Drive America’s Highways as we cruise west for just under a mile along Capitol Avenue in the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas. This brief but meaningful stretch runs through the city’s government and business district, offering a front-row seat to Arkansas’s political hub and a glimpse of Little Rock’s evolving urban core.
We begin our journey turning west onto Capitol Avenue from U.S. Highway 70, better known locally as Broadway Avenue. This junction sits on the eastern edge of downtown Little Rock, where older office buildings and small businesses intermingle with revitalized developments. Almost immediately, we’re flanked by early 20th-century commercial architecture—many of these buildings have been restored and repurposed, housing everything from legal firms and nonprofits to coffee shops and galleries. The street maintains a consistent, stately vibe as we roll past rows of street trees and vintage-style lampposts.
As we continue westward, Capitol Avenue begins to fulfill its namesake. Government buildings become increasingly common. The Pulaski County Courthouse sits just a few blocks to the north, and nearby are state agency offices and legal institutions that support the operations of Arkansas’s executive and legislative branches. If you’re into Arkansas political history, this is a great corridor to explore on foot.
As we head west on Capitol Avenue, we pass through a mix of older commercial buildings, modest office complexes, and state agency facilities. This stretch of Capitol remains a two-way street, lined with sidewalks, trees, and on-street parking that reflects its civic function. Key cross streets include Scott Street, Rock Street, and State Street, each offering access to nearby parts of downtown or connections toward I-630. While the area may not feel especially bustling, it forms a vital part of Arkansas’s administrative center. As we approach Woodlane Drive, the Arkansas State Capitol comes into view — its dome rising prominently at the avenue’s western terminus and offering a grand conclusion to the drive.
We end our drive at the gates of the Arkansas State Capitol itself, located at the intersection of Capitol Avenue and Woodlane Drive. The Capitol, completed in 1915, was modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., and is constructed from Arkansas limestone and Georgia marble. Visitors can stroll the landscaped grounds, take guided tours, or simply admire the neoclassical architecture from the grand front lawn. From this angle, Capitol Avenue offers one of the most iconic views in the city, especially during sunset or spring bloom.
While only a mile in length, this westbound segment of Capitol Avenue encapsulates the essence of Little Rock’s governmental and civic identity. Whether you’re commuting to a legislative session or simply passing through, it’s worth slowing down and taking in the significance of this short but important corridor.
🗺️ Route Map
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