The Little-Known, One-Of-A-Kind Hostel You’ll Only Find In Arkansas

Arkansas has plenty of interesting places to stay from train cabooses to Harry Potter cottages. Unfortunately, themed B&B's can run up quite the bill but no need to fret! We've found the best place that combines uniqueness with frugality. HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get out of the stale motel room and into an experience.

This beautiful building used to be Fire Station #2 in Little Rock.

It was built in 1917 right around MacArthur Park. It was used as a fire station until 1957 until the newer model firetrucks became too big to fit in the building. After that it was just used as a storage facility and offices until it was renovated by Hostelling Arkansas, Inc in 2006.

Here it is now after renovations. The HI Little Rock Firehouse Hostel & Museum is open for business.

Part of the building is used as a museum. The collection includes firefighting artifacts and equipment from the early 20th century. They also have a 9/11 exhibit.

The hostel has fully embraced its firehouse history and has included repurposed and upcycled items for furniture and decorations. You can spot an 11 ft. ladder with hose, a fire pole table, and other various firefighting equipment.

Staying in a hostel is a fantastic way to learn about other cultures from fellow travelers and to build a sense of community. Over half of the hostel's guests are international.

The biggest theme of any hostel is to promote shared experiences through shared space. The hostel has a community kitchen, common room, and dormitories.

There are 3 rooming options: the Captain's Room for 4 with an ensuite bathroom, the Family Room with wheelchair accessibility, and the men and women's dorms.

Staying is about $30/night and there's no extra fee for the unique experience or making friends.

You can learn more and make reservations here.

Have you stayed in a hostel before? Did you like the experience? Let us know in the comments below!

To truly appreciate Arkansas' culture, scroll through these hilarious memes.