Central Arkansas provides endless opportunities for entertainment and travel destinations in the Natural State. Whether indoors or outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Little Rock and the surrounding areas that will provide hours of family fun.
Central Arkansas has an impressive assortment of natural and historical landmarks to experience and enjoy. Just outside of Little Rock, for instance, is Toltec Mounds State Park. Native Americans of the late-Woodland and early-Mississippian Period made ceremonial earthworks on this site over 1,200 years ago—three of which still stand today! Take the kids along the Knapp trail for a fun and educational experience at Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park. Learn More!
The Museum of Discovery in Little Rock is also a great (and educational) family destination. The MOD is Arkansas’ premier science center and is considered to be one of the best science museums in the country. The Museum’s scientist Kevin Delaney has even appeared on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon! MOD always has exciting events and exhibits such as the Tesla Theater, Tornado Alley, and Tinkerfest. Science After Dark provides fun exhibits—along with food and adult beverages—for the older crowd. MOD even offers a variety summer day camps for children ages 4-13! You and your family will not want to miss out on the nationally renowned Museum of Discovery. Learn More!
If your family is looking to enjoy the outdoors—which is unavoidable in Arkansas—you may consider visiting Arkansas’ many beautiful lakes. About an hour west of Little Rock, outside of Hot Springs, sits Lake Ouachita, along with the man-made lakes Hamilton and Catherine. Greers Ferry Lake, anouther popular boating and water recreation destination, is about 60 miles north of Little Rock. Learn More!
As its website suggests, Lake Ouachita is “one of the cleanest lakes in America” and is “a water sports mecca for swimming, skiing, scuba diving, boating, and fishing.” Anglers can enjoy a wide variety of fish species in the open areas of the lake or in its many beautiful and peacefully quiet coves. The shady coves, as well as the islands, are favorite anchoring spots for boating parties who are playing, fishing, or just doing a little exploring. https://www.arkansasstateparks.com//park-finder/park.aspx?id=9
Lake Hamilton is also a popular destination for water lovers and a major attraction in the Hot Springs area. Many Hamilton inhabitants spend their summers in beautiful shore side lake houses, and there are endless options for dining, entertainment, and lodging surrounding the lake. You can even take your family for a lake cruise on the Belle of Hot Springs!
North of Little Rock, Greers Ferry Lake is known for its year-round crystal-clear waters that provide for excellent fishing and sport opportunities alike. Found at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, its shores are surrounded by breathtaking rock outcroppings, trees, and wildlife. Don’t miss this leading tourist destination!
These are just a few of the many indoor and outdoor attractions that the Central Arkansas area has to offer. If you move here, you will not be left with limited options for entertainment!