City of Little Rock 311

War Memorial Park

About the Park

War Memorial Park, a treasured 117-acre green space in the heart of Little Rock, has a long history as a center for recreation, community gathering, and connection to nature. Originally developed as the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in 1868, the land was reimagined as "Fair Park" 1924 under the guidance of the Chicago-based landscape architecture firm Pearse and Robinson. The design, with its layout of roads, locations of key structures, and iconic natural spaces, continues to shape the park today. Renamed "War Memorial Park" in 1949, President Harry Truman presiding at the dedication, the park honors those who served and has become a beloved landmark for Little Rock residents and visitors alike.

The park's setting, with Coleman Creek winding through its shaded, rolling terrain, offers recreational and scenic appeal, making it an ideal spot for everything from leisurely picnics to lively family gatherings. War Memorial Park is adjacent to prominent sites like War Memorial Stadium, UAMS, and the Little Rock Zoo, creating a unique urban park complex that provides countless recreational and cultural experiences for the community. The park's facilities include:

  • Playground & Splash Pad: Nestled near the northwest entrance, the playground is designed with large, natural rock formations integrated into play structures. The adjacent splash pad adds a fun, water-based play area, offering families a refreshing break in the warmer months.
  • Picnic Pavilion: A charming stone-and-wood pavilion near Coleman Creek provides a sheltered space for community events and gatherings. Recent updates are enhancing drainage, ADA accessibility, and the electrical system, making the pavilion an even more welcoming community hub.
  • Fishing Pond: The pond area, complete with a dock, bridge, and scenic benches, is a peaceful spot for fishing and wildlife observation. 
  • Walking Trails & Connectivity: The paved trails wind through the park, utilizing former golf cart paths to provide a scenic walking experience that connects to surrounding neighborhoods and enhances accessibility for all users. 

Ongoing updates, including Fair Park Boulevard improvements and erosion control, are shaping War Memorial Park to meet the needs of today's visitors while preserving its historic character and environmental health. With its blend of history, community importance, and natural beauty, War Memorial Park continues to be a place for all to gather, play, and relax in the heart of Little Rock.

Amenities

BBQ Grills

    Fishing Pond  

 Restrooms

    WiFi Hotspot

   Playground

    

Splash Pad

                   Walking Trail

 


   Picnic Tables