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5 Favorite Theaters and Performance Venues Near Little Rock, AR

Red curtain on a stage. | Performance venues around Little Rock, AR.

Little Rock, AR has a lot to offer when it comes to theaters and performance venues. But if you've exhausted all of them and want to check out someplace new, the towns just outside of this capital city have just as much entertainment and excitement to offer.



The Weekend 

This small black-box non-profit community theater in Little Rock offers NYC vibes and weekend performances. The Weekend promises to make you: “Laugh, Cry, Think, Act” with its socially conscious live performances that aim to foster kindness, respect, and honor for one another. This unique venue is entirely run by volunteers and also offers acting classes and youth educational seminars that teach acting skills and build confidence.

The Studio

The Studio is another Little Rock performance venue with a purpose that seeks to “grow” each member of their audience. The Studio isn't you're average theatrical venue and often puts a spin on classical works with re-imagined settings and scenery.

They hand pick new and diverse Broadway shows that draw local crowds in to experience laughter, great music, and the kind of creative energy that makes them feel like they belong.

The Rep

This 34–seat venue in downtown Little Rock offers culture and joy through its performances that aim to help the audiences interpret and make peace with the world around them and those who inhabit it.

The Rep was founded in 1976 to present the quality theatrical performance produced by award-winning local and national artists that uphold the highest artistic standards.

The Joint 

There's something for everyone plus a lot of laughs each month at The Joint, located in North Little Rock's downtown Argenta Arts District. You'll find regular comedic theater productions by The Main Thing comedy troupe.

This three-person team performs two-act comedy shows on Friday and Saturday nights. The Joint also features stand-up comedy nights, improv shows, cabaret, and musical acts throughout the week.

Simmons Bank Arena

Also located in North Little Rock, Simmon Bank Arena features some of the biggest acts in America and has become a significant destination along the Arkansas River. You'll find the hottest musical, comedy, and children's performers featured here.

The 18,000-seat arena has featured acts like The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, and Faith Hill. Simmons Bank Arena, originally opened in 1999 as Alltel Arena, also has an additional 28,000 sq. ft. of conference space that can be rented for meetings, exhibitions, or conventions.

The Ford Mustang's sleek look is a great way to get around town in style while visiting these hip entertainment venues. Stop by Crain Ford of Little Rock and ask one of our attentive associates to take you on a test drive today.

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Fall Activities with your 2025 Ford Explorer in Little Rock, AR

This fall, Little Rock, AR, is brimming with fun activities, and your 2025 Ford Explorer is the ideal buddy for all your adventures. Whether you're taking a scenic drive through parks or packing up for a family outing, the Explorer’s spacious cabin makes it perfect for any fall excursion. Here at Crain Ford of Little Rock, we’ve highlighted the best fall activities you can enjoy with your Ford Explorer. Food Truck Festival Kick off the fall season with the Downtown Little Rock Food Truck Festival on September 22! This annual event is a favorite in the heart of Little Rock, featuring around 80 food trucks offering a variety of delicious eats. Whether you’re a food or just want to be surrounded by good vibes, there will also be live music setting the mood and local businesses showcasing their goods. It's a fun-filled day for the whole family. Stroll through the bustling downtown streets, enjoy tasty food, and support local vendors—this festival is the perfect way to welcome fall! Arkansas State Fair The Arkansas State Fair, running from October 11-20, is a fantastic fall event for family and friends. With fun rides for all ages, delicious food, and various drink options, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're craving classic fair treats or looking to try something new, the fair has it all. The lively atmosphere, thrilling attractions, and endless entertainment make it a perfect way to create unforgettable memories this fall! The 2025 Explorer comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but its available Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive is perfect for use at the fair, effortlessly handling parking spaces in mud and rocks. Parks Exploring parks in Little Rock during the fall offers many outdoor activities and scenic beauty. As the leaves change color and the temperatures change, it's an ideal time to enjoy the city's numerous parks. Whether you’re in the mood for hiking, casting a line in the Arkansas River, or simply taking a stroll, Little Rock’s parks provide a perfect backdrop for fall adventures. With options like Riverfront Park or Two Rivers Park for stunning views and different trails for a scenic walk by the water, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season’s excitement. Enjoy the fall air as you make the most of these outdoor spaces with the Explorer’s roomy interior. Cargo Space: 85.3 cubic ft. behind first row (85.8 cubic ft. on Explorer Active Model) 46.0 cubic ft. behind second row 16.3 cubic ft. behind third row If you’re looking for breathtaking views that top all of Central Arkansas, head to Pinnacle Mountain. Pinnacle Mountain State Park features over 15 miles of trails. It’s the perfect spot for an adrenaline-fueled adventure with some of the most spectacular scenery. Pumpkin Patches We can’t forget the fall activity staple, pumpkin patches. Visiting pumpkin patches in the fall is a cherished tradition for many people. These patches are more than just a place to find your pumpkins; they often feature a variety of fun activities like hayrides and photo opportunities that capture the spirit of fall. Whether you’re searching for a classic carving pumpkin or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, pumpkin patches like Motley’s Pumpkin Patch provide a delightful way to embrace the season’s charm and create lasting memories. The Ford Co-Pilot360 in the 2025 Explorer keeps you safe at the pumpkin patch with features like Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Pre-Collision Assist, helping you navigate busy areas and avoid obstacles as you search for the perfect pumpkin Take your 2025 Ford Explorer to your favorite seasonal adventures. The Explorer is ready to accompany you on all your fall outings. At Crain Ford of Little Rock, we’re excited to see how you’ll make the most of this beautiful season with your Explorer! CLICK HERE TO LOOK AT THE 2025 FORD EXPLORER INVENTORY IN LITTLE ROCK, AR

A pathway in a garden with pink tulips on both sides with trees in the background. | Things to do near Little Rock, AR | Crain Ford of Little Rock

4 Interesting and Unusual Places to Visit Near Little Rock, AR

Little Rock, AR is a thriving and fascinating town full of history, cultural attractions, and entertainment options for every taste. There are also quite a few unusual places that you can explore in Little Rock. The spacious and comfortable 2023 Ford Escape Active with excellent city MPG is a good bet for getting you to all of Little Rock's hidden gems. 1. The Billy Bass Adoption Center Visit the Billy Bass Adoption Center, at 511 President Clinton Ave., for some excellent Little Rock dining and a chance to check out their massive wall of singing Billy Bass fish. This iconic restaurant takes in Billy Bass "orphans" and decorates the walls with dozens of novelty fish. In addition to the fun decor, this spot has some of the best southern food in the city, including fried catfish, okra, baked salmon, and fried pictures. It's a fun, family-friendly spot that will definitely qualify as one of your unique experiences in Little Rock. 2. H.U. Lee International Gate & Garden H.U. Lee International Gate & Garden, at 101 E. Markham St., is a beautiful little oasis in the heart of Little Rock where visitors can visit the colorful pavilion, walk through the gardens, and learn about Korean culture. One of the top sights to see and photograph is the massive gate entirely crafted out of Douglas fir. There are also plenty of statues, gorgeous flowers, and places to sit and relax among the lovely flowers and foliage. 3. The Old Mill Step back in time at the Old Mill, 3800 Lakeshore Dr, an 1880s water mill from the movie Gone With the Wind. The Old Mill is a re-creation but completely mimics the original mill and is an excellent place for hiking and photographing. You can wander the mill yourself or take a guided tour. There are trails and picnic tables around, so you can pack a small lunch and make a day out of it. Whether you're a movie lover, a history buff, or want to see something totally unique and lovely in Little Rock, this site is for you. 4. Esse Purse Museum & Store Visit the Esse Purse Museum & Store at 1510 Main St. for a crash course on women's history and fashionable purses and handbags. You'll see how purses evolved across the ages, and women's rights along with them, through the types of bags they carried and the contents inside. It's definitely not your usual museum, and the displays are both exciting and educational. Visit us at Crain Ford of Little Rock today, and test drive an excellent vehicle that can get you to all of Little Rock's treasures. Image via Pixabay.

A lake with the sun setting in the background. | Relaxing activities near Little Rock, AR | Crain Ford of Little Rock

4 Relaxing Activities You Can Drive to Near Little Rock, AR

We get it, life can be stressful. So, if you're looking for relaxing activities close to Little Rock, AR, we've got your back. There are plenty of cool stops around where you can take some time to relax and breathe without having to worry about a stressful plane ride or long road trip! Copper Well Retreat If you're looking to relax, you don't need to travel any further than 12418 Cantell Rd. Featuring spa services for the mind, body, skin, spirit, and sole, Copper Well Retreat has everything you could want for a day of relaxation and pampering from head to toe. Plus, their yoga and gatherings mean you can calm your mind while still exercising your body if you so desire. Greers Ferry Lake Do you enjoy relaxing on the water? Do you own your own boat? Then it's worth the drive to visit Greers Ferry Lake, located at 700 Heber Springs Road North. Tow in your favorite fishing boat with your powerful Ford F-150 and get on the water in no time. There are also several great restaurants close to the lake, along with several lakeside resorts and camping spots. Whether you want to come here for the day or spend the weekend, the lake is a great recharge spot. Bathhouse Row Inside Hot Springs National Park, you can find eight bathhouses available for a day of pampering. Most of these bathhouses have been in operation since the early 1900s and feature a lot of history. You can find this one-of-a-kind landmark at 101 Reserve St. If hiking is more your style, there are also plenty of trail spaces surrounding bathhouse row. There is also Whittington Park, where you can stroll through the park or pack a picnic for a scenic lunch. The Old Mill When you arrive at the Old Mill at 3800 Lakeshore Drive, you may find yourself thinking it looks familiar, and if you've ever watched Gone With the Wind, it is. It's featured in the opening scene of the iconic movie. Of course, that's not the main reason you should take a drive there. The mill and the attached T.R. Pugh Memorial Park are great places to unwind for an afternoon. There are plenty of ducks to feed, beautiful sculptures to look over, and strategic footbridges and seating for you to sit and relax a spell while you watch the water. There you have it, plenty of relaxing and calm activities within driving distance of Little Rock. If you're still looking for a comfy vehicle to relax in once you're home again, be sure to cruise into Crain Ford of Little Rock, where we can get you in the comfortable and relaxing ride you've been searching for!