Little Rock

Little Rock sits along the Arkansas River and spreads across several districts with office towers in the downtown area, residential neighborhoods farther out, and an older core around the Capitol. The city rolls over gentle hills and flat ground, crossed by wide streets and smaller parks along the waterway.

The settlement began in 1821 near a small rock formation on the riverbank that served as a landmark for travelers. In 1836 it became the capital of the new state of Arkansas and grew into a trading hub for the region.

The city keeps a lively music scene with blues and jazz clubs along Main Street and in neighborhoods like South Main, where locals gather after work. On weekends the River Market fills its stalls with regional produce and handcraft, while families walk along the riverbanks.

Most public facilities sit in the center, and orientation follows numbered streets running east to west and named streets running north to south. Walks along the river are possible during the day, while downtown becomes rather quiet after business hours.

In MacArthur Park stands the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur, now turned into a small museum. The site preserves a quiet corner within the city and displays personal items from the general's childhood.

Location: Pulaski County

Inception: June 1, 1821

Elevation above the sea: 102 m

Shares border with: Maumelle, North Little Rock

Website: https://littlerock.gov

GPS coordinates: 34.74444,-92.28806

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:44