Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is located in Little Rock, Arkansas. It commemorates the significant role this high school played in the civil rights movement of the United States. The school is situated at 2120 West Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive, and it covers an area of approximately 9.09 acres.

The historical background of Little Rock Central High School dates back to the 1950s when the issue of desegregation arose after the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision in 1954, which declared segregated schools unconstitutional. In 1957, Little Rock Central High School became the center of attention when nine African American students, known as the "Little Rock Nine," attempted to integrate into the all-white school. This event marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for racial equality, as the students faced immense resistance, hostility, and even violence from protesters and some white students.

Visitors to the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site can take guided tours of the school and learn about the history and importance of the events that took place there. The Visitor Center provides exhibits, films, and interactive displays that offer an in-depth exploration of the events surrounding the desegregation of the school. The exhibits showcase photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Little Rock Nine and the significance of their bravery.

Beyond the historic site, visitors to Little Rock can explore other nearby attractions. The William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, located just a short drive away, offers a wealth of information on the presidency of Bill Clinton and the history of the United States during his tenure. The Arkansas State Capitol, with its beautiful architecture and stunning views, is also worth a visit. Additionally, the River Market District provides a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it a great place to explore and enjoy local cuisine.

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site serves as a powerful reminder of the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Its historical significance, coupled with the nearby attractions, makes it an essential destination for those interested in learning about this important chapter in American history.

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is situated in the heart of the state of Arkansas. Located in the city of Little Rock, the site is situated within Pulaski County. Nestled in the south-central region of the state, it is surrounded by rolling landscapes, deep valleys, and serene riverbanks. The geographic coordinates of the site place it at approximately 34.7387° N latitude and 92.2875° W longitude. This prime location offers visitors both a picturesque setting and convenient accessibility, as it is centrally located in the state and easily reached by major highways and transportation routes.

Address & Contact

Little Rock Central High School NHS
2120 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202-5212
Driving Directions
Phone: (501) 516-7230
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is in the months of April and May. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 73°F to 80°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is moderate at 6.6 in for April and 6.2 in for May. These months offer a good balance between comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the historic site.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Arts and Culture

Topics

Learn about these topics at Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Architecture and Building Military

Visitor Centers

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center

The visitor center features a detailed exhibit with interviews, news footage, and audio/video recordings of those directly involved as well as accessible restrooms and a Jefferson National Parks Association (JNPA) bookstore.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Marriott

A stay at Little Rock Marriott places you in the heart of Little Rock, steps from River Market District and Old State House Museum. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Little Rock? This hotel has facilities measuring 40000 square feet (3716 square meters), including conference space. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 3 Statehouse Plaza, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Web: Link

DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock

With a stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock, you'll be centrally located in Little Rock, steps from Old State House Museum and within a 10-minute walk of Riverfront Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Little Rock? This hotel has facilities measuring 13000 square feet (1208 square meters), including conference space. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available on request), and a train station pick-up service is also provided at no charge.
Address: 424 W Markham St, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Web: Link

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Downtown Conference Center

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Downtown Conference Center is centrally located in Little Rock, a 4-minute walk from Mosaic Templars Cultural Center and 5 minutes by foot from Arkansas Repertory Theater. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour front desk, and an elevator. Planning an event in Little Rock? This hotel has facilities measuring 5750 square feet (534 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 617 S Broadway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Web: Link

The Empress of Little Rock

A stay at The Empress of Little Rock places you in the heart of Little Rock, within a 10-minute walk of South Main and Arkansas Governor's Mansion. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2120 Louisiana St, Little Rock, Arkansas 72206
Web: Link

Garden Inn and Suites Little Rock

With a stay at Garden Inn and Suites Little Rock in Little Rock (Little Rock Medical District), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and Hillary Rodham Clinton Children's Library and Learning Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3801 W. 8th St., Little Rock, Arkansas 72204
Web: Link

HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum

With a stay at HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum in Little Rock (Downtown Little Rock), you'll be steps from MacArthur Park and 3 minutes by foot from Arkansas Arts Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1201 Commerce Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202
Web: Link

Rosemont B&B Cottages

Located in Little Rock (Downtown Little Rock), Rosemont B&B Cottages is within a 5-minute drive of ESSE Purse Museum and Arkansas Repertory Theater. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 515 W 15th Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202
Web: Link

Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown

A stay at Hilton Garden Inn Little Rock Downtown places you in the heart of Little Rock, within a 5-minute walk of Historic Arkansas Museum and Ron Robinson Theater. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in.
Address: 322 Rock Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202
Web: Link

AC Hotel by Marriott Little Rock Downtown

A stay at AC Hotel by Marriott Little Rock Downtown places you in the heart of Little Rock, within a 5-minute walk of Arkansas Repertory Theater and St. Andrew's Cathedral. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and laundry facilities.
Address: 201 West Capitol Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Web: Link

Capital Hotel

With a stay at Capital Hotel in Little Rock (Downtown Little Rock), you'll be steps from River Market District and Old State House Museum. Featured amenities include a computer station, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services.
Address: 111 W Markham St, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
Web: Link