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Kerry Kraus, travel writer

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

We all need ways to escape from day-to-day living once in a while. Here are some suggestions for getting in touch with your "inner child" by revisiting some of the activities you enjoyed so much when you were younger.

Re-experience the fun of childhood by taking a "play day." Start in downtown Little Rock's River Market District by visiting the newly renovated Arkansas Museum of Discovery. It won't take long for you to remember that learning doesn't have to be dull and dry. The totally redesigned facility features three new galleries containing 85 very entertaining and interactive exhibits for all ages. Bright colors, lights, sounds and textures surround you at the museum. See if you have what it takes to compete with today's kids.

Afterwards, head down the block to Riverfront Park where a good time can be had by all. You'll find a playground, time capsule markers depicting Little Rock history, and a portion of the Arkansas River Trail. Don't miss La Petite Roche Plaza, home of the original "little rock." Native plants and explanatory displays tell the story of how the city got its unusual name. This is also where you can access the Junction Bridge, the old Choctaw and Memphis Railroad Bridge that has been refitted to be a pedestrian walkway.

You can cross the Arkansas River to North Little Rock where you can chow down at one of the many restaurants located in the Argenta Historic District. While here, check out the USS Razorback submarine. The vessel was in Tokyo Bay at the signing of the peace treaty ending World War II. You can tour this piece of American history and even book an overnight visit for a group. Also moored here is the Arkansas Queen riverboat. Various sightseeing cruises on the Arkansas River, including ones for special events and dining, are offered. 

Head south back across the river to Little Rock via the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, another renovated train span for walkers and bicyclists. Make sure you take in the Clinton Presidential Library, the Presidential Park Wetlands preserve, Heifer International Heifer Village, and the Central Arkansas Nature Center. The LEED-certified library chronicles the life and career of President Bill Clinton. Authentic replicas of the White House Oval Office and Cabinet Room and the largest collection of presidential papers and artifacts in the country's history are enhanced by numerous acclaimed traveling exhibits. Adjacent to the museum are 13 acres of reclaimed wetlands, now a beautiful park with an elevated boardwalk, bridges and interactive displays.

The Heifer International Headquarters is next door to the library on the south side. Housed in another LEED-certified building, this international good will organization works to end hunger and poverty. Exhibits which invite getting involved teach the importance of protecting our environment and helping our fellow man.

A few blocks west, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission-run nature center provides watchable wildlife opportunities in an urban setting, plus explanations of the importance of game and fish to The Natural State, and hands-on exhibits.

A great way to end your active day is by putting on your swimsuit and playing in the splash fountain at the Peabody Park, in season of course. Designed by kids, they won't mind sharing it with you.

Head west, stopping at the Little Rock Zoo in Midtown. Remember how much fun a trip to the zoo was? You can have that experience again by visiting with over 700 residents, getting up close and personal with a few at the petting zoo and by riding the miniature train. Recent new additions to the zoo -- the Penguin Pointe exhibit and the Lorikeet Landing, where you can feed the colorful residents -- are popular draws. Whatever you do, don't miss the Over the Jumps Carousel at the zoo entrance. This fully restored, iconic children's ride is the only one of its kind left in the world. Grab a trusty steed or chariot and relive the simple joy of yesteryear.

If it's time to eat, have a meal in a cat house - Café Africa, a real cat house. The restored Works Projects Administration-era building, which houses the restaurant, formerly served as a home for the zoo's big cats.

There's more than enough here to keep you going for several days. Come be a kid again...in The Natural State.

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Submitted by the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
One Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201, 501-682-7606
E-mail: info@arkansas.com

May be used without permission. Credit line is appreciated: