10 Summer activities in Central Arkansas
The days are getting longer, the school year is ending and the warm Arkansas air has returned. These changes signal the start of summer. With this new season comes the best time to savor the Natural State. Invite your friends, get your family together and enjoy these summer activities in Central Arkansas.
1. Watch a baseball game at Dickey Stephens Park
Cheer on the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey Stephens Park! Go on $3 Thursdays and get a discount on all your favorite concessions such as hot dogs, soft drinks and cotton candy. End your busy work week at the ballpark and watch the night sky light up with fireworks on Firework Fridays.
2. Visit the Little Rock Farmers Market
Support local farmers and pick up your seasonal produce at the Little Rock Farmers Market. Located at the River Market, the Farmers Market is open Saturday, May 6 through Labor Day weekend. Browse the vendors and then take a stroll along the Arkansas River.
3. Kayak down the Arkansas River
Take in the Little Rock skyline by kayak! Rent kayaks or go on a sunset paddle tour with Rock Town River Outfitters. Enjoy the Arkansas River and take it slow as you float.
4. Take a hike up Pinnacle Mountain
With several activity opportunities, your family is sure to enjoy a day at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Take a hike, go mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing or trail running. There is an activity for everyone in your family! End your full day with a picnic at the park.
5. Cool down at the splash pad at War Memorial Park
In the middle of the dog days of summer, take your kiddos to the splash pad at War Memorial Park for free, cool, fun. Stop for ice cream on the way and make it a memorable afternoon for your kids.
6. Visit a strawberry farm
Gather your girl gang and visit Holland Bottom Farm in Cabot. With fresh picked strawberries daily, pick up your carton and then visit the bakery for homemade baked goods. Enjoy the sunshine and a homemade strawberry shortcake.
7. Checkout books at the library
For educational fun, take your kids to the library over the summer. Get a library card and foster the love of reading all summer long. Allow your kids to explore the library and pick out books to read throughout the week.
Visit your local library to learn more about opening a library card and summer reading events.
8. Host a cookout
Bring friends and neighbors together for a summer cookout. Grill hamburgers, hot dogs and have outdoor games for guests to enjoy. Other cookout activities could include a pool party, outdoor movie night, homemade ice cream party or wiffle ball tournament.
Invite people you may not know and take this opportunity to get to know them. Use this time to build community!
9. Take a day trip
Enjoy your Saturday exploring the beautiful Natural State! Get out of the metro area and explore the little towns that make Arkansas.
We suggest taking a day trip to:
The Buffalo National River
Greers Ferry Lake
Hot Springs
Murfreesboro
Petit Jean State Park
10. Volunteer at a nonprofit
Summer is the perfect time to volunteer. With school out, kids have the opportunity to serve with organizations. Volunteering allows kids to see what it looks like to serve and use what has been given to them to meet the needs of others. Find out where your family would like to volunteer and research local nonprofits that meet your interests.
If you have a heart for the local church and kids in poverty, volunteer with Every Arkansan at https://www.everyarkansan.org/volunteer.
