Old State House (Little Rock, Arkansas)

The Old State House in Little Rock is a 19th-century state government building in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, that served as the state’s capitol before a later capitol complex was built. It is preserved and interpreted as a historic building and museum.

The building’s principal attractions are its restored interior spaces and exhibits on Arkansas political and social history, which present period furnishings and displays about state government. Tours and exhibits explain the building’s role in state politics and civic life.

Constructed in the early 1830s, the structure served as Arkansas’s principal state government building during the 19th century and remained in governmental use into the early 20th century before being replaced by a newer capitol. The building has been preserved and adapted for museum use.

Located in downtown Little Rock, the Old State House sits within the city’s civic core and is accessible from the central business district and nearby River Market area.

• Current use: Operates today as a history museum interpreting Arkansas state government and local history, with period rooms and changing exhibitions.

The Old State House is in downtown Little Rock on West Markham Street near the Arkansas River. It’s a short walk from the River Market district and has nearby public parking. Amtrak serves Little Rock with nearby access; local buses and taxis service the downtown area.

• Walk the brick sidewalks around the building to see the historic markers and plaques that recount Arkansas's political fights
• Check timed tours for access to the legislative chambers and preserved period rooms
• Visit during a legislative recess or on a scheduled museum day to avoid institutional closures