MacArthur Park

Rich History

Established in 1892, MacArthur Park is Little Rock's oldest municipal park, spanning 36 acres in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas. The park has a rich history dating back to its days as a military arsenal in the 1830s.

Originally known as City Park, it was renamed in 1942 in honor of General Douglas MacArthur, who was born at the Little Rock Arsenal in 1880. Over the years, the park has undergone several renovations and improvements, evolving into a multifaceted urban green space.

Notable Features

The park is centered around the historic Tower Building, constructed in 1840, which now houses the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. The landscape includes mature trees, grassy areas, and brick promenades that wind through the park.

A 1.7-acre lake, added in the 1980s, serves as a focal point in the southern part of the park, providing a serene setting for visitors. The park is open daily from 6AM to 10PM.

Cultural Significance

MacArthur Park is not only a place for leisure but also a hub of cultural and historical importance. It is home to the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (formerly the Arkansas Arts Center), which underwent extensive renovations in recent years.

The park also houses several monuments and memorials, including a significant memorial dedicated to Arkansas veterans of the Korean War.

Historic District

MacArthur Park serves as the nucleus of the MacArthur Park Historic District, which encompasses about fifty square blocks of Little Rock's oldest neighborhood. This designation has helped preserve the area's historical character and architectural diversity.

The district features structures ranging from antebellum houses to Victorian-era mansions, showcasing the rich architectural heritage of Little Rock.