The city's founding dates back to the discoveries of Bernard de la Harpe. He was the first person to spot the outcropping of the rock lying on the banks of the Arkansas River. He called the rock "the little rock," which explains the origin of the city's name. The area was an immense wilderness inhabited by the Arkansas Indians. After Arkansas was admitted into the Union, Little Rock was integrated as a city and the state's capital. The city was seized by the Union forces during the Civil War. It remained under military control until the war was over. A military cemetery known as Little Rock National Cemetery was established to centralize the remnants of the dead Union members. Mount Holly Cemetery was also established on the city's streets primarily for the remains of the Confederate soldiers. As a result of the Brooks-Baxter War, the city became the center of a network of railroads. Its economy started to flourish with the creation of various locks and dams on the Arkansas River. As a result of the dams on the river, Little Rock developed into a port. Progress continued in the city, with commercial and residential buildings developing. Expansion of cultural life in the city also thrived, leading to the opening of Arkansas Arts Center, Arkansas Repertory Theater and Wildwood Park for the Arts. With a diverse lineup of shops, new businesses, museums, restaurants and notable neighborhoods, the modern Little Rock came to be. The city attracted people from different parts of the world. What began with a population of less than 30 is now home to over 196,796 people.

Living in Little Rock, you will always find many things to explore. From exploring the museums and immersing in nature to shopping till you drop, there are many options to satisfy your body, soul and mind. Whether it is enjoying the city's scenic views on top of a Pinnacle Mountain or the downtown bridges at night, the free things to do in the city are a treat.

Enjoy the fountains, marvel at Riverfront Park sculptures, or tag your friends to hike 4,226 feet at the Big Dam Bridge. You can also decide to make it a park day, as Little Rock's Public Parks are a gem. Stroll along the Riverfront Park to see many cool features like the waterfalls or enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing at Two Rivers Park. For hikers and runners, the Arkansas River Trail is your place. The river is lovely to spend a weekend in as it is filled with stunning views and notable landmarks to enjoy.

Offering more shopping opportunities than your poor wallet can handle, River Market is the perfect destination for shoppers. The market is an entire district filled with almost everything from boutiques, restaurants, and public artworks to historic bars. It is also home to numerous special events happening throughout the year. Whether you visit Little Rock today, next weekend or next year, you will always have a long list of the dos.