The Perfect Afternoon Is Spent At MacArthur Park, One Of The Oldest City Parks In Arkansas

Some of you may know that Petit Jean is the oldest state park in Arkansas, officially established in 1923. However, what might surprise you (well, it certainly surprised me) is that MacArthur Park in Little Rock predates it by a long shot. First established in 1893 and officially named in 1942, MacArthur Park could arguably be the oldest city park in Arkansas. As a former military base, the park is a historical site, home to museums as well as several war memorials, but it has lots of recreational opportunities, too. With a fishing lake, playground, picnic areas, and more, it’s a great little spot to spend an afternoon. Let’s head to the capital to experience all that this city park in Arkansas has to offer.

At 36 acres, MacArthur Park is a small oasis tucked inside the city limits of Little Rock. Best known as a former military base, you'll find the MacArthur Park Historic Museum as well as war memorials scattered throughout the grounds.

History buffs will love exploring the site and reading about the heroes that were lost.

While the park has lots of historical significance, there are also a ton of recreational opportunities here. For one, there is a lovely lake with a canopy, that's the centerpiece of the park.

Here you'll find multi-use trails which are great for exploring the park on a nice day.

If you love to fish, bring your rod to catch catfish or largemouth bass in the lake.

The resident ducks and geese will be in close vicinity (they are plentiful), so be sure to keep your eyes out for them. Feeding the geese is a fun activity for the kids.

Speaking of kids, there is an adorable playground where they can swing, climb, slide, and more.

Don't leave the doggies at home, you'll want to bring them to the dog park inside the park. Just make sure they're wearing their best outfit.

Besides all that, the park has plenty of open space for outdoor games as well as benches where you can have a picnic. It's really a fun little park with lots to do.

So, did you know that MacArthur Park is the oldest city park in Arkansas? Have you ever been to it or visited the museums and war memorials there? Tell us below.

And if you get hungry after your day of fun, here's a nearby restaurant in Little Rock that your entire family will love. It's dog-friendly, too!