The six bridges, yellow streetcars, the zoo, and the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, AR, makes it one of the most exciting cities for kid-friendly activities. Here you can cycle, walk, or drive over the Arkansas River and walk through parks with miles of scenic trails.
4 Great Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Little Rock, AR
1. Go on a Six Bridges Tour
One of the most notable characteristics of the city’s skyline is the six beautiful bridges over the Arkansas River. Take the family for tours of the bridges or visit them one by one for a walking or cycling adventure.
Big Dam Bridge
The Big Dam Bridge at Murray Lock and Dam is the longest pedestrian and cyclist bridge in North America. The impressive 90-foot high bridge spans a massive 4,226 feet over the river and connects 70,000 acres of parklands and 14 miles of trails on both sides of the river. Stay until after dark for a spectacular light display when hundreds of colored lights are turned on and reflect on the water.
Junction Bridge
The 1,800 foot long Junction Bridge was formerly a railway bridge constructed in 1884 but is now used for walking, cycling, and skating. To cross the bridge, you must use an elevator or stairs. It’s believed to be the only bridge pedestrian bridge in the country with a lift span.
The Baring Cross Bridge
This is the most western bridge and the city’s first bridge. When the bridge opened in 1873, it was a wood and iron single-track bridge with a swing navigation span. Today it is a modern steel double-track bridge with a lift navigation span and one of the busiest railroad bridges in the United States.
Two Rivers Bridge
Stroll or cycle across the bridge in the Two Rivers Park on the confluence of Arkansas and Little Maumelle Rivers.
The Clinton Presidential Park Bridge or Rock Island Bridge
The 1,614-footbridge was constructed as a railway bridge in 1899. The bridge is also part of the 88-mile multi-use Arkansas River Trail.
Broadway Bridge
The bridge was constructed as a road bridge in 1923. Today there is plenty of room to cross the bridge in the enclosed 16-foot wide BikePed lane to Dickey-Stephens Ballpark.
2. Meet the Critters at the Zoo
Take the kids for a leisurely stroll through 33 acres of scenic landscaped gardens to see more than 500 animals from alligators, elephants, zebras, and rhinoceros to big cats, penguins, apes, and bears. The kids will love feeding the lorikeets cups of nectar at Lorikeet Landing and the fish at the duck pond and Lemur Island. Also, hop aboard the Arkansas Diamond Express for a train ride and take a spin on the beautiful antique carousel.
3. Explore the Museum of Discovery
The Museum of Discovery is the oldest in Arkansas. You and the kids can explore the world of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through 90 interactive exhibits. The museum also houses the Guinness World Record musical bi-polar Tesla coil.
4. Ride in a Yellow Streetcar
Hop on one of the three historic replica streetcars for a fun day exploring the downtown sights. Visit the Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer International, the River Market, and ride over the Arkansas River to North Little Rock’s historic Argenta district.
Pile the kids in the car and explore the city on an exciting, fun-filled adventure. Visit Crain Ford of Little Rock today, and we will take care of all your vehicle requirements.
