Wrightsville ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wrightsville, Arkansas.
1. National Cemetery
HISTORIC MEMORIAL GROUNDS
The National Cemetery in Wrightsville offers visitors a solemn and respectful space to honor fallen service members. Its well-maintained grounds feature rows of uniform headstones commemorating those who served the country. Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere that pervades this important landmark.
2. Oakland and Fraternal Historic Cemetery
PRESERVED HISTORICAL SITE
Oakland and Fraternal Historic Cemetery preserves an important piece of Wrightsville's local history. The cemetery grounds contain markers and monuments that tell stories of the area's past residents and their contributions. Visitors can take self-guided tours to learn about the community's heritage through this well-preserved site.
3. River Market
CULINARY AND CULTURAL HUB
The River Market in Little Rock offers a vibrant mix of exotic cuisines and fresh produce from nearby farms. This popular gathering spot serves as both a food hall and marketplace where visitors can sample diverse dishes and shop for local goods. The market's energetic atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination in central Arkansas.
4. Quapaw Quarter
HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD RESTORATION
The Quapaw Quarter showcases a collection of restored 19th-century homes that represent one of the country's finest examples of neighborhood revitalization. These historic properties have been thoughtfully preserved through adaptive reuse, maintaining their architectural integrity while serving new purposes. Visitors can stroll through this charming district to appreciate the blend of historic preservation and modern functionality.
5. Little Rock Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL SANCTUARY
The Little Rock Zoo provides a park-like setting where visitors can observe and learn about diverse animal species. The zoo's naturalistic habitats offer engaging experiences for guests of all ages interested in wildlife conservation. Educational programs and interactive exhibits enhance visitors' understanding of animal behavior and environmental stewardship.
6. Thorncrown Chapel
ARCHITECTURAL GLASS MASTERPIECE
Thorncrown Chapel stands as an architectural marvel nestled in the Ozark woods, featuring 425 windows and over 6,000 square feet of glass. The stunning structure, designed by E. Fay Jones, creates a seamless connection between the interior sanctuary and the surrounding forest. Visitors come from around the world to experience the chapel's serene beauty and innovative design that merges spirituality with natural elements.
7. Fordyce Bathhouse
HISTORIC SPA BUILDING
The Fordyce Bathhouse represents the grandest bathhouse on Historic Bathhouse Row, now serving as the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park. Built in 1915, this elegant structure showcases the golden age of bathing with its ornate interiors including stained glass ceilings and marble walls. Visitors can tour the restored facilities to experience the luxury and health treatments that were popular during the early 20th century.
8. Crystal Bridges Museum
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
Crystal Bridges Museum houses an impressive collection of American art spanning five centuries, from Colonial to Contemporary. The museum's distinctive architecture, designed by Moshe Safdie, integrates seamlessly with the surrounding Ozark landscape and features spring-fed ponds. Visitors can enjoy both the exceptional art collection and the museum's 120 acres of forest trails dotted with outdoor sculptures.
9. Arkansas State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Arkansas State Capitol stands as a neoclassical marvel built between 1899 and 1915, featuring Arkansas limestone and marble interiors. The grounds host numerous monuments including the Little Rock Nine Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Medal of Honor Memorial. Visitors can tour the building to see the legislative chambers, historical exhibits, and impressive architectural details.
10. Trail of Tears Park
NATIVE AMERICAN MEMORIAL
Trail of Tears Park offers 4.5 landscaped acres dedicated to memorializing the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the 1830s. The park features a stone sculpture, informational plaques, and native Arkansas trees and grasses that travelers along the trail would have encountered. Visitors gain insight into this profound historical tragedy while experiencing the natural elements that connect present-day Arkansas to its past.
11. Crater of Diamonds State Park
DIAMOND MINING ADVENTURE
Crater of Diamonds State Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. As the only public diamond mine in the world, the park operates on a finders-keepers basis, allowing guests to keep any diamonds they discover. Beyond diamond hunting, visitors can enjoy camping facilities, walking trails, and picnic areas in this distinctive Arkansas attraction.
12. Junction Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Junction Bridge spans the Arkansas River, connecting Little Rock and North Little Rock as a pedestrian and bicycle pathway. This former railroad bridge, built in 1884 and converted in 2008, offers spectacular views of the riverfront and downtown skylines. Visitors enjoy the short scenic walk while experiencing a piece of Arkansas transportation history repurposed for modern recreation.
13. Pettaway Historic District
PRESERVED NEIGHBORHOOD HERITAGE
The Pettaway Historic District showcases diverse architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a revitalized urban neighborhood. Named after Dr. Charles Pettaway, a prominent African American physician, the district represents an important part of Little Rock's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the tree-lined streets to admire the restored homes that blend historical significance with contemporary community life.
14. The Heights Shopping District
UPSCALE RETAIL EXPERIENCE
The Heights Shopping District offers a charming collection of boutique shops, restaurants, and specialty stores along Kavanaugh Boulevard. This walkable neighborhood commercial area features independent retailers selling everything from designer clothing to gourmet foods and home decor. Visitors appreciate the district's tree-lined streets and historic buildings that create a pleasant shopping atmosphere distinct from typical mall experiences.
15. South on Main
SOUTHERN CULINARY EXCELLENCE
South on Main delivers refined Southern cuisine in a space that doubles as a cultural center celebrating Southern culture through food, music, and literature. The restaurant regularly hosts live music performances, literary readings, and special events that complement its menu of elevated regional classics. Visitors enjoy the unique combination of exceptional dining and cultural programming that showcases Arkansas's rich heritage.