North Little Rock

Here, the Arkansas River shapes the view and the arts shape the vibe. Along the riverfront, the action swings from out-of-the-park hits at minor league baseball games in Dickey-Stephens Park to chart-topping concerts at Simmons Bank Arena, where legends like Paul McCartney, Carrie Underwood and Justin Timberlake have taken the stage.

The Argenta Arts District ties it all together. Art spills out from gallery walls to small stages, where comedians, musicians and theater troupes keep the entertainment flowing. Outdoor murals splash color across historic buildings, while local breweries, the state’s first dedicated wine bar and neighborhood restaurants add flavor and fun. Argenta Plaza serves as an outdoor gathering spot for live music and community events. The new Pavilion adds a bold sculptural tribute to Arkansas musicians with 21 large-scale bronze sculptures — including an 8-foot bronze of Johnny Cash that’s identical to the one installed in the National Statuary Hall of the U.S. Congress.

For retail therapy, McCain Mall packs more than 80 stores under one roof, while neighborhoods like Argenta and Park Hill keep things local with boutiques and specialty shops.

Getting outdoors is second nature in North Little Rock. Kayakers love the launch points along the river. Cyclists, runners and walkers can’t get enough of the Arkansas River Trail, winding more than 15 miles and linked to the iconic Big Dam Bridge, known as a sunset-worthy stop. Locals flock to 1,700-acre Burns Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the nation, offering trails, golf and disc golf courses, sports fields, a fishing pier, a dog park, and Funland. Perched on bluffs above the Arkansas River, Emerald Park’s paved Highland Trail is walk-, stroller- and bike-friendly, with dirt paths branching off for those who want added adventure. And for climbers? Crystal Bluff Climbing Crag offers 150 bolted routes, ranging up to 80 feet. This urban rarity is tucked just off the Arkansas River Trail at Big Rock Quarry, near the BMX pump track.

History and culture add more layers. Don’t miss touring two WWII naval vessels at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, visiting The Old Mill featured in the opening scenes of the classic movie “Gone With the Wind” or discovering public art on the North Little Rock Scavenger Hunt.

Once an industrial hub, the city has transformed itself into a vibrant and modern destination eager to share its views, flavors and stories — including how the city got its nickname, “Dogtown.”