Plan Like a Park Ranger: Top 10 Tips for Visiting Little Rock Central High School NHS

Little Rock Central High School, a functioning school within a National Historic Site, appears with its collegiate gothic architecture framed by bright yellow flowers.

NPS Photo

Are you planning a visit to Little Rock Central High School NHS? Learn how to "Plan Like a Park Ranger" by exploring our insider tips on how to have a memorable and safe experience!

Browse Visitor Center exhibits

Spend time exploring the interactive exhibits, touch screens, tactile displays, and living history panels inside the Visitor Center. They’re designed with accessibility in mind and offer a rich introduction to the site.  

Book a ranger-led program in advance

These guided, interpretive programs are a great way to connect with the story of the Little Rock Nine and the Civil Rights Movement—but you need a reservation. Guided programs are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 1:00 PM CST/CDT, accommodate up to 50 people, and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.  

Work on our Junior Ranger booklet

Grab a free activity booklet at the Visitor Center and complete the pages based on your age level. When you’re done, return it to earn a Junior Ranger badge. You can even do it from home if you email or mail it back—great for families or virtual visits.  

Watch the park film

The Visitor Center shows an interpretive film (“Step Up and Change the Future”), which is also available with audio description, closed captions, and assistive listening. It’s a powerful, accessible way to immerse yourself in the park’s story.  

Check accessibility options before you go

The park is committed to accessibility—mobility devices, audio description, assistive listening, ASL tours (with two weeks’ notice), and other accommodations. Reach out to the Accessibility Coordinator before your visit if you have questions or requests.

Use the self‑guided tour on the NPS app

If you’d rather explore at your own pace—or if the Visitor Center is closed—download the NPS app. It offers a self-guided walking tour, with maps, audio and written transcripts crafted by students from the Little Rock Central High School Memory Project. It tracks Elizabeth Eckford’s path on September 4, 1957.  

Plan with weather in mind

Tours may be shortened, canceled, or moved indoors during extreme heat, storms, lightning, high winds, or severe winter weather. Always check the forecast, bring water, sunscreen, layered clothing, and call the park on the day of your visit if needed.  

Know that there’s no fee—but bring a refillable bottle or snack

Admission and ranger-led programs are free. However—and this is handy if you’ll be outdoors—there are no food services, though you can bring a packed lunch. The Visitor Center doesn’t sell bottled water, but water fountains and reusable bottles are available.  

Avoid busy times around the school grounds

Little Rock Central High School is active with over 2,500 students and traffic. To steer clear of congestion, avoid visiting during 8:30–9:00 AM and 3:30–4:00 PM on weekdays—they’re peak pickup/drop-off times.  

Follow the park on social media

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and X to stay in the loop about alerts, visitor center updates, and special events. Our handle on all three platforms is CentralHighNPS.