These two separate cities on opposite sides of the Arkansas River are closely allied in every way and, from the standpoint of the tourist, are one community. Little Rock, the state capital, is a regional center for transportation, entertainment, culture, medicine, education, commerce, and industry. More than a "city of roses," it is known for its warm hospitality and recreational facilities. Little Rock is a modern, forward-looking capital.

Little Rock apparently got its name from French explorers who called this site on the Arkansas River "La Petite Roche" to distinguish it from larger rock outcroppings up the river. The first shack probably was built on the site in 1812, and by 1819, a town site had been staked. The community became the territorial capital in 1821 when the seat of government was moved here from Arkansas Post. The first steamboat, the Eagle, came up the Arkansas River in 1822.