Located among 29 acres of beautiful grounds on the banks of the Arkansas River in downtown Little Rock, the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and the Clinton School of Public Service comprise a facility that warrants more than a fleeting visit. It has a long list of attracting draws and can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of their political leanings.
Inside the library you can find a replica of the Oval Office as it was during Clinton’s time in office as well as his presidential limousine, a theater, and the Cabinet Room. There is an ever-changing array of exhibits, not to mention the Forty Two restaurant, which boasts stunning views of the Arkansas River. There is also a gift shop located nearby and trails through the breathtaking grounds that surround the library.
The onsite restaurant serves up stunning views and delicious plates, and they pride themselves on a locally sourced and farm-fresh menu that caters to all tastes. The team also offers delivery providing lunch catering to local businesses and office parties.
The actual library doesn’t shy away from the less flattering side of the Clinton administration either; it contains his day-to-day schedule, information, and an insightful look into the life of a president. It contains his greatest achievements and his biggest failures. It’s quite humanizing and definitely an interesting read. The permanent exhibits feature the timeline from his inauguration and contain every major story and accomplishment during the Clinton administration. It looks into the work before and after the time in the White House and examines the intricacies of what life was like in the there at that time. A particular exhibit of note is that of the Little Rock Nine, which features the history and story behind this momentous change in the country and even exhibits one of the medals awarded by President Clinton to the Little Rock Nine.
The center is also home to traveling exhibits both educational and entertaining on topics stretching from bugs to The Beatles (the band, not more bugs); it’s always a good idea to check the website and see if anything of interest is scheduled. Education was always a priority of the Clinton administration and the facility still provides support and services to educators across the country.
The attached restaurant Forty Two is open for lunch Monday to Saturday from 11:00am to 2:00pm.
Address
1200 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock, AR 72201, Phone: 501-374-4242
