrell Road, 501-868-7600.

D CAPITAL BAR & GRILL Located inside the Capital Hotel, this trendy bar serves up specialty cocktails, daily lunch specials and gourmet, Southern-style fare, like pimento cheese and crackers and banana pudding. 111 W. Markham St., 501-370-7013.

H CHEERS IN THE HEIGHTS This intimate neighborhood spot offers burgers, sandwiches, fish specials, steaks and more. 2010 N. Van Buren St., 501-663-5937.

HC CIAO BACI The focus is on fine dining in this casually elegant Hillcrest bungalow, though excellent tapas are out of this world.

NEIGHBORHOOD KEY: D Downtown; E East Village; S SoMa; HC Hillcrest; H Heights; M Midtown; R Riverdale; W West Little Rock; NLR North Little Rock; SWLR South West Little Rock VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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Where Do Wine Lovers Go In Little Rock?

Just Ask Wine Spectator G

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You’ll find hundreds of great wine selections at all three of our restaurants here in Little Rock.

Copper Grill is downtown, just a few blocks from the Clinton Library. Cajuns Wharf with its amazing deck is perched overlooking the Arkansas River and Capers offers sophisticated seafood dishes and New American cuisine in West Little Rock.

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

And good wine is just the beginning of our story. You’ll find our owners in the kitchen, not in some other city. We are locally owned and have been delighting Little Rock for decades. Discover what the locals already know at Cajuns Wharf, Copper Grill and Capers.

SURF ‘N’ TURF OVERLOOKING THE ARKANSAS RIVER GREAT FOR A NIGHT OUT FULL MENU & BAR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

G

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2400 Cantrell Road | Little Rock | 501-375-5351

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DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK LIVELY BAR STREETSIDE PATIO UPSCALE CASUAL DINING FOR LUNCH OR DINNER 3rd & Cumberland Streets | Little Rock | 501-375-3333

A FAVORITE OF FOOD AND WINE ENTHUSIASTS WEST LITTLE ROCK GRAB GOURMET TO GO FROM MARKET AT CAPERS 14502 Cantrell Road | Little Rock | 501-868-7600

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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The tree-shaded, light-strung deck is a popular destination. 605 N. Beechwood St., 501-603-0238.

NLR COCK OF THE WALK Catfish, hush puppies and all the fixings are the stars at this down-home family restaurant. Servers even toss cornbread from the skillet right at your table. 7103 Cock of the Walk Lane, 501-758-7182.

D, W, S COMMUNITY BAKERY This popular downtown bakery is a great place to sip coffee, sample one of their delicious pastries and read the newspaper. Lunchtime offers an array of sandwiches and daily soups. There is also a small location in the western part of the city. 1200 Main St., 501375-7105; 270 S. Shackleford Road, 501-224-1656.

W COPELAND’S The restaurant chain offers large portions of red beans and rice, steaks, crab, shrimp, fish and desserts. 2602 S. Shackleford Road, 501-312-1616.

D COPPER GRILL Located in one of downtown’s chicest condo towers, this modern restaurant serves up grilled meats and fish, big salads and lots more.

The restaurant also features a gorgeous outside patio. 300 E. Third St., 501-375-3333.

D FLYING SAUCER A popular River Market hangout thanks to its almost 200 beers (including nearly 75 on tap) and more than decent bar food. It’s nonsmoking, so families are welcome. 323 President Clinton Ave., 501-372-8032.

EV FORTY TWO This is the Clinton Presidential Center’s restaurant and has daily specials, salads, entrees, soups and sandwiches. 1200 President Clinton Ave., 501-537-0042.

D, W FRANKE’S CAFETERIA A Little Rock staple since 1919, Franke’s Cafeteria offers plate lunches, with salads and vegetables, and desserts, like egg custard pie. The downtown location is inside the Regions Bank building. 400 W. Capitol St., 501-372-1919; 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-225-4487.

NLR GADWALL’S GRILL This causal family eatery offers burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, chili and lots more. 7311 North Hills Blvd., 501-834-1840.

Salad and the Garden. Open for lunch. 5116 W. Markham St., 501-666-3354.

M JOUBERT’S TAVERN This pool hall and bar features beers, snacks and more. 7303 W. 12th St., 501-664-9953.

W LAZY PETE’S FISH AND SHRIMP Shrimp, wings, catfish, po’ boys, gumbo and lots more, the choices are tasty, fresh and homemade. 200 Bowman Road, 501-907-6453.

NLR LITTLEFIELD’S CAFE The owners of the Starlite Diner have moved their cafe to the Kroger Shopping Center on JFK, where they are still serving breakfast all day, as well as plate lunches, burgers and sandwiches.6929 JFK Blvd., 501-771-2036.

R LOCA LUNA Gourmet plate lunches, along with pastas, delicious entrees, salads, sandwiches and brick-oven pizzas. Serves Sunday brunch. 3519 Old Cantrell Road, 501-663-4666.

EV LOST FORTY BREWING Brewery and brewpub from the folks behind Big Orange, Local Lime and ZAZA. Good food options to accompany the popular craft beers. 501 Byrd St., 501-319-7335.

H LULU’S CRAB BOIL Cajun and Creole fare from the Chi family. The crab fingers and po’ boys are standouts.

5911 R St., 501-663-2388.

NLR CRUSH WINE BAR Wine, beer, snacks and special events are the main attraction. 318 N. Main St., 501-374-9463.

R MADDIE’S PLACE A broad selection of Cajun-Creole staples: po’ boys, chicken-andouille gumbo, oysters, pulled pork nachos, mac and cheese and other delicious items. 1615 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-660-4040.

D DAVE’S PLACE Open for lunch five days a week and dinner on Fridays, this downtown spot serves delicious soups, salads and sandwiches, along with daily Dave & Buster’s specials. Friday nights feature an ever-changing menu in a variety of cuisines and live jazz. 210 Center St., 501-372-3283.

D DEMPSEY BAKERY This bakery serves up glutenfree, soy-free, vegan and nut-free breads, pastries and desserts. Daily sandwiches and soups are also available. 323 S. Cross St., 501-375-2257.

D DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO This is a downtown favorite for its extensive menu, delicious cheese dip and refreshing cocktails. The patio is a relaxing spot. 200 River Market Ave., 501-375-3500.

D DOE’S EAT PLACE Huge steaks, tamales and burgers are popular menu items at this downtown staple. 1023 W. Markham St., 501-376-1195.

R FADED ROSE The Cajun-inspired menu is wellknown for its steaks, soaked salads and po’ boys, along with burgers and more. 1619 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-9734.

D FLYING FISH Fried catfish, oysters and shrimp, as well as crab legs, po’ boys and lots of grilled options. 511 President Clinton Ave., 501-375-3474.

NLR FLYWAY BREWING A popular brewery that also serves up quality pub food and snacks. 314 Maple St., 501-350-8868.

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BRIAN CHILSON

SWLR DAVE & BUSTER’S This arcade and restaurant is fun for all ages. Great food, drinks and arcade games in a sports bar setting. 10900 Bass Pro Parkway, 501-777-3800.

D GARDEN SQUARE CAFÉ & GROCERY Vegetarian options, along with smoothies, coffee and sweet treats located inside the River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock. A small grocery store features a few basics. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-244-2622.

D GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN As its name suggests, fried chicken is the main attraction, along with sides like greens, baked beans and mac and cheese. A second location in west Little Rock is now open. 300 President Clinton Ave., Suite D, 501-372-2211; . 400 N. Bowman, 501-400-8745.

HC HILLCREST ARTISAN MEATS This butcher shop serves some of the best sandwiches in town, along with daily soups and evening take-home dinners.

Much of what it serves is locally sourced. 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., Suite B., 501-671-6328.

NLR IRA’S PARK HILL GRILL Ira’s serves a welledited menu for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, using local ingredients whenever possible. The bar is an equally welcomed addition to this formerly dry neighborhood. 3812 JFK Blvd., 501-771-6900.

M JIMMY’S SERIOUS SANDWICHES For more than 30 years, this sandwich shop has been serving some of the best in town, along with sides and desserts. Local favorites include the Chicken

W THE MAIN CHEESE This Little Rock spot is dedicated to a single comfort food: grilled cheese. This classic comes in a variety of styles, with slow-roasted pork, grilled chicken, ham or just plain cheese. Burgers and salads are also on the menu.

14524 Cantrell Road, 501-367-8082.

D MASON’S DELI Sandwiches, burgers and desserts.

Located inside River Market Hall in downtown Little Rock. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-376-3354.

NLR MUGS CAFÉ This Argenta neighborhood hangout and coffee bar is open for breakfast and lunch: Delicious sandwiches, specials, all-day breakfast foods and $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes are common on Saturday mornings. 515 Main St., 501-379-9101.

W OCEANS AT ARTHUR’S Serving fresh seafood, oysters and seafood in Chenal. 27 Rahling Circle, 501-821-1838.

D ONE ELEVEN AT THE CAPITAL Inventive fine dining restaurant helmed by Jöel Attunes, a James Beard award-winning chef. 111 Markham St., 501-370-7011.

HC OYSTER BAR Crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters on the half shell, po’ boys, gumbo, red beans and rice, and lots more. 3003 W. Markham St., 501-666-7100.

M OZARK COUNTRY RESTAURANT Great biscuits and gravy, bacon, home-style potatoes, weekend brunch and a daily plate lunch special. 202 Keightley Drive, 501-663-7319.

Little Rock's original farm to table, fine dining restaurant.

Farm to Table

Founded in 1991

Welcome to the DoubleTree by Hilton 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 VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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W PLAYTIME PIZZA Tons of fun at this 65,000-square-foot kidtopia near the Colonel Glenn 18 theater. While the buffet is only so-so, features like indoor mini-golf, laser tag, go-karts, arcade games and bumper cars make it a winner for both kids and adults. 600 Colonel Glenn Plaza Loop, 501-227-7529.

D PLAZA GRILLE & BAR Heaping breakfast and lunch buffets offer hot, fresh foods at this lobby restaurant at the Doubletree Hotel in downtown Little Rock. 424 W. Markham St., 501-372-4371.

M PURPLE COW Burgers, fries and milkshakes served up ‘50s-style, family-friendly atmosphere.

Be sure to try a signature purple milkshake. 11602 Chenal Pkwy., 501-224-4433; 8026 Cantrell Road, 501-221-3555.

EV REBEL KETTLE Grab a craft brew from their extensive tap wall and pair it with a burger, sandwich, salad or bar snack from the full menu. Large beer garden is open in good weather. 822 E. Sixth St., 501-374-2791.

R RED DOOR Open for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner, this neighborhood favorite features sophisticated modern Southern cuisine.

3701 Cantrell Road, 501-666-8482.

NLR RENO’S ARGENTA CAFÉ A tasty variety of appetizers, sandwiches, wraps and specialty pizzas. Daily drink and food specials. 312 Main St., 501-376-2900.

NLR RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE Located inside the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little Rock, this restaurant serves several cuts of steak, an assortment of sides and other items such as crab

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cakes, shrimp, chicken and lobster. 2 Riverfront Place, 501-375-7825.

S THE ROOT CAFÉ Open for breakfast and lunch, the Root serves soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers and desserts, mostly using seasonal local ingredients. It has one of the best burgers in town. 1500 S. Main St., 501-414-0423.

D SAMANTHA’S TAP ROOM & WOOD GRILL An eclectic, reasonably priced menu has something for just about everyone. Excellent selection of wines on tap and beers on tap. 322 Main St., 501-379-8019.

D SAY MCINTOSH RESTAURANT AND SWEET POTATO PIE FACTORY This family restaurant serves up barbecue, soul food and lots of pie.

2801 W. Seventh St., 501-812-3911.

H SCALLIONS This is a solid lunch spot, with great soups, salads and sandwiches, and breakfast has recently been added to the menu. 5110 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-666-6468.

NLR SCOOP DOG Drive up or dine on the patio at this North Little Rock hot dog and soda stand.

It’s frozen custard instead of ice cream here (the difference being eggs along with the sugar and cream) and the specialty sundaes are all named after dogs. 5508 JFK Blvd., 501-753-5407.

NLR SKINNY J’S There is something for everyone on the mind-blowingly large menu—17 appetizers and 15 burger choices. 314 Main St., 501-916-2645.

H SO RESTAURANT-BAR This bistro serves fresh seafood, meats, salads, sandwiches and an extensive wine list. 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-1464.

D SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM Steaks,

chicken and seafood in a wonderful setting in the River Market. Steaks are top-of-the-line, and the wine list is excellent. 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-324-2999.

S SOUTH ON MAIN This gourmet, Southern-style restaurant is a project of the Oxford American and one of the most popular new restaurants in Little Rock. The menu changes seasonally, but you’ll always find an assortment of Southern specialties, like fried chicken livers, boiled peanuts and catfish. 1304 Main St., 501-244-9660.

D SPORTS PAGE Great burgers, grilled sandwiches and lunch specials. 414 Louisiana St., 501-372-1642.

D STICKYZ ROCK ’N’ ROLL CHICKEN SHACK Chicken fingers in a variety of flavors with a wide selection of dipping sauces, plus sandwiches and burgers in a fun setting for happy hour gatherings or live music. 107 River Market Ave., 501-372-7707.

D SWEET SOUL Southern comfort food with a menu that changes daily. Located in the River Market Hall. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-291-9996.

W TABLE 28 Featuring new American cusine, this new Little Rock restaurant is located inside the Burgundy Hotel. The menu offers small bites, seafood, venison, lamb and more. 1501 Merrill Drive, 501-215-5209.

W THE TAVERN SPORTS GRILL Located at the Promenade at Chenal, the Tavern is a great place to enjoy sports and great food. 17815 Chenal Parkway, 501-830-2100.

R TOWN PUMP Daily soup specials at lunch and a dependable burger, plus tasty bar food. 1321 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-663-9802.

M TRIO’S This restaurant is open for lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner, and serves favorite recipes from a bygone Little Rock hotel and combines it with experimental fusion cooking and choice ingredients. Stand-out menu items include the Peck Special salad, Trio’s chicken salad, shrimp enchiladas and voodoo pasta. 8201 Cantrell Road., 221-3330 W WEST END SMOKEHOUSE & TAVERN Its primary focus is a sports bar with 50-plus TVs, but also features dinner entrees and bar food. 215 N. Shackleford Road, 501-224-7665.

D ZIN URBAN WINE & BEER BAR A wide selection of wines from around the globe, as well as snacks like cheeses, meats and other small plates. 300 River Market Ave., 501-246-4876.

ASIAN

W A.W. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE This Chinese and Japanese restaurant at the Promenade at Chenal serves sushi and other classic Asian dishes with a modern twist. 17717 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-5398.

D BANGKOK THAI CUISINE Get all the staple Thai dishes at this River Market vendor. 400 President Clinton Ave., River Market., 501-374-5105.

W LILLY’S DIM SUM THEN SOME Delectable Asian comfort food—fried or steamed dumplings and more in a variety of presentations. 11121 Rodney Parham Road, 501-716-2700.

H SUSHI CAFE Impressive, upscale sushi menu with other delectable house specialties like tuna tataki, Kobe beef and the Toyko cowboy burger.

5823 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-9888.

SWLR MIKE’S CAFÉ With an extensive menu of Chinese and Vietnamese favorites, Mike’s also features pool tables. 5501 Asher Ave., 501-562-1515.

D THREE FOLD NOODLES AND DUMPLING CO. Authentic Chinese noodles, buns and dumplings. With vegetarian options. 215 Center St., 501-372-1739.

SWLR MR. CHEN’S AUTHENTIC CHINESE RESTAURANT Open for lunch and dinner, this spot features an array of traditional Chinese dishes.

Lunch specials are also available. 3901 S. University Ave., 501-562-7900.

W MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT In business for more than 25 years, this is one of Little Rock’s most popular sushi spots. 10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-6498.

W PHO THANH MY Vietnamese restaurant serving traditional soups and rolls. 302 N. Shackleford Road, 501-312-7498.

W SEKISUI Fresh-tasting sushi, Japanese traditional or the fun hibachi-style, and an assortment of entrees. Nice wine selection, sake and specialty drinks. 219 N. Shackleford Road, 501-221-7070.

W TOKYO HOUSE Sushi and seafood buffet, offering a variety of Japanese favorites. 11 Shackleford Drive, 501-219-4286.

D WASABI Downtown sushi and Japanese cuisine. For lunch, there’s quick and hearty Sushi samplers. 101 Main St., 501-374-0777.

BARBECUE

NLR LINDSEY’S HOSPITALITY HOUSE A local headliner, serving melt-in-your-mouth smoked meats, large sides and great fried pies since 1956.

207 Curtis Sykes Drive, 501-374-5707.

SWLR, M, D SIMS BAR-B-QUE Good spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and an addictive vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce unique for this part of the country. 1307 John Barrow Road, 501-224-2057; 7601 Geyer Springs Road, 501-562-8844; 2415 Broadway St., 501-372-6868 NLR WHITE PIG INN Go for the sliced rather than chopped meats at this barbecue cafe. Side orders—from fries and potato salad to beans and slaw—are all superb. Don’t forget to grab a fried pie. 5231 E. Broadway St., 501-945-5551.

NLR BENIHANA—THE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Enjoy the cooking show, make sure you get a little filet with your meal and do plenty of dunking in that fabulous ginger sauce.

All-you-can eat sushi specials. 2 Riverfront Plaza, 501-374-8081.

W, R, NLR WHOLE HOG CAFÉ The pulled pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons and there’s a six-pack of sauces for every taste. A real find is the beef brisket, cooked the way Texans like it. 12111 W. Markham St., 501-907-6124; 2516 Cantrell Road, 501-664-5025; 5107 Warden Road, 501-753-9227.

D BIG ON TOKYO Japanese rice bowls with vegetables, chicken, beef, pork, egg rolls and other choices. 400 President Clinton Ave., River Market, 501-375-6200.

W CHI’S CHINESE CUISINE Offers a huge menu of Chinese favorites, along with a few twists on the usual local offerings, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum. 17200 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-8000.

EUROPEAN/ETHNIC

BRIAN CHILSON

W CHI’S DIM SUM & BISTRO A huge menu that, plus there’s authentic Hong Kong dim sum. 6 Shackleford Drive, 501-221-7737.

H FANTASTIC CHINA Fresh and Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co. delicious food served in a vibrant R SHOGUN JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI atmosphere. 1900 N. Grant St., 501-663-8999.

BAR The chefs will dazzle you, as will the variety of tasty stir-fry combinations and the sushi bar.

D HANAROO SUSHI BAR One of the few sushi 2815 Cantrell Road, 501-666-7070. spots in downtown Little Rock, serving an expansive menu. 205 W. Capitol Ave., 501-301-7900.

W SKY MODERN JAPANESE RESTAURANT Enjoy modern Japanese cuisine at this sushi bar, hibachi W IGIBON Sushi, bento boxes, tempura shrimp bar and drink bar all rolled into one. 11525 Cantrell and lots more. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road, Road, 501-224-4300.

501-217-8888.

HC KBIRD Delicious, authentic Thai. Lunch and dinner. 600 N. Tyler, 501-352-3549.

W KOBE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE Hibachis, sushi and lots more. 11401 Financial Center Parkway, 501-225-5999.

D THE SOUTHERN GOURMASIAN Delicious Southern-Asian fusion. We crave the pork buns.

Made the transition from food truck to brick-andmortar in 2015 to rave reviews. 219 W. Capitol, 501-313-5645.

HC CAFE BOSSA NOVA This café offers a mouthwatering array of traditional Brazilian café house cuisine, including their signature cheese bread, black beans and rice, and beef, fish, chicken and vegan entrees. Great coffee and desserts, too. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-614-6682.

NLR CREGEEN’S IRISH PUB Good, hearty Irish fare in a pub setting, along with great burgers and fries. 301 Main St., 501-376-7468.

D DUGAN’S PUB The atmosphere is great, complete with plenty of bar seating and tables. Enjoy delicious traditional American and Irish fare. 401 E. Third St., 501-244-0542.

NLR GEORGIA’S GYROS Good gyros, Greek salads and fragrant grilled pita bread highlight a large Mediterranean food selection, plus burgers and the like. 2933 Lakewood Village Drive, 501-753-5090.

W HIBERNIA IRISH TAVERN A traditional Irish-style pub serving Irish and Southern food favorites and a broad beverage menu. 9700 Rodney Parham Road, 501-246-4340.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

69

W ISTANBUL MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT This Turkish eatery offers tasty kebabs and great starters. Possibly the best Turkish coffee in central Arkansas. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-223-9332.

W LA MADELEINE COUNTRY FRENCH CAFÉ Quaint French cafe chain serving soup, sandwiches, pastas, traditional French fare, coffee, pastries and bread.12210 W. Markham St., 501-221-7777.

M, W LAYLA’S GYROS AND PIZZERIA Delicious Mediterranean fare—gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and baba ganoush—that has a devoted following. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-227-7272; 8201 Ranch Blvd., 501-868-8226.

HC LEO’S GREEK CASTLE Now, under new ownership, this Hillcrest institution features the neighborhood favorites: gyros, falafel and tabouleh, along with breakfast, hamburgers, sandwiches and more.

Wine and beer are also available. 2925 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-666-7414.

W LITTLE GREEK Featuring traditional Greek cuisine, including spinach pie, gyros and chicken souvlaki,

W STAR OF INDIA One of Little Rock’s most highly regarded restaurants—great lamb, great curries, great chicken tandoori, great naan. The daily lunch buffet is a great deal. 301 N. Shackleford Road, 501-227-9900.

H CAFE PREGO Dependable entrées of pasta and the like, plus great sauces, fresh mixed greens and delicious dressings, crisp-crunchy-cold gazpacho and tempting desserts in a comfy bistro setting.

5510 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-5355.

W TAJ MAHAL INDIAN CUISINE Taj Mahal has an extensive lunch buffet, where you can try a little of everything. The dinner menu is full of lots of delicious Indian classics. 1520 Market St., 501-520-4900.

D CIAO Casual yet elegant bistro tucked into a downtown storefront. The fine pasta and seafood dishes, ambiance and overall charm combine to make it a relaxing, enjoyable, affordable choice.

405 W. Seventh St., 501-372-0238.

W, M, NLR TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE For a taste of the Mediterranean, visit Taziki’s and enjoy a wide variety of gyros, plenty of sides, including pasta, salads and Dolmades (grape leaves with seasoned rice) and more. 12800 Chenal Parkway, 501-225-1829; 8200 Cantrell Road, 501-227-8291; 3929 McCain Blvd., (501) 218-8822.

D, HC, M DAMGOODE PIES A somewhat different pizza place, offering a variety of sauces, toppings and specialty combinations. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-2239; 6706 Cantrell Road, 501-664-2239; 500 President Clinton Ave., 501-664-2239.

M GRAFFITI’S The casually chic and ever-popular Italian-flavored bistro serves daily specials and one of the best martinis in town. 7811 Cantrell Road, 501-224-9079.

H TERRY’S RESTAURANT A true French-style bistro has come to town replete with imported tables and chairs. The menu features many of the country’s classics from roast chicken to duck

D GUSANO’S They make Chicago-style deep-dish pizza the way it’s done in the Windy City. It takes a little longer, but it’s worth the wait. 313 President Clinton Ave., 501-374-1441.

D IRIANA’S Great pizza, salads and sandwiches.

Located adjacent to the Statehouse Convention Center. 201 E. Markham St., 501-374-3656.

W JIM’S RAZORBACK PIZZA Great pizza served up in a family-friendly, sports-themed environment.

Flat-screen TVs throughout and even a cage for shooting basketballs and playing ping pong. 16101 Cantrell Road, 501-868-3250.

NLR OLD CHICAGO PASTA & PIZZA This national chain offers lots of pizzas, pastas and beer. 4305 Warden Road, 501-812-6262.

R, W PIZZA CAFÉ Lots of pizza options, along with big salads and draft beer. Both locations have breezy patios. 1517 Rebsamen Park Road, 501-664-6133; 14710 Cantrell Road, 501-868-2600.

BRIAN CHILSON

H THE PIZZERIA Tasty Neapolitan-style pizza and calzones from the people who used to run the Santa Lucia food truck. 4910 Kavanaugh, 501-551-1388.

Ristorante Capeo this chain recently opened a Little Rock location.

11525 Cantrell Road, 501-223-5300.

confit and assorted cheeses for dessert. 5018 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-4152.

D MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Gyros, falafel and souvlaki plates, as well as hummus, tabouleh, eggplant dip and other dishes. Halal meat dishes available. Located in River Market Hall. 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-372-1662.

W YA YA’S EURO BISTRO The first eatery to open in the Promenade at Chenal is a date-night affair, translating comfort food into beautiful cuisine.

Best bet is lunch, where you can explore the menu through soup, salad or half a sandwich. 17711 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-1144.

HC THE PANTRY CREST Czech and German comfort food with a great bar menu. 722 N. Palm St., 501-725-4945.

W THE PANTRY RESTAURANT Owner and selfproclaimed “food evangelist” Tomas Bohm does things the right way and the menu stays relatively true to his Czech roots, but there are plenty of choices to suit all tastes. 1401 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-353-1875.

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

ITALIAN

D BRUNO’S LITTLE ITALY This Italian eatery dates back to the late 1940s, though it has changed ownership and locations several times over the years. It has been a hit with locals for traditional dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara, Manicotti and Linguine with Clam Sauce, along with antipasti, calzones and hand-thrown pizzas. 310 Main St., 501-372-7866.

S RADUNO BRICK OVEN AND BARROOM The South Main neighborhood’s renaissance continues with Raduno, an upscale pizza joint that also features sandwiches and unique appetizers and specialty cocktails. 1318 S. Main St., 501-374-7476.

NLR RISTORANTE CAPEO Authentic Italian cooking is the draw at this cozy, brick-walled restaurant.

Familiar pasta dishes will comfort most diners, but let the chef delight you with some more exotic stuff. 425 Main St., 501-376-3463.

NLR SADDLE CREEK WOODFIRED GRILL Sassy pizzas, salads, prime rib and seafood—enough choices to please the entire family. 2703 Lakewood Village Drive, 501-812-0883.

NLR, W SHOTGUN DAN’S PIZZA Hearty pizzas and sandwiches with a decent salad bar. 4020 E. Broadway St., 501-945-0606; 10923 W. Markham St., 501-224-9519.

W, NLR, M, HC, H U.S. PIZZA This is true Little Rock pizza, with thin crust and an array of delicious topics. Salads are heaping and best when served with creamy, Ranch-style house dressing. An assortment of domestic, imported and craft beer is

on tap. The Heights location is newly renovated.

9300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-6300; 3324 Pike Ave. (NLR), 501-758-5997; 4001 McCain Park Blvd. (NLR), 501-753-2900; 3307 Fair Park Blvd., 501-565-6580; 9300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-6300; 2710 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Hillcrest), 501-663-2198; 5524 Kavanaugh Blvd. (Heights), 501-664-7071.

W VESUVIO BISTRO Gourmet Italian fare, with an assortment of fresh pastas, antipasti, signature entrees and extensive wine and martini offerings.

1315 Breckenridge Drive, 501-246-5442.

D VINO’S Great rock ’n’ roll club is also a fantastic pizzeria with huge calzones and house-brewed beers. 923 W. Seventh St., 501-375-8466.

NLR ZAFFINO’S BY NORI A high-quality Italian dining experience. Pastas, entrees (don’t miss the veal marsala) and salads are all outstanding.

With a more affordable lunch menu. 2001 E. Kiehl Ave., 501-834-7530.

H ZAZA FINE SALAD + WOOD OVEN PIZZA CO. This contemporary Heights café would be right at home in Naples with the tempting display of smooth and soft gelato in all the required flavors (pistachio, gianduia) and a wood-fired pizza oven turning out textbook Italian ’za with gorgeous blistered crusts and a light topping of choice and tempting ingredients. Delicious call-yourown-ingredient salads. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-661-9292.

homemade salsa and delicious drinks. 3501 Old Cantrell Road, 501-916-9706.

H HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE CO. Throwback Southern-style tamales, taco plates, enchiladas and more, all doused with a generous helping of cheese and chili. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-313-4848.

R LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrées and traditional favorites, all painstakingly prepared in a festive atmosphere. Great taco salad, nachos, and maybe the best fajitas around. 3024 Cantrell Road, 501-661-0600.

SWLR LA REGIONAL A full-service grocery store and a restaurant offering a whirlwind trip through Latin America, with delicacies from across the Spanish-speaking world. 7414 Baseline Road, 501-565-4440.

SWLR, NLR LAS PALMAS Authentic Mexican chain with a massive menu of choices. 10402 Stagecoach Road, 501-455-8500; 4154 E. McCain Blvd., 501-945-8010.

W LOCAL LIME Local Lime features craft tacos and other Mexican favorites, along with delicious guacamole and cocktails. Located at the Promenade at Chenal. 17815 Chenal Parkway, 501-448-2226.

501-954-7780; 10300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 501-224-5505; 2000 S. University Ave., 501-6604413; 14524 Cantrell Road, 501-868-7642; 4304 Camp Robinson Road, 501-791-3888.

BAKERIES & DESSERT

H CUPCAKES ON KAVANAUGH Find all sorts of gourmet and classic cupcakes. From Classic Vanilla to Kahlua and Cream, there is a flavor for everyone’s taste buds. 5625 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-2253.

D KILWINS Ice cream, candies, fudge and sweets galore made in-house and packaged for eat-it-now while strolling the River Market or eat-it-later. 415 President Clinton Ave., 501-379-9865.

S LOBLOLLY CREAMERY Operating an old-fashioned soda fountain inside the Green Corner Store, Loblolly serves its homemade small-batch ice cream, sundaes, shakes and more, often using locally sourced ingredients. Don’t leave without trying an ice cream sandwich made with homemade cookies. 1423 S. Main St., 501-374-1111.

H LE POPS Delicious, homemade iced lollies. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd., Ste. J, 501-313-9558.

HC MYLO COFFEE CO. Hand-crafted sweet and

MEXICAN

H BAJA GRILL Food truck turned full-scale restaurant, this Tex-Mex joint offers tacos, burritos and low-carb burrito bowls, along with cheese dip, salsa and guacamole. 5923 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-722-8920.

W, NLR CACTUS JACK’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT This restaurant offers everything you’d expect from a traditional Mexican restaurant, including ample portions. 4120 E. McCain Blvd., 501-945-5888; 11414 W. Markham St., 501-227-7556.

HC CANON GRILL Tex-Mex favorites, along with burgers, sandwiches and salads. 2811 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-664-2068.

D, M, W CASA MANANA Great guacamole and tacos, superlative chips and salsa (red and green) and a good selection of fresh seafood. 6820 Cantrell Road, 501-280-9888; 18321 Cantrell Road, 501-8688822; 400 President Clinton Ave., 501-372-6637.

NLR CASA MEXICANA Familiar Tex-Mex style items shine, in ample portions, and the steak-centered dishes are uniformly excellent. 7111 JFK Blvd., 501-835-7876.

NLR CILANTRO’S GRILL The guac, made tableside, margaritas and desserts stand out at this affordably priced traditional Mex spot. 2629 Lakewood Village Plaza, 501-812-0040.

D COTIJA’S MEXICAN GRILL This authentic Mexican spot has two downtown locations. 406 Louisiana St., 501-224-0733; inside the Legacy Hotel, 625 W. Capitol Ave., 501-371-0733.

NLR, W EL PORTON Very good Mexican and a wide-ranging menu of dinner plates. Tasty cheese dip and great service. 12111 W. Markham St., 501-223-8588; 5021 Warden Road, 501-753-4630..

R THE FOLD: BOTANAS & BAR One of Little Rock’s hottest local hangouts, serving gourmet tacos,

Kilwins

SWLR MERCADO SAN JOSE BAKERY & GROCERY This combo restaurant-bakery-meat market serves authentic Mexican fare. The fresh baked breads— sweet breads and handmade tortillas—are yummy and definitely worth the drive. 7411 Geyer Springs Road, 501-565-4246.

W, NLR MEXICO CHIQUITO Hearty platters of boldly spiced, inexpensive food holds its own with the “authentic” joints. 11406 W. Markham St., 501-217-0647; 13924 Cantrell Road, 501-2170700; 4511 Camp Robinson Road, 501-771-1604.

W, NLR SANTO COYOTE Offering plenty of fresh Mexican-influenced favorites such as made-atthe-table guacamole, a variety of sopes (corn mesa “cups” spread with beans) and tacos. 2513 McCain Blvd., 501-753-9800; 11610 Pleasant Ridge, 501-225-1300.

W, M, NLR SENOR TEQUILA Authentic dishes with great service and prices, and maybe the best margarita in town. 1101 S. Bowman Road,

savory pastries, along with sandwiches, soups, ice cream and more. Pour-over coffee is a neighborhood favorite. Visit early for the kouign amann, the only pastry of its kind in Central Arkansas.

2715 Kavanugh Blvd., 501-747-1880.

W ORANGE LEAF Self-serve yogurt in a variety of flavors and lots of toppings. 11525 Cantrell Road, 501-227-4522.

H RED MANGO National yogurt and smoothie chain whose tasty appeal is best described as “allnatural,” “non-fat,” “gluten-free” and “probiotic.”

5621 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-663-2500.

HC ROSALIA’S FAMILY BAKERY Specialty Brazilian breads as well as just about anything you’d expect to find at a bakery—baguettes, cakes and cookies along with challah, rye, savory, white and whole grain breads. Full coffee bar, with some lunch items. 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-319-7035.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

71

DISCOVER LITTLE ROCK’S FOODIE FLAIR If you plan your

vacations around

where you’ll be eating

F

or a town its size, Little Rock has absolutely nailed the food scene.

next, then this lineup

It’s brimming with a farm-to-table mentality, and the chefs are cre-

is for you. Little Rock is

ative, dreaming up new flavors and introducing new specials based on

bursting at the seams

what’s in season. In short, this town is crushing it compared to others

with notable chefs and

in the region—even those with larger populations. Chalk it up to the availability of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients for chefs and home

restaurants to satisfy all

cooks alike. So, if you’re a visiting foodie, we’ve got you covered. Try

of your foodie cravings.

giving one of these places a whirl, and you will not be disappointed.

BY MELISSA TUCKER

HILLCREST ARTISAN MEATS 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-671-6328 House-cured meats, handmade sausages and thick soups prepared to perfection in an unassuming little shop in Hillcrest.

These artisan meats can be carted home as-is, or ordered on a sandwich in-house.

With flavors often combining sweet, salty

Cafe Bossa Nova

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

and umami, the sandwiches could also be called artisan.

THE ROOT CAFE 1500 S. Main St., 501-414-0423 Serving vegetarian and vegan food, along with a no-frills burger that’s one of the best in town, The Root specializes in locally sourced meats, eggs, bread and veggies.

The brunch is popular and the coffee is outstanding. Go early. The Root stays busy, but if you encounter a long-ish line, it’s worth the wait.

BIG ORANGE 207 N. University Ave., 501-379-8715; 17809 Chenal Parkway, 501-821-1515 The burgers here rely heavily on locally

BRIAN CHILSON

SOUTH ON MAIN 1304 S. Main St., 501-244-9660 Southern cuisine, classic cocktails, and live performances are the main draw here. But the award-winning menu with sophisticated takes on Southern classics like trotters, boudin, mac and cheese, fried chicken and greens will have you rethinking your upbringing.

sourced meat and veggies, but the twist is in the flavor combinations. Bleu cheese and pepper jelly. Fig jam, white truffle and pecorino cheese. Havarti and sauteed mushrooms. Pimento cheese and pickled green tomato. Need we go on? The decadent milkshakes and cocktails seal the deal.

CAPITAL BAR AND GRILL 111 W. Markham St., 501-370-7013 Signature cocktails and the legendary fried chicken make Capital Bar and Grill a casual yet cosmopolitan destination for lunch or dinner. Southern favorites and standards get the royal treatment here, and weekly blue plate specials cater to the business lunchers.

THE PANTRY AND THE PANTRY CREST The Pantry, 11401 N. Rodney Parham, 501353-1875; The Pantry Crest, 722 N. Palm St., 501-725-4945 Specializing in German and Czech classics, The Pantry always delivers simple, classic fare in a romantic atmosphere with European charm. Expect housemade stocks, sausages and more with servers knowledgeable in gluten-free and vegetarian dining. It’s the right mix of comfortable and “date night,” which means it’s often the place for proposals, gatherings and anniversary dinners.

THE FOLD BOTANAS & BAR 3501 Old Cantrell Road, 501-916-9706 The Fold focuses on Mexican cuisine, but thoughtfully prepared with local ingredients in a bright, cheery setting.

The best cocktails are freshly squeezed variations on the traditional margarita.

Start with chips and dip, then choose from an assortment of tacos, or dig into some substantial tamales.

CAFE BOSSA NOVA 2701 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-614-6682 Hearty Brazilian fare with fresh ingredients and reasonable prices sums up Cafe Bossa Nova. You will not leave hungry, but you will leave with a greater appreciation for lesser-known cuisine items like yucca root and mango. Many dishes are gluten-free.

Don’t pass on the cheese bread or the bakery next door.

SOUTHERN GOURMASIAN 219 W. Capitol Ave., 501-313-5645 If you’re the type to put Sriracha on everything, you’ll love Southern Gourmasian, where classic Southern dishes like chicken and dumplings get a kick from Asian flavors.

Starting out as a food truck, the operation has expanded into a brick-and-mortar location serving dishes like the famous steamed buns, Korean fried chicken, and the edamame hummus.

TAKE-AWAYS: ARTISAN FOODS TO TRY

LOBLOLLY CREAMERY AT THE GREEN CORNER STORE 1423 Main St., 501-396-9609 They call it “magical ice cream,” and we cannot disagree. Freshly churned ice cream with seasonal flavors, like honey lavender, and old favorites—bourbon pecan, salted caramel—keep locals coming back for more.

KENT WALKER ARTISAN CHEESE 323 S. Cross St., 501-301-4963 Our local cheesemaker, Kent Walker, grew his business from a small-batch kitchen operation to a full-fledged facility and tasting room. He now supplies cheese to area restaurants and allows visitors to watch the cheese production and sample in the tasting room.

FRESH. CASUAL. DELICIOUS. TAZIKI’S: Little Rock - Cantrell | Little Rock - Chenal North Little Rock - McCain | Conway | Bentonville | Fayetteville Grove Plaza - Coming Soon |

Call for Catering:

Central Arkansas (501) 765-2798 | Northwest Arkansas (479) 595-6676

SANDWICHES, SALADS, SMOOTHIES, LOCAL SNACKS, & MORE! I LOVE JUICE BAR: Midtowne Shopping Center 207 N. University Ave. Suite 210 Little Rock, AR 72205 | (501) 744-5842

tazikiscafe.com @tazikisarkansas | ilovejuicebar.com @juicebarlittlerock

IZARD CHOCOLATE 623 Beechwood St., 501-352-5834 This bean-to-bar chocolate company is the first of its kind in Little Rock, and focuses on Fair Trade standards and organic cacao.

The chocolate is so rich and flavorful, you’ll want to savor it and make it last. Try the sea salt or chocolate-dipped caramel.

MYLO COFFEE 2715 Kavanaugh Blvd., 501-747-1880 Mylo is a contemporary, laid-back coffee shop with locally roasted coffee and the lightest and flakiest pastries around. The organic flour, meat and eggs are sourced exclusively from Arkansas. A solid spot for breakfast or lunch.

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CRAFTY DEVELOPMENTS Brewpub craze continues to bubble over in downtowns

T

BY JIM HARRIS

he ink was barely dry on the last

pubs without much difficulty—by foot, by Uber of Little Rock and North Little Rock’s fledgor taxi, by River Trolley, and even on occasion ing, growing craft brewpub scene when by bicycle, as Bobby’s Bike Rental in the River word of two more pubs opening surfaced.

Market will line up special bike tours of the pubs Really, we thought? Two more? Is this on Saturdays, along with its popular medium-sized metro area really ready barbecue bike ride. (Imagine, getting a for two more brewpubs when we’re just calorie burn while biking, or eating, or getting to know the seven or so we have? both, among the pubs.)

The answer to that is a resounding Flyway, on West Broadway in North “yes”—as in, the more the merrier, and Little Rock situated between Dickeythe addition of two more popular stopping Stephens Park and all the activity on places in the ever-improving downtowns Main Street, is five blocks or so from of the “twin cities” hasn’t diminished the Diamond Bear, North Little Rock’s attraction of what’s brewing around here. first craft beer maker and distributor.

Flyway Brewing in North Little Rock’s Flyway (one look inside will tell you that Argenta downtown neighborhood and the owners got the name from the vast Rebel Kettle in Little Rock’s rising East north-south migration pathways for Village, east of downtown proper and waterfowl through Arkansas) is bright and Interstate 30, are the newest entries, and spacious, though the walls are sparse. both arrived with rave reviews from our The menu that accompanies the brew is beer-loving acquaintances. Coincidentally, light too, but we promise, the gourmet both are within reasonable distance of pretzel creations alone are worth the visit. some already widely acclaimed craft As is the beer, which covers a wide range, breweries, meaning visitors can easily and four of the offerings will come in a negotiate the distance between all these flight (4 5-ounce servings) at a ridiculously

Flyway

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

low price compared with the rest of the market. There are beers to suit any taste, but don’t leave without having at least a sip of the Belgium tripel-style Magdalene (9.6 percent alcohol by volume). Drink two regular sizes, though, and call a cab or designate a driver when leaving.

Compared with the décor at Flyway, Rebel Kettle in the East Village and just a short stroll west of Lost Forty’s brewpub, seems to have been born ready to franchise. The Kettle already has various T-shirts for sale, an eclectic menu that touches on salads to burgers to po-boys. But, really, maybe the best item we had in the place was an order of boiled peanuts—honestly the best boiled peanuts we’ve EVER had and we’ve had them from Charleston, S.C., to Mobile Bay. The Cajun spicing to these nuts is a spectacular twist.

Rebel Kettle’s beer doesn’t need any help going down, from its light ales to a stout, which stood out best to us.

The food items at these two new joints highlight another trend: Our craft beer business isn’t just about the suds, and each brewpub has unique offerings.

Damgoode Pies, in the Terminal Building

BRIAN CHILSON

Visitors Guide issue featuring a tour

can end without a stop at the granddaddy of them all, Vino’s at Seventh and Chester streets, where the Six Bridges ale is a must-have (as well as a calzone). Maybe you’ll catch a rocking music performance there later in the night in the back room, where Green Day and the Meat Puppets both played. Like several of Little Rock’s great restaurants, one can find a common thread among many of the craft breweries: talented Josiah Moody (look for Moody Brews around town, or sample his concoctions at Damgoode) started out brewing beers for Vino’s owner Henry Lee. These are the pubs brewing on the premises with the freshest craft beer available. Local restaurants have made sure to have some of the locals and the popular national small brands on tap, too, and Fayetteville-based Core Brewing, a favorite among the Northwest Arkansas crowd, is trucking in its beer from the Ozarks to a standing location in North Little Rock as well. VG

BRIAN CHILSON

just east of the River Market building, has its pizzas and cheesy Italian loaves to accompany excellent wide-ranging offerings from local brewer Josiah Moody. Lost Forty’s owners, Yellow Rocket Concepts, has been knocking it out of the park locally with all its food concepts (Big Orange, Local Lime, Heights Taco & Tamale Co., ZAZA), and it opened having already figured out perfect pairings of bar food with brew.

Lost Forty’s Honey Bock seems to go with everything; maybe the one thing about Lost Forty that disappoints is, its beer is so readily available in markets, it keeps us from trekking more to the East Village.

Again, mere blocks away from Rebel Kettle and Lost Forty are two popular haunts: Stone’s Throw and Blue Canoe.

Stone’s Throw has a variety of great local food trucks that park off Ninth and Rock streets to provide the eats, while Stone’s Throw comes up with some inventive brews and rarely if ever disappoints. Blue Canoe,

Jason Polk of Rebel Kettle

taking up a tiny space on East Third Street among several good restaurants, a specialty grocer, wine bars and a coffee house has opened a taco restaurant next door to join the food-with-craft beer club. Absolutely, before you leave Little Rock, you must try Blue Canoe’s Whistler’s Milk Stout, or grab a growler to go back home.

And, of course, no beer tour in Little Rock

h menu for lunc with a full an en p rd ta ga on er s be er d be 16 r taproom and dinner in ou PHP LIFE IN MOTION PHOTOGRAPHY

“We started Rebel Kettle with the full intention of bringing new and exciting beers to Arkansas. Rebel Kettle is an experience, not just a brew pub!” An up-and-coming brewery focused on specialty and small batch artisan beers, Rebel Kettle offers 16 beers on tap with a full menu for lunch and dinner in our taproom and beer garden. We’re located within walking distance of the Arkansas River and the Clinton Presidential Center.

822 E. 6th St., Little Rock 501-374-2791 OPEN: Tues-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

REBELKETTLE.COM VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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GOOD EATS Come see what’s new @ The Corner, a family owned & operated Modern Diner in the heart of downtown Little Rock.

We feature locally grown,made from scratch & seasonally fresh ingredients. Come enjoy & make yourself @ home.

There’s no doubt that this award winning Cantrell Road drive-in is good. It does fine Greek salads and has a great cheese dip and it even does gyros. But Arkansas Burger Company’s burgers are among the top contenders of the best-burger debate in Arkansas.

Owner Dan Spencer always says, “Once I get you in, I gotcha!”

Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

201 E. Markham St. Little Rock 501-400-8458 thecornerlr.com Hours: Tues - Fri: 7:00am - 2:00pm Sat Brunch 8:30am - 2:00pm Sun Brunch 10:00am - 2:00pm

7410 Cantrell Rd Little Rock 501-663-0600 Benihana is famous for it’s atmosphere, service, food quality, outstanding chefs and overall dining experience. Located just three blocks from Verizon Arena and next door to Dickey Stephen’s Ballpark. Benihana has established itself as Arkansas’ premiere Japanese Steakhouse

Located in the Mon - Fri 11-2 Wyndham Hotel Sunday 11:30-2:30 #2 Riverfront Place Dinner Monday - Thursday 5p-9:30p North Little Rock Friday - Saturday 5p-10p 501-374-8081 Sunday 5p-9p Make reservations online at www.Benihana.com

Arkansas Burger Company arkansasburgercompany.com

Bistro 301: Serving a hot buffet breakfast every morning, farm to table salad bar Monday through Friday for lunch and an indulgent dinner menu with local flavor.

Lounge 3ZERO1: Custom martini menu and local beers on draft with daily happy hour specials and tantalizing menu offerings.

Open for Lunch

Café Bossa Nova introduces the taste of authentic Brazilian dining to Little Rock. From the moment you enter, the delicious aromas and soft, pleasing sounds of background Bossa Nova music will awaken your senses to the unique and enjoyable casual dining experience ahead of you.

2701 Kavanaugh Blvd. • 501-614-NOVA (6682) • cafebossanova.com VISITORSGUIDE GUIDETO • 2017 GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2017 7766 VISITORS

Inside The DoubleTree Suites by Hilton in Bentonville, AR 301 SE Walton Blvd. • Bentonville, AR (479) 845-7770 • bentonvillerogerssuites.doubletree.com We provide a casual, warm environment, delicious food, and excellent service at a reasonable cost. It is our goal to have every meal be a celebration of food and to always keep an edge of new in our work. The first step towards delicious food is to use the freshest and highest quality ingredients. We may occasionally improvise or even run out of an item, but we will never offer you less than the best. The greatest compliment you can pay us is to return. Come as you are.

2300 Cottondale Lane 501-663-2677 bravenewrestaurant.com Lunch M-F 11-2 Dinner M-S 5-10 Reservations of any size accepted for lunch and dinner.

MAKE YOUR STAY IN LITTLE ROCK MORE ENJOYABLE BY DINING AT SOME OF OUR FINEST RESTAURANTS. HERE’S SOME OF OUR FAVORITES. Since 1982, The Butcher Shop has built its powerful reputation by serving the finest hickory charcoaled steaks cut from the highest quality grainfed beef direct from the Midwest. Beef at The Butcher Shop is aged four weeks before being skillfully hand cut by their “in house” butcher. Tremendous steaks, excellent service, fair prices and a comfortable atmosphere make Open for Dinner: M-F 5pm, Sat & Sun 4:30pm The Butcher Shop the West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Rd. prime choice for your 501-312-2748 • thebutchershoplittlerock.com evening out.

The ever popular Crowne Plaza Hotel includes the coffee bar Latte Da, that features Seattle’s Best Coffee, the best lattes, frappuccinos and other coffee drinks around.

Their restaurant, Café 201 offers classic American Cuisine featuring the finest steaks available. Locals & guests alike enjoy the friendly service in a sophisticated atmosphere. Don’t miss one of Little Rock’s best kept secrets, their sleek atrium bar, Rocks.

201 S. Shackleford Road West Little Rock 501-223-3000 crowneplazalittlerock.com

Monday-Friday: Open 11 AM Last Seating 9:45 PM Saturday: Open 10AM Last seating 9:45PM Sunday: Open 10AM-2PM 425 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock 501-850-0265 cachelittlerock.com

Looking for a refreshing break during your Zoo visit? Join us in Cafe Africa for a meal, a snack, or just to relax! The Cafe features menu items such as hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, fries, pizza, soda, ice cream and more. The Cafe is open 7 days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

CAFÉ AFRICA

1 Zoo Dr. • Little Rock • 501-666-2406 www.littlerockzoo.com Cajun’s Wharf is famous for its fresh seafood, aged Angus Beef and full-fl avored 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.

Support your local farmers when you dine at Café@Heifer.

Café@Heifer serves a variety of lunch specials made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re visiting Heifer Village for a tour or just looking for a lunch spot in downtown Little Rock, we’re ready to serve.

1 World Ave. Little Rock 501-907-8801

Offering one of the most urbane, contemporary dining experiences in Little Rock - Cache is truly unique.

With no detail left unattended, the chefs and culinary team create complex, flavorful food and drink that is simply delicious. Inspired by training and empowered with fine ingredients, every meal and every moment at Cache is one to be treasured. Lunch, dinner, or drinks over a good conversation on the patio...gather at Cache and create treasured memories that last a lifetime.

Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

2400 Cantrell Little Rock • 501-375-5351 www.cajunswharf.com Open for Lunch Mon-Fri, 11-2 Dinner, Mon- Sat 5pm VISITORS GUIDE • 2017 VISITORS GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2017

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GOOD EATS Capture the Spirit of New Orleans at Copeland’s Restaurant of Little Rock.

Treat yourself to the sights, sounds, smells, and incomparable flavor of New Orleans at the casual yet elegant Copeland’s. From the moment you walk through the nine-foot tall doors and past our spectacular waterfall, you’ll know this is unlike regular Little Rock restaurants.

Enticing aromas waft from our signature Cheesecake Bakery, while an array of sumptuous desserts greets you as you enter the waiting area. Sit back and soak it all in while you savor the extraordinary experience of Copeland’s!

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.

14502 Cantrell Road Little Rock • 501-868-7600 www.capersrestaurant.com

Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner, a gourmet experience or the perfect business lunch, Copper Grill is the choice urban restaurant for Little Rock’s food enthusiasts. It’s where you can let go and relax in the comfortable dining room, enjoy a glass of wine at the lively bar or share a spread of appetizers outside on the street-side patio. No matter if you’re on the go or off the clock, Copper Grill is your downtown dining destination.

2602 S Shackleford Rd • 501- 312-1616 www.copelandsrestaurantlittlerock.com

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

For some hot, delicious homestyle food and some down-home friendly service, The Dixie Café is the place to go. Whether you’re looking for Meatloaf, Pot Roast, Country Fried Steak, Catfish or a delicious salad, The Dixie Café is a premiere family friendly restaurant that delivers. Open Lunch & Dinner, 7 Days a Week.

Little Rock 1301 Rebsamen Park Rd 501-663-9336 10700 Rodney Parham Rd 501-224-3728 North Little Rock 2724 Lakewood Village 501-758-4777 ... and other locations throughout Arkansas

77 8 8

LITTLE ROCK’S BEST PIZZA

Damgoode Pies, as in Pizza Pies. Bountiful selection of homemade sauces, crusts and toppings.

Award-winning signature pies. Three locations in Little Rock. Delivery and Online Ordering!

Complete sentences on site! 664-2239 www.dgpies.com.

VISITORS 2017 VISITORS GUIDE GUIDE •TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2017

•The Arkansas Times • Sync Magazine • Little Rock A-List

Visit Our Sexy Brewpub: 500 PRESIDENT CLINTON AVE. IN THE RIVER MARKET

...WITH A PATIO VIEW OF THE ARKANSAS RIVER!

GY P S Y B I S TRO

Campy, funky and interactive, Dizzy’s is a refreshingly engaging blend of unique, from scratch international and southern comfort foods, local beer on tap, world wines, art and music.

Open Tues-Sat 11-9 weekdays, 11-10 weekends 200 S. River Market Ave, Suite 150 Little Rock 501-375-3500

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

New Orleans At Its Best!

Award winning for over 30 years for authentic New Orleans cuisine.

Steaks, seafood and Creole specialties in a casual, fun atmosphere.

Rebsamen Park 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd. 501-663-9734 www.thefadedrose.com

Rebel Kettle is so much more than a brewery. The food begins with a complimentary, lightly seasoned popcorn and Kool-Aid-infused pickles.

Critics have pronounced them to have the best burgers and Reubens in town. Rebel Kettle’s menu is wide-ranging including vegetarian and lighter fare. Besides the exceptional food, Rebel Kettle also benefits from a good vibe. The three large garage doors open up to a beautiful patio. They offer not only fresh brewed beer on tap, but wine too. The selections are wide-ranging and creative.

Since 1967, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has been serving up food, fun and fabulous live entertainment.

For less than the price of dinner and a movie, you can experience the wonderful world of live theater!

501-562-3131 • murrysdp.com

822 E. 6th St. Little Rock • 501-374-2791 rebelkettle.com

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GOOD EATS The Riverfront Steakhouse features USDA Prime steaks and seafood including whole lobster tail.

Most customers agree our steaks are the best they’ve ever tasted.

The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed and the service is second to none.

Open for Dinner Monday - Thursday 5p-9:30p Friday and Saturday evenings 5p-10p Online reservations at www.Riverfront-steakhouse.com Located in the Wyndham Hotel #2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock 501-375-7825 Gourmet cuisine with south of the border flavor and Arkansas’s largest tequila selection under one roof. Table side guacamole, fresh made ceviche, seafood, steaks and delicious chicken dishes. More than 130 tequilas, all 100% AGAVE. Voted Best Tequila Selection and Best Margarita by the readers of the Arkansas Times.

Rosalia’s Family Bakery is a great place to relax, drink great coffee, imported and herbal teas, Italian Sodas, fresh baked breads, pastries, desserts, cookies, or Brazilian and European confections.

Brazilian imported soft drinks, cheeses, and seasonal candies are unique offerings not found anywhere else in Little Rock.

2701 Kavanaugh Blvd.

501-319-7035 rosaliascoffee@gmail.com

Taste the cuisine of India!

Owner and chef Sami Lal has 30 years of experience and has been serving his unique style of authentic North Indian cuisine since 1993 and welcomes you to a wonderful dining experience. Open seven days a week. Delivery Available.

Voted Best Indian Food by readers of Arkansas Times.

11610 Pleasant Ridge Rd Little Rock 501-225-1300 santo-coyote.com

301 N. Shackleford Road West Little Rock 501-227-9900 www.lrstarofindia.com

2513 McCain Blvd., Ste. 1 North Little Rock 501-753-9800

The Tavern Sports Grill is a locally owned sports bar where you can enjoy great food and great sports! Located at The Promenade At Chenal in West Little Rock, the Tavern has an authentic menu, happy hour specials, 2 projection screens, 32 more HD TVs and free Wi-Fi. The Tavern is simply perfect for lunch with co-workers, watching sporting events with friends, or dinner out with family. Our menu has a wide selection from our Tavern Burger, Strawberry Salad, Philly Cheese Steak, Catfish and of course our Famous Wings (Best Wings in Arkansas). If you don’t believe it come out and try them for yourself. Come on out and enjoy some good food, great sports and good fun!

TheTaver nSp or tsG r ill.c om

17815 Chenal Parkway • West Little Rock (501) 830-2100 • www.thetavernsportsgrill.com

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VISITORS GUIDE 2017 VISITORS GUIDE •TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2017

Tokyo House is the largest Sushi buffet in Central Arkansas, two stories of buffet. Tokyo House offers up more than 50 different kinds of fresh sushi, sashimi and Japanese salad. As you walk around the buffet you see the Sushi chef preparing fresh sushi and sashimi. It is the place where Japanese food, seafood, salad and great service all come together for the ideal gathering spot with friends and family.

Not only does Tokyo House offer fresh seafood and sushi you can also enjoy traditional Japanese hot dishes on the lower level.

Tokyo House also has two 11 Shackleford Drive party rooms for family and Little Rock • 501-219-4286 company events. www.TokyoHouseLR.com

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

A Little Rock Tradition For Over 29 Years For 29 Years Trio’s has welcomed our guests as part of our extended family. No wonder guests annually vote Trio’s best in Central Arkansas overall; and for catering, service, wine list, desserts and patio dining. Call on us to make your next party memorable in our Pavilion Room.

Pavilion in the Park 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 100 Little Rock • 501-221-3330 www.triosrestaurant.com Mon-Sat 11am-2:30pm, 5:30-Close Sunday Brunch 11am-2:30pm

Whole Hog Cafe North Little Rock 5107 Warden Road , North Little Rock 501-753-9227 • www.wholehogcafenlr.com

NOTEWORTHY DINING AWARDS & ACCOLADES Little Rock named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities” by Forbes Travel Guide, 2014.

Loblolly Creamery’s ice cream named a “Superior Scoop,” by Saveur, 2014.

One Eleven at the Capital Hotel named a semifinalist in the Best New Restaurant category of the James Beard Awards, 2015.

Rock Town Distillery's Arkansas Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon Whiskey named “2015 U.S. Micro Whisky of the Year” by The Whisky Bible, 2015 edition.

Big Orange Midtown named in the “51 Best Beer Bars in America” by CraftBeer.com, 2016.

Lassis Inn ranked as #17 of "The 21 Best Seafood Restaurants in America" by NY Post’s Time Out Magazine, April 2016.

Trio's Restaurant named the "Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant in Every State" by Travel + Leisure, May 2016.

Southern Gourmasian recognized as one of the South’s Best Food Trucks by Southern Living Magazine, May 2016.

GROW grow LOCAL

www.arktimes.com

ARKANSAS TIMES

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017 VISITORS GUIDE TO GREATER LITTLE ROCK • 2017

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MAKE A Pulaski County’s most celebrated barbecue joints

PIT STOP

BY KAT ROBINSON

B

arbecue isn’t just a portion of Arkansas cuisine—it’s part of our way of life. From the earliest recordings of barbecue camp gatherings in 1821 in

Phillips County and at Arkansas Post, we’ve been smoking our meat and sharing it for generations. n That tradition is alive and well in Pulaski County, which

boasts some of the state’s oldest continually operating joints as well as younger, vibrant locations serving great ‘cue. Here’s a guide to the can’t-miss spots.

Sim’s Bar-B-Que

WHITE PIG INN 5231 E. Broadway, 501-945-5551, whitepiginn.com The oldest of our central Arkansas barbecue joints, this whitewashed building along Broadway near Prothro Junction in North Little Rock is home to the Seaton family’s three-generation restaurant.

Originally opened in 1920, this classic still serves some of the best ribs and pulled pork in the area. Go during the day—the White Pig Inn opens at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday, but it closes by 6 p.m. most weekdays.

SIM’S BAR-B-QUE Multiple locations: 1307 John Barrow Road, 7601 Geyer Springs Road and 2415 S. Broadway, 501-372-6868, simsbbqar.com Established in 1937, some would argue this is the particular flavor one should consider when thinking about barbecue in Little Rock. Known for fall-apart pork butt, pork ribs and beef brisket, it’s the thin and tangy sweet vinegar sauce that makes

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Whole Hog BBQ

this mainstay so memorable. Consider the barbecue bologna, and try a slice of sweet potato pie while you’re there.

LINDSEY’S HOSPITALITY HOUSE 207 Curtis Sykes Drive, 501-374-5707, lindseysbbqnmore.com Barbecue isn’t the only thing you’ll find on the menu at this North Little Rock favorite, but it is the star with smoked chicken, pork and beef available for eating in or carrying out. Originally opened as Lindsey’s BBQ in 1956, this family operation has earned a fine reputation for catering its barbecue and catfish throughout central Arkansas.

HB’S BAR B.Q. 6010 Lancaster Road, 501-565-1930 A long time Southwest Little Rock secret, HB’s has been serving lovingly smoked pulled pork sandwiches since 1961. One of many great Arkansas barbecue joints that lay claim to the fame perpetrated by The Shack, a legendary ‘cue joint that operated from the 1940s until 1988—HB’s has the

advantage of family connections through its originator, Herbert Brooks Slaughter, the brother of The Shack’s Casey Slaughter. This small house on Lancaster Lane is humble, but you’ll follow your nose to get there from 65th Street. Ribs on Tuesday only.

WHOLE HOG BBQ Multiple locations: 2516 Cantrell Road, 12111 W. Markham, 5107 Warden Road in North Little Rock; 501-664-5025; wholehogcafe.com Restaurant founders Ron Blasingame, Mike “Sarge” Davis and Steve Lucchi started their first eatery together in 2000 while competing on the pork barbecue circuit. Wins at the Memphis in May barbecue competition in the following years propelled the three to fame and increased the word-of-mouth for the original restaurant, which has now become a franchise with locations in four states—including seven in Arkansas. Six proprietary barbecue sauces on the table are the calling cards for Whole Hog, which offers brisket, ribs and chicken in addition to its famed pulled pork.

VG

LITTLE ROCK LITTLE LITTLE ROCK ROCK AT THE CENTER OF FUN IN ARKANSAS AT ATTHE THECENTER CENTEROF OFFUN FUNIN INARKANSAS ARKANSAS AT THE CENTER OF FUN IN ARKANSAS

Little Rock was the No. for the 10 Best Places Live (Kiplinger’s 20 Little Little Rock Rock was was the the No. No. 1 11pick 1pick pick for for the the 10 10 Best Best Places Places toto Live Live (Kiplinger’s (Kiplinger’s 201 2 Little Rock was the No. pick for the 10 Best Places toto Live (Kiplinger’s 20 ranks among America’s Happiest Cities (Gallup 2011), and was Tow ranks ranks among among America’s America’s Happiest Happiest Cities Cities (Gallup (Gallup 2011), 2011), and and was was aa aBest Best Town To ranks among America’s Happiest Cities (Gallup 2011), and was aBest Best Tow 2013 (Outside Magazine).

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Magazine).

2013 (Outside Magazine).

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littlerock.org littlerock.org littlerock.org littlerock.org CityLittleRock CityLittleRock CityLittleRock CityLittleRock VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

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PUBLICATION

WEEKEND WARRIOR & BEYOND THINGS TO DO

TRAVEL TIME

Malvern Arkadelphia

Brickfest Turtle Point Golf Club, Arkadelphia Aquatic Park Watermelon festival, Birthplace of Bill Clinton Don't you need to meet someone there?

Cowboys game and Cowboys cheerleaders!

SXSW Festival Bulls, Cubs, Bears oh my!

Hollywood, Santa Monica Beverly Hills, Malibu

45 min.

$22

1 hr., 10 min.

$22

1 hr., 59 min.

$30

7 hr., 40 min.

$88

8 hr., 20 min.

15 hr. 12 min.

14 hr., 13 min.

$100 $140 $156

Hope From the Windy City through to St. Louis and on to the prairies and oil fields of Texas, to the modern cosmopolitan skyscrapers of Dallas, to the state capitol at Austin, to the pine forest and immense landscape conjuring images of cowboys and stagecoaches, to the picturesque Hill Country and on to “Remember the Alamo” at San Antonio — there's always something worth seeing in the cities served by the Texas Eagle!

St. Louis Dallas Austin Chicago Los Angeles

1400 WEST MARKHAM STREET • LITTLE ROCK • (800) 872-7245 * Prices shown with 21 day advance booking and subject to availability.

Schedule and Route stops are also subject to change.

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

ROUND TRIP AS LOW AS*

STOPS

$506