1. Waddle over to The Peabody Little Rock. Parading ducks, spectacular downtown views and a great glass elevator. Need we say more? The ducks parade into the lobby at 11 a.m., where they swim in the lobby fountain until parading out at 5 p.m. Kids will love riding the glass elevators to the roof, where they can visit the ducks’ abode and take in a great view of downtown Little Rock and the Arkansas River.
Part of Town: Downtown
Contact: (501) 906-4000

2. Travel back in time at the Historic Arkansas Museum. Visitors can take a free trip back in time at this downtown museum. Six galleries hold the museum’s collection of Arkansas-made art, but children will probably enjoy interactive fun in the Sturgis Children’s Gallery the most. There, kids can dress in frontier clothing and take their portrait in the daguerreotype photographic studio or put on a puppet show and watch it on a video screen.
Part of Town: Downtown
Contact: (501) 324-9351

3. Tour the Arkansas State Capitol. If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat, it’s always cool in the Capitol. Children will love the ornate staircases and the high ceilings of the rotunda. Older children can learn a great deal from the exhibits. The historic building is open to the public from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Free scheduled tours are offered from 9 a.m.-4 pm. on weekdays.
Part of Town: Downtown
Contact: (501) 682-5080


4. Spy wildlife and splendid scenery at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Hike the West Summit Trail for a breathtaking view of the Arkansas River, or retreat from the heat into the visitor center for an interactive education on Arkansas’ natural wonders. A playground and the flat Kingfisher Trail will tempt those with young children who can’t make the steeper hike. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, park interpreters offer guided hikes and wildlife presentations for families – live critters often make special appearances!
Part of Town: West Little Rock
Contact: (501) 868-5806

5. Experience history at the Old State House Museum. The oldest surviving state capitol west of the Mississippi River has plenty of activities for kids. The Wilderness Gallery features interpretive panels, a video program and interactive kiosks. Grandmother’s Cottage is a hands-on area where kids can play with fun items from almost a century ago. The museum is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
Part of Town: Downtown
Contact: (501) 324-9685