Take a walk, run, or bike ride down the Arkansas River Trail - or at least part of it. The recreation trail stretches over eleven miles but isn't quite finished yet, when completed it will cover a total of 24 miles. If you decide to brave the whole trail, you'll be walking from downtown Little Rock, to Pinnacle Mountain State Park, from North Little Rock to Cook's Landing, and eventually across Murray Lock and Dam to the Presidential Library. That's a lot of ground to cover, be sure to wear some comfy shoes!
Take a boat out for a spin, test your arm strength rowing a canoe, use the winds to your advantage on a sailboat or cast a line in the waters of Lake Maumelle. The beautiful, blue lake is a great place to spend some time outdoors, soak up some sun and enjoy your favorite water sports. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Check out one of the many metropolitan, community, and neighborhood parks that are part of the Little Rock City Parks & Recreation network. With over 50 parks available, you'll be able to enjoy the outdoors no matter where you are in the city. Our favorites are Allsopp Park, MacArthur Park, Murray Park, and Riverfront Park.
Take the kids to monkey around with the animals at the Little Rock Zoo. The zoo is home to over 725 animals, living in habitats that mimic their natural environments. Giraffes, gorillas, rhinos, alligators, flamingos, bears, elephants, bobcats, tigers, lemurs, and zebras are just a few of the animals you'll see throughout the zoo. While you're traveling through the zoo's exhibits and attractions, take a ride on the train or stop to play at the park for even more fun.
You won't be able to explore the 2,000 acres in one day, but head to Pinnacle Mountain State Park to learn a little something about the environment and have some outdoor fun while you're there. Discover the adventurer in you by hiking the trail to the top of Pinnacle Mountain - there are two paths that lead you there and you can't beat the view!
Spend some time hanging out and exploring the attractions at Riverfront Park. The 33-acre park sits along on the south bank of the Arkansas River and is home to a number of sculptures, gardens, state historical information, the Junction Bridge landmark, and much more. There's plenty to see and do as a family at this park, we recommend you set aside a day or two to really experience it.
Fans of archeology and natural history, head to Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park and explore one of the largest archeological sites in the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Interesting features of the outdoor area include three mounds that served as a ceremonial and governmental compound from 650 to 1050 A.D., and a park center that features artifacts and a research laboratory. Take in some fresh air while strolling the 3/4-mile barrier-free trail, or the 1.6 mile turf trail.