The Oyster Bar is a Little Rock staple that's been serving up delicious shrimp and gumbo for over 40 years.

With a mix of turn-of-the-century Craftsman bungalows and Tudor style homes, a vibrant dining and nightlife scene and a pedestrian- and bike-friendly atmosphere, Hillcrest Historic District is an inviting place to live and live it up.

Located west of downtown along Markham Street and the south leg of Kavanaugh Boulevard, Hillcrest is minutes from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, the state’s only academic health sciences center. The neighborhood also encompasses Allsopp Park, which features scenic biking and hiking trails, a playground and tennis courts.

Hillcrest is distinctive for its patios, some of the best in the city, for dining, drinking and people watching during perfect fall and spring nights in Little Rock. U.S. Pizza is a long-standing favorite, but the versatile lineup of delicious destinations includes The Oyster Bar and Ciao Baci. From crispy fried seafood to new American to South American style, there is something for any set of taste buds.

Midtown, southwest of Hillcrest, is a bustling mix of nationally known establishments and local flavor. The neighborhood is home to the Little Rock Zoo and War Memorial Stadium, if you’re interested in seeing the penguins with the kids or watching some football.

Anchored by Dillard’s, Park Plaza Mall is just the beginning of an eclectic shopping experience. Williams-Sonoma, The Container Store and Pottery Barn co-exist with Target while Cheddar’s, Panera Bread and Paninis & Company are just some of the dining options.

In addition to Allsopp Park, the Hillcrest-Midtown area is home to War Memorial Park — featuring a splash pad for kids — and Knoop Park, which was originally an overlook drive and still offers exceptional views of downtown Little Rock.

Other can’t-miss experiences in this area include a day-date with the kids at the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children's Library & Learning Center and a date night with your partner or friends at local treasure, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse.

Sarah Bingham
Some malls have been decimated by increasing retail sales online, but Park Plaza in Little Rock boasts more than a 90 percent occupancy rate, with an H&M store scheduled to move in by the end of the year.
The Midtown area is a shopping hot spot with a variety of big-box stores and the Park Plaza Mall.

WERECOMMEND

EAT

  • Murry's Dinner Playhouse
  • The Oyster Bar
  • Paninis & Company

DRINK

  • Murry's Dinner Playhouse
  • The Oyster Bar

EXPERIENCE

  • Hillary Rodham Clinton Children's Library & Learning Center
  • Murry's Dinner Playhouse