Things to Do Near Little Rock AFB | Activities & Lifestyle Guide for Military Families

Quick Answer: Things to Do Near Little Rock AFB / Central Arkansas

Central Arkansas offers much more than people expect. Highlights include: Pinnacle Mountain State Park (hiking), Arkansas River Trail (88 miles), Lake Conway and Lake Maumelle (fishing, boating), the River Market District in Little Rock, Arkansas Travelers minor league baseball, Simmons Bank Arena concerts, a thriving restaurant scene in Little Rock’s SoMa neighborhood, and easy weekend trips to Hot Springs, the Ozarks, or Buffalo National River. For help finding a home in the right community, call Ashley Watters: (501) 951-9200.

When military families get PCS orders to Little Rock Air Force Base, one of the most common reactions is: “Where even is Arkansas?” followed quickly by: “What is there to do there?”

The answer might surprise you. Central Arkansas has a genuinely vibrant lifestyle — outdoor recreation, a growing food and arts scene, excellent sports, and some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country just a short drive away. This guide covers everything you’ll want to explore after you get settled near LRAFB.

On-Base Activities at LRAFB

Before you even leave the base, Little Rock AFB’s Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) program offers a solid lineup:

  • Grider Field Golf Course — 18-hole course on base; extremely affordable for military members
  • Fitness centers — Multiple gyms, group fitness classes, and recreational sports
  • Youth Sports programs — Youth baseball, soccer, basketball, and more organized through LRAFB MWR
  • Outdoor Recreation — Camping gear, kayak, and equipment rentals
  • Auto Hobby Shop — Lifts, tools, and bay rentals for DIY auto maintenance
  • Bowling, movie theater, and food venues — All at military-friendly prices

Outdoor Recreation Near LRAFB

Arkansas is routinely ranked among the top 10 states in the country for outdoor recreation. Within easy distance of the base:

Pinnacle Mountain State Park (20 minutes from LRAFB)

A striking volcanic plug rising 1,011 feet above the Arkansas River floodplain. Excellent hiking with panoramic views — not a technically demanding climb but genuinely rewarding. Great for families. Has picnic areas, visitor center, and flat river trail options for kids and beginners. Free admission.

Arkansas River Trail (starts in Little Rock, 25 minutes)

An 88-mile multi-use paved trail system connecting communities along the Arkansas River. Great for cycling, running, and walking. The Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge in the U.S. specifically built for that purpose. Beautiful river views and easily accessible from multiple trailheads.

Lake Conway (10 minutes from LRAFB)

One of Arkansas’s most popular bass fishing lakes, right next to the base. Great for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Local boat launches are free or very low cost. The fishing is genuinely excellent — Arkansas consistently ranks as one of the top bass fishing states in America.

Lake Maumelle (30 minutes)

A beautiful lake west of Little Rock with 8,000+ acres of water. Fishing, boating, kayaking. Ringed by Maumelle Park, which has camping, hiking trails, and beautiful Ouachita Mountain views.

Petit Jean State Park (1 hour)

Arkansas’s first state park and one of its most beautiful. Features Cedar Falls — a 95-foot waterfall — canyon overlooks, hiking trails, rustic cabins, and excellent camping. A must-visit for any outdoor-loving family stationed at LRAFB.

Hot Springs National Park (1 hour south)

The only national park in Arkansas. A historic resort town built around natural thermal springs. Bathhouse Row, the historic district, is a unique architectural gem. Also offers hiking, Lake Catherine State Park nearby, Garvan Woodland Gardens, and excellent dining. A great day trip or weekend destination.

Buffalo National River (2 hours north)

America’s first national river is one of the Ozarks’ crown jewels. Float the Buffalo in a canoe or kayak, camp under towering limestone bluffs, and hike trails past waterfalls. Widely considered one of the most beautiful river experiences in the Eastern U.S.

Little Rock: Your Nearest City (25 minutes from LRAFB)

River Market District

Little Rock’s entertainment hub along the Arkansas River. Outdoor concerts, farmers markets, restaurants, bars, and the Junction Bridge pedestrian crossing to North Little Rock. The Riverfront Park hosts major events throughout the year.

South on Main (SoMa) Neighborhood

Little Rock’s most vibrant dining and arts neighborhood. Restaurants, bars, live music venues, and galleries. Home to the South on Main restaurant (nationally acclaimed), Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack, Lost Forty Brewing, and many more. A great date night destination.

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Reopened in 2023 after a $142 million transformation, the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA) is a world-class institution. Stunning new building in MacArthur Park with permanent collections, rotating exhibits, a theater, and café. Free admission to the permanent collection.

Arkansas Travelers Baseball (Dickey-Stephens Park)

Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock is right on the Arkansas River — one of the most scenic minor league stadiums in the country. Affordable family entertainment; tickets run $7–$20. Military discounts available.

Simmons Bank Arena

Major entertainment venue hosting national touring concerts, sporting events, college basketball, and arena events throughout the year. 18,000-seat capacity. Some of the best mid-major entertainment between Dallas and Nashville.

Little Rock Zoo

A quality mid-size zoo in MacArthur Park, great for families with kids. Military discounts available.

Day Trips and Weekend Getaways

  • Eureka Springs, AR (~2.5 hours) — Quirky Victorian mountain town in the Ozarks; arts, festivals, and unique architecture
  • Fayetteville/Bentonville, AR (~2.5 hours) — Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (free admission!), Walmart Museum, world-class mountain biking on the Ozark Highlands Trail
  • Memphis, TN (~2.5 hours) — Beale Street, Elvis’s Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and legendary BBQ
  • Tunica, MS (~2 hours) — Casinos and golf resorts along the Mississippi River
  • New Orleans, LA (~5 hours) — French Quarter, world-class food, music, and culture
  • Dallas/Fort Worth, TX (~5 hours) — Major metro with pro sports, theme parks, and shopping

Sports Teams and Events Near LRAFB

  • Arkansas Travelers (Double-A Baseball) — Little Rock
  • Arkansas Razorbacks (University of Arkansas) — College football, basketball, baseball — major regional pride; 2.5 hours away in Fayetteville
  • Little Rock Trojans (UALR) — Sun Belt Conference basketball and other sports
  • Arkansas Derby (horse racing) — Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs; a beloved Arkansas tradition

Family-Friendly Highlights

  • Museum of Discovery (Little Rock) — Hands-on science museum; great for kids
  • Arkansas Skatium (North Little Rock) — Ice skating; popular with military families
  • Wild River Country Water Park (North Little Rock) — Summer staple for families
  • Toad Suck Daze (Conway, May) — One of Arkansas’s largest annual festivals; free admission
  • Riverfest and Rocktown River Outdoor Festival — Annual Little Rock outdoor events

Find a Home That Fits Your Central Arkansas Lifestyle

Ashley Watters is a military spouse who has lived in Central Arkansas and knows exactly which neighborhoods put you closest to the outdoor activities, schools, and amenities your family will love most.

Call or text: (501) 951-9200

View PCS Housing Guide →

More Resources for Military Families at LRAFB

Related: Pros and Cons of Living in Little Rock, Arkansas — Honest breakdown of what to love and what to prepare for before your move to Central Arkansas.
New Resource: Moving to Central Arkansas with Kids — Best school districts, family neighborhoods, kids activities, and healthcare options for families relocating to Central Arkansas.
Key Resource: Homes for Sale Near Little Rock AFB — Best communities, 2026 BAH rates, and VA loan guidance for military families PCSing to LRAFB.

New Resource: Little Rock Air Force Base Guide — 19th AW, Housing, BAH & Facilities — Complete overview of LRAFB: mission, on-base housing, 2026 BAH rates, commissary, BX, fitness centers, and the best off-base communities.
New Resource: Neighborhoods Near Little Rock AFB — Complete Community Comparison 2026 — Compare Jacksonville, Cabot, Sherwood, Maumelle, Conway, and more: home prices, school ratings, commute times, and who each community is best for.
Related: Central Arkansas Weather & Climate Guide — Honest breakdown of all four seasons, summer heat, winter ice storms, tornado risk, and how Arkansas weather compares to CA, TX, FL, and VA.