Safety

Little Rock Central High School stands as a powerful symbol of the Civil Rights Movement.

NPS Photo - B. Schwieger

Visitors to Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site can expect or plan for these logistics:

• The site's visitor center is open Tuesday through Saturday; check this link for current hours of operation. No entrance fees are required for the visitor center or park programming unless otherwise specified.
  • Visitor access to park exhibits, restrooms and the bookstore will be available only from Tuesday through Saturday; we recommend using the free NPS App for digital content on the days when the visitor center is closed.

• Scheduled weekday and weekend ranger-led programs are able to accommodate 50 visitors. All ranger-led programs will be given at 1:00 p.m. CDT/CST by confirmed reservation only and must be reserved at a minimum of 48 hours (two days) in advance. Groups wanting to bring more than 50 visitors or request a different program time must contact the park in advance to see if an accommodation can be made; programs do not include access inside Little Rock Central High School. For more information on scheduling a tour, visit our Guided Tours page.
  • Ranger-led tours and other public programming will be available only from Tuesday through Saturday unless otherwise specified.

• Outdoor spaces at Little Rock Central High School NHS remain open daily to the public including the Commemorative Garden and the Elizabeth Eckford Commemorative Bench. The Commemorative Garden is open daily for public visitation and use from 7:00 a.m. CST/CDT until sunset. The Magnolia Mobil Gas Station & Little Rock Central High School are always closed to the public and not available for public use.

 

Little Rock Central High School blanketed in winter snow.

NPS - B. Schwieger

Inclement Weather

To ensure the safety of our visitors and staff, interpretive programs at Little Rock Central High School NHS may be modified, suspended, or canceled in the event of hazardous weather. Weather conditions will be continuously monitored, and decisions will be made with safety as the top priority.

The following guidelines apply:

Extreme Heat

Interpretive programs may be canceled, shortened, or moved indoors, if possible, when the heat index reaches dangerous levels (e.g., above 100°F/38°C). Visitors are encouraged to stay hydrated, seek shade, and use the posted heat index signage in the visitor center to plan activities during the cooler parts of the day.

Thunderstorms/Lightning

Interpretive programs may be canceled, shortened, or moved indoors if thunderstorms are present or imminent. Programs will not resume outdoors until at least 30 minutes after the last observed lightning strike within a 10-mile radius, following the “30/30 rule.”

Tornadoes/High Winds

In the event of a tornado warning or watch, all interpretive programs will be immediately suspended. Visitors and staff will be directed to designated shelter areas until the threat has passed. Programs will only resume when the area is officially deemed safe. Outdoor interpretive programs may be changed or canceled during high winds. If sustained winds reach 25 mph or gusts exceed 35 mph, staff may move programs indoors or to sheltered areas, shorten or adjust outdoor activities, or cancel programs if conditions are unsafe or no alternative location is available.

Severe Winter Weather

Outdoor interpretive programs may be canceled or rescheduled due to snow, ice, or extreme cold temperatures. Indoor programs may proceed at staff discretion, depending on road and facility conditions. Visitors are advised to contact the park directly by phone at 501-516-7230 or check this link before traveling to the park.

Notification & Updates

Staff will monitor weather conditions and make decisions based on safety. If you have a reservation, check with the site for updates before arriving. Interpretive program status updates will be available at the visitor center; please contact the park directly by phone at 501-516-7230 for the most current information.

 

For Emergencies, Dial 9-1-1

For Non-Emergency Services, Dial 3-1-1

 

Come prepared for the weather

• Temperatures year-round can range from >100°F (38°C) to <20°F (-7°C). Summer days can be hot and humid, while the wind chill can make late fall and winter temperatures feel much colder. Your visit can be more enjoyable by checking the forecast and coming prepared to Little Rock Central High School NHS.
• In the summer, be prepared for extreme heat and high humidity while outside at the Commemorative Garden, Magnolia Mobil Gas Station, Elizabeth Eckford Bus Bench, on the grounds of Little Rock Central High School or outside the Visitor Center.
  • Use sunscreen, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and use a hat/carry an umbrella for shade protection or rain coverage.
  • Drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty. Water fountains are available inside the visitor center.
  • Lightning can accompany storms, so if you hear thunder, take shelter.

 

Visitor Center Parking Lot

NPS Photo

Secure your belongings

Be sure that any valuables left in your vehicle are out of plain sight and make sure your vehicle is securely locked.

 

Little Rock Central High School NHS is bounded by two city streets, private residences and a function high school with over 2,500 students and staff.

NPS Photo

Be alert while driving

The streets around the Visitor Center and Little Rock Central High School are busy. Automobile, pedestrian, and bus traffic can become very heavy, especially between 8:00-9:00 a.m. CST/CDT and 3:00-4:00 p.m. CST/CDT on weekdays when school is in session. Use caution and keep an eye out for pedestrians, visitors and students crossing the street.