Historic Arkansas Museum

Historic Arkansas Museum: A Journey Through Time

A Unique Blend of Artifacts and Historic Buildings

Unlike other museums that just have artifacts on display, the Historic Arkansas Museum offers visitors both exhibits with local artifacts and historic buildings. The facility features several restored antebellum homes, including the Hinderliter Grog Shop, which is the city's oldest structure dating back to the 1820s. Additional buildings on the museum grounds include a cabin where enslaved individuals once lived, a blacksmith shop, and a carriage house. Throughout the grounds, you can experience the museum's Living History program, where actors and actresses portray people from Arkansas' frontier times and demonstrate various tasks from that era.

Exploring the Museum Center

Inside the museum center, visitors will find numerous permanent and temporary exhibits. Permanent displays include "We Walk in Two Worlds," which explores the lives of the native Caddo, Osage, and Quapaw Indian tribes, and the "Knife Gallery," which showcases the history of the bowie knife, invented in Arkansas. Temporary exhibits vary and can feature art, photographs, and metallic items.

A Journey Back in Time

Museumgoers particularly enjoy the historic grounds, often remarking that they feel as if they are "walking back in time." Visitors also praise the museum for its thoughtful layout and engaging presentations.

Current Operations and Visiting Information

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Historic Arkansas Museum currently operates on a limited schedule and offers reduced services. It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For the time being, both the grounds and the museum are free to the public. However, there are no guided tours available. Free parking is available on-site, along with a gift shop. The museum is located just south of the River Market district. For updated hours and availability, visit the museum’s website.