Ran by this attraction at the little rock marathon and had to make a comment. The history itself will make you appreciate this building. When you see it your jaw drops. For a school it is just amazing!!!!
While not extensive or elaborate, it is nonetheless interesting and worthwhile. Because it was a major event in the civil rights movement, it is helpful in understanding the mood and attitude in that part of the country at that time.
During my recent trip through the south I have toured museums, battlefields, plantations, a presidential library and parks and truly loved almost all of them, but touring Little Rock Central High School ( the only active school that is also part of the National Park System) and feeling as though I was walking where the Little Rock Nine had walked was deeply moving. Seeing students of all colors walk freely through those same halls today makes you realize just what impact a few committed individuals can have. This is absolutely a don't miss site. Call in advance to schedule either a 9:00 or 1:00 tour of the school. Because this is a working high school you can not just walk into the building, but must be part of one of these two tours each day. The tour lasts about an hour and then you'll want to spend time in the visitors' center across the street to view the many exhibits there. Some reviewers have stated that this is a scary neighborhood. I didn't find that to be the case at all. Others said that parking is a problem. There is plenty of parking in the visitors' center. The two park rangers were fabulous and spent a great deal of time talking about the school then and now. I spent three hours here and easily could have spent another hour or more. If you love to study history and/or the Civil Rights Movement, don't miss this!
There are few high schools in American that tell a story, but this is one of them. As with most public school buildings, this one shows its age in certain areas. But you should overlook that and remember that this high school stands as a struggle... against prejudice and the need for new, shiny things. Hopefully, it will stand for many years to come, as Little Rock's premier high school, with more national merit scholars than any other high school in the state... and a living, breathing lesson for all.
The history behind this school is amazing. If you plan it just right, you will be able to go inside the school. This site would be perfect for any large or small group that loves history
Had no intention of coming here, but had an hour to kill on the way to the airport. If you like psychology and social sciences, politics, architecture, or history, take the time to stop here.
At one time, was voted as the most beautiful school in the US. Very important in the US civil rights story and in the integration of American schools. Very good visitor center, videos, pictures, knowledgeable US Park Service guides. Every one should know about and see what happened here.I have participated in seminars at the visitor center.
I recently visited LR Cental High School Visitors Center with a group of Middle School Students. The exhibits are very interesting for any age group. The video from the actual events from The Crisis of Central High-the Little Rock Nine is captivating. Our group was thrilled when we learned that we would be able to go into LR Central High School (voted the most beautiful school in America). You must make time in your trip to visit this historic site.
amazing displays - tells the story of the little rock 9 -- it should be required for all folks to go see -- the history of this needs to be told and remembered -- very moving - very difficult to see - - well worth the stop -- no charge to see
I liked learning more about what was occurring during this time. There's a visitor building with photos and displays and gift shop. Across the street is the high school which is still operational. We were there on a Sunday, so it was closed, but we went on the grounds and peeked through the windows and doors to see inside.