Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site • Arkansas

The front facade of Little Rock Central High School

National Park Visitor Center

Fall colors in the commemorative garden

a replica of a 1950s bus bench with Central High School in the background

The Little Rock Nine exit the doors at Central High under troop escort

The Magnolia Mobil Gas Station, a white stucco facility with terracotta roof

In 1957, Little Rock Central High School was the epicenter of confrontation and a catalyst for change as the fundamental test for the United States to enforce African American civil rights following Brown v. Board of Education. Learn how the sacrifice and struggle endured by the Little Rock Nine have provided opportunities and opened doors for those seeking education around the world.

Little Rock Central High School has been a public school since opening in 1927.
NPS Photo

Exhibits, restrooms and a bookstore are located in the National Park Visitor Center.
National Park Service

Spend some time in thought in the park's commemorative garden
NPS Photo

Images of the Little Rock Nine’s persistence and Elizabeth’s brave walk through the mob to the sanctuary of the bench captured their enduring legacy of “moral courage” that has inspired others around
NPS Photo

In September 1957, Little Rock Central High School became a symbol for change and a catalyst for transformation in the civil rights movement as the first fundamental test to the United States’ resolve to enforce African-American civil rights in the face
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

The Magnolia Mobil Gas Station, the de facto media headquarters during the 1957 desegregation crisis.
NPS Photo

Park bench, Little Rock Central High School, and autumn trees with historic archway.

Plan Like a Park Ranger

Learn how to "Plan Like a Park Ranger" by exploring our insider tips on how to have a memorable and safe experience!

Schedule a guided interpretive program

Programs at Central High School NHS

Programs here at the NHS are offered at 1:00 p.m. CST/CDT; some dates may be unavailable. Visit this page to learn how to reserve.

Three students in yellow shirts reading “It’s About Education” sit together near a school bus.

Learn more about fieldtrips, virtual visits, teacher workshops and other free educational opportunities!

Soldiers stand behind barricades in front of Central High School during the 1957 integration crisis.

History + Culture

Discover the people and places within the story of Little Rock Central High School and the struggle for integration.

Last updated: September 30, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Little Rock Central High School NHS
2120 W. Daisy L. Gatson Bates Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202-5212

Phone:

(501) 516-7230

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