Surprises in Little Rock, Arkansas - 24-Hour Travel Guide
Breakfast - The Ozark Mountain Country Smokehouse has been voted the best breakfast in Little Rock for more than 20 years. This hearty repast features hand cured and smoked meats. Enjoy old-fashioned biscuits with country gravy and other delectable items. A tradition for more than 50 years at a bargain price.
Morning - Take a hike or a bike across the second longest pedestrian bridge in the U.S. The Big Dam Bridge spans the Arkansas River near the Interstate 40 and 430 interchange. The view of Pinnacle Mountain from the highest point of the bridge is fantastic. And the Big Dam Bridge connects five miles of scenic riverside trails for further exploration.
Lunch - Many visitors want to enjoy old-fashioned Southern barbecue while visiting the state capitol. One of the finest establishments in Central Arkansas is the award winning Whole Hog Cafe. Begun after winning numerous barbecue cook-offs the owners have perfected the art of smoking beef and pork. But the special attraction is the variety of sauces ranging from mild to sizzling hot. You can anticipate needing a large amount of paper towels-what we use in the South for eating barbecue.
Afternoon -
After noshing at Whole Hog visit one of the most famous places in Little Rock. The William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Library features full scale replicas of a White House Cabinet Room and a reconstruction of the Oval Office. Permanent exhibits incorporate interactive stations with a 100-foot-long timeline presenting the day-to-day work of the President. You can also get in on free performances and other special events throughout the year. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the center along with its 30 acre park and other amenities. The Clinton Presidential Center is open Monday-Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 1-5. Admission fees vary from 3 to 7 dollars. Children under 6 are free.
Dinner -
Hop a trolley in downtown Little Rock and ride across the Main Street bridge to the 5-star award-winning Ristorante Capeo in North Little Rock. Chef Eric Isaacs was classically trained in Italy and offers authentic cuisine at this cozy brick-walled restaurant. Familiar pasta dishes will comfort most diners but let the chef entertain you with more exotic stuff like crispy veal sweetbreads. They make their own mozzarella fresh daily. Reservations are required but this is a casual attire atmosphere.
Buon Appetito.
After Dark -
Take another short trolley ride across the Arkansas River into the famed River Market where you can enjoy piano bars or more high-energy spots. Sticky Fingerz showcases rock, alternative bluegrass reggae country rock and retro-country bands at 9 p.m. throughout the week.
Sleep - End your busy day at the luxury Capital Hotel built in1872. Notables such as President Ulysses S. Grant stayed at this posh spot which recently got all new upgrades and is often given a 5-star designation. Elegant and quiet services inside the hotel including the highly acclaimed Ashley Restaurant make this a top choice.
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