Nowhere is this more evident than in the adaptive restoration of many landmark structures. Historic Union Station, for example, still serves as a depot for Amtrak rail passenger service, but also houses successful restaurants and a lively game parlor. The Arkansas Territorial Restoration, the first building erected in Little Rock, is still standing and furnished with items reflecting that period. It is available for those who would like to revisit the days of the early 19th century. Dozens of shopping centers and malls offer anything Little Rock consumers need and want.
Craft shows and antique shops are especially plentiful in and around the Little Rock area.
It is full of varied scenery and landscapes, from the rich bottomland of the delta on the east to the scenic overlook of mountains on the western border. There are more than half a million acres of lake surfaces within a short drive from Little Rock and trout streams are less than two hours distance by car. A moderate climate permits year-round outdoor activities. Resort areas and vacation spots are plentiful in Arkansas. Hot Springs, about 50 miles from Little Rock, has three lakes for fishing, swimming and water-skiing, as well as 65 days of thoroughbred horse racing each year at Oaklawn Park.