As we travel across the country, there is one question Lorraine and I ask ourselves at each stop, "is this a place we could live (happily)?"
As for Little Rock, we both gave it an enthusiastic thumbs up! Not too large, nor too small (population 196,943). Quietly nestled along the Arkansas River. Clean. Lots of cultural and historical places of interest, and the people are very friendly.
It also has a vibrant riverfront area with lots of walking paths, casual restaurants and boutiques.
Little Rock is also home to the William J. Clinton Presidential Center (Library and Museum). This is the first presidential library I've had the opportunity to visit.
And not far outside of the city are some lovely hiking trails in the Pinnacle Mountain State Park:
And there are many other places of interest downtown, like the State Capitol building:
Where you will find a statue dedicated to the Women of the Confederacy:
It's inscription reads: "To The Confederate Women Of Arkansas 1861–1865 “Whose Pious Ministrations To Our Wounded Soldiers Soothed The Last Hours Of Those Who Died For The Object Of Their Tenderest Love; Whose Domestic Labors Contributed Much To Supply The Wants Of Our Defenders In The Field; Whose Jealous Faith In Our Cause Shone A Guiding Star, Undimmed By The Darkest Clouds Of War; Whose Fortitude Sustained Them Under All The Privations To Which They Were Subjected; And Whose Patriotism Will Teach Their Sons To Emulate The Deeds Of Their Sires.” This Monument Is Erected By The State Of Arkansas And The Confederate Veterans."
And a statue dedicated to the sacrifices of the Little Rock Nine (It is the first civil rights monument located on any state capitol grounds in the south).
And there is also the Arkansas Art Center:
I have only scratched the surface of what we loved about this place. It is a very livable and active city with a large number of hip and trendy shops and restaurants. Aside from the Tornado scare, we had a wonderful time here. It truly is a jewel of a city with a deep-rooted history. It has something for everyone.