Planning an accessible getaway can be exciting, and Little Rock, Arkansas, might just surprise you with its welcoming atmosphere and array of activities. Before my recent trip, like many, my Arkansas knowledge was limited to Hot Springs National Park. However, I soon discovered that Arkansas, and especially Little Rock, offers a wealth of accessible experiences for wheelchair users.
Over four incredible days, I explored the best wheelchair accessible attractions in Little Rock, Hot Springs, and Bentonville. From delving into presidential history at the Clinton Library to savoring Southern cuisine and navigating accessible cityscapes, my time in Arkansas was packed with memorable moments.
If you’re a wheelchair user considering a trip to Arkansas, particularly Little Rock, this guide is designed to be your starting point. I’ll share my experiences, highlighting accessible venues, dining spots, and must-see attractions in Little Rock, ensuring you have the insights you need to plan your own adventure in “The Natural State.” Prepare to be inspired – Arkansas has so much more to offer than you might expect!
This guide will focus on Little Rock, the vibrant capital city, showcasing the highlights of my accessible exploration there.
Wheelchair user smiling in front of the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, Arkansas
Wheelchair Accessible Little Rock, Arkansas: A Detailed Guide
My Arkansas journey began in Little Rock, the state’s capital. Right from arrival, the Little Rock airport impressed me with its efficiency and ease of navigation. Disembarking was swift, and the airport’s manageable size, a refreshing change from larger hubs like Atlanta, made the entire process smooth and stress-free for a wheelchair user.
After collecting my luggage, my mom and I were ready to pick up our wheelchair accessible rental van. Renting from MobilityWorks in Bryant, Arkansas, proved to be an excellent choice for our entire trip. The van, equipped with a ramp and secure tie-down straps for my wheelchair, provided reliable transportation at around $150 per day. The added convenience of airport drop-off and pick-up service from MobilityWorks further streamlined our arrival and departure.
Exterior of MobilityWorks accessible van rental in Little Rock, Arkansas
Feeling hungry after our flight, our first stop was Fassler Hall in downtown Little Rock for lunch. As a lover of German cuisine, Fassler Hall, a beer and sausage hall, immediately appealed to me. The promise of hearty German fare was the perfect welcome to Little Rock.
Wheelchair user at a picnic table outside Fassler Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
Fassler Hall is indeed wheelchair accessible, complete with an accessible restroom. However, I encountered a minor accessibility hiccup with their seating. All tables were picnic-style, and unfortunately, not wheelchair-friendly, preventing me from pulling up comfortably. Upon bringing this to the attention of the management, they were incredibly accommodating and offered to rearrange a table to create accessible space for me. While I appreciated their helpfulness, dedicated accessible tables would certainly enhance the experience for all wheelchair users in the future.
Close up of a wheelchair user's hand holding a Bavarian pretzel at Fassler Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
Wheelchair user enjoying a sausage sampler at Fassler Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
Despite the table situation, the food at Fassler Hall was fantastic. We started with the Bavarian pretzels served with a smoked gouda cheese dip – absolutely delicious! For my main course, I chose the sausage sampler, a delightful assortment of three sausages. My selections included a jalapeño cheddar bratwurst, a classic cheddarwurst, and the “hunter” bratwurst, a unique blend of smoked venison, bison, and pork sausage, all accompanied by a side of sauerkraut. It was a truly satisfying and flavorful introduction to Little Rock’s culinary scene.
Bavarian pretzels with cheese dip at Fassler Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
Sausage sampler meal at Fassler Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas
Next on our Little Rock itinerary was the William J. Clinton Library & Museum, conveniently located nearby. Presidential museums are always a draw for me, and I was particularly eager to explore this one, dedicated to the 42nd President of the United States.
Exterior of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas
The museum offered a compelling journey through Bill Clinton’s life, from his Arkansas roots to his governorship and presidency. Regardless of one’s political views, witnessing his path was undeniably inspiring. The exhibits provided a comprehensive and engaging look into his career and impact.
Replica Oval Office exhibit inside the Clinton Presidential Library in Little Rock
Accessibility throughout the Clinton Library & Museum was seamless. Elevators provided access to all levels, and companion care restrooms were readily available. The exhibit spaces, including detailed replicas of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, as well as a temporary dinosaur exhibit, were spacious and easy to navigate in a wheelchair.
For anyone visiting Little Rock, the William J. Clinton Library & Museum is an absolute must-see, offering a rich and accessible cultural experience. Before leaving the area, be sure to take a stroll or roll across the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, located right by the museum. The bridge provides stunning views of the river and the Little Rock skyline, a perfect complement to your museum visit.
View from the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge in Little Rock, Arkansas
Checking into our hotel was next on the agenda. During our time in Little Rock, we stayed at the Delta Hotels by Marriott. The hotel’s location, just a short drive from downtown, was ideal, and the staff were exceptionally welcoming and helpful.
In my wheelchair accessible room, I found a king-sized bed, a desk, and a TV. Initially, a piece of furniture obstructed access to the side of the bed, but a quick request to the staff resolved this, creating ample space for wheelchair maneuverability. The bed height was suitable for self-transferring, though it’s worth noting that the bed frame might not accommodate a hoyer lift due to its block construction.
Wheelchair accessible hotel room at Delta Hotels in Little Rock, Arkansas
The bathroom featured a roll-in shower with a smooth entry, a pull-under sink, and a grab bar beside the toilet. However, the shower lacked a built-in bench or seat (the one visible in photos is my personal shower chair). Additionally, the handheld shower wand was positioned quite high, making it a bit challenging to reach and use independently.
Roll-in shower in an accessible hotel bathroom at Delta Hotels, Little Rock
Accessible bathroom sink and toilet at Delta Hotels in Little Rock, Arkansas
While Delta Hotels offered room for accessibility improvements, it met my basic needs for a comfortable stay.
For dinner, we ventured back to downtown Little Rock to dine at Capital Bar & Grill, situated within the prestigious Capital Hotel, one of Little Rock’s finest accommodations. While I didn’t have the opportunity to assess the hotel’s room accessibility on this visit, it’s definitely on my list for future Little Rock trips.
Interior of Capital Bar & Grill restaurant in Little Rock, Arkansas
Capital Bar & Grill exceeded expectations. We began with the pimento cheese appetizer, which was simply outstanding – a pimento cheese lover’s dream! For my entree, I opted for the classic fried chicken, followed by banana pudding for dessert. Every dish was delicious, and I wholeheartedly recommend dining here when in Little Rock. While everything on the menu looked tempting, making a reservation is advisable as this popular restaurant is often busy.
Pimento cheese appetizer at Capital Bar & Grill in Little Rock, Arkansas
Fried chicken entree at Capital Bar & Grill in Little Rock, Arkansas
My single full day in Little Rock was just a taste of what the city offers, but it was enough to ignite my interest and eagerness to return. There are still numerous wheelchair accessible Little Rock attractions waiting to be explored, promising even more adventures in this accessible Southern capital.
Little Rock proved to be a welcoming and accessible city, offering a blend of history, culture, and delicious food. From smooth airport transfers to accessible museums and dining, my initial experience in Little Rock was overwhelmingly positive, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to uncover even more of its accessible treasures.
